Plymouth Neon 1997

• Recall 13902 [USA]: Unexpected air bag deployment can result in occupant injury.
  The electrical circuit design allows the potential for an inadvertent air bag deployment upon vehicle ignition shut down.
  dealers will replace the air bag electronic control module with a newly designed module.
  owner notification began during july 1997. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.

• Recall 1997102 [Canada]: Seats and restraints
  The circuit design in the air bag electronic control module may allow the potential for inadvertent air bag deployment upon vehicle ignition shut down. Correction: the air bag electronic control module will be replaced with a module that incorporates the latest production redesigned circuit to prevent this condition.

To ensure accuracy and for your safety, it is recommended to do a free VIN recall check here or here [USA] - UK - Canada.

Bulletins are notices put out by manufacturers in conjunction with the NHTSA to notify the public of manufacturing issues or changes.

• Safety belt cinching latch plate investigation as of 20021106

  There are no injuries or fatalities associated with this alleged defect.While conducting this investigation, odi found that the subject cinches meet the load bearing requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard 208, and that many of the reported failures were due to incorrect child safety seat installations. Additionally, the report rate is low (1.60/100k).The information available fails to establish the existence of a defect trend at this time.Further allocation of agency resources to this issue is unwarranted and the preliminary evaluation is being closed.
  

  Show Content

Common OBD Error codes specific to this vehicle.

• P0442 [1] Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
• P0455 [1] Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)
• P0456 [1] Evaporative Emissions System Small Leak Detected
• P1494 [1] EGRCHK Solenoid Circuit Malfunction

Dt*: the contact stated while the vehicle was in a drive-thru, both frontal airbags deployed. The contact was not in the vehicle when this occurred, but stated nothing was hit or run over. Both front windows shattered and the occupants sustained minor injuries. The vehicle has not been seen by a mechanic.

I bought this 1997 plymouth neon on 8/19/2005 used with 66000 miles it seemed like a solid vehicle but in sept/oct we had quite a bit of rain and i noticed puddles in my back seat area on the floor both sides,i checked around the car for open windows ect.....There was nothing i checked the trunk and it seemed damp but nothing as to make the rear floor wet like it was. I was just wondering if this is a common problem with this model?I know it is not a safety issue now but what if this was a problem to the previous owner and now with me it could turn into a safety problem if the floor was to get rusty and rot through someone could end up getting severely injured. If there is any info on this problem could you please let me know somehow thank you for your attention in this matter. *nm

Plymouth neon 1997 found paint used to paint neon is defective. *bf the consumer stated it was peeling off in alarmingly large patches. *jb

Car stalled out and stopped on freeway! I was almost rear ended. Stated right up but stalled again. Had it towed to shop (pepboys). They replaced several parts before referring me to dealership as they could not find and fix the problem. Chrysler dealership says it is engine wire harness at $930.00 to fix. Daimler-chrysler knows part is failing in neons but declined to assist in the repair. Dealerships ordered part 7 days ago. Still has not arrived and i have no transportation. *jb

1997 plymouth neon headgasket failure. This problem is a known design problem of the original gasket.*ak

Vehicle burns oil prematurely. Dealer states engine needs to be replaced. *ak

Engine head gasket leak. *ak

While driving the front axle broke which caused the consumer to lose control of the vehicle. The consumer managed to pull to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealership for repair. The heads gasket was also replaced twice because they blew and were leaking. Please provide further information. *nlm

Since 2003 this vehicle had small patches and a car wash by hand or brushless and no sun will cause it to peel. The patches have become larger.*jb

Head gasket failure, reverse lights go on and off sporadically, window seals and seals to the trunk are falling off, the trunk is taking in water which is draining into the vehicle's rear floor. *nlm

1997 plymouth neon with 84,000 miles spraying oil onto exhaust. Could cause a fire and have smelled oil burning and seen some smoke.Need to call dealer. Very unsafe.*ak

Constant replacement of tires on front drivers side, excessive wear, new tire only last about 6 to 7 months, have had alignment checked several times. Misfires a lot even though i get it tuned up every 3 months, excessive oil usage. Dealer gives me no good answers for this. *nlm

In heavy rain the car is very hard to steer, i have had to replace the transmission, i have had to replace the 02 sensor, and now the cooling fans don`t work i have also noticed a musty smell when i turn on the air cond. I have also had to replace the egr valve it is just one thing after another that keeps going wrong with this car.

I have experienced a number of mechanical failures to my 1997 plymouth neon which i purchased two years ago. One month after purchasing the car began having electrical problems; radio stopped working, clock display would blackout. The most recent was experiencing a blown head gasket at the time the car was in operation. I was able to bring the car to a safe stop. However, had the gasket blown when i was on the expressway just minutes before then, the scene may have been more serious. I discovered oil in my antifreeze. My husband and i have research and located a website that informed consumers of manufacture defects that have been reported on the neons from the 1995 to 1998. A number of complains have been brought to the attention of chrysler corporation by other consumers. However, they do not see it as a problem. I have notified channel 5 target investigation news team in chicago, il and they are investigating these problems as well. Target 5 investigation made me aware of a class action law suit again the chrysler corporation and i think these manufacturer defects warrant your investigation as well, hopefully, prompting a national recall. Repairing a blown head gasket and possibly a cracked seal on the engine, is a very costly procedure. Please look into this problem. I would be interested in your findings. *jb

The rear seat belt buckles failed. *jb

Major oil leak from head gasket which was replaced. Cracked manifold replaced. Blower motor to heater went out and was replaced. Ignition coil replaced. Also tires, brakes, struts, battery. When i first leased the car i had to get new tires as there were plugs in two of the tires and they blew out. When i leased the car it was 2 years old and previously leased. I had to have an engine mount replaced that was missing, left turn signal didn't work and that was replaced. Also, paint on hood is bubbling and is starting to peel on right passenger side panel behind rear window. Driver side window doesn't roll up tight and air blows in and it whistles. Also lines on windows on passenger and driver side from rolling it up and down.

This is the second time it has had blown head gasket. The firdt time was at aproxmitly 40,000 miles and now a second time at 85000 miles.

1997 blown head gasket

97 neon head gasket failure once in 2000 and 12/2002. Chrysler refuses to reimburse for second repair. Ts

Head gasket failure. Oil leaking on back of engine. Mr

Consumer states while driving applyed brakes, the pedal went to the floor and the vehicle had no brakes. This was a result of the brake line rubbing against the steering line ,causing a whole in the brake line,which caused loss of brake fluid.Contacted dealer. Nlm

Consumer states head gasket blew 3 different times while driving causing vehicle to stall.*jb

Consumer noticed oil spots under car, radiator blew two months prior, consumer feels its a defected hose, its too small and blows out headgasket. Please provide any further information. Ts

Cooling fan was inoperative. Dealer and manufacturer were notified, and both informed consumer that vehicle was not coverved under a recall. *ak *yh

The headlight lens cover was discolored and deteriorated. The lens has become opaque to the point where it does not illuminate the highway properly. The dealer examined the vehicle, but has not tried to fix the problem. *ak *sc *jb

Vehicle in for an oil leak . Leak progressed over a month's period and was caused by a head gasket to failure. Vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and sent to dealer for repairs. Please provide more information.*ak

Blown head gasket. It's a neon, the manufacturer is well aware of the problem but does nothing. This should be a recall!!!*jb

Engine detonation, driving 55 mph normal highway, perfect road conditions. Engine blew up in a bang, parts fell off, got car to side of the road and the engine was still running (but no power)!! *****the (idiot lights) oil or check engine light didn't light up before the incident***** dodge mechanic (at schmit bros.) claims "due to lack of oil"... He says motor "wound tight". How come engine still ran after explosion?? The last/previous oil change was about 4,000 miles ago. Oil level was fine on the day of the detonation, even after engine blew up there was oil gushing out onto highway. Replaced one defective (coils) solenoid and three master brake cylindars during ownership. Contact ray at (262) 284-3100 schmit bros. Dodge, port washington for repair details. We traded the defective dodge in for a used car, we lost around $6,000 in equity/fair value. I feel dodge owes us $6,000 cash for their defective products. I really mean it!! Dodge should pay us. **** could detonation be caused by: low grade gas, those fancy engine valves and another faulty solenoid??*ak

I bought this neon unaware that this is a problem with all dodge and plymouth neons man. Before 1998 , there are multiple reports of head gasket failure and that the company knew this and has done nothing. I have an 800.00 bill that i feel the manufacturer should pay. They refuse. It is a faulty head gasket their error and they are aware. *ak

Head gasket failures on many of the dodge and plymouth neons and similar makes. Secret recall by chrysler which should be given to everyone.*ak

Blown engine head gasket while driving, noticed loss of oil. Dealer was notified. Feel free to provide any further information.*ak

This is the second failure of the engine head gasket,1st at 23000 2nd at 54000. *ak

These cars are none for faulty head gaskets no recall made yet. *ak

During airbag deployment both driver and passenger side glasss windows shattered. Is this normal?

Oil leaking from head gasket

Paint is peeling off car, on doors and trunk.

Head gasket failed (oil leak) at 40000 miles, this is premature for any car under virtually any conditions and is quite common if complaints filed with the nhtsa are any indication at all. Chrysler became aware of the problem in 1999 and designed a new mls head gasket. As the head gasket was reengineered and there have been many failures of the original design, i think it safe to assume that this is an engineering error. My question is, if this is chrysler engineering mistake why did i have to pay $597 to repair it, why hasn't chrysler recalled these engines to fix them at their expense?*ak

While stopping vehicle was rearended by a truck and pushed into another vehicle. Front passenger's seat broke and went backwards where headrest was on backseat. Did not contact dealer. *ak

I contacted chrysler daimler and was told that there are no recalls on any of the parts that have gone bad on my car, but i read the informaiton about the recalls on the nhtsa site. The same problems are wrong with my car as with the cars that have recalled parts, ie bad transmission, head gasket, and electrical. I have spent 2,200 dollars fixing this car in the past six months, and now there is a rod knocking in the engine. It does not make sense to me that other neons with the same problems have recalled parts, but mine does not. If the parts do not need recalled, then why did they all self destruct? I thank god that i was not stranded with my two year old son in the car. I can't drive my son in my car now because the rod may come completely loose and strand us. Also, i have to drive 15 miles to school four days a week, and don't have a reliable car, anymore. I am very concerned about being stuck alongside the road in ten degree weather. Please contact me concerning the questionnaire that i filled out. I would appreciate any time that could be spent explaining my current situation/options to me. Thank you very much.*ak

Blown head gasket. Oil in cooling system. Contacted chrysler, no help there. I still owe $5000 on a car with a messed up motor. I believe chrysler knew these gaskets were defective and did nothing about it. There was a tsb put out in 1998. Why weren't owners notified of the problem. It's alot cheaper to replace the head gasket rather than replace the motor. I called the 1-800 number and they don't want to talk to me. Same with the dealership i took it to. *ak

We were driving on the highway when the oil light came on. A few seconds later, the car started sputtering, acting like it was going to die. Engine light came on and the car died. After having it towed to a shop, they told us the motor was blown. We had it towed to another shop that confirmed that was the problem. They informed us of the head gasket problem and told us to contact chrysler. Chrysler told us the car needed to be looked at at a dealership. Again the car was towed to rainier dodge. They inspected the car and told us the car had thrown a rod, that was the problem, not the head gaskets. It will cost between 2500.00 and 4000.00 to put a new motor in the car. We feel that chrysler is responsible and their dealer is only covering for them. We still owe 5900.00 on the car and can't afford to put new motor in. When we asked the service dept at rainier why a car would throw a rod without any warning, the answer we rec'd was it could happen to anyone and they can guarantee that it was not the head gasket leaking that caused the motor to seize. Can you help?*ak

This seems to be a problem with all neons 1996-1999 the oil leaks down on the the engine and could start a fire. This is a very dangerous expensive problem and chrysler needs to do something about this. *ak

Oil leaks(head gasket), paint peels from 3 sides of the car, overheats, air conditioner failure. *ak

Driving car in morning. Car hesitated to shift from 2nd to 3rd gear, heard this high pitch wining noise, decreased speed and car went into gear. Later that day was shifting fine but continued to have high pitched wining noise. Took it to a shop after i checked transmission fluid aand it was fine. They said they didn't know but if it happened again bring it bach. 2 days later same problem. Took it different transmission shop. (quality transmission) they called me and said that i needed a new transmission. Told me that there was metal shavings in the pan . Took car to aamco transmission same afternoon for second opinion because they said that other shop was notorious for ripping people off. Said i should bring it to them. They checked out car and changed filter and fluid. When i picked car up from shop they confirmed that i needed a new transmission. They said if i put this stuff caled duralube in it it would help till i could save money to have car fixed. Charged me $20.00 for it. They said that if wining stated back or shifting problems occurred it would be sooner then later that i would have to replace transmission. 1 week later, car started having problems again. Was driving and lost gear. Turned around to come home which was about 10 minutes away, and by time i got home had also lost 3rd gear. Next day car was shifting fine again. Went to shops to get quotes on rebuild kits, they said car was to new. That it would cost me up to $ 5,000.00 to order from factory. This was my first new car. I bought it so i wouldn't have mechanical problems like the older vehicles i had owned previously. The car is only 4 years old with 47,509 miles on it. I don't know that much about cars but i am sure that this should not be happening. . I checked your complaint log and there are 164 complaints about the 1997 plymouth neon. Something needs to be done about this car. *ak

Car having a oily smell when stopping. Car have been leaking for awhile now. Went to a auto shop to see what the problem was it was a oil leak. He thought he fix it the problem. The leaking slow down but i continue to put oil in my car twice a week!!!!! Now the car is starting to drag a little when you put gas to it also jerk or bump when it trying to pick up speed. The auto shop also say that there way to many neon coming to his shop lately with a head gasket problem and he wouldnt take my car. He said go to the dealer they should handle this problem they my have recall. ;-( i need help!!!*ak

Head gasket failure and rear main oil seal this car has only 36000 miles on it and there are many other owners having or have had the same problem with these cars there is a possibility that oil lleaks from the gasket can ignite. *ak

Engine gasket leaks oil onto exhaust pipe. Consumer is responsibile for $600-$700 repair. Gaskets believed to be the wrong size.*ak

Dealer noticed oil leak at last oil change...Assumed it would was head gasket as they are known to fail. Estimated cost to replace $1200 but dealer received "deal" from chrysler so i only pay $485. If this is a known problem in nearly all neons manufactured for this body style, why didn't chrysler issue a recall?*ak

Is there a head gasket recall on neons? Upon research, i found the following nhtsa item #'s that could indicate there is one. #sb601763,#sb602898 and #sb603107. If so, am i entitled to a refund on work done on my head gasket.*ak

No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak

No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak

While traveling at 10-15 mph consumer pushed on brakes and there were no power brakes. Took to mechanic, and they said it might be the check valve, and they replaced it. Then it happened again, second time they changed brakes, and it happened again. An independent mechanic found information regarding a memo that egr vavle would correct problem because water got in it and froze up causing a loss of power brakes.*ak chrysler is denying any knowledge of problem. *slc

I was just informed i would have to pay to replace the head gasket. *ak

Radiator fan relay failed which caused engine overheating and then water pump failure due to defect in the anti-freeze resevoir - the nipple for returning anti-freeze to engine was molded closed. Dealer did not advise me of recall on relay and wants me to pay a fee to inspect resevoir. Refuses to pay for water pump.*ak

Head gasket blew, oil all over, ,and machine stalled on hwy the mechanic says, motor is destroyed. I have no idea as to how an dwhy this happened, i have sent email to chrysler no reply so far i think car stalling on hwy could be dangerous, accident injury death etc no personal harm my sister 's mercury had same problem and car was recalled by dealer later on- after we made all repairs- do you have any notices from company or other owners in this regard? If this needs to be looked in to as safety problem. Thank you.

Oil leak from back of side of head gasket may need new gasket or have crack in head requires immediate attention

Head gasket already replaced less than 40,000 miles ago...

My 97 plymouth neon is on its 3rd head gasket. The car has 90,000 miles on it but is should not have gone through 3 head gaskets. This is a problem that chrysler knows about and keeps making new head gaskets to repair the problem. This has to be recalled because it cost me $770 to have it fixed at an independent shop. It should not cost me a dime to have the car fixed because it is a defect that chrysler knows about.

Vehicle has had engine (oil) leaks since approximately 60000 miles. Now vehicle has a blown head gasket and oil is leaking into other engine compartments creating a fire hazard. *ak

Consumer bought neon new in 1997. Right after the warranty expired dealer told consumer there was an engine head gasket oil leak, and would cost $450 to fix it. Consumer thought dealer should have told him about the leak while vehicle was still under warranty since he always had the oil changed there. Currently, vehicle was leaking 1 quart per day. Consumer talked to mechanics, who indicated that chrysler should have had a recall on the vehicle because they already have replaced many of the same vehicles for the same leaking problem after warranty ran out.*ak

While driving vehicle overheated, and smoke came from engine. Then, after taking vehicle to dealer, they explained that problem was a blown engine head gasket.*ak

Brakes redone after 3 years, head gasket replaced after 4 years, clear coat on paint also had to be replaced, muffler almost fell off, exhaust detected in cabin of car, reverse lights come on intermittently, motor mount broken, seals on windows falling down door jam. *ph *jb **dimsii ivoq entry posted after 12/12/02 cut over to artemis**768018

Vehicle would take 15-20 seconds to go in reverse, and then there was a big loud bang/jerk in rear. Also, slipped into 3rd gear. An independent garage could explain why, but that happened in all chrysler cars. *ak

Head gasket blew at 60,000 miles. We have since learned this occurs at a phenominal rate for all '95-'97 neons. *ak

I own a 1997 plymouth neon the engine blew due to a head gasket failure. It is to costly for me to afford to repair it.So the car which i am still paying or, sits in my yard untill i can come up with $1,500.*ak

Airbags deployed unexpectedly and suddenly, resulting in minor injuries. A recall has been issued on the vehicle for inadvertent deployment of the airbags. However, this vehicle was not included due to vin. Manufacturer has been notified. *ak

After the consumer purchased a used vehicle, he discovered that the head gasket was leaking. *yh

Head gasket - 20,000 miles - 2nd head gasket & head at 27,800 miles - 3rd head gasket at 47,000 miles. *ak

The front brakes were pulsating and were noisy. The consumer made several trips to the dealer for repair but the problems continued. The brake calipers and rotors were replaced. *yh

The wiper blades failed and was replaced. *yh

Vehicle was involved in a direct frontal collision. Upon impact, airbags did not deploy, and seat belt did not retract, resulting in minor injuries. Vehicle was totalled.The dealer and manufacturer have been notified. *ak

Engine head gasket failure. See chrysler is aware of this problem and 100s of people have complaints. *ak

Head gaskets blewout. Dealer has repaired vehicle.*ak consumer also experienced an oil leak from first day of purchase.*jb

This neon had a know manufactures defect concerning engine head gasket. Oil comes shooting out of the back of the head. Covering the complete back side of the motor. Dripping down on all the hot parts of the engine and exhaust system. My car didn't catch on fire because of this but somebodies will one day. Chrysler knows of the problem yet will not recall it. Can you please look into this and help the poor saps that bought these cars.*ak

Constant loss of oil. Taken to an independent repair shop and stated there was a head gasket failure. Manufacturer notified, and informed consumer that vehicle was not covered under a recall. *ak *slc

Engine head gaskets have blown out, causing coolant to leak onto the engine. Dealer has been notified. *ak

Due to a defective oil pump engine blew out, which may have caused a crash. Please provide further information. *ak

Previous to experiencing head gasket failure vehicle was running fine. At approximately 6 a.M., i was commuting to work at a speed of 45 m.P.H. When the oil light came on, and the engine acted like it was going to die. The oil light stayed on for about five seconds and then went off. The car continued to run ok until i arrived at work. After work, i checked the oil and found the dipstick to be dry. I added oil to the appropriate level. I had a mechanic check the vehicle and he discovered the head gasket was blown. This mechanic - as well as others (including the dealers') - stated that the neon has a long history of head gasket problems. At the time of discovery, there was a lot of oil underneath the car and on the passenger side of the engine compartment. I am very upset at chrysler - especially now that i have learned of the widespread problem among neon owners. *ak

Oil light went on, put several quarts of oil in throughout week but dip stick always read empty, oil light stayed on, took to lube shop where they identified a blown head gasket. Took to authorized dealer/repair shop, where they at first would not cover under warranty, but after inspection they replaced the head gasket, as well as a broken cam valve, faulty thermostat, and some exhaust parts, all of which were defective/broken unbeknownst to me. Plymouth covered all repair expenses then. *ak

No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak

Oil is leaking due to head gasket failure. Yh

Ok i called independence land mark dodge they gave me a run around said there was not any tsb on my car .I got on here and there were ten pages of them for my car. My ? Is the manufacture of my fehicle responsable to pay for that to get fixed if its a problam thats on the tsb .. Thank u michael trigg. No safety defect listed in summary. *ak( dot number: )

Head gasket failure very common, causing large quanities of oil to leak onto exhaust manifold; great risk of fire

I was just charged $400 for a new cam seal, and now $650 for a head gasket. At 50,000 miles a car shuold not be leaking this much oil. Maybe i will go back to ford. *ak

Vehicle not 2 yrs old that has transmisson problems trend in defective neons? Warranty is obselte. I shouldn't have to pay! Has had maintenance checks. Took it to alley's chry/ply dealer was told the problem. Very angary that the vehicle is barely 2 yrs old to have major problems i can't afford to shell out $1285 for transmission and $ 450 for engine head gasket. *ak

Plymouth dealer wants to charge $700 to replace this head gastet - appears to be a manufacturer defect

Had to get a new transmission for a 27 month old car. *ak

When driving noticed the engine check light kept coming on. Then, engine would misfire each time. Took vehicle to dealership for repairs. Problem has not be resolved.

Head gasket failed prematurely at 65,000 miles. I sued daimler chrysler in small claims court and was successful because they are aware of defective head gaskets! Bring all your service records and nhtsa customer complaint database records (get them from nhtsa, not off internet, for court!). *ak

Vehicle has a leak from the head gasket. It was apparently noticed before i purchased and may have been repaired with the same style head gasket. Now that it is out of warranty, it is leaking. When i questioned the service manager ,at sam dell, i was told that this was a common problem with the neon because of a faulty head gasket and that a new head gasket had been designed, fixing the problem. Being out of warranty, i was told it was my repair and cost. I have since written a letter to customer relations at chrysler, in auburn hills. It was sent certified mail and received on october 12,1999. I have yet to receive a reply. I questioned why there has been no recall, knowing that this is a problem and people have to pay for the repair when the warranty is done. I have just searched the internet and have noticed that i am not the only one who has had this problem. I am sure you have had other complaints as to the neon head gasket and hope you will require chrysler/plymouth to recall. I thank you for your time. Should i get a response, i will let you know what was written. Thank you

Consumer was driving and another vehicle rear ended him. Car went into a spin and spinned into a five foot concrete wall. Consumer was driving 45 to 50 mph. No injuries. *ak

On wet pavements the steering wheel jams up. Dealer has repaired the vehicle several times, and the problem still exists. *ak

While driving vehicle stalls unexpectedly which may result in a crash. Been to dealer several times, and dealer cannot determine the cause of the problem. *ak

Oil light came on. Consumer pulled over . No oil in the engine. Consumer has contacted dealer for repairs. *ak

Steering wheel locked up on several occasions, one incident while driving led to vehicle collision due to loss of control, violent deployment of air bags resulted in burns to driver (chest,arms). Mjs

When i bought the car i was told that it was a buy back, but they assured me that the problem was fixed. One person told me it was electrical problems and another told me it was water damage. Starting the second day i received the car i had problems. It has been in the shop 3 times for speaker problems, whenever it rains the speakers blow out. It was in the shop 2 times because of what seemed to be transmission problems. The car had a hard time shifting into first gear and made a squealing noise whenever i shifted it. It has also been in the shop 2 times for the brakes. For the past 2 months it has had a hard time starting up and 2 weeks ago it was dead in my driveway for 3 days. They have tried to fix the problems without success. I am currently going through arbitratio, but i want some advice.

Did not report paint promblem until 92,342 miles. Started happening at 6/15/99 71,000 miles. Can not even go throug car wash with out paint peeling off and leaving my paint all over car wash ground. No safety defect listed in summary. *ak

Consumer has a brake problem. When applying brakes there is noise. Also, engine head gasket had an oil leak, and she took it to the garage. Then, she took vehicle back to dealership. Mechanic replaced head gasket. Brake drum was pitted, and mechanic told her that nothing was wrong. Finally, passenger's airbag panel was bulging on the dashboard. There were no lights on the airbag modular. *ak

At 55mph hood latch popped open, causing hood to fly up, obstructing the view of the driver, and resulting in a collision. Driver and passenger sustained minor injuries. Manufacturer has been notified. *ak

Engine head gasket was discovered defective and repaired by a independent repair shop at 66,000 mile of wear. Can nhtsa provide information on this condition being a normal wear of the head gasket or defective parts. *ak

Said vehicle involved in frontal impact crash- airbags did not deploy.

I had the head gasket replaced in march and it is now going out again.Every time i have to get it repaired it costs me $500.00.

Due to the design of the head gasket, it cannot hold the oil pressure,causing an oil leak which may result in a fire. Common problem. Please provide further information and vin# *ak

Transmission failed.

The headgasket has been replaced once already. Investigation of another oil leak detected that the head gasket had failed again. Further investigation, a cracked head. Chrysler has offered to replace the engine and has requested that i pay a deductible.

Vehicle was involved in two accidents due to poor brake performance. Vehicle delayed in stopping. Dealer notified/ inspected and informed nothing could be found. *ak

Consumer experiencing ongoing problem with vehicle continually / intermittently accelerating out of control, causing vehicle to go out of control which almost caused damages and injuries to other vehicle. Vehicle been in dealer shop on three occasions, and problem still remains unresolved. Consumer would like some help in this matter before someone gets hurt or killed. *ak

Driving at approximately 40 mph consumer went to apply brakes to make a normal stop when brakes locked up, causing the vehicle to slide into a truck. *ak

The consumer has been experiencing problems with head gaskets. Head gaskets leak oil. The manufacturer has not been contacted. *ak

Upon stepping on the brakes pedal to stop vehicle heard noise coming from the bakes, especially when the vehicle came to a complete stop. Consumer had taken vehicle a few times to the dealer, and they said that the noise was grinding metal to metal which is common on those vehicles . *ak

Paint started to bubble and peel

Consumer states that vehicle exhibited an oil leak at the camshaft sensor beginning at 35,108 miles. The leak continued to 05/30/03, with numerous repair attempts by the dealer. Consumer believes that the egr valve is cause of problem.*ak the egr valva can not withstand the internal combustion heat in an illuminum block engine.*ts

While driving at 25 mph the defective driver's seat belt buckle dislodged which did not protect the occupant in this accident. No prior problems with driver's seatbelts. *ak

When it rains vehicle vibrates/shimmies and loses power. The dealer statws it was exhaust sensors. Owner has had vehicle into the dealer 4 times about the problem. *ak

No summary provided by consumer

Recall work completed on the air bag, however failure which caused horn to fail and air bag light to be on continually.

Vehicle was invovled in two accidents. First accident was between two vehicles at an impact of 35 mph, and the second accident occurred at an impact of 45 mph. Upon both impacts, air bags failed to depoly. Dealer/manufacturer notified. Can nhtsa provide additional information on this matter. *ak

No summary provided by consumer

Vehicle pulls and steering wheel is not centered and it makes a popping noise.

Right front end malfunctioned. *ak

Front end suspension failure; also, replaced drivetrain. *ak

Engine gasket: driving down on interstate at approximately 60mph when suddenly began to smell smoke, looked down and thermostat was very high, vehicle just stopped. The vehicle was so hot that could not touch anything under hood. Vehicle towed in for repair . *ak

Cruise control lock tab failed.

Ventilation system inadequate, leaving frost on windshield, rear glass, and side windows.

Driver's side and passenger's side airbags came out when the two people were trying to get out of the car. *ak

Michelin tires size 185-65r14 failed.

The defective engine head gasket caused a major oil leak. Yh

Computer unit in vehicle failed.

Transmission problems.

This car has been back to the dealer many times for problems brake problems, oil leak, window leaking witch they say there not responcible for . I am frightend by the oil leak to to potenchial fire hazerd. I feal very unsafe driving this car. *ak

Reported problem with leaking oil with 20,000 miles. Dealer told me there was no problem. Reported the problem at 45,000 miles and then i was told it was a blown head gasket. I have replaced the head gasket 3 other times since this. *ak

Engine head gasket has been going out since 1/00, and now severe oil leaks , ive put in 5 quarts of oil in the last 3 days! (this seems to be a reoccurring problem in nearly all 97 neons as, in my opinion, the manufacturer admits through at least two service bulletins) my check engine light comes on frequently and my oil light never goes off regardless of oil level in engine. I feel that the manufacturer is solely responsible for this head gasket repair and stronglt urge you to force them into a recall since they obviously are aware of the problem but refuse to fix thier mistakes. Also my turn signals do not turn off after completion of a turn this has occurred since odometer reading of 30,000. Interior door panel, passenger side, keeps coming loose from the frame, the dealer has repaired this twice but it is loose yet again. My interior roof light has not worked since first time door panel came loose. And lastly, it frequently happens that when my passenger trys to exit the vehice they receive a painful electric shock upon touching the door handle or panel. I sincerely hope you can help me with at least the head gasket default on my vehicle and once again i would like to urge you to force the manufacturer to issue a recall on this common problem!*ak

Engine check light came on at 38,000 miles. All the fluids are full and the car runs fine. Is this an automatic thing that comes on at 38,000 to get the car checked or is it realy a problem?*ak

After speaking with other neon owners, i have found that many have encountered the same problems-leaking interior, head gaskets busted, not to mention other problems, all of which are pretty expensive to have repaired. *ak

I have seen so many complaints about these head gaskets going bad. When are they going to be recalled? When they start killing people on the highways wehen they blow? This is a major problem that needs to be fixed before people get hurt. Chrysler knows there is a design flaw with the aluminum head, and the engine, and the gasket. This needs to be fixed asap! Chrysler needs to be made to recall and replace them and the heads which are being messed up due to the gaskets going, and leadking.*ak

After starting vehicle up and putting it into drive, vhicle took off and ran across the street, hitting 2 cars. Driver applied brakes, and the vehicle would not stop. No one has seen vehicle. *ak

Consumer was involved in a 40 mph frontal collision in which the driver's air bag deployed and caught on fire. The airbag on the passenger side deployed, but not completely and also caught on fire. *ak *ml

Engine's head gaskets developed an oil leak. This caused the engine to seize up. Engine check light kept coming on. Took to dealership & mechanic indicated engine needs to be replaced. *ak

Seat belt anchor bolts are bolted to the floorboard behind seat of both passenger and driver. If consumer is coming out of back seat, they can fall, causing injuries to themselves due to where device is located. *ak one person was injured. *slc

Brake rotors had to be replaced at 20,ooo miles because of excessive wear. *ak

Engine head gaskets are leaking oil onto engine. Dealer has inspected vehicle.*ak

Engine's head gaskets were leaking fluid. Had noticed leakage in driveway. Had taken vehicle to dealership, and was informed that gaskets had been manufacturered incorrectly. Head gaskets were repairable. *ak

The vehicle is consistantly leaking oil around the headgasket. Every three days the consumer has to add oil. Please provide any further information.*jb

While attempting to make a right turn vehicle stalled. Vehicle was not able to move forward/backwards.Also, axle broke, and cv joints failed which prevented wheel from turning. Please describe details.*ak

The vehicle developed an oil leak which goes into the coolant system. Mr scc

The transmission was not shifting properly. The vehicle was taken to a mechanic who stated that the transmission needed to be rebuilt. *nlm

Head gasket is leaking and has to be replaced. The head gasket was replaced before at 25,000 miles under warranty. Please provide details.*ak

While reversing both frontal air bags deployed prematurely. Driver sustained light bruises and eye irritation from the contents of the air bags.*ak

Consumer complained about a n engine head gasket problem. Consumer was told to contact nhtsa to urge them to issue a recall oe engine head gasket.*ak

Seat belt failed.

Inginition noisy when turned off/on.

Rear window placement is too high, resulting in poor visibility.

Brakes failed.

A mechanic told me that up until the 2000 neon, there are lots of reports of the head gasket being defective and my engine is leaking oil against the firewall and back of the engine. Is this a manufacturer responsibility for repair? *ak

I just found out about this recall for the 1997 neon's. However the biggest problem is that the paint is peeling off the entire car. I've tried several times to resolve this problem with both the dealer and the maker,to no avail. What is my recourse? Thank-you!

At 13,000 miles the engine head gaskets are blown ,causing oil leakage. Cause unknown. Please give any further details. *ak

The pitting in the engine head gasket could not be shaved down which caused the engine head gasket to prematurely leak and to eventually blow out. Please give any further details. *ak

Vehicle overheats due to the relay sticking in the off position. The engine gaskets are leaking oil which is spraying onto the exhaust system. The manufacturer has been notified. *ak

Upon attempting to accelerate the vehicle lost all power, causing a slow start. Consumer has contacted the dealer . Dealer noted the head gasket needed replacing. Please provide any further details. *ak