Skip to main content

Used 2003 Dodge Neon Sedan Consumer Reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
128 reviews

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Price history graph example

Trending topics in reviews

Pros
Cons
4.88 out of 5 stars

Neon Love

Neon Love, 11/24/2005
2003 Dodge Neon R/T 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am a 2 time owner of the Neon R/T model. First was a 99 R/T sedan, which I loved. The car was great, only issue was the head gasket. Now I've had my 03 for over a year and I'm as in love with this car more and more every day. Reliability GREAT, Looks GREAT, Performance GREAT, Options GREAT. I love to drive, but I also have a family. This car puts a smile on your face through the twisties and hulls the family in class and comfort. Class is something the 99 fell short on, but not this little lady. Buy one you won't regret it.

Report Abuse

3.88 out of 5 stars

Beware at 50k

jb, 12/01/2005
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car was an absolute steal when I got it and I had it dubbed as the best compact I've ever owned and I've had em all. Until 50k - major short in the electrical system causes brainbox fuse to blow during, now get this rt hand turns only! 30 labor hours already (800.00) invested and still no one can find the fix. Can't wait until its repaired and back to normal because it was a great car until 50k.

Report Abuse
2003 Dodge Neon for sale near you
Showing 3 of 7 listings
See all 7 listings

4.25 out of 5 stars

so far so good

MAT, 03/18/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

i have had my neon SXT for several months now and haven't found any big poblems with it. my wife and i needed a reliable car that we could afford and i wasn't willing to have a traditional sedan yet. the Neon looks and feel sporty compared to other cars in its class and we are very happy with it so far

Report Abuse

4.5 out of 5 stars

My very first new car

Gil Davis, 10/05/2006
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this car after owning a full- sized Dodge van. I'm 6'3" tall, about 340 pounds...and I FIT! My girlfriend has a Hyundai and I'm cramped. I've taken the Neon on long road trips, the AC is FANTASTIC, get a little better than posted mileage (about 34 on a 4sp auto) on road trips, and have had no problems, other than some annoyances when it was new that were fixed immediately by the dealer. Because of the engine design (short piston skirts to save weight), however, it does tend to get a bit of piston slap when it's really cold outside, but it does go away in about 30 seconds or so after the car idles. Not harmful, just annoying. It gets lots of attention when it does that! :-)

Report Abuse

4.63 out of 5 stars

Fun To Drive and Economical

larry s., 12/13/2006
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Have 44K miles and almost 4 years on my lease. Get the 5 speed, quicker and better mileage. About $6 grand less than Honda Civic. Dodge made mistake by replacing this car with Caliber, which doesn't handle as well, and ain't as sporty looking. One problem that has come up recently is the front strut bushings (rubber ring to cushion ride) have slipped down making ride more rough. Car shop quoted $330 to fix, but they tend to be more expensive for repairs. Hope for a recall since this problem should not happen on a car with 44K miles.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

2003 Neon SXT

clockit1, 03/23/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Wait for the promos / discounts and grab one. Features vs. Price - this car is an exceptional value. Fun to drive and responsive. Great sound system and inside much roomier and better thought out than it's competitors. Don't listen to the reviewers touting the imports - cost vs. value vs. cost to own - this car rates at the top. The sticker may say 16k, but wait for the right promo and you'll grab one for 11k - see if Toyota will give you this much car for that price - not on your life!

Report Abuse
2.38 out of 5 stars

Don't buy it!

bc, 01/12/2007
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

At 52,000 miles I had to replace the transmission and again at 87,000 miles. Had to replace the entire cooling system as well as the fuel sensor. Nothing but very expensive issues with this car! Don't buy it!

Report Abuse
4.13 out of 5 stars

03 SXT

03DODGESXT, 03/26/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am glad I bought a 2003 NEON SXT. I am within my budget. It is the second most inexpensive vehicle in this category when compared to Civic LX, Corolla S, Protege LX, Focus SE, Lancer, and Elantra GLS. I was going to buy an Elantra, but the insurance was to high. The fuel rating in the sticker said 33 MPG. I think it's less than that. I have to refill the gas tank for every 265 miles driven. I may sell my NEON in exchange for a fuel economy car.

Report Abuse
4.25 out of 5 stars

Good Reliable Work Car

Bob, 02/23/2007
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this Neon from a dealer that use it for a loaner. It has been a very fun car to drive and very reliable. I am on the third set of tires and had to replace both front end wheel bearings, brakes and rotors around 50,000 miles. I have over 75,000 miles and get great fuel economy, around 32 overal with 36 on the highway and 28-30 in town.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

2003 Doge Neon SXT

Rudy Sias, 08/15/2007
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is just a fun car to drive. With the sunroof open and the windows down, this car is a very fun car. Gas mileage is good, and this is both a good commuter car and a roadtrip car. The trunk has plenty of room, as does the car interior. Car maintenance has been simple, with just routine oil changes providing and tire rotations meeting the cars needs.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

A great car

ChrisSt, 09/10/2007
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my Neon new in 03 and continue to use it as a daily driver. Don't be fooled by nay-sayers who want to project the first gen's problems on the second gen car. My car has been rock solid and reliable. It is as quiet today as it was when new, no squeaks or rattles. And it's a steal on the used car market.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

A GREAT FIRST NEW CAR

Rich in Pa., 05/03/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this 2003 neon back in Oct. 2002, and haven't had any problems as of yet. I would say to all this is a very good car to consider.

Report Abuse
2.38 out of 5 stars

Whiskey, Tango, Foxtrot

Gary, 10/25/2007
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My 2003 Dodge Neon, built to my specs and delivered to me early 2004 (less than 40k miles) has already experienced timing belt problems and a bad transmission. I only drive infrequently and I have the oil changed regularly and had my 30k tune-up done on schedule. It boggles the mind to see any vehicle crap out so quickly. The 2003 Dodge Neon is loud on the highway, gets poor gas mileage and a gutless engine. Initially I told myself this didn't matter as it looked nice, but after the engine/transmission problems started hitting home, I don't see how anybody can put a shine on this turd of a car.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

Great Car

Wolfman in AL, 05/18/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is an exceptionally FUN car to drive!! It does handle like a sports car. I have put 11K miles on it in 4 1/2 months, and have had NO problems, most of this is Hi-way driving at 75+MPH and I'm getting aprox 27+MPG. The interior is well laid out and has great ergonomics. The road noise at hi- way speeds is a little loud (but the stereo makes it disappear ;) ). Overall GREAT CAR

Report Abuse
4.63 out of 5 stars

Easy on a daily commute

ricoy, 05/27/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bought an SXT 2003. Great to drive on a daily basis. Mileage could be better. Gas tank should be bigger! I have not been able to put more than 9 gallons of gas.(or maybe it is my Neon only). Great sund system.

Report Abuse
3.75 out of 5 stars

only my opinion

hdcon88, 06/01/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Well this is our third neon we owned We shopped around a lot and found very few neons on lots in our area as well as several states while we were in, the reason we bought another neon was the fact that the only way to get anything out of it in resale was to deal only with dodge again,because no one else would give us over 2000 for our 99 neon with 77000 miles on it.Well as for the new car my wife likes it so far ( only 200 miles) but my biggest complaint is the seats are not very forgiving or supportive for my 6'6"

Report Abuse
4.38 out of 5 stars

A steal @ $9995

sweaterlover, 06/01/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We happened upon a Dodge Neon looking for basic tranportation, and walked away with a steal. With a sticker price of $15460, it is overpriced, but when the deal discounted the cae, including a $2500 rebate, down to $9995, no one could pass this up. With a manual transmission at that price, many may pass it up, but a manual makes the car more fun to drive, as it is slightly underpowered (been driving a 200 horsepower van for years).

Report Abuse
4.63 out of 5 stars

2003 Neon

ufarab, 06/06/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Fun car to drive. Mileage could be better (26.5 on highway). Add power windows to rear. Exterior road noise too load. Otherwise, I like the car.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

Not Dissapointed

Davkuy, 06/05/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am a return Neon buyer who learned an important lesson recently about buying a car based on reliability alone. I tried to buy a 03 Corolla, and found that its reliable as long as you keep it out of the wind and off the highway. My 99 Neon did better in most respects. I now have a 03 Neon SXT, and I love it. I cant say it will last me as long as the Toyota would, but at least it will be an easier commute.

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

great car!

AC, 03/15/2008
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This was my first brand new car! Bought it with 32 miles on it and have enjoyed it immensely. I had had a Honda Accord, followed by a minivan (3 boys) and I was ready for a fun car for myself again. I looked at Hondas but for the mileage I put on them, needed lots of room for many years of ownership. I have only done routine maintenance and tires (brakes done this year). It's small so my extra large husband doesn't like it at all but that is ok with me. I get 37 mpg on my road trips to visit family 500 miles away and around 30 in town. I need a better vehicle in snow, however, and am going to trade in for a small SUV. I'll miss the gas mileage, but this is NOT a snow car!

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Wonderful car

rick78, 07/02/2003
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The accelarating is much better that honda's & tooyota's

Report Abuse
5 out of 5 stars

Great lil car

lil red, 04/04/2008
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great little car could ask for a better quality car. I'm disappointed they stopped making them.

Report Abuse
3.75 out of 5 stars

Not the best of luck I guess

KaylaG, 05/06/2008
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Wow. This car was great in the beginning. After about 40k miles it crapped out on me. Countless visits to the repair shop for my transmission, my engine lights always popping on, and new brakes about a million times, let me not forget the gas tank too little doesn't hold nothin! Oh and the darn thing has no oomph doesn't like to go! There's only a few things that I can actually say good about it. The sound systems great! And its cute.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

Bad Reviews?

larry s., 05/25/2008
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Can't understand the bad reviews on this car. The 5 speed manual is plenty quick; yet, some say performance ain't good? I get 30+ mpg on highway. Brand new the car cost me $11,000. Not many cars were cheaper in 2003 (except junk cars like a Yugo)! I have 58,000 mi. on it, highest cost item to repair was $320 for front end bushings. No new brakes, yet one post says brakes are poor? I also have a 98 Neon Sport with 73,000 (60% highway) on it, no new brakes yet!! With gas prices at $4+ a gallon, Dodge dumped the Neon for a mini SUV that's $7,000 more, lower mpg, boxy looking?? They're building very low mpg muscle cars and trucks that cost $1,000's more in gas a year?? Bring back the Neon!

Report Abuse
4.13 out of 5 stars

Great Car...if you upgrade

Jeff, 08/31/2009
2003 Dodge Neon SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful

I have had this car for three years now. Bought it with 44,000 miles on it and have taken it to 100,000. Really fun car to drive. As an experienced mech, i new that dodge parts are not even close to par, so i installed aftermarket parts for nearly every system on the car. Costly yes, but well worth it. The only original parts that have had to be replaced due to fault are the Cam position sensor (which all dodges are notorious for), EVAP canister(naturally due to mileage), and the timing belt(again, naturally due to mileage). Other than that, great car for the price. I would suggest you are at least somewhat of an experienced mech though. Parts are SOOOO cheap for this car. Labor is not.

Report Abuse
4.88 out of 5 stars

Overall

Michael, 05/03/2010
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful

I bought this vehicle in October of 09 i have a 5-speed tranny which shifts very nicely. Acceleration is good, with plenty of torque for a small sedan. I have replaced the front factory speakers, and put subs in the back. The car is a good car for keeping the sound quality in. Not much rattling. I have not had to do any repairs on the car only changing the oil.

Report Abuse
4.75 out of 5 stars

Fantastic car

Sabersoul, 01/11/2004
2003 Dodge Neon SXT 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

It's a great car, plenty of pep even with the 4-speed auto and for around $15K driveout you can't beat the room in the car for the money. I'm 6'4" and have no problems sitting in any seat in the car.

Report Abuse
4 out of 5 stars

Nothing but problems since i bought it

ohiomommy82, 06/03/2010
2003 Dodge Neon SE 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 14 people found this review helpful

Well i just bought this car 2 months ago and its been to the mechanic 7 times, things I've had fixed have been 3 motor mounts, Brakes master cylinder, Rotors, and pads, brakes completely went out on me while on the interstate , Idler pulley, belts were replaced, tire blew out on me, Struts need replaced and now I'm starting to wonder about the tranny so not worth it.

Report Abuse
Items per page:
50