Vehicle Segment:
Full-size minivan
Target Audience:
Families, individuals needing substantial passenger and cargo space
Key Competitors:
Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chevrolet Venture/Pontiac Trans Sport/Oldsmobile Silhouette (GM Minivan platform)
Vehicle Appeal:
Versatile interior, comfortable ride, available Stow 'n Go seating (though not in these specific years), large cargo capacity
Manual Utility:
Essential resource for owners and independent repair shops seeking to maintain and repair their vehicle accurately and efficiently
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic), drivetrain components
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body electricals, comfort and convenience systems, infotainment (basic), diagnostic connectors (OBD-II)
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, seals, HVAC system (basic functionality)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, lubrication
Repair:
Component removal, installation, overhaul, adjustments, diagnostics, troubleshooting
Diagnostics:
Fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit testing, mechanical diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to major component overhauls and detailed electrical diagnostics
Digital Format:
Likely PDF or similar digital format if sold electronically, otherwise a physical bound book
Print Quality:
High-resolution images, clear diagrams, readable text (typical for factory manuals)
Binding:
Professionally bound, durable cover (for print versions)
Paper Quality:
Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop environments
Engine Option 1:
3.3L V6 (3273cc)
Engine Configuration 1:
Overhead Valve (OHV), Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Heads
Horsepower 1:
156 hp @ 4800 rpm (approx.)
Torque 1:
189 lb-ft @ 3100 rpm (approx.)
Engine Option 2:
3.8L V6 (3778cc)
Engine Configuration 2:
Overhead Valve (OHV), Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Heads, Sequential Fuel Injection
Horsepower 2:
180 hp @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Torque 2:
230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Acceleration 0 60:
10-12 seconds (approx., depending on engine and load)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Capacity:
20 gallons (75.7 L)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic
Transmission Type Optional:
None standard for these years, all models used automatic
Transmission Control:
Electronically controlled with automatic shifting and overdrive
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (or equivalent Mopar automatic transmission fluid)
Length:
199.7 inches (5072 mm)
Width:
76.0 inches (1930 mm)
Height:
67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Wheelbase:
119.0 inches (3023 mm)
Seating Capacity:
7 passengers
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
38.0 cu ft (1.08 m³)
Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded:
120.0 cu ft (3.39 m³)
Curb Weight Base:
4,100 - 4,300 lbs (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
5,775 lbs (approx.)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
4 Stars (1998-2000 models)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:
4 Stars (1998-2000 models)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Acceptable (for models equipped with side airbags, which were optional and less common in these early years)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some base trims.
Airbags Front:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, front pretensioners
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, optional Infinity premium sound system.
Rear Entertainment:
Optional rear entertainment system (e.g., VCR or early DVD player) available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, typically with the 3.8L engine.
Diagnostic Interface:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) port, allowing for modern scan tool diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (check manual for specific driving conditions)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-3 years
Spark Plugs:
100,000 miles (Double Platinum)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (check owner's manual for climate variations)
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix) or equivalent HOAT coolant
Transmission Issues:
Premature failure of the 4-speed automatic transmission (41TE) was a common complaint, often related to heat and fluid degradation. Torque converter shudder can occur.
Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on the 3.8L), intake manifold gasket leaks, lifter noise, rear main seal leaks.
Suspension Issues:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings; premature wear of struts/shocks.
Electrical Issues:
Faulty power window motors, door lock actuators, blower motor resistors, and intermittent dashboard warning lights.
HVAC Issues:
Blend door actuator failures, leaks in the heater core and AC evaporator.
Body Issues:
Rust formation on rear quarter panels, rocker panels, and wheel wells, especially in areas with road salt.
Chrysler Minivan Legacy:
Chrysler pioneered the minivan segment with the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager in the mid-1980s. The Town & Country was introduced as a more upscale trim level, eventually becoming its own distinct model.
Generation Ns:
These models belong to the second generation (NS) of Chrysler minivans, introduced for the 1996 model year. Key improvements included a longer wheelbase, revised styling, and enhanced safety features compared to the first generation.
Design Updates:
Minor styling updates for the 1998 model year included revised front and rear fascias, new wheel designs, and updated interior trim.
Assembly Locations:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Car And Driver Awards:
Frequently named to Car and Driver's 10Best list in its segment during its production run for its practicality and value.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally rated average to below average in reliability for these specific years, particularly concerning the transmission. However, practicality and comfort were often praised.
