Chrysler Neon Common Problems and Solutions
Dropped Seat Belt Receptacle
Problem:
Your seat belt receptacle has dropped between the seats.
Solution:
Although this is only a mild annoyance, it’s a sign that you have the older design for the seat belts on the Chrysler. The newer belts have been completely redesigned and are significantly safer. Order the newer versions of the seatbelt and remove the seats from your car. Replacing the seat belts is a heavy job, but it’s very easy and quick to do.
Difficulty level
Seat Belt
ABS Not Kicking In
Problem:
Your ABS is not working, meaning that you have to apply a lot of pressure to the brake pedal to get the car to stop. Your ABS light may also come on.
Solution:
Your wheel speed sensor is most likely damaged or has reached its end of life. This is one of the easier DIY jobs on the Neon, and it should take less than five minutes to remove the dead sensor and install your new one from BreakerYard. You will then need to reset your computer.
Difficulty level
Turn Signal On
Problem:
When you press the brake pedal, one of your indicator lights turns on.
Solution:
This is unlikely to occur as most Neons will have already had this fix done. If your Neon is affected, then you can take it to a dealer who will make the repair for you, usually for free, even if you're not covered by warranty.
Difficulty level
Window Malfunction
Problem:
The power windows work fine on some days, but when the weather is warm, they stop responding to the controls.
Solution:
This is likely to be a faulty window switch. That’s a lot cheaper to order a replacement for than a new window motor. It’s easier to install too, as you won’t need to remove the door panels. Find a new window switch on our parts list for quick delivery.
Difficulty level
Electric Window Switch
Drop In Accelerating Power
Problem:
The car seems slower than it used to be. There is a general drop in overall driving performance. You may also notice that your brake pads are becoming very worn out too quickly.
Solution:
The front callipers on the Neon are very prone to premature wear and will need to be replaced with more durable versions. When the callipers go, it means that you're usually driving with the brakes lightly applied at all times. You can find new callipers on our parts page very easily, and although installation is time-consuming, it’s very straightforward.
Difficulty level
Caliper
Non-Charging Battery
Problem:
Your battery doesn’t seem to charge, leading to a variety of starting issues.
Solution:
Check the wires that go from the alternator to the fuse box. These wires have an inline fusible link that is prone to blow, and that means power isn't getting to the alternator. You’ll be able to see the small blown spot on the wire, usually close to the fuse box. A fiddly installation job, but we have the replacement wires available to order at all times.
Difficulty level
Starting problems
Problem:
If you are having trouble starting your Neon, the crankshaft sensor is prone to failure.
Solution:
Firstly you will need to run a diagnostic check to correctly identify if this is the cause of the problem. If it is, then you can fix the current crankshaft sensor or we can help you find a replacement one at a very low price. If you want to try the repair, watch the video below:
Difficulty level
Crankshaft Sensor
Suspension problems
Problem:
The wishbone bushes can fail on this car, resulting in a knocking noise coming from the front suspension. This will be particularly noticeable when you drive over speed bumps or poorly surfaced roads
Solution:
You will need to replace the wishbone bushes to rectify the problem. We can help you find replacement bushes at very low prices.
Difficulty level
Replacement Wishbone Parts | Used, Second-Hand Wishbone
Air conditioning failure
Problem:
If you are finding that the air conditioning is not blowing out ice cold air on the coldest setting, this is usually caused by a faulty wire to the compressor. This wire can break and a replacement one is needed to get the A/C working properly again.
Solution:
As mentioned above, you will need to fit a replacement wire to fix the problem.
Difficulty level
Wiring Loom
Misfiring/engine management warning light
Problem:
The ignition coils are known for failing on the Neon. If this part fails you will be noticing that the engine is misfiring and is having poor engine idling. The engine management warning light will also have appeared on the dashboard and you will be finding there is a lack of performance.
Solution:
You will need to replace the faulty ignition coil to resolve this issue. It is recommended that you change all coils at the same time for optimum performance.
Difficulty level
Ignition Coil
Clunking Gearbox
Problem:
A knocking or clunking sound is coming from your gearbox when you change gears.
Solution:
This will, most likely, be a problem with your gear linkages. If you ever hear new noises from your gearbox, then it’s a sign that two parts are coming into contact that shouldn’t be. If you don’t inspect the gearbox and replace any worn parts, then you’ll end up with serious issues. Swap the linkages with new ones from our parts list and install them yourself to save a big garage bill.
Difficulty level
Gear Linkage
Braking Issues
Problem:
Your brakes are no longer as effective as they used to be.
Solution:
If your Neon was built in 2000 or 2001, then work should have already been carried out to fix the potentially faulty brake vacuum hose. If it hasn’t been done, then a Chrysler dealer should do this work for free. If they don’t, then you can order a new hose directly from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Brake Hose
