🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Year:

2003

Engine Variant Indicator:

+Diesel

Platform Code:

NS (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Minivan

Historical Significance:

The Dodge Caravan was a pioneering minivan, instrumental in defining the segment and popularizing family-oriented transportation.

Key Competitors 2003:

Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Kia Sedona

Versatility:

Configurable seating, ample cargo space, and sliding doors offered exceptional practicality for families.

Powertrain Options:

Availability of efficient gasoline engines and the notable inclusion of a diesel option for enhanced fuel economy.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service Repair

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians and Advanced DIYers

Regional Applicability:

North America (potentially global with variations)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (Gasoline and Diesel), Transmission (Automatic, Manual), Drivetrain (FWD)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, Non-ABS), Wheels and Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Distribution, Starting and Charging, Body Control Modules, Powertrain Control Modules (PCM), HVAC Controls, Audio Systems

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Seats, Interior Trim, Glass, HVAC System Components, Body Sealing

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections and Replacements, Brake Pad and Rotor Service, Tire Rotation and Balancing

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Fuel System Diagnostics, Ignition System Diagnostics, Emission Control System Diagnostics, Electrical System Troubleshooting

Repair:

Engine Mechanical Repairs (Head Gaskets, Piston Rings, Bearings), Transmission Overhaul and Repair, Brake System Component Replacement (Calipers, Lines), Suspension Component Replacement (Struts, Ball Joints), Steering System Component Replacement (Tie Rods, Rack and Pinion), Electrical Component Replacement (Sensors, Actuators, Modules), HVAC Component Replacement (Compressor, Evaporator), Body Panel Repair and Replacement

Special Tools And Techniques:

Identification and usage of specialized tools for specific repairs and adjustments

Depth:

Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, diagnostic flowcharts, wiring schematics, exploded views, and component identification for complete repairs and diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable Text

Printability:

Printable Pages

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Gasoline:

3.3L V6 OHV 12-Valve (EGA)

Engine 1 Gasoline Horsepower:

158 hp @ 4700 rpm

Engine 1 Gasoline Torque:

199 lb-ft @ 3300 rpm

Engine 2 Gasoline:

3.8L V6 OHV 12-Valve (L32)

Engine 2 Gasoline Horsepower:

180 hp @ 4400 rpm

Engine 2 Gasoline Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 3 Diesel:

2.5L VM Motori Turbodiesel (Specific code varies, likely an IDI or DI)

Engine 3 Diesel Horsepower:

Estimated 100-115 hp (exact figure dependent on specific variant)

Engine 3 Diesel Torque:

Estimated 160-180 lb-ft (exact figure dependent on specific variant)

Gasoline Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Diesel Injection Type:

Likely Indirect Injection (IDI) or Direct Injection (DI) with rotary injection pump

Emissions Standard:

EPA Certified (Specific tier depends on market)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (less common, especially with diesel)

Torque Converter Lockup:

Yes, for improved fuel economy at cruising speeds

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Refer to manual for exact spec)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 177.1 inches (Short Wheelbase), 189.4 inches (Long Wheelbase)

Width:

Approx. 72.5 inches

Height:

Approx. 68.4 inches

Seating Capacity:

7 Passengers (2-2-3 configuration typical)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 15.0 - 20.0 cubic feet (varies by wheelbase)

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 140.0 - 150.0 cubic feet (varies by wheelbase)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,800 - 4,200 lbs (varies by engine and trim)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5,400 - 5,800 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for 2003 model year, specific testing may vary)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2003 model year, specific testing may vary)

IIHS Offset Frontal Impact:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags, refer to specific testing)

Anti Lock Braking System ABS:

Standard or Optional (depending on trim)

Traction Control:

Optional (TRAC system)

Airbags Front:

Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional Side Curtain Airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, front seat pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

AM/FM Cassette/CD players, available premium Infinity sound systems.

Rear Seat Entertainment:

Optional rear-seat video entertainment systems were available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors

OBD Ii Port:

Standard under the dashboard for diagnostic access

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions, refer to manual)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on service class, check manual)

Coolant Change:

Initial fill and then every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on coolant type)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Varies by plug type (e.g., Platinum: 60,000-100,000 miles; Iridium: 100,000+ miles)

Engine Oil Viscosity Gasoline:

5W-30 (most common, check manual for specific engine)

Engine Oil Capacity Gasoline:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (3.3L), 5.0 quarts (3.8L)

Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid OAT), typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT)

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON III ATF

Transmission Slippage:

Common issue with the 41TE/42LE transmission, often related to valve body wear, solenoid issues, or fluid degradation.

Head Gasket Leaks:

Can occur on V6 engines, especially with overheating.

Rear Strut Mounts:

Wear and tear leading to clunking noises over bumps.

Power Door Lock Actuators:

Failure of door lock mechanisms, particularly the sliding doors.

Evaporative Emission Control System Evap:

Issues with charcoal canisters, vent valves, or purge solenoids can trigger Check Engine Lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge History:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing trucks, performance cars, and family vehicles.

Caravan Generations:

The 2003 model belongs to the second generation (NS), produced from 1996 to 2000, with a significant refresh for the 2001 model year (which this manual likely covers). This second generation saw the introduction of Stow 'n Go seating (later) and more powerful engine options.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Windsor Assembly Plant)

Production Years For Ns Platform Refresh:

2001-2007

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Recognition:

The original Dodge Caravan pioneered the minivan segment, receiving numerous accolades for its innovative design and practicality upon its introduction.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Ratings varied by year and engine. Generally considered practical but could have reliability issues in specific areas like transmissions.

Emissions Certifications:

Compliant with EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for its model year.