my friends looking to get a neon and he wants to know how reliable they are and what the common problems are. also what kind of gas mileage are you getting?

 

the 2nd Generation neon fixed many of the minor issues that the 1st generation neon had. Namely, the head gasket problem, the slightly annoying passenger compartment buzzing, the lack of door surround, a few electrical problems, relocating the draw of air, and probably a few other things that I can't think of at the moment.

The 2nd gen is among the most reliable cars I've ever driven, which is quite respectable. It's great on gas (24-28 mpg in the city, depending on how you drive it).

Known issues are pretty minor especially if you manage to get your hands on a car that still has some warranty left to it. I bought my car used, and didn't have any warranty. I've been driving it for over a year and has just under 100,000 miles on it and no major issues, aside from the usual (timing belt, worn clutch, water pump) which has since been replaced.

Tell your friend that the Neon is a great little car and still has potential in the aftermarket. Try to get your hands on a 2000-2002, if you're interested in some serious aftermarket parts, or a 2003-2005 if you can still find a warranty. If he ends up buying a Neon, send him here, we'll take care of him.

 

cool i think he said its a 2002 with 41,000 miles and its an sxt or something. and it was driven by a chick so im sure it wasnt hammered on. cool anyone else have any imput. the more i get the better i think he's going to feel about it.

 

Best economy car out there by far in my opinion. As good as a corola or Civic definantly. Plenty of power and reliability.

 

The Neon is definitely a decent little car. Most people are averaging around 24-30 mpg in them. Thats excluding the leadfoots and the SRT-4 owners, and even some of those SRT-4 people are getting 24mpg average in theirs.

It's not the biggest car, but its got enough room for 4 people to sit somewhat comfortably on a 2-4hr drive. Anything beyond that and it gets a bit cramped. Least for people my height/size.

As for the problems, like whyte69 stated, most of the issues were fixed in the 2nd gen model. Its still underpowered in my opinion, and it could use more leg room. That said, its not at all a bad car. My roomie has an 04, and a mutual friend had an 03. Other then the rotors, which are crap on most Dodge/Chrysler products, they work out alright. My roomie has put about 32k on her car since Nov 04, and its still running pretty well despite her less then good maintenance and her driving it like Mario Andretti.

That said, its not a Honda or Toyota as far as engine reliability, but its easily one of the few American cars that come close in reliability and durability. Definitely a fun little car.


Simple maintenance on the car and he should be good to go. I recommend getting a tranny flush, radiator flush, and a new set of plugs to start with. I'd also tell him to definitely consider aftermarket rotors.

Later!

 

Well, I have had my 2003 sxt now for about half a year and I just think it's great. Been driving it for about a year (Now has over 100,000 miles) and have had no problems except for problems caused by an accident..(long story..). They look nice, drive great, and I get over 30 mpg since I drive long distances out here in the country. Definately a great car and highly recommended.

Also, more power than any stock Corolla or Civic.

 

Well my neon has been excellent to me so far. 34k ish miles on it so far. I've taken it to the drag strip and made probably 40 or so passes with it so it can take a beating. I also change the oil regularly and am constantly inspecting parts for wear. I haven't had to replace anything major yet. I average about 28 mpg and I drive almost solely in the city, stop and go sucks. If I get on the highway my mileage goes up to about 35-38mpg. If they're on a budget and don't mind a plain jane car I say go for it. If you're good to the car they'll be good to you!

BTW DR....what might I ask is wrong with the stock neon rotors? Only thing I see wrong with them is they're noisy from time to time, and they don't look bling blingin when I put my big wheels on. Other then that..my neon stops exceptionally well.

 

actually dave he loves your car. he wants to make his look just like it.

 

They just suffer from being a DCX product. Most of the rotors on their cars for the better part of the last 5-7 years have a "softer" metal and warp relatively easy. It's a pretty common occurance on the trucks and mini-vans. It's more of a suggestion then a warning. My roomie already went thru a set on her car, and its just at like 45k.

 

Hmmm...my rotors are still in good shape. Not warped at all. My pedal doesn't pulsate at all when I put the brakes on. I have cross drilled and slotted rotors waiting to go on when my stock rotors wear out. 34k roughly on them right now.