The Chrysler Neon, a compact car sold in New Zealand from 1994 to 1999, aimed to offer a blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and American styling. While it had its charms, including a spacious interior for its class, it's important to be aware of potential issues common to these models as they age.
Common problems with the Chrysler Neon from this era include: • Automatic transmission issues: The automatic transmission in these Neons can be prone to problems, including slipping and harsh shifting. • Cooling system problems: Overheating can be an issue due to radiator leaks, thermostat failures, and water pump problems. • Electrical faults: The electrical system can be prone to problems, especially with age, including issues with the power windows, central locking, and dashboard lights. • Rust: Check around the wheel arches, sills, and floor pan, especially since many Neons were exposed to coastal conditions. • Engine issues: Oil leaks are common, particularly around the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket.
WOF tips
Key WOF (Warrant of Fitness) check points for the Chrysler Neon (1994-1999) include: • Brakes: Ensure the brakes are functioning correctly and that there is adequate brake pad and rotor thickness. • Suspension: Check for excessive play in ball joints and worn bushes. • Rust and corrosion: Any structural rust will result in a failed WOF. Pay close attention to the areas mentioned above. • Lights: All lights must be functioning correctly, including headlights, indicators, and brake lights. • Tyres: Tyres must meet the legal tread depth requirement (1.5mm) and be free from damage. • Windscreen: Check for cracks or chips that are within the critical viewing area.
About the Chrysler Neon 16V
The Neon was known for its simple design and focus on practicality. Engine options included a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It was available in sedan and coupe body styles. While not particularly luxurious, the Neon offered a decent level of comfort for its price point. Its light weight contributed to relatively nimble handling. However, build quality and reliability were not its strong suits.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common problems with a 1994-1999 Chrysler Neon in New Zealand?
Owners of the 1994-1999 Chrysler Neon in New Zealand frequently report issues with the automatic transmission, including slipping and harsh shifting. Cooling system problems like radiator leaks, thermostat failures, and water pump issues leading to overheating are also common. Electrical faults affecting power windows, central locking, and dashboard lights can occur, especially as the vehicle ages. Rust is a significant concern, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and floor pan, which can be exacerbated by coastal conditions. Oil leaks, often from the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, are also prevalent engine issues.
What should I look for when buying a used Chrysler Neon (1994-1999) in NZ?
When inspecting a used 1994-1999 Chrysler Neon in New Zealand, pay close attention to the automatic transmission for any signs of slipping or harsh shifting. Thoroughly check the cooling system for leaks or evidence of overheating. Inspect the electrical system for any non-functioning power windows, central locking, or dashboard lights. Critically, examine the body for rust, especially around the wheel arches, sills, and floor pan, as structural rust will fail a WOF. Also, check for oil leaks around the engine, particularly the valve cover and oil pan gaskets.
Where can I get parts for my CHRYSLER NEON 1994–1999 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 335 SKUs for the CHRYSLER NEON 1994–1999. You can find a wide range of parts, including components for the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, cooling system, and braking system, suitable for both sedan and coupe body styles. Check the CARFIX website or your local store for specific part availability.
What are the key WOF (Warrant of Fitness) inspection points for a 1994-1999 Chrysler Neon in New Zealand?
For a 1994-1999 Chrysler Neon in New Zealand, critical WOF inspection points include ensuring the brakes are functioning correctly with adequate pad and rotor thickness. The suspension needs to be checked for excessive play in ball joints and worn bushes. Any structural rust, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and floor pan, will result in a WOF failure. All lights (headlights, indicators, brake lights) must be fully functional. Tyres must meet the legal tread depth of 1.5mm and be free from damage. Finally, the windscreen should be free of cracks or chips within the critical viewing area.
How often should I service my 1994-1999 Chrysler Neon?
The recommended service interval for the 1994-1999 Chrysler Neon is every 10,000km. Regular servicing is crucial to help mitigate some of the common issues, especially with the cooling system and engine oil leaks.