What are the most common Dodge Neon problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 1999 Dodge Neon has 7 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 2.0L head gasket failure (original composite gasket) — SOHC and DOHC, 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic (31TH/A413) durability problems, Head Gasket Failure and Coolant Loss. Of these, 5 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Dodge Neon reliable?
The 1999 Dodge Neon has 7 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 5 issues are rated critical: 2.0L head gasket failure (original composite gasket) — SOHC and DOHC and 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic (31TH/A413) durability problems and Head Gasket Failure and Coolant Loss and Cooling system weakness — water pump, thermostat, and collapsing lower radiator hose and Interference-engine timing belt / hydraulic tensioner failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Neon problems?
Repair costs for known Dodge Neon issues range from $200 to $2,600, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 2.0L head gasket failure (original composite gasket) — SOHC and DOHC, typically costs $700-$1,800 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon 2.0L head gasket failure (original composite gasket) — SOHC and DOHC?
The single most documented first-generation Neon failure. The original-design head gasket weeps and then fails, most commonly at the driver's-side rear of the block where an oil passage crosses close to the block's outer edge, near the brake-fluid reservoir. Because the SOHC and… Repairs typically run $700-$1,800. Severity: high.
What is the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic (31TH/A413) durability problems?
First-gen Neons with the optional 3-speed automatic (a TorqueFlite-family 31TH/A413 unit) are markedly less durable than the 5-speed manual. Documented failure points include a sticking governor valve (causes high-gear starts/binding), sprag/one-way-clutch failure, and clutch/ban… Repairs typically run $1,200-$2,600. Severity: high.
What is the 1995-2005 Dodge Neon Head Gasket Failure and Coolant Loss?
The 2.0L engines are prone to head gasket failure, causing external coolant leaks, white exhaust smoke, and eventual overheating. The SOHC engines are more commonly affected than the DOHC variant. Repairs typically run $800-$1,500. Severity: high.
What is the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon Cooling system weakness — water pump, thermostat, and collapsing lower radiator hose?
The 2.0L runs a marginal cooling system that is intolerant of neglect, and cooling faults are a leading contributor to the head-gasket failures above. The water pump (timing-belt driven) leaks or seizes, thermostats stick shut, and the lower radiator hose (with an internal anti-c… Repairs typically run $250-$700. Severity: high.
What is the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon Interference-engine timing belt / hydraulic tensioner failure?
The 2.0L is an interference engine, so a snapped or skipped timing belt bends valves and can wreck the engine. First-gen Neons use a rubber timing belt (not a chain) with a hydraulic tensioner that is a known weak point — a leaking/failing tensioner lets the belt go slack, causin… Repairs typically run $400-$900. Severity: high.
What is the 1995-2005 Dodge Neon Rear Suspension Clunking Over Bumps?
Rear trailing arm bushings deteriorate and cause loud clunking noises over bumps. The OE rubber bushings crack and separate, allowing excessive movement in the rear suspension. Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon Body and subframe corrosion — rockers, rear quarters, and 1995-1996 lower control arm recall?
First-gen Neons rust quickly in salt-belt climates. Corrosion attacks the rocker panels and rear quarter panels first, then spreads to strut towers, floor pans, and the front subframe/engine-cradle and control-arm mounting areas — which becomes a structural and safety concern. Se… Repairs typically run $300-$2,500. Severity: medium.
