Market Position:
The Chrysler Caravan (and its Dodge Caravan sibling) was a segment-defining minivan, offering practicality, passenger comfort, and a versatile interior for families and cargo hauling.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other minivans of the era such as the Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, and Toyota Previa, often distinguished by its Stow 'n Go seating (though not standard on all 2001 models, the foundation was laid).
Key Features:
Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, comfortable ride, front-wheel drive.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet maintenance, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.
Engine:
3.3L V6 (EGA), 3.8L V6 (L32)
Transmission:
41TE (4-speed automatic)
Brakes:
Front Disc, Rear Drum (standard), Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Suspension:
Front Independent MacPherson Struts, Rear Leaf Springs
Steering:
Power Rack and Pinion
Electrical System:
Ignition, Charging, Starting, Lighting, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules (BCM)
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heater, Climate Control Systems
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection, Fuel Pump, Fuel Filter
Exhaust System:
Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Exhaust Pipes
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant
Body And Frame:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Interior Trim, Underbody
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and adjustment for all covered systems
Diagnostics:
Engine performance diagnostics, HVAC diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics
Engine Rebuild:
Engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, and torque specifications
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid and filter change, clutch adjustment (if applicable), general overhaul procedures
Brake Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing/replacement, brake bleeding
Suspension And Steering Service:
Shock/strut replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering system service
Electrical Component Replacement:
Alternator, starter, battery, lighting components, sensors
Body And Interior Repair:
Door panel removal, seat removal, body panel alignment
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 119.3 inches (3030 mm)
Length:
Approx. 193.7 inches (4920 mm)
Width:
Approx. 72.0 inches (1829 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4000-4300 lbs (1814-1950 kg) depending on configuration
Cargo Volume Behind First Row:
Approx. 150 cu ft (4248 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:
Approx. 77 cu ft (2180 liters)
NHTSA Frontal Driver Side:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars - 2001 Model Year NHTSA Ratings)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Side:
★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars - 2001 Model Year NHTSA Ratings)
Active Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (on some models)
Passive Features:
Front airbags, optional side airbags (on some higher trims), crumple zones, reinforced body structure.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-97,000 km) or as per manual recommendations.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API Certified)
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, typically orange or pink).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Known Issues 1:
Power steering pump leaks, radiator leaks, AC system issues (compressor, condenser), transmission solenoid pack failures (41TE), exhaust manifold cracks (3.8L), rear axle seal leaks.
Known Issues 2:
Door lock actuator failures, power window motor failures, clock spring issues in the steering column.
Technical Tips:
Ensure proper torque on lug nuts (100 ft-lbs / 135 Nm), verify all vacuum hoses are connected and not cracked, check PCM (Powertrain Control Module) ground connections.
Brand Heritage:
Chrysler has a long history of innovation in automotive design, famously launching the minivan segment with the original Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager in 1984.
Model Evolution:
The 2001 model year represents the third generation (RS) of the Caravan, which introduced a more aerodynamic design, improved safety features, and a wider range of powertrain options compared to its predecessors.
Production Years For Rs Generation:
1996-2000 (US market), some markets continued with minor updates. The 2001 model year often refers to a slightly refreshed version or continued production of the previous generation in some regions, but this manual specifically covers the 2001 model year's specifications and procedures.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
