3 Star Reviews for 2002 Dodge Neon

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.97/5 Average
93 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

A four-speed automatic gearbox replaces the archaic three-speed unit, a new base model is introduced, as is a value-packed SXT. Both SE and ES trims are relegated to fleet-only sales, and all 2002 Dodge Neons get a new "Dodge-signature" (crosshair-style) front end.

Pros:
  • Competent handling, large interior, affordable price.
Cons:
  • Engine lacks refinement, weak frontal offset crash-test scores.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 93.00
  • Unfortunate purchase - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    Ive had this car for almost 2 years, and have had problem after problem, regret upon regret. I have treated it like my firstborn, always hoping that after /this/ repair it will run well for a good long time, but no, not a chance. Got it for $2800 at 81000 miles, but put $4000 in repairs in the first year, including rotors, e-brake, sway bar links and bushings, control arm bushings, muffler, transmission mount, shifter cables, steering tie rod and lights. It never quite felt like it was driving nicely even after repairs. The story ends with the transmission failing. UNCLE!

  • Good at First... - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    I got my neon almost 3 yrs ago, at first it was nice and it got me around. I got it with 79,000 miles on it. Within the first week the dash got bubbles in it. After that it ran okay, hard, long start and misfiring every once in awhile. 1st yr I had to replace the brakes, rotors, tires, and bushing cost $700. The next year just new bulbs $10. Recently before I got rid of it I had to replace the struts, tire rod, brakes again, stabilizer pin, emergency brake and radiator $900+. I had the final straw when I finished fixing all of that and the catalytic converter went out.. I was terrified of driving the car and I took good care of it with regular maintenance. I would not recommend this car.

  • Continuous Headache - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    I have had multiple problems with this car ever since I bought it. A few months after I got it, we had heavy rains and I discovered it leaks around the tires, the belts squeal when they get wet (going through a puddle on the road), and it smelled (probably from previous owner). The CD player is temperamental, the automatic starter rarely works, and I have had multiple transmission problems. Had to completely replace it this past spring, and now the gears dont line up quite right. Not to mention the alloy wheel rims will dent on the slightest hole, and rims were impossible to find because of the size. Cute car. Fun to drive. Not worth the headache!

  • its o.k I guess - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    O. K, I have a 2002 Dodge neon. My brother gave it to me because the tranny went out. So I got it rebuilt for 1500 dollars. Now I still have it, when I turn sharply enough the engine light comes on, then goes off when I straighten up. It shakes bad on the highway and when I get to 55. The alternators going up, hopefully no time soon, but the lights on. Um, I got a performance muffler and took the airbox off and a performance air filter, so when I give it some gas it sounds excellent for a 4 cylinder. My recommendation though... Get another car. Why spend 3250 on this when you can get a civic or something?

  • pc review - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    This is my 3rd Neon (1995 sedan & 1999 sport coupe previous). Nice body style, decent power. I am still wondering what the 4th gear is for, it doesnt seem to have much difference from the 5th gear. Like most other folks, I found the brakes to sqeak too much. The left rear drum break will rust if driven through much water and lock up the rear wheel. The car had to be flat-bedded to the dealer. They took it apart and found nothing wrong(?). It still locks up some, but not the same extent. The gas mileage is lower than my other 2 Neons, go figure. Car is dependable however, and I plan on many more miles

  • God help us all - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    I bought this car less than two years ago with 30k on it and as soon as I reached 36k and my warranty expired, this car was nothing but a pain. It leaks, had to replace radiator, transmission went bad at 52K. It became increasingly noisy. It goes fine when alone in it, but two more people get in and it seems like it is pulling the trailer. It is relatively cheap. I say relatively because you are going to spend a lot on repairs. never gonna buy another.

  • Good thing it has a warranty... - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    The interior has plenty of room, its fairly comfortable, has decent speakers and cold a/c. My car is less than a year old, burns oil, has a rod kncoking in the motor, stalls after exiting freeway on occassion, rattles at idle. The grey dye used on the steering wheel has already worn off and the dashboard is chipping. The car is fun to drive, I use it mostly on the freeway. I will be offloading this car to a used car dealership as soon as I can afford a Toyota.

  • Neon brakes are terrible - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    Wifes car. Decent car in all aspects except brakes. Loudest I have ever heard. You have to wear earplugs when driving it, expecially in the rain. Dodge has said this is normal and nothing can be done about the brake noise. I cant believe that. Im not very happy w/ the sales department that sold me the car. They should have pointed that out in the first place. The Dodge service department was no help either. Bottom line for us is, no more Dodge products. Sad to say since I love the new Rams, but I wont go through this again. If anyone has any suggestions or has dealt w/ this problem, please offer me some advice. Thanks!!

  • gas - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    i have a 2002 SE neon and i love the car. i only have a problem with the amount of gas the car uses. it seem like every 3 days i have to but gas in my car.

  • Not Satisfied - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    This is my first new car, and it will be my last new car from Dodge. I bought this brand new, and have had troubles from the begining. My car rattles from all corners of the car, and all 4 doors. Not a big deal you might say. But when u can hear the rattling over the stereo, it can drive u insane.

Dodge Neon Reviews By Year:
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