1997 Plymouth Neon 2.0 DOHC

Summary:

A comfortable, cheap car with little problems

Faults:

My main problem with the car is the paint. The paint is chipping on the roof, all doors, and the trunk as well.

My battery also went almost right after I purchased the vehicle.

I recently had to get PVC valve replaced at 68000 miles, which was a $700 repair. I found out about this because I was leaking oil.

Knock on wood, no head gasket problems as of yet.

Brakes were also squealing, but dealer said it was a build-up of brake dust. They were cleaned and now no squealing.

I also had a problem with my tires because the car was out of alignment. All four had to be replaced.

One rip in passenger side seat.

The car is very loud on the highway, because the seals near the windows are wearing away.

General Comments:

I do find the car comfortable, and fun to drive.

I am happy with the 5-speed, because I get more pick-up.

The only thing I am really upset about is the paint. I am wondering if anyone knows about a recall. I have seen too many Neons with chipped paint!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 26th March, 2003

1997 Plymouth Neon Highline 2.0 SOHC 16v 4 cylinder

Summary:

An insanely fast car

Faults:

The frame is very fragile; frequent tire alignments have been necessary.

The interior lights are somewhat erratic.

The door panels begin to detach with time.

It's got a loud motor and some brake noise.

General Comments:

It's not designed for any type of off-road driving; gravel or dirt roads can screw with the alignment easily.

It's not a very quiet, comfortable car. People who are looking for a reliable family vehicle would be better off choosing a small foreign car in the same price range.

However, the Neon has more power than most 4 cylinder vehicles have ever dreamed of. With a few modifications, your Neon can be transformed into an outrageously fast car.

Basically, it's a good car for young people or any racing fan. Maybe not the most practical in the market, but definitely one of the best in terms of performance.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th February, 2003

1997 Plymouth Neon 2.2

Summary:

This was a great first time car.

Faults:

The cooling sensor broke at 100,000 KM.

The engine fuse did not work, but the car started anyway.

Radiator fluid leaked, new radiator was installed.

Blistering of paint on driver and front passenger door, it is now rusted.

Driver side mirror rattles while in motion.

The seal around the windows is not very good. When I wash my car, water seeps in.

Neons are very easy to break into and start. Mine was stolen in 2002. I had to get the steering column replaced.

General Comments:

I have not replaced my timing belt as of yet. I am this week though at 196 000 KM - preventable measures.

There is a lot of spacious room.

It handles very well.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 3rd February, 2003

1997 Plymouth Neon SD 2.0L SOCH 16v SFI 4 cylinder

Summary:

Good, reliable budget car with intrinsic engine design problems, which impact required service costs

Faults:

Replace head gasket at:

21000 miles in February 1999 (dealer warranty)

46000 miles in April 2001 (no warranty)

61000 miles in December 2002 (active claim with Chrysler)

General Comments:

Good, reliable budget car. Would not recommend purchase due to intrinsic engine design problems. Head gasket problems make service of car rather expensive (~$700 on a bi-annual basis)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 3rd January, 2003

1997 Plymouth Neon ex 2.0

Summary:

Best bang for your buck

Faults:

Nothing has gone wrong yet.

General Comments:

This car is very peppy and handles well all across the board.. Windows don't seal to well though.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th October, 2002

1997 Plymouth Neon 4 Door Feels like a lawnmower

Summary:

A tin can on wheels.

Faults:

Head Gasket cracked a 32,000 miles.

Paint chipping off the roof, took it to a body shop they said it was a defect in the paint job.

Oil still leaking, Jiffy Lube swears it's transmission fluid, but took it to get checked out an it's just another oil leak, may be the head gasket AGAIN.

Steering Column rattles, as well as headlight switch.

Turn signals go out every other week, now every time I hit the break the lect turn light comes on.

Brakes SQUEAL uncontrollably, it's almost embarrassing.

No pickup, a turtle can move faster than my car.

Automatic shifter plate cracked in half from heat stress, cheap made plastic.

Car has been broken into numerous times, windows simply push down with enough force, enough to get a clothes hanger in an unlock my locks.

General Comments:

I would never buy another Plymouth, Chrysler, or Dodge product again. No wonder people buy foreign cars.

If I had the money I would have waited and gotten a reliable car, now I'm stuck with a lemon.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 7th August, 2002