Segment:
Full-size Minivan
Target Audience:
Families, individuals needing ample passenger and cargo space, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops.
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Montana.
Sliding Doors:
Power-operated sliding doors (driver and passenger side) were a hallmark feature for easy access.
Seating Capacity:
Typically offered in 7- or 8-passenger configurations with flexible seating arrangements.
Cargo Space:
Generous cargo volume with Stow 'n Go or similar fold-flat seating options in some trims/later models (though this specific generation might predate widespread Stow 'n Go).
Completeness:
This is the official factory manual, ensuring accuracy and completeness for all service procedures.
Utility:
Indispensable for accurate diagnostics, proper repairs, and preventative maintenance, saving time and money compared to guesswork or less comprehensive guides.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine control systems (ECM/PCM), emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE) service, diagnostics, repair, torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, hydraulic controls, electronic controls.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, differential.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum configurations), ABS, hydraulic components, service procedures, rotor/pad replacement, caliper service.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), steering gear, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical Electronics:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, body control module (BCM), instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control module.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hinges, latches, interior trim, glass, seals, chassis components, rustproofing.
Comfort Convenience:
Power windows, power locks, power sliding doors, power liftgate, remote keyless entry, cruise control, power seats, mirrors.
Safety Restraint:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module, diagnostics and repair of safety restraint systems.
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, tire rotation, air filter replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation, electrical system diagnostics, common faults and remedies.
Repair:
Engine component repair (e.g., head gasket, timing belt/chain), transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, fuel pump replacement, alternator replacement, starter replacement.
Installation Replacement:
Component replacement procedures for all major systems, including body panels, interior components, and electrical modules.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters, electrical component resistance values, clearances.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from routine maintenance and basic repairs to advanced diagnostics, major component overhauls, and full system diagnostics.
Diagrams:
Includes detailed schematics, wiring diagrams, exploded views, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Extensive symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues.
Engine Code And Displacement:
3.3L V6 (EGA engine family, e.g., EGA/EGH) and 3.8L V6 (L32 engine family).
Horsepower 3.3L:
Approximately 180-185 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm (depending on specific variant and year).
Torque 3.3L:
Approximately 205-210 lb-ft @ 3400-4000 rpm.
Horsepower 3.8L:
Approximately 200-215 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm.
Torque 3.8L:
Approximately 230-245 lb-ft @ 3000-3400 rpm.
Induction:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - typically OAT Red/Pink or IAT Green for older models, consult manual for specific spec (MS-9769 or equivalent).
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Conventional (check manual for specific viscosity and API service classification).
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 3.3L/3.8L V6.
Timing Mechanism 3.3L:
Timing Chain (internal).
Timing Mechanism 3.8L:
Timing Chain (internal).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Likely 4-star (Good) or 5-star (Excellent) depending on specific test protocols and year. Consult NHTSA archives for precise data.
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Likely 4-star (Good) or 5-star (Excellent).
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
Likely 4-star (Good) or 5-star (Excellent).
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
Likely 4-star (Good) or 5-star (Excellent).
IIHS Front Small Overlap:
Not applicable for this generation as the test was not widely implemented.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models.
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) available on some trims.
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger advanced airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional or standard side-impact airbags for front occupants in later model years.
Seatbelts:
Height-adjustable front seat belts, three-point seat belts for all seating positions.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for precise interval based on Severe/Normal service.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), or as per severe service schedule. Crucial for ATF+4 longevity.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter (for HOAT coolant).
Spark Plug Replacement:
3.3L V6: ~100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs. 3.8L V6: ~100,000 miles (160,000 km) with platinum-tipped plugs.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (consult manual for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or Pentastar Power Steering Fluid (consult manual for exact spec).
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Automotive windshield washer fluid concentrate or ready-to-use mixture.
Transmission Failures:
The 41TE/42LE transmissions, while generally robust, can experience issues like solenoid failure, torque converter clutch (TCC) shudder, or internal seal leaks if not maintained with proper fluid changes.
Power Sliding Door Motors:
The electric motors and mechanisms for the power sliding doors can wear out or fail, leading to slow operation or complete failure.
Wiper Motor:
Windshield wiper motor failure is a common complaint.
Heater Core:
Heater core leaks can occur, often resulting in coolant loss and a sweet smell inside the cabin.
Suspension Components:
Wear on ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can lead to steering looseness and premature tire wear.
Cv Axles:
Front CV axle boots can tear, leading to grease loss and eventual CV joint failure.
Minivan Pioneering:
Chrysler is widely credited with inventing the modern minivan segment with the original Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager in 1984.
Fourth Generation Introduction:
The GS generation (2001-2007) represented a significant redesign of the original minivan platform, moving to a more car-like unibody construction and modern styling.
Segment Naming:
Chrysler branded its minivans under the Chrysler Voyager nameplate globally, while in North America, the similar vehicles were also sold as Dodge Grand Caravan and formerly Plymouth Grand Voyager.
Assembly Locations:
Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Production Years Platform:
2001-2007 for the GS platform.