Question for all you Neon owners.

[Polygon]

As per the recent death of my beloved LeBaron I have to buy a new car. The most likely choice for now will be a Neon. I am looking at the 1995 - 1997 model year. For all of you who own any in this range, how are they reliability wise? Have you had any major problems that you would consider more than just regular wear and tear? How is the gas mileage?

I am mainly looking at something to get me through school, more of a practical car. Otherwise I would go for the R/T or one of the ACR Neons, or hell; wait for the SRT-4.

Thanks in advance.
Polygon

[KatWoman]

Hey hey!

Well the 95s and 96s were known to have more bugs than 97s and newer. However, for ANY Neon that rolled off the assembly line before October 1998, there are possible headgasket issues. Chrysler had to redesign them 5 times before they got it right. Alex went thru all the redesigns unfortunately, at least he had the extended warranty. I have a 98 motor in my car and the headgasket is now going. It is only a small leak, and I keep checking to make sure coolant is not getting mixed in with oil.

As far as Neons go, they will serve you well as long as you stay on top of the maintenence. If you fix problems immediately as they come up the car should be good. Keep in mind too the timing belt is run off the water pump, and should the pump seize, say bye to the motor. I am due for a new belt in 15,000 miles...so I will also be replacing the water pump.

I am not too familiar with the 2nd generation Neons (2000+) but if you end up with a first generation, feel free to ask me anything, I have spent alot of time under the hood with mine so I can give you ideas of problems should they come up