Ethan Clarke
The Dodge Neon, also known as the Chrysler-Plymouth Neon, was first introduced in 1995 and was produced until 1999. The car was praised for its quick handling, distinctive look, good gas mileage, and roomy interior. However, it also gained a reputation for being cheap and plasticky, with plastic features such as wheel covers, interior moldings, and body kits. The car was updated between 2000 and 2004, with improvements made to the body structure, suspension, and noise insulation. Despite its mixed reviews, the Dodge Neon left its mark on the automotive world, with some even calling for a redemption of the much-maligned model.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Years of production | 1995-1999 |
| Models | SE, ES, R/T, and ACR |
| Engine | 2.0-liter DOHC engine |
| Horsepower | 150 |
| Fuel tank | Plastic or metal |
| Body structure | 37% better bending stiffness and 26% better torsional stiffness |
| Paint | Waterborne |
| Brakes | Asbestos-free |
| Door water shields | Made from recycled plastic |
| Steering column | Isolated to cut noise |
| Suspension | Redesigned to improve ride quality |
What You'll Learn
Plastic wheel covers and interior
The Dodge Neon has a range of plastic wheel covers and interior options available. The car's plastic wheel covers are designed to deliver consistent, trouble-free performance, utilising the latest technology to perform better than advertised. The bolt-on installation makes it easy to upgrade your Dodge Neon with premium-quality plastic wheel covers.
Additionally, the Dodge Neon offers a variety of steering wheel covers, including leather, wood grain, and custom designs. These covers not only enhance the interior aesthetics but also improve grip for maximum control and comfort. Andy's Auto Sport is a popular destination for Dodge Neon owners, offering a wide selection of steering wheel covers to match different styles and tastes.
The Dodge Neon, introduced in 2000, gained popularity for its handling, space, and acceleration. However, cost-cutting measures led to a reputation for poor quality, particularly with rattly windows and bad head gaskets. The second-generation Plymouth and Dodge Neon aimed to address these issues by increasing the size of the cabin and trunk and reducing noise, vibration, and harshness.
The car also featured recycled plastic door water shields, contributing to its environmental considerations. The suspension was redesigned for a smoother ride, and the steering column was isolated to reduce noise. With its updated features, the Dodge Neon offered an improved driving experience and continued to be a popular choice among consumers.
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Plastic fuel tanks
The Dodge Neon is a car that was produced by Chrysler-Plymouth-Dodge between 2000 and 2004. The car was praised for its handling, space, and acceleration, but also gained a reputation for poor quality due to cost-cutting measures.
The Dodge Neon has a fuel tank that can be made of steel or plastic. The 1995 and early 1996 models were fitted with steel tanks, and from 1996 to 1999, the tanks were made of plastic.
However, plastic fuel tanks are not without their drawbacks. One of the main concerns is their susceptibility to fuel leaks, which can occur due to impact damage or normal wear and tear over time. Additionally, plastic fuel tanks may not be as durable as metal tanks and can be more prone to melting or deformation in extreme temperatures.
It is important to note that the fuel system in a vehicle, regardless of the tank material, requires regular maintenance and inspections to ensure safe and efficient operation. This includes checking for leaks, replacing fuel filters, and ensuring the fuel pump is functioning correctly.
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Plastic body kits
Dodge Neon owners, in particular, have shown interest in plastic body kits, as evidenced by the availability of such kits in the aftermarket. Andy's Auto Sport, for instance, offers Dodge Neon Plastic Body Kits at competitive prices.
In addition to performance enhancements, plastic body kits can also provide protection for a vehicle's body panels. KBD Urethane Body Kits, for example, are made from a proprietary polyurethane formula that offers exceptional durability and indestructibility. Their precision molding and 3D modeling techniques ensure OEM quality and an exact fit for each specific car make and model.
When it comes to performance-enhancing components, APR, Vorsteiner, and Novitec are well-known brands in the automotive industry. APR's carbon and FRP products are crafted with precision and optimised for aerodynamic efficiency, while Vorsteiner's cutting-edge carbon fibre offerings seamlessly integrate with existing vehicle features to enhance aesthetics and performance. Novitec, on the other hand, is recognised for its unwavering dedication to precision engineering in its body kits and aero components.
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Plastic door water shields
These door water shields are typically constructed from polyethylene flexible plastic sheets and secured with a specialised adhesive. The adhesive is applied along the perimeter of the water shield, creating a robust seal that prevents water intrusion between the water shield and the door shell. This adhesive is engineered to withstand a wide range of environmental conditions, from frigid winters to scorching summers, without losing its flexibility or effectiveness.
The installation process for plastic door water shields requires careful attention to detail. It is essential to align the shield with at least one hole, allowing it to stick and then gradually working it into place. Removing the water shield can be challenging, as some shields are designed to stretch rather than pull up. Heat guns can be used to soften the adhesive, but this must be done with caution to avoid damaging the surrounding components.
In some cases, replacing a water shield may require purchasing an entirely new door panel, as certain dealers do not sell the water shields separately. This can be a costly endeavour, so it is essential to exercise patience and care when installing or removing plastic door water shields to avoid the need for frequent replacements.
Additionally, there are other types of door water shields available, such as the Door Dam Flood Barrier Shield, which is designed for flood-prone areas. This type of shield is custom-fabricated to fit specific dimensions and provides a robust barrier against water ingress during heavy rains or floods. It is engineered to comply with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Federal Insurance Administration (FIA) standards, offering peace of mind to homeowners and builders alike.
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Plastic exterior body
The Dodge Neon has been described as \"unashamedly plastic\", with one source noting that \"it was cheap, and as a result had plenty of corners cut". The car's plastic exterior body parts include the wheel covers, which have been praised for their fresh appearance.
The Dodge Neon, designed by Tom Gale, was first introduced in the mid-1990s and was one of the last entry-level cars that didn't try to be something more than a cheap, friendly, and fun car. While the car had a reputation for poor quality due to cost-cutting measures, it offered great styling, solid handling, a low price, and plenty of space.
The second generation of the Dodge Neon, from 2000 to 2004, aimed to address some of the shortcomings of the first generation. This generation of the car was built in a single American plant, and updates cost $703 million and took 28 months. The new model featured molded-in-color fascias, improved body structure with better bending and torsional stiffness, and revised floor pans and instrument panels.
The Dodge Neon's plastic exterior body parts, such as the wheel covers, have contributed to its unique and appealing look. The car's use of plastic, especially in the interior, has also been a target of criticism, with some describing it as "plasticky". However, the car's practicality, handling, and affordability have earned it a cult following.
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Frequently asked questions
While I can't give you a precise answer, I can tell you that the Dodge Neon is known for its extensive use of plastic. The car's interior, fuel tank, body kits, and wheel covers are all made of plastic.
No, the 1995 and early 1996 models used steel tanks, and from 1996 onwards, they switched to plastic.
The Dodge Neon was an affordable car, with a price range of around $2,400.
The Dodge Neon was first released in the mid-1990s, with the first generation built between 1995 and 1999.
The Dodge Neon has a mixed reputation. While some praised its handling, speed, and affordability, others criticised it for being "cheap" and "plasticky".
