The Plymouth Neon, a compact car produced from 1994 to 2005, aimed to inject some fun and affordability into the small car market. While it had its charms, including peppy engines and decent handling, not all model years were created equal. This guide will help you navigate the Neon's production run, highlighting the best years to consider and those that might be best left alone, empowering you to make an informed decision.
Plymouth Neon: Model Year Overview
| Model Year | Key Features & Common Issues | Overall Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 1995 | First year of production; potential for early-model bugs; available in Highline and Sport trims. | Proceed with caution; thoroughly inspect for rust and mechanical issues. |
| 1996 | Minor improvements over 1995; still prone to some common Neon issues. | Proceed with caution; thorough inspection required. |
| 1997 | Refined suspension and improved interior; more reliable than earlier models. | Good choice, especially if well-maintained. |
| 1998 | Similar to 1997; minimal changes. | Good choice, especially if well-maintained. |
| 1999 | Redesigned interior and exterior; improved safety features; significant upgrade over earlier models. | One of the best years; highly recommended. |
| 2000 | Minor refinements to the 1999 redesign. | One of the best years; highly recommended. |
| 2001 | Similar to 2000; minimal changes. | Good choice, especially if well-maintained. |
| 2002 | Final year for the Plymouth Neon; limited production. | Potentially desirable due to rarity, but inspect carefully. |
| 2003 (Dodge Neon) | Rebadged as the Dodge Neon; continued production with similar features to the later Plymouth models. | Good choice, especially if well-maintained. |
| 2004 (Dodge Neon) | Minor changes to the Dodge Neon. | Good choice, especially if well-maintained. |
| 2005 (Dodge Neon) | Final year of production for the Dodge Neon. | Good choice, especially if well-maintained, but parts availability might become an issue. |
Detailed Explanations
1995 (First Year of Production): Being the initial model year, the 1995 Neon was subject to the typical teething problems associated with new car releases. Potential issues include early-model bugs in the electrical system and cooling system. Available in Highline and Sport trims, it offered a glimpse into what the Neon could become. However, due to its age, rust is a significant concern.
1996: The 1996 Neon saw minor improvements over the inaugural year, but it still shared many of the same potential weaknesses. While some issues were addressed, common Neon problems such as cooling system leaks and electrical glitches could still be present. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial.
1997: The 1997 model year marked a turning point for the Neon. Chrysler refined the suspension for better handling and made improvements to the interior, enhancing overall comfort. This year is generally considered more reliable than the earlier models, making it a more appealing option.
1998: The 1998 Neon was largely similar to the 1997 model. Minimal changes were made, so the improvements introduced in 1997 carried over. This continues to be a good choice, particularly if you can find one that has been well-maintained.
1999 (Redesign Year): The 1999 Neon underwent a significant redesign, bringing substantial improvements. The interior and exterior were refreshed, and safety features were enhanced. This model year represents a notable upgrade over the earlier Neons, offering increased reliability and a more modern feel.
2000: Following the major redesign of 1999, the 2000 Neon received minor refinements. These tweaks further improved the car's overall quality and reliability. This year is considered one of the best for the Plymouth Neon, offering a good balance of features and dependability.
2001: The 2001 Neon remained largely unchanged from the 2000 model. The positive attributes of the redesigned Neon continued to be present. As with the 2000 model, this year offers a solid option, particularly if well-maintained.
2002 (Final Year - Plymouth): 2002 marked the final year for the Plymouth Neon before the Plymouth brand was discontinued. This year saw limited production, making it potentially desirable to collectors or enthusiasts. However, it's still crucial to inspect the car thoroughly for any potential issues.
2003 (Rebadged Dodge Neon): After the demise of Plymouth, the Neon was rebadged as the Dodge Neon. Production continued with similar features and improvements found in the later Plymouth models. This year offers a more modern alternative to the older Plymouth-branded Neons.
2004 (Dodge Neon): The 2004 Dodge Neon saw minor changes compared to the previous year. The core features and reliability improvements remained consistent. This continues to be a good option for those seeking a reliable and affordable compact car.
2005 (Final Year - Dodge): 2005 marked the final year of production for the Dodge Neon. While generally a reliable model, parts availability might become a concern as the car ages. However, if well-maintained, it can still be a worthwhile purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which year of the Plymouth Neon is the most reliable? The 1999 and 2000 model years are generally considered the most reliable due to the redesign and subsequent refinements. These years addressed many of the issues present in earlier models.
What are the common problems with the Plymouth Neon? Common problems include cooling system leaks, electrical issues, and rust, especially in earlier models. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these issues.
Is the Plymouth Neon a good first car? The Plymouth Neon can be a decent first car if you choose a later model year and it's been well-maintained. Its affordability and peppy engine can be appealing to new drivers, but be mindful of potential maintenance costs.
Are parts still available for the Plymouth Neon? Parts are generally available, but may become harder to find for older models, especially those specific to the Plymouth-branded years. Aftermarket support is decent, but sourcing original parts can sometimes be challenging.
What should I look for when buying a used Plymouth Neon? Thoroughly inspect for rust, check the cooling system for leaks, examine the electrical system for any issues, and ensure the car has been well-maintained. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.
Conclusion
The Plymouth Neon offered a fun and affordable option in the compact car market, but some years are better than others. The 1999 and 2000 models stand out as the most reliable, while earlier models require more scrutiny for potential issues. Thorough inspection and maintenance records are crucial when considering a used Neon.