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Dodge/Plymouth Neon

1772 messages,  Last post on Apr 21, 2012 at 10:33 AM

You are in the Dodge/Plymouth Neon Forum.

What is this discussion about? Dodge Neon, Plymouth Neon, Sedan

Messages Page 57 of 178

#556 of 1772 CONCERNING 1996 HEAD GASKET by 032944

Feb 04, 2001 (5:34 am)

Can someone tell me about what I am hearing concerning a head gasket problem on a 1996 Neon? I have owned my 1996 Plymouth 4-cyl for 3 years. It has been leaking oil more and more lately and my son took it to look under it and came back and said that what he and his friend saw was not good. I am not completely dumb about cars, but neither am I a mechanic. He described a massive leak at the corner and said that it looked as if something had warped and oil was sprayed everywhere on the under carriage. I am very concerned about the cost of repair on this as I am not prepared for major repairs. I have 77,000 miles and really love my Neon. Could someone who has had a similar problem give me an idea of the cost of repairing this problem and is the car OK after a fix? I read in one of the posts about Chrysler and parts and also about it not being difficult to fix. This will help me to decide who I want to repair this problem. Any input is very much appreciated.

#557 of 1772 by eneth

Feb 04, 2001 (6:27 pm)

Yes, it's probably the head gasket, and no - don't let it go too long. Eventually, the engine will overheat and warp the cylinder head, or coolant will enter the cylinders and cause it to crack. Depending on where you have the repair done and how much is involved, figure on $600-800 if it's just the gasket. If it involves damage to the head, it'll cost more than that.
 
You should probably try a Chrysler dealer first, since it's a known defect and they will in some cases pick up most of the cost of the repair.

#558 of 1772 Hello by greg116

Feb 18, 2001 (12:34 am)

Ever since they came out in'94, I've been hooked on these things. Their looks, the commercials, the power. Ablout six moths ago I got to live with a '96 4-door auto SOHC courtesy car for a few days and aside from that horrid 3-speed auto, I liked it. I liked it a lot. Fast, light and fun to drive.
 
I've decided that I want one for my first car. Specifically, a preferably somewhat base model, 5-speed stick and 4 doors. Any color works, particularly blue or red.
 
Is there anything I should know about these things? Any special major defects? I dont care about lousy fit and finish, only a comfortable ride, a smooth stick and plenty of power. The A/C on the courtesy car was crap, all it did was surge the engine and didnt cool the air in the least.

#559 of 1772 To ALL by dweezil

Feb 18, 2001 (8:16 am)

There's a great site that lists Tech.Service Bulletins for all car brands that might be helpful.[www.alldata.com]It always pays to have as much info as possible as new cars are all so complicated even if they are inexpensive.It should keep you up to date on what changes in service procedures,redesigned replacement parts, etc.

#560 of 1772 TSBs by pat

Feb 18, 2001 (10:15 am)

Check out a recent feature on edmunds.com about TSBs: You, Your Vehicle and the Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) by Erin Mahoney.
 
Erin talks at great length with a very helpful Town Hall member, Tony Murray, who uses the Town Hall ID of 0patience. Tony founded a site Bat Auto Technical for the purpose of making otherwise unobtainable information available to the consumer at no charge.
 
You can request the full text of any TSB and the site will provide it free of charge.
 
Check out the article. And say "hi" to 0patience if you see him around - he really is a very valuable Town Hall community member.
 
Pat
Host
Sedans and Women's Auto Center Message Board.

#561 of 1772 WOW by dweezil

Feb 18, 2001 (12:18 pm)

Thanks Pat; I don't even own a Neon, but discovered the site I posted about and pulled down some info on a car that I do own!Glad I peeked into the Neon board.Best, Dave

#562 of 1772 odor by lucine

Feb 20, 2001 (9:38 pm)

Have a 95 neon with a ghastly smell that several garages cannot find answer to. It only happens when at slow speeds, is worse when driver window is open. At high speed its not apparent. Has anyone else such a bad odor. One garage said I shouldn't be thinking of a new catalytic converter.

#563 of 1772 thinking about buying a Neon by moose99

Feb 21, 2001 (2:22 pm)

I am thinking about buying a used Neon ('95-'97).
I thought that the best people to ask about this would be previous owners. Would you recommend this car and what should I watch out for?? I would love to hear from everyone.

#564 of 1772 by eneth

Feb 21, 2001 (4:47 pm)

Get an extended powertrain warranty - you will replace the head gasket, if the original owner hasn't - or if the original owner didn't get the corrected version. The brakes are a weak point, as is weather sealing, and the car is prone to electrical malfunctions, like most other Chrysler Group products.

#565 of 1772 Our Neon 2000 by snowman

Feb 21, 2001 (9:27 pm)

My wife's 2000 Neon just passed 2k with no problems. I am an accord owner but I really like that Neon.

Messages Page 57 of 178

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