The 1995 Dodge Neon, part of the first generation (1995-1999), was a compact car offered as a 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan. Key trims included the base, Highline, Sport, and the performance-oriented ACR. Initially, its pricing was competitive, aiming for value. The Neon stood out for its sporty handling and surprisingly potent engine options for its class, making it a fun and affordable choice for many buyers.
The Good
The 1995 Neon offered engaging performance and a fun-to-drive feel, appealing to enthusiasts. Its fuel efficiency and affordability made it a practical choice, while its surprisingly spacious interior and modern design offered good value for money.
The Bad
Owners should watch out for potential electrical gremlins, particularly with the power windows and locks. Rust can be an issue in colder climates, affecting the rocker panels and wheel wells. Transmission issues, especially on automatic models, have also been reported.
1995 Dodge Neon: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L SOHC I4: This was the standard engine.
- 2.0L DOHC I4 (High Output): Found in performance variants like the ACR.
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L SOHC I4: Approximately 132 hp.
- 2.0L DOHC I4: Approximately 150 hp.
- Fuel Economy:
- Estimated EPA ratings were around 25 MPG city / 33 MPG highway for the SOHC engine with manual transmission, varying slightly with automatic and DOHC engines.
- 0-60 Times:
- The SOHC engine typically achieved 0-60 mph in the mid-to-high 8-second range.
- The DOHC High Output engine could achieve 0-60 mph in the low 7-second range.
- Towing Capacity:
- The Dodge Neon was not designed for towing, and no official towing capacity was specified or recommended.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Basic amenities, often with manual windows and locks.
- Highline: Added features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and upgraded interior trim.
- Sport: Included sport suspension, unique exterior styling cues, and often sportier interior accents.
- ACR (American Club Racer): Focused on performance, featuring upgraded suspension, larger brakes, a more aggressive aerodynamic package, and the High Output engine.
1995 Dodge Neon Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1995 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Neon |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Sedan 5-Speed Manual |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | BELVIDERE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2374 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 52.80 inches |
| Overall Length | 171.80 inches |
| Overall Width | 67.50 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 104.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2L I4 |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $9,500 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1995 Dodge Neon Have?
The 1995 Dodge Neon, while popular for its driving dynamics, has a reputation for certain recurring issues that impact its long-term reliability. One of the most frequently reported problems pertains to the transmission. Automatic transmissions, in particular, have been known to fail prematurely, often exhibiting slipping or clunking noises before complete failure. Manual transmissions are generally more robust but can still experience clutch wear.
Electrical problems are another common concern. Owners often report issues with power windows, power door locks, and the central locking system malfunctioning. Window regulators are a frequent point of failure. The cooling system can also be a source of trouble, with leaks from the radiator, hoses, or water pump not uncommon, especially as the vehicle ages.
Engine mounts can wear out over time, leading to increased vibration felt inside the cabin. While not a widespread recall item for the 1995 model year specifically, some Neons have experienced issues with the head gasket, particularly if the cooling system has not been meticulously maintained.
Rust is a significant concern, especially for vehicles in regions that use road salt during winter. The rocker panels, rear wheel wells, and floor pans are particularly susceptible to corrosion.
While there weren't major widespread recalls specifically targeting unique flaws of the 1995 model that stand out above typical automotive issues of the era, it's important for potential buyers to be aware of these common wear-and-tear items. Regular maintenance, particularly fluid changes and attention to the cooling system, can help mitigate some of these potential problems. The overall reliability can be variable, with some Neons lasting a respectable number of miles with diligent care, while others may succumb to one of these common ailments sooner.
Electrical problems are another common concern. Owners often report issues with power windows, power door locks, and the central locking system malfunctioning. Window regulators are a frequent point of failure. The cooling system can also be a source of trouble, with leaks from the radiator, hoses, or water pump not uncommon, especially as the vehicle ages.
Engine mounts can wear out over time, leading to increased vibration felt inside the cabin. While not a widespread recall item for the 1995 model year specifically, some Neons have experienced issues with the head gasket, particularly if the cooling system has not been meticulously maintained.
Rust is a significant concern, especially for vehicles in regions that use road salt during winter. The rocker panels, rear wheel wells, and floor pans are particularly susceptible to corrosion.
While there weren't major widespread recalls specifically targeting unique flaws of the 1995 model that stand out above typical automotive issues of the era, it's important for potential buyers to be aware of these common wear-and-tear items. Regular maintenance, particularly fluid changes and attention to the cooling system, can help mitigate some of these potential problems. The overall reliability can be variable, with some Neons lasting a respectable number of miles with diligent care, while others may succumb to one of these common ailments sooner.
How long will the 1995 Dodge Neon last?
Based on owner experiences and maintenance habits, the 1995 Dodge Neon can achieve average mileages ranging from 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, this is heavily dependent on the care it receives. Vehicles with consistent and proactive maintenance, especially regarding the transmission fluid and cooling system, tend to fare much better.
Long-term durability is somewhat variable. While the engine and chassis can be quite resilient, the susceptibility to electrical gremlins, transmission issues (especially automatics), and rust in certain climates can shorten its service life if not addressed promptly. Those that have survived this long often have had specific components replaced or repaired. A well-maintained Neon can offer years of service, but potential owners should be prepared for possible repairs related to its known weak points.
Long-term durability is somewhat variable. While the engine and chassis can be quite resilient, the susceptibility to electrical gremlins, transmission issues (especially automatics), and rust in certain climates can shorten its service life if not addressed promptly. Those that have survived this long often have had specific components replaced or repaired. A well-maintained Neon can offer years of service, but potential owners should be prepared for possible repairs related to its known weak points.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1995 Dodge Neon, being a compact car from the mid-90s, offered a relatively basic suite of technology and safety features compared to modern vehicles.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically consisted of an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. An optional CD player was available on higher trims or as a standalone option, providing a more modern listening experience for the time. The speaker system was generally a modest setup, adequate for everyday listening.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance technologies as we know them today were virtually non-existent. Features were limited to standard automotive functions. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature, enhancing braking control during hard stops, particularly on slippery surfaces. Traction control was not generally available on this model.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included driver and front passenger airbags, seat belts with pretensioners, and reinforced side-guard door beams. Child safety seat anchors (LATCH system) were not yet standard in 1995. Crumple zones were incorporated into the vehicle's structure to absorb impact energy in a collision.
Optional Features: Beyond ABS and a CD player, options could include air conditioning (often standard on higher trims), power windows and locks (especially on Highline and Sport trims), and a tilt steering wheel. Cruise control was also a commonly available option.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 1995 Dodge Neon received mixed results in early crash tests. In NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) testing, it generally achieved 3 or 4 stars out of 5 for frontal driver and passenger protection. Side-impact protection ratings were less impressive, with some configurations earning lower scores. It's important to note that crash testing methodologies and standards have evolved significantly since 1995, so these ratings should be viewed in historical context.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically consisted of an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. An optional CD player was available on higher trims or as a standalone option, providing a more modern listening experience for the time. The speaker system was generally a modest setup, adequate for everyday listening.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance technologies as we know them today were virtually non-existent. Features were limited to standard automotive functions. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature, enhancing braking control during hard stops, particularly on slippery surfaces. Traction control was not generally available on this model.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included driver and front passenger airbags, seat belts with pretensioners, and reinforced side-guard door beams. Child safety seat anchors (LATCH system) were not yet standard in 1995. Crumple zones were incorporated into the vehicle's structure to absorb impact energy in a collision.
Optional Features: Beyond ABS and a CD player, options could include air conditioning (often standard on higher trims), power windows and locks (especially on Highline and Sport trims), and a tilt steering wheel. Cruise control was also a commonly available option.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 1995 Dodge Neon received mixed results in early crash tests. In NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) testing, it generally achieved 3 or 4 stars out of 5 for frontal driver and passenger protection. Side-impact protection ratings were less impressive, with some configurations earning lower scores. It's important to note that crash testing methodologies and standards have evolved significantly since 1995, so these ratings should be viewed in historical context.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1995 Dodge Neon Prices and Market Value
When new in 1995, the Dodge Neon had an introductory price range typically starting in the low $10,000s for base models and reaching into the mid-$10,000s to low $15,000s for higher trims and performance variants.
Currently, the used market prices for a 1995 Dodge Neon are quite low, generally ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, with exceptional, low-mileage examples potentially fetching slightly more.
The Neon experienced significant depreciation soon after its release, a common trend for mass-market compact cars. Factors affecting its current resale value are primarily its age, condition, mileage, and the presence of known mechanical issues. Well-maintained examples with fewer rust issues and functioning transmissions will command the highest prices, while those with significant wear and tear or needed repairs will be at the lower end of the spectrum. Its popularity among enthusiasts, especially the ACR models, can slightly boost values for desirable specimens.
Currently, the used market prices for a 1995 Dodge Neon are quite low, generally ranging from $1,000 to $3,000, with exceptional, low-mileage examples potentially fetching slightly more.
The Neon experienced significant depreciation soon after its release, a common trend for mass-market compact cars. Factors affecting its current resale value are primarily its age, condition, mileage, and the presence of known mechanical issues. Well-maintained examples with fewer rust issues and functioning transmissions will command the highest prices, while those with significant wear and tear or needed repairs will be at the lower end of the spectrum. Its popularity among enthusiasts, especially the ACR models, can slightly boost values for desirable specimens.
1995 Dodge Neon Cost of Ownership
The 1995 Dodge Neon is generally considered an economical vehicle to own.
Insurance: Premiums are typically low due to its age and market value.
Fuel: Its good fuel economy makes it inexpensive to run day-to-day.
Maintenance & Repair: Routine maintenance is affordable. However, potential owners should budget for common repairs like transmission work, electrical issues, and cooling system components, which can increase overall costs.
Despite potential repair expenditures, its low purchase price and excellent fuel efficiency keep the long-term ownership costs relatively low, especially for the practical buyer who can address minor issues themselves.
Insurance: Premiums are typically low due to its age and market value.
Fuel: Its good fuel economy makes it inexpensive to run day-to-day.
Maintenance & Repair: Routine maintenance is affordable. However, potential owners should budget for common repairs like transmission work, electrical issues, and cooling system components, which can increase overall costs.
Despite potential repair expenditures, its low purchase price and excellent fuel efficiency keep the long-term ownership costs relatively low, especially for the practical buyer who can address minor issues themselves.
1995 Dodge Neon Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
11.20 gallons
City Mileage
27 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
33 miles/gallon
1995 Dodge Neon Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1995 Dodge Neon Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1995 Dodge Neon Insurance
Insurance for a 1995 Dodge Neon is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1995 Dodge Neon Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1995 Dodge Neon competed in the highly contested compact car segment against rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, and Chevrolet Cavalier.
Performance: The Neon, particularly in its High Output DOHC engine variants, offered a sportier and more engaging driving experience than many of its competitors. Its agile handling was often praised, making it a fun choice for spirited driving, an area where the Civic and Corolla were more comfort-oriented and less performance-focused in their base trims. The Escort and Cavalier were generally considered less refined in terms of both powertrain and handling.
Features: In 1995, feature content was relatively comparable across the segment. The Neon offered competitive options like ABS and available CD players. However, rivals like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla often boasted a reputation for slightly more robust build quality and a more premium feel in their interiors, even if the feature lists were similar.
Reliability: This is where the Neon often lagged behind its Japanese competitors. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla have long-established reputations for exceptional long-term reliability and durability, with fewer reported major issues. While the Ford Escort and Chevrolet Cavalier had their own set of common problems, the Neon's specific issues with transmissions and electrical systems made it a less consistently reliable choice overall.
Price: The Neon was aggressively priced, often undercutting comparable models from Honda and Toyota, offering strong value for money upfront. This made it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious buyers.
Alternatives: For those prioritizing bulletproof reliability and refinement, the Honda Civic (especially the EK generation starting in 1996) or Toyota Corolla (E100 generation) remain excellent alternatives, albeit often at a higher used price point. If a sportier feel at a similar or slightly higher price point with better reliability is desired, a used Mazda Protege could be a comparable option. However, if raw driving fun on a tight budget is the primary goal and the buyer is prepared for potential maintenance, the 1995 Dodge Neon, especially the ACR, still holds appeal.
Performance: The Neon, particularly in its High Output DOHC engine variants, offered a sportier and more engaging driving experience than many of its competitors. Its agile handling was often praised, making it a fun choice for spirited driving, an area where the Civic and Corolla were more comfort-oriented and less performance-focused in their base trims. The Escort and Cavalier were generally considered less refined in terms of both powertrain and handling.
Features: In 1995, feature content was relatively comparable across the segment. The Neon offered competitive options like ABS and available CD players. However, rivals like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla often boasted a reputation for slightly more robust build quality and a more premium feel in their interiors, even if the feature lists were similar.
Reliability: This is where the Neon often lagged behind its Japanese competitors. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla have long-established reputations for exceptional long-term reliability and durability, with fewer reported major issues. While the Ford Escort and Chevrolet Cavalier had their own set of common problems, the Neon's specific issues with transmissions and electrical systems made it a less consistently reliable choice overall.
Price: The Neon was aggressively priced, often undercutting comparable models from Honda and Toyota, offering strong value for money upfront. This made it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious buyers.
Alternatives: For those prioritizing bulletproof reliability and refinement, the Honda Civic (especially the EK generation starting in 1996) or Toyota Corolla (E100 generation) remain excellent alternatives, albeit often at a higher used price point. If a sportier feel at a similar or slightly higher price point with better reliability is desired, a used Mazda Protege could be a comparable option. However, if raw driving fun on a tight budget is the primary goal and the buyer is prepared for potential maintenance, the 1995 Dodge Neon, especially the ACR, still holds appeal.
Final Verdict: Is the 1995 Dodge Neon a Good Sedan?
The 1995 Dodge Neon is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking an engaging driving experience in a compact package, particularly enthusiasts who appreciate its sporty handling and responsive engines. It is worth considering if found in excellent, well-maintained condition, especially for those willing to perform their own maintenance or who have a trusted mechanic familiar with the model.
It is best purchased used, as new models are no longer available. Specific trims like the ACR offer a more performance-oriented experience for driving enthusiasts. However, buyers must be aware of its potential weaknesses, particularly concerning transmission and electrical reliability. Thorough inspection, especially of the transmission and rust, is crucial. For a daily driver where absolute reliability is paramount, alternatives might be more suitable. But for a fun, affordable project or spirited commuter, the Neon can still deliver value.
It is best purchased used, as new models are no longer available. Specific trims like the ACR offer a more performance-oriented experience for driving enthusiasts. However, buyers must be aware of its potential weaknesses, particularly concerning transmission and electrical reliability. Thorough inspection, especially of the transmission and rust, is crucial. For a daily driver where absolute reliability is paramount, alternatives might be more suitable. But for a fun, affordable project or spirited commuter, the Neon can still deliver value.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma