The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received more than 100 complaints from Plymouth Neon owners experiencing brake problems. Many complaints stem from incidents associated with a vacuum hose defect that led to a recall in 2001, while others address problems for which no recall has been issued.
Vacuum Hose Defect
In 2001, Chrysler recalled certain 2000 Plymouth Neons for a brake problem associated with a defect in the vehicles' brake booster vacuum hose. If not replaced, the vacuum hose could swell and loosen from the intake manifold. The driver may experience a loss of power brake assist, which may cause an accident.
Frequent Failure and Replacement
Multiple consumer complaints to NHTSA indicate that the hydraulic service brakes on some Plymouth Neons may fail when the pedal is depressed, which has led to reported accidents and injuries. Some Plymouth Neon owners have complained that they have had their brakes replaced every three or four months, only to experience the same problem again.
Unexplained Squeak
Several Plymouth Neon owners have complained to NHTSA that their brakes squeal or squeak and continue to do so even after repairs. One consumer reports that the squeal was associated with a stuck caliper damaging the rotor. Another consumer reports that replacing the rotors and brake pads did not remedy the problem. There has been no recall associated with this issue.
