On a 2000-2005 Dodge Neon, the engine air filter sits in a plastic airbox on the driver side of the engine bay.
Chrysler’s normal schedule calls for replacing the element about every 30,000 miles. If you drive in dust, dirt roads, or heavy pollen, inspect it sooner and change it when it looks packed.
This is a true DIY job. You mainly need a screwdriver for the airbox lid screws and a new radial-seal filter that matches the 2nd-gen Neon.
These steps cover the common 2.0L Neon. The 2003-2005 SRT-4 uses the same drop-in element in the factory airbox, even though its turbo intake plumbing is different.
Where is the Air Filter on a 2000-2005 Dodge Neon?
Open the hood and look toward the driver side. The air cleaner box is the plastic housing next to the battery / throttle-body area.
The lid is held by about five screws. Year to year the screw style can change, but a Phillips screwdriver handles most of them. Do not force a stripped head — use the bit that fits.
What Parts and Tools Are Needed?
- New engine air filter for a 2000-2005 Dodge Neon (2.0L or SRT-4 2.4L factory box)
- Phillips screwdriver (or the matching bit for your lid screws)
- Shop vac or rag to clean loose debris out of the lower box
A common Mopar OE number is 04891097AA (also listed as 4891097AA / 4891097AB). Popular aftermarket crosses include Fram CA8805, WIX 42384, and K&N E-1006 for a washable drop-in.
Match the old filter shape before you buy. First-gen 1995-1999 Neons use a different element.
How To Change the Air Filter
1. Remove the airbox lid screws. Set them aside so they do not roll into the engine bay.
2. Lift the lid enough to see the round filter. You do not need to remove the whole airbox for a filter swap.
3. Pull the old filter straight up and out. Check how the rubber seal sat so the new one goes in the same way.
4. Clean the lower box before the new filter goes in. Leaves, sand, and bugs collect in the bottom. Wipe or vacuum them out so they do not get sucked past the seal.
5. Slide the new filter into place. Seat the rubber edge fully so it seals against the housing. On these Neons the element also needs to sit correctly toward the throttle-body side past the lip in the lower box.
6. Reinstall the lid and snug the screws evenly. Do not overtighten plastic threads. Start the car and listen for a whistle or flap noise that would mean the lid is not sealed.
Is Changing a Neon Air Filter Hard?
No. If you can open the hood and turn five screws, you can do this in a few minutes.
A dirty filter can make the car feel lazy, hurt mileage, and load up the MAF area with dust. Changing it on schedule is cheap insurance on these 2.0L and SRT-4 cars.
Have you already swapped the filter on your Neon, or are you still deciding between a paper element and a washable drop-in?
Airbox on those Neons is pretty straightforward once you find the clips.