Three problems related to battery have been reported for the 1997 Dodge Neon. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Vehicle just shut off while stopping at a stop sign, and would not restart. Also, battery light and seat belt light came on. Consumer had vehicle towed to dealer.
While parked, transmission fluid leaked out of vehicle. Dealer found transmission lines loose. Vehicle shifting by itself due to a sticky cable. Oil leak in engine. Dealer found headgasket failure. On several occasions engine runs rough. Camshaft replaced. Vehicle shakes and trembles while braking. Weatherstripping fell off on drivers side door. Antifreeze leaking. Dealer replaced water pump. Battery clamp loose causing battery light to stay on.
My car had exactly 12000 miles on it when purchased. At around mile 43000, the car began to leak oil. I then took it to a mechanic who told me that it was the valve cover gasket. The repair was to cost me $800 until he also informed me that the problem was reoccuring in Dodge Neons and should have been recalled. The Dodge dealership took care of it. Then, around mile 70000, the car began to overheat tremendously, going dead every time the gas pedal was released, the electrical system began to go haywire, the battery had to be replaced, and as well as the thermostat. I am a college student and for this to be my dependable mode of transportation, it is truly a joke. The Dodge corporation should do something about this. Thank you!.