2000 Dodge Neon from North America - Comments

I have a 2000 Dodge Neon with 115,000 miles, the only issue I have had so far was a leaky rear main seal (I suspect the car had a minor front collision before I bought it, hood paint fading, rest of car good). All else was standard scheduled maintenance. I replace my own brakes and have had no noise issues. The car is washed once a week when weather permits. I bought the car with 36,000 miles and paid $3,800! As for underpowered, it out accelerates Honda civics and Toyota corollas easily. It even keeps pace with friends I work with that drive v-8 trucks. I guess everyone's experiences are different. Follow the maintenance schedules to the letter!!

Point 1: Sometimes, driving habits don't make much of a difference.

Point 2: Chrysler parts quality, especially plastics and (I'm willing to bet, brakes), is bad.

Point 3: Chrysler service, particularly from dealers with less competition, is bad.

Point 4: Chrysler cars, in general, are not well executed. Brilliantly designed, but badly done.

Please, spare me the "drive/service it right" argument that seems to crop up. This is a venting site. Venters, be clear what problems you have. Commenters, try to limit it to constructive things like: "I had one of these, and it was fantastic. It would have bad spells with the power windows, but it would always go away, so I just ignored the problem."

Rant over, I think that these cars can do well if they were built well. Some Neons rack up incredible mileage. Some Neons leave their owners longing for public transit. Unfortunately, because the ratio (for earlier years) is higher on the "left cryin'" side of the equation, I would get this car checked very carefully before buying. I would also avoid the 3-speed automatic if you're looking for great mileage, and these cars kept coming with a 3-speed for a very long time.

Use both LemonAid and this site. One will only tell you the negatives. One will only tell you the positives, but in the end you get the whole picture of a car (not just Neons). Go now, and comment wisely.

I have a 2000 Dodge Neon with about 198k on the clock, and she runs better now than when she drove off the lot. It has never left me stranded, and aside from maintenance nothing has gone wrong.

Last summer I did a big overhaul, mostly preventive maintenance. I also added a cold air intake, header, high flow muffler, and a shift kit for the 3-speed auto. I must say now the Neon moves pretty quick. I would buy it all over again in a heart beat.

I am aiming to go to 300+k. I am also considering upgrading the cam, valve springs, rocker arms. Also a high volume oil pump, main and rod bearings. I also took the valve cover off and the engine was so clean and new looking inside. I have changed the oil every 3k since it was new, and it proves that with care a Neon can go the distance.

I have a 2000 Chrysler Neon I bought in June 2008 with 85,000 KM on the clock, my experience so far:

-Tail light leaks, *fixed with silicone.

-Right rear strut rattled, mount was defective, *installed

new struts on both sides (Monroe easy strut kits)

-3 Oil changes

-No brake squealing, aftermarket pads (part of certification)

-Polished out the oxidation on the headlight fixtures.

-Installed new plugs

-getting about 37 MPG highway, 25 to 30 city

-Comfortable to drive

I am very pleased.

PS car has been oil treated... no rust.

My daughter's drive a 2000 Dodge Neon with 125K, and besides occasional problems, it's a great car! Just like the human body, preventive maintenance is very important, take care of your car and it'll take care of you. I am the original owner and I have treated it like part of the family from day one. The brakes have never squeaked like they did on my Toyota Corolla and my Husband's Honda CRV... it's the brake dust, but oh so annoying! Thank you for the Brake Quiet idea... never heard of it, but will purchase it.