getting a '96 neon as my first car..

[Jakobo1031]

a friend is selling me his 1996 Neon for $1,200..i dont know much about cars, at all. but apparently he has put in a new engine, rebuilt the transmission, and also rebuilt the suspension (or something like that, it's hard for me to recall the exact words since i know nothing about cars haha)..just wondering if i should have high hopes for this car or not.

i'd love to hear your guys thoughts, opinions, or past experiences..thanks!

[das2123]

I would ask how many miles were on the engine he rebuilt. Did he install a MLS HG (multi-layered steel headgasket? Did he replace the timing belt, water pump and idler pulley all at the same time? Is it a SOHC or DOHC engine? How many miles on the chassis? What about the rear main seal, has it been replaced? Are there any leaks?

I have a 96 that used to be a SOHC engine, but swapped a DOHC into it.

[jdl]

Hey great, I wish you luck. Just keep it tuned-up and regular maintenance. If the need arises, you may be able to get some mil trouble codes, without too much trouble.

[Jakobo1031]

@das..Thanks for the input man, i'll write this stuff down or somethin so i'll remember what to ask haha..In your opinion are Neons generally good cars?

@jdl, thanks also haha, i'm pretty stoked about it..what are mil trouble codes..? sorry if it's a stupid question, i dont know much about any of this haha

[denisond3]

I would call Neons a good car, especially if the engine has been rebuilt, and the answer to each of das2123's questions is an affirmative, "yes that was done". All of those are problems that Neon's were subject to, though on most cars I would think they have been done. We have a 1997 SOHC 4 door Neon.

A "mil trouble code" refers to the information the computer can show you. The computer is called the Powertrain Control Module, & I believe is located on the driver's side of the engine compartment, halfway between windshield and headlamps atop the inside fender.
There are trouble codes that will result in the Maintenance Indicator Light coming on, to indicate the computer thinks something isnt right. You can get the codes to read-out, by turning the ignition from off to on to off to on to off to on (and leave it in the on position) within 3 seconds, but without starting the engine. Then count the flashes of the Maintenance Indicator Light (or check engine light). It will blink out two digit codes, like a 12, a 31, a 55, etc. If the MIL light isnt on, check the codes anyway.
Then let us know what you get. There is a listing of what the trouble codes are somewhere on the internet, but I forget where they are located.

Also, you can usually get copies of the original Dodge Neon Service Manual from ebay.com. They are really worthwhile.