I newly own a 2005 dodge neon SXT.
I'm sick of paying mechanics to fix stuff I could probably figure out myself.

I have basic mechanical know how, and would like to start doing some basic repairs myself.

What do I need, where should I get it, what are some steps and procedures I should get into?

Any information is helpful

 

A decent toolkit is a must. Something like this to get started (and go get a spark plug gapper from the parts store too for $0.99): http://www.craftsman.com/shc/s/p_101...l+Sets&prdNo=2

You can also download the shop manuals from the links in my signature. For the beginner, it wouldn't be a bad idea to pick up the ~$15 printed Haynes/Chilton manual from a parts store.

What do you know how to do so far? Plug and wire change? Oil change? Brakes?

 

^^^ good advive, chiltons are a great investment, and if you cant afford craftsman, you could go stanley, they are actually good tools for the price, i picked up two 201pc sets around christmas a few years back for 60 bucks a piece, i keep one in my daily driver and one in my offroad toy, cant tell you how great these kits are and how much you can do with them, they have been life savers many of times for me and others, but if you can afford it deff go with craftsman though, now that kmart is owned by sears you can get great deals on craftsman stuff at kmart, last christmas I got myself a awesome deal on craftsman ratchet wrenches, I always cruise the tool section at kmart when im their.

 

I have a 50 piece Stanley kit I keep in the Neon for those "oh crap" moments. Usually on sale at Wal-Mart for $20-ish. The Kobalt tools from Lowes have a lifetime warranty like Craftsman, but are made in China. Not too sure on the price difference.

 

watch your craftsmans too if made in china is a deal breaker for ya, they are phasing in Chinese tools.

 

Channellock is doing the same thing.