4 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
  • 02 Dodge Neon (Automatic) - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    As I said it is an automatic and Dodge made a programming error in the Neons automatic transmission so thats about the only problem. I bought MJ this year with 83K miles (now 90k) when I bought the car I had no experience in the mechanics and if I had I wouldnt have bought THAT Neon BUT I am glad I did. If you like paying people to fix your car, do not buy a Neon. If you can fix things on your own get it. MJ has been through a LOT (off road, 3 or 4 wrecks, and a half country trip) but she keeps going, I did pay quite a bit to fix her up but a lot was the previous owner (the wrecks were limited to suspension damage and a cracked rim) since the complete fix I havent spent a dime.

  • Great Car! I recommend highly! - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    I bought this car with 24K miles on it and have put almost 120K on it since then. I commute 60 miles round trip each day and spend alot of time on the road. While the ride is not as smooth as some would like, the handling of the car is good and the reliability has been terrific. I have not had any major repairs that have needed to be done, but have replaced the normal wear parts like tires, brakes and battery. The car handles great in the snow and also on wet roads. The body style is attractive and the lines are clean. The blind spot view is a little limited by the fast back style as well as by the rear spoiler. Once you are used to this and compensate for it, it is not a problem.

  • Dodge this Neon - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    Bought this car w/salvage title. Owned since 04, and put 75k mi on it (113k total now). There seem to be a lot of technical problems with it, but Im not sure if that is due to the salvage title. Cant mess with the tranny or it will go out. Most everything went out by 100k. AC is cold, but I think I have radiator fan problems so it overheats. Mechs say its an O-ring problem but they are WRONG all the time (already fixed that 3 times!!! and still overheating - even when idle and no AC on. Car was discontinued for a reason.

  • The silver bullet - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    in 2006 i bought a 02 r/t with 150k i have never had a problem out of the car and the previouse owner did not either. in fact the factory battery last up till the spring of 09. car is fun to drive very comforatable inside. has decent acceleration, not so bad MPG. for how much they cast it is a great car. beats the cost to own a 00- 03 civic to!

  • Looks may be deceiving - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    I bought the car in 2007 with 82,000 miles on it. Had problems frequently with it. First brakes, then the transmission. Engine light has always been on and off. Now engine makes a loud noise when the A/C is on. First car so i dont know what to think except the person before me beat on it. Ive had the electric randomly go out on my car several times for a significant amount of time and then come back on. Car hasa mind of its own. Love the interior/exterior design. The mechanics need improvement. I probably would not ever buy a neon again based on previous experiences.

  • great to problems - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    I bought my 2002 sxt 4dr Dodge neon it was awesome. It could handle any weather situation and drove like a dream. After the 2nd year the back bumper faded. Now it has hit its sixth year the warranties are gone and the transmission went out without warning. I had it diagnosed the week before because my deduction pump when out which caused my engine light to go off. No sign of the trans going. The shop I took it to said that the day it had went out it showed 7 codes.

  • Reliable Transportation - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    Ive had my car for five years and have had very few problems. It does great on the highway. The only problem I have with it is when the air conditioning is on the acceleration is decreased, but I think this is due to a less powerful engine. Ive gotten into a couple of accidents in this car and was pleasantly surprised that there was barely a scratch on my car. I would reccomend this car to anyone who needs affordable a to b transportation.

  • Best Used Car for the Money - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    I think that these Neons get a lot of negative publicity because of the Toyota/Nissan/Honda owners out there. For a used car though, I would rather buy a Neon for $4,000 than an Import for $7,000 any day. You cant beat it for the value and the more I drive mine, the more I like it. Mind you, it isnt worth buying new and if I did, Id buy the Honda Civic but resale value works in favor of the used car buyer too, and I lucked out with my Neon. I would definitely buy the Used Neon over the Used Civic any day.

  • Little engine that could - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    I have enjoyed my Neon from day one, I bought it used when it had 43000 miles on it, I now have 80,300 miles on it. The only mechanical problem I have had with it has been the clutch, which was replaced for $700.00 and that was due to letting inexperienced friends drive my manual. I live in Alaska, and this car has done me well. I havent been stuck, it has great control and still drives likes its right off the lot. Its affordable in the following aspects, gas, inurance and general maitenance. I would reccomend this car to anyone who needs a commuter car or just an everyday ride.

  • Neon Good for the Money - 2002 Dodge Neon
    By -

    I like my Neon. It is sporty and fun to drive. I have not had any major problems yet at 19,000 miles. Compared to others in its price range-- best buy.

Dodge Neon Reviews By Year:
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