What cause that the rpm go down on 2000 dodge neon if you turn the stiring wheel go back to normal?

Answer 1

Answer

pressure on the p/s pump. May be low (fluid)

I have a 2000 Plymouth neon and mine did the same thing, but on mine the check engine light "MIL" came on and stayed on, DTC code P0551 came up meaning trouble with the Power Steering pressure switch ckt, the switch is mounted on the steering rack near the two hose connections on the rack.

I don't know if your check engine light is on for you so this may not apply, if the light is on then to get the codes you can go to autozone or some other parts place and they will scan your vehicles computer for you for free and retrieve the codes for you, if that code above comes up then you know what has to be done, or go to your owners manual and read how to do the key on/off cycle and read the light flashes on the dash, it will give you the basic codes too.

If you are handy you can do it yourself, disconnect negative battery cable first, you must jack up the front end of the vehicle safely, slide yourself under the car, stick to the drivers side under the car, as you slide past the cross member where the steering rack is mounted you will be able to see the switch, it's on the backside of the rack, it will have a wire connector attached to it, carefully pop that off, slide on a deepwell 7/8" socket, turn counterclockwise to remove, be sure tiny o-ring came off with old switch, install new switch, be sure o-ring is on new one, hand thread it on, then give a quarter turn after it is snug with socket, DO NOT over tighten or you'll be stripping the threads on the rack and then you'll have even more fun!!

After that is done, be sure to connect the electrical connector, listen for a click as you push it one, be sure to wipe up any spilled power steering fluid, not much comes out, check your work area, be sure all cables, hoses, etc. are back where they belong and not rubbing against anything. Lower the car, check power steering fluid level, reconnect battery, test drive, recheck for leaks, your done, the part cost me $32.00 at Napa, just ask for a power steering pressure switch. Takes about 1 hour to do and most of that time is spent properly jacking up and supporting the vehicle on safety stands.

Good luck