Owners rave about their vehicles performance, power, looks, handling and relative attainability. There's plentiful aftermarket support for SRT-4 owners as well, including a selection of Mopar factory parts that can be installed in packages or stages for more power.
Major complaints include the low-rent interior treatment, often-poor gas mileage, industrial-grade shifter feel, exhaust drone and noisy factory tires. The old-school radio interface was another concern noted by many younger owners, who complain about its lack of an input jack or MP3 compatibility.
Many SRT-4 owners take to online forums to show off their rides, discuss upgrades and bash imported sports cars. As a result, there's a huge online community and plenty of resources available for new owners. Have a look around, and you'll find that the SRT-4 seems a good bet as far as reliability is concerned.
Chrysler had been producing the Neon for many years when its evil twin was released, and they've got plenty of experience with turbocharged engines, too. No glaring issues, recalls or concerns were apparent in research- which is nice to see in a car that's as much fun to drive as one of these.
The standard sports compact car rules still apply though. Mainly, be weary of a used SRT-4 that's had obvious modifications performed. Aftermarket exhaust systems may not be street legal, and the same may be true for aftermarket exterior lighting. If the vehicle has been lowered, be sure to check underneath the bumpers and body for scrapes or dents.
If the turbocharger system has been modified or the car comes with a 'boost controller', it may be a warning sign. Though stock SRT-4 models tend to be rock solid and tough in the mechanical department, there's a huge potential and temptation to modify the workings of the turbo and potentially cause engine damage in the process.
Do check for proper operation of the turbocharger system on a test drive- evidenced by a slight lag followed by a swift and steady surge of power as the throttle is opened fully. Any fluttering, strange noises or fluctuation should be questioned.
Don't forget to check the condition of the engine oil and expendables like brake pads and tires as well. A trip to a dealer mechanic may be in order to give the car the once over for peace of mind, though a well priced and un-modified example will reliably provide budget velocity and killer looks for years to come.
photo:Chrysler
 |
Major complaints include the low-rent interior treatment, often-poor gas mileage, industrial-grade shifter feel, exhaust drone and noisy factory tires. The old-school radio interface was another concern noted by many younger owners, who complain about its lack of an input jack or MP3 compatibility.
Many SRT-4 owners take to online forums to show off their rides, discuss upgrades and bash imported sports cars. As a result, there's a huge online community and plenty of resources available for new owners. Have a look around, and you'll find that the SRT-4 seems a good bet as far as reliability is concerned.
Chrysler had been producing the Neon for many years when its evil twin was released, and they've got plenty of experience with turbocharged engines, too. No glaring issues, recalls or concerns were apparent in research- which is nice to see in a car that's as much fun to drive as one of these.
The standard sports compact car rules still apply though. Mainly, be weary of a used SRT-4 that's had obvious modifications performed. Aftermarket exhaust systems may not be street legal, and the same may be true for aftermarket exterior lighting. If the vehicle has been lowered, be sure to check underneath the bumpers and body for scrapes or dents.
If the turbocharger system has been modified or the car comes with a 'boost controller', it may be a warning sign. Though stock SRT-4 models tend to be rock solid and tough in the mechanical department, there's a huge potential and temptation to modify the workings of the turbo and potentially cause engine damage in the process.
Do check for proper operation of the turbocharger system on a test drive- evidenced by a slight lag followed by a swift and steady surge of power as the throttle is opened fully. Any fluttering, strange noises or fluctuation should be questioned.
Don't forget to check the condition of the engine oil and expendables like brake pads and tires as well. A trip to a dealer mechanic may be in order to give the car the once over for peace of mind, though a well priced and un-modified example will reliably provide budget velocity and killer looks for years to come.
 |
| 2004 Dodge SRT-4 |
photo:Chrysler
Article Gallery