1996 Dodge Neon Expresso 2.0
Summary:
You get what you pay for
Faults:
Engine ping since purchase car. Dealer claimed no problem.
Front end suspension noise at 40,400. Dealer unable to rectify.
Front end suspension still makes noise at 42,700.
Door molding came off at 46,400 miles and front end shimmy at high speeds.
Replaced front strut assembly at 47,350.
Cooling relay fan went at 48,700 miles.
Leaking oil - replaced oil sending unit at 55,380.
Turn signal switch malfunctioned at 59,100. Dealer tried to repair 3 times and finally said it was an unwarranted part. No resolution.
Exterior paint began peeling (White) at 63,000.
General Comments:
Very happy to have purchased the extended warranty.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 1st March, 2003
28th Apr 2003, 06:20
Have a '96 Lapis Blue Expresso, well Blue and Grey if you count the areas where the Blue has come off. My front end problem was a clunking sound on left turns from a stop or off of curbed driveways. Ended up getting the both drive axles replaced at about 30K miles. The Head Gaskets and oil seals were replaced at 86K miles, but Chrysler would not foot the bill. At least it doesn't leave a brown puddle in the garage now at 130K miles. A/C went out 3 times. At about 100K miles. Took it to 1 place twice, fixed and then repaired under their warranty. It still leaked. I had the O-Rings replaced, still small leak. I loose about one small can of R-134a a year, cheaper for me to refill it once a year after buying gauge kit. Ice cold for the summer!
The paint has caused me the most frustration. I had it looked at by the dealer and regional rep when it first started peeling (delaminating) on the roof. They claimed acid rain and the mileage (88K miles) did it, but it was always garage kept. I called PPG (who manufactures the paint) and they said their paint is guaranteed to last at least 10 years, but once it leaves their doors, the auto maker can slap anything on it. Found out the "process" was the problem and had been a problem since 1988. I've exhausted all my calls to Chrysler and the Dealer.
I've owned Chrysler products for 20 years and this is my first experience with "lack" of customer loyalty. Told Chrysler this is why they're #3 domestically and how they will lose customers. I've begun looking at GM's. At least they have better relations when it comes to paint, huh?
I just have to wait a bit for my 2000 Neon to start acting up...