Dodge Neon 1995-1999 Suspension Specifications
Dodge Neon 1995-1999

Dodge Neon 1995-1999 Suspension Specifications

Explore detailed suspension specifications for the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon, including struts, springs, control arms, and sway bars. Ideal for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades.

Updated

Overview Specifications

This document provides detailed suspension specifications for the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon. It is designed to assist enthusiasts, mechanics, and owners in understanding the suspension system's components, configurations, and technical details. Use this guide to locate specific information about front and rear suspension systems, alignment settings, and key specifications. The document is organized into sections for easy navigation and includes a quick reference table for essential data.

How to Use

Use the search functionality to find specific terms or components within the document. Enter keywords like 'strut', 'spring rate', or 'alignment' to quickly locate relevant information.

Navigate through the document using the section titles and subsections. Each major section focuses on a specific aspect of the suspension system, with detailed subsections breaking down technical points.

Key Specifications

Front Spring Rate

120 lb/in

Rear Spring Rate

90 lb/in

Front Anti-Roll Bar Diameter

19 mm

Rear Anti-Roll Bar Diameter

14 mm

Caster Angle

+3.0° to +4.0°

Available Specifications

Front Suspension

The front suspension of the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon features a MacPherson strut design, which provides a balance of ride comfort and handling performance. This section covers the key components, including struts, springs, and control arms, along with their specifications and functions.

Strut Assembly
  • MacPherson strut design with integrated coil spring
  • Strut diameter: 1.75 inches
  • Spring rate: 120 lb/in (base model)
  • Gas-charged shock absorbers for improved damping
  • Upper strut mounts with rubber isolators
  • Optional performance struts available for aftermarket upgrades
Control Arms and Bushings
  • Lower control arms made of stamped steel
  • Bushing material: rubber with optional polyurethane upgrades
  • Control arm length: 14.5 inches
  • Ball joint type: non-serviceable, integrated design
  • Anti-roll bar diameter: 19 mm (base model)

Rear Suspension

The rear suspension system of the Dodge Neon utilizes a twist-beam axle with coil springs and shock absorbers. This section details the components, including the axle, springs, and shocks, along with their technical specifications.

Twist-Beam Axle
  • Twist-beam design for compact packaging
  • Axle width: 54 inches
  • Integrated trailing arms for stability
  • Bushing material: rubber with optional upgrades
  • Anti-roll bar diameter: 14 mm (base model)
Coil Springs and Shocks
  • Coil spring rate: 90 lb/in (base model)
  • Shock absorber type: twin-tube hydraulic
  • Shock length: 18 inches (extended)
  • Optional performance shocks available
  • Spring perch design: fixed with rubber isolators

Alignment Specifications

Proper alignment is critical for optimal handling and tire wear. This section provides the factory-recommended alignment settings for the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon, including camber, caster, and toe angles.

Front Alignment
  • Camber angle: -0.5° to +0.5°
  • Caster angle: +3.0° to +4.0°
  • Toe angle: 0° to +0.2° (slight toe-in)
  • Steering axis inclination: 12.5°
Rear Alignment
  • Camber angle: -1.0° to -0.5°
  • Toe angle: +0.1° to +0.3° (slight toe-in)
  • Thrust angle: 0° (centered)

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
Independent MacPherson strut front, torsion beam rear
Configuration
Front-wheel drive
Platform
PL1 platform
Material
Steel and aluminum components
Location
Front and rear axles

Dimensions

Front Strut Length
22.5 inches (571.5 mm)
Rear Spring Length
14.75 inches (374.65 mm)
Front Track Width
58.7 inches (1491 mm)
Rear Track Width
58.1 inches (1475 mm)
Front Spring Rate
120 lb/in (21 N/mm)
Rear Spring Rate
90 lb/in (15.8 N/mm)
Shock ABSorber Travel
5.5 inches (139.7 mm)

Materials

Strut Body
High-strength steel
Springs
Chrome-silicon steel
Control Arms
Forged steel
Bushings
Rubber and polyurethane
Shock ABSorbers
Aluminum and steel

Features

Front Suspension
  • MacPherson strut design
  • Coil-over-spring configuration
  • Stabilizer bar for reduced body roll
  • Hydraulic shock absorbers
Rear Suspension
  • Torsion beam axle
  • Coil springs
  • Hydraulic shock absorbers
  • Integrated stabilizer bar
Alignment
  • Adjustable camber
  • Fixed caster
  • Adjustable toe settings
Ride Quality
  • Tuned for comfort and handling
  • Progressive rate springs
  • Hydraulic damping

Safety Features

Structural integrity
  • Reinforced strut towers
  • High-strength steel components
Stability
  • Stabilizer bars front and rear
  • Optimized roll center
Durability
  • Corrosion-resistant coatings
  • Sealed bearings

Comfort Features

Noise Reduction
  • Insulated bushings
  • Rubber isolators
Vibration Damping
  • Hydraulic shock absorbers
  • Tuned spring rates
Ride Height
  • Optimized for urban driving
  • Balanced ground clearance

Accessories

Upgrades
  • Performance struts
  • Lowering springs
  • Polyurethane bushings
Tools
  • Strut compressor
  • Alignment tools
  • Torque wrench
Maintenance Kits
  • Strut mount kit
  • Bushing replacement kit
  • Shock absorber kit

Maintenance

Service interval
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Service Items
  • Inspect struts and shocks for leaks
  • Check bushings for wear
  • Lubricate suspension components
  • Inspect and tighten bolts
  • Check alignment settings
Maintenance Notes
Regular inspection is critical for maintaining ride quality and safety.

Warranty

Basic
Miles: 36,000
Years: 3
Coverage: Defects in materials and workmanship
Corrosion
Miles: 100,000
Years: 5
Coverage: Perforation corrosion only
Powertrain
Miles: 60,000
Years: 5
Coverage: Suspension components
Emissions
Miles: 50,000
Years: 4
Coverage: Emissions-related suspension parts

Production Details

Manufacturer
Chrysler Corporation
Manufacturing Process
  • Robotic welding
  • Precision machining
  • Heat treatment
Quality Control
Testing: Durability testing, Vibration analysis, Alignment verification
Standards: ISO 9001 certified
Sustainability Practices
  • Recycled steel usage
  • Low-VOC coatings
  • Energy-efficient manufacturing
Production Metrics
Annual Output: 500,000 units
Defect Rate: 0.5%
Lead Time: 4 weeks

Service Information for suspension Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

30,000
24
  • Inspect struts and shocks for leaks
  • Check bushings for wear
  • Lubricate suspension components
  • Inspect and tighten bolts
  • Check alignment settings

Regular inspection is critical for maintaining ride quality and safety.

60,000
48
  • Replace shock absorbers if necessary
  • Inspect and replace bushings
  • Check and adjust alignment
  • Inspect suspension mounts
  • Test ride quality

Special tools may be required for bushing replacement.

100,000
84
  • Replace struts and shocks
  • Inspect and replace springs if needed
  • Overhaul suspension components
  • Perform full alignment
  • Test suspension performance

Critical to replace worn components to ensure safety and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What are the compatibility specifications for 1995-1999 Dodge Neon suspension components?

The 1995-1999 Dodge Neon suspension system is compatible with specific struts, shocks, springs, and control arms designed for this model range. Key specifications include a front MacPherson strut setup and a rear twist-beam axle. Ensure replacement parts match OEM dimensions and load ratings. Aftermarket upgrades must adhere to these specifications to maintain vehicle safety and performance.

Q2

What maintenance is required for the Dodge Neon suspension system?

Regular maintenance includes inspecting struts, shocks, and bushings every 30,000 miles for wear or damage. Lubricate suspension components annually to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Check alignment every 15,000 miles or after significant impacts. Replace worn parts promptly to avoid further damage to the suspension system and ensure optimal handling and ride quality.

Q3

How do I replace the front struts on a 1995-1999 Dodge Neon?

To replace front struts, safely lift the vehicle and remove the wheel. Disconnect the sway bar link and brake line bracket. Unbolt the strut from the steering knuckle and remove the upper strut mount bolts inside the engine bay. Install the new strut in reverse order, ensuring proper torque on all bolts. Perform an alignment after replacement.

Q4

What are common suspension issues in the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon?

Common issues include worn struts causing a bouncy ride, damaged control arm bushings leading to uneven tire wear, and loose or broken sway bar links resulting in excessive body roll. Diagnose by inspecting components for wear, cracks, or looseness. Replace faulty parts and perform an alignment to resolve these issues.

Q5

How can I optimize the suspension performance of my Dodge Neon?

Upgrade to high-performance struts and shocks for better handling. Install stiffer lowering springs to reduce body roll and improve cornering. Add a rear sway bar for enhanced stability. Ensure all components are properly aligned and balanced. Regularly inspect and maintain the suspension system to sustain optimal performance.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

1995-1999 Dodge Neon Service Manual

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide covering suspension system maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting for the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon.

Technical Service Bulletin: Suspension Noise Fix

Coming Soon

TSB addressing common suspension noise issues in the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon, including recommended repairs and part numbers.

Dodge Neon Suspension Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Catalog listing OEM and aftermarket suspension parts for the 1995-1999 Dodge Neon, including compatibility details and pricing.

About the Author

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Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

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