I have a 99 Plymouth Neon. It started leaking oil,very slowly at first,then more noticable recently.
My mechanic says it is the head gasket,which he said is a common problem with this car. It will cost approx $1200 to fix. I only have a little over 32,000 miles on it. Is it worth fixing or are there other major problems in my near future with this car? What other problems are these cars known for? I haven't spent a penny for repairs on this car since I bought it new except for the routine and common things,oil changes,new tires,etc.
Trying to get opinions of others who may have had the same problem or from a mechanic. Thanks.
2007-08-29 10:07:06 · 9 answers · asked by Jan 7 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
If the car is in otherwise good shape, you're the original owner, and you've had no other serious problems, then fixing it seems to be the best plan. But, remember that this might be the start of other problems on a car that's 8 years old.
If you don't fix it, it's value is almost nothing. If you do fix it it's value is only slightly more, but you might be okay for another year or two. If you have the money to replace the car now you need to decide if the $1200 is a good investment or if it would better be invested in a newer vehicle.
2007-08-29 10:21:24 · answer #1 · answered by bozopolis 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The problem with the neon is that you are not going to get any value for it if you try to get rid of it. So if you plan on putting money into it, it means that you will never get it back. So the decision that you need to make is if you are willing to lose it. As for you future issues. I suggest you have the timing belt, water pump, and all belts done at the same time. Service it every 3 months or 3,000 miles whichever comes first for the best chance of keeping the car reliable and safe. When you are ready for a new car, then donate the neon.
2007-08-29 10:25:16 · answer #2 · answered by Oakine 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A Head gasket on a Neon is about 6 hours labor and $20.00 for the Gasket. Plus $35.00 for the Valve Cover Gasket which should be replaced when doing the job.
He ripping you OFF!
Are you sure its Engine Oil??? Is any water getting into the Engine Oil (does your dipstick have a yellowish baby turd appearance?) Or is it your Transakle that is leaking?
2007-08-29 10:15:49 · answer #3 · answered by oe542 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Find another mechanic. $1200 for a head gasket is absurd. You can replace a Neon head gasket in 4 hours. $100 for the head kit plus $300 labor.
2007-08-29 10:26:15 · answer #4 · answered by Nomadd 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is worth fixing. I would first contact Chrysler and see if they would be willing to help you fix the problem. These cars are known for blowing head gaskets. Just be very nice and ask for help. Don't be mean or demanding cause they don't have to do anything for you. I would explain your situation and that you are a loyal Chrysler customer and your vehicle only has 32,000 miles on it.
2007-08-29 10:20:29 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
What a predicament. Unfortunately Plymouth is a horrible, horrible car. I've heard them called disposable since they usually fall apart when the warranty expires. Get a second opinion - and in the meantime keep lots of oil in your car to refill the thing.
2007-08-29 10:21:47 · answer #6 · answered by Nickel 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My friend had a 1998 Neon and it has oil problems and as far I know it happened to most 98-99 neons, I'd fix it and sell it!
2007-08-29 10:13:20 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
neons are money pits get rid of it.
2007-08-29 12:27:54 · answer #8 · answered by mrtattoo330 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i would sell it or fix and then sell it.
2007-08-29 10:13:57 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋