Wiring problems of the 2001 Dodge Neon

This car has a defective design. The multifunction switch that controls the turn signals, headlights, and foglights continuously blows fuses. The dealer quoted me over $98. 00 per hour to "diagnose" the problem, and could not offer any hope of how many hours it would take to fix. This is a manufacturing defect, as no circuit components have been altered in any way. I obtained a new multifunction switch, hoping this would fix the problem. On further investigation, the wiring harness connector is cracked due to heat and partially melted. The individual spade connectors are blackened due to excessive current draw through them. This is dangerous at best, potentially catastrophic at worst.

On several occasions, smoke has been emitted from behind the steering column. Initially, fog lights would not turn off. Later, smoke came from behind the steering column, and the fog lights turned off, but would not turn on. 1 month later, more smoke came from behind the steering column, with a bad odor, and the headlights stopped working. Now, I have had to buy the mfs (multi-function switch) but it does not work, as the wiring harness and wires are burned. The Dodge dealer says that the entire wiring loom has to be replaced for several thousand dollars. I have researched online, and have found several complaints of the same issue. My concern is that headlights, taillights, turn signals, etc, should be a safety issue, and I have seen that many other Neon owners have had taillights go out, turn signals not operate, etc. I checked 7 cars in junk yards today, and found that all of them had burned wires and harnesses. Dodge should remedy this issue, which is clearly related to safety.

In 2004 I had to replace the wiring harness and the multi function switch, fast forward to April 2008 and the same symptoms occurred, dangerously hot steering column, and smoke coming out of it. I think they need to be replaced again (original cost to replace was $1,100). I am extremely disappointed that this problem has not been a reason for a recall, does someone need to die before this can be implemented? I searched online and found that I am not the only one that this has happened to.

The contact owns a 2001 Dodge Neon. While driving (mph unknown) he heard a loud ringing noise then the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact stated that he was able to restart to vehicle after adjusting the wiring harness. The mechanic stated that the main cable into the battery caused the failure and they made the repair. Approximately five months later the failure occurred again. The failure mileage was 34,880 and current mileage was 36,000. The VIN, engine size and number of cylinders were unavailable. The mechanic stated that the main cable into the battery caused the failure and they made the repair. Approximately five months later the failure occurred again. The failure mileage was 33,880 and current mileage was 36,000. Updated 04-07-08.

Electronic system failure.

Car electrical intermittently goes out without warning, while moving or parked. Radio goes out, all dials go down to zero, power steering and brakes do not work. I have taken the car to the dealership on numerous occasions, mostly by tow-truck, to fix the problem. Dealer says they cannot duplicate the problem, installs CO-pilot, but car does not act up while it's installed. I have contacted daimlerchrysler assistance center, but they say it's not their problem. My warrenty is almost up and I am afraid I won't have the money to take the car in anymore, this situation is severely dangerous, the car will come to a dead stop on the freeway or in the middle of an intersection, I have had a few close calls and am worried that I will get hurt, or worse.

Thursday, January 16th, 2003: when driving at night, my lights turned off. I stopped and then discovered my high beams still owrked. Drove home Sunday, January 19th, 2003: attended funeral of uncle and did get to leave till dark. Drove home with high beams. When arrived home, low beams now work conditons: was extremely cold, temperature well below normal.

While driving engine back fired. Also when reversing vehicle stalled. Dealer changed the spark plugs and wires, but the problem continued.