Segment:
Full-size Minivan
Target Audience:
Families, fleet operators, DIY mechanics, automotive enthusiasts.
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Freestar/Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Uplander.
Vehicle Features:
Spacious interior, versatile seating arrangements, available Stow 'n Go seating (later models), comfortable ride, strong towing capacity (for the segment).
Value:
Provides comprehensive, factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, saving time and money on maintenance and repairs.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, lubrication, cooling system, timing belt/chain.
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, emissions control, turbocharging (if applicable), engine diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (NV3500, Getrag) overhaul, clutch system, shift linkage.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (41TE, 42LE) overhaul, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls, fluid and filter service.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, transaxle, CV joints, drive shafts, differential.
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (independent trailing arm/live axle), springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack, tie rods, power steering fluid type and capacity.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake fluid type and capacity, brake line routing, caliper and rotor replacement, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting, power windows, power locks, power seats, power sliding doors, power liftgate.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (A/C) system, compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant type and charge, blower motor, controls.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, tailgate, interior trim, seats, body repair, corrosion protection.
Chassis:
Frame construction, unibody structure, mounting points.
Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, filter replacement (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, transmission fluid change, brake fluid flush.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems, electrical diagnostics.
Repair:
Component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, scan tool usage, sensor testing, module testing.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, timing specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics).
Engine Option 1:
3.3L V6 (EGA) OHV
Engine Option 2:
3.8L V6 (L32) OHV
Engine Option 3:
4.0L V6 (VQ40DE - Nissan-sourced, for some later models or specific markets)
3.3L V6 (Ega):
Approx. 180 hp @ 5000 rpm, 205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
3.8L V6 (L32):
Approx. 200-215 hp @ 5000 rpm, 235-250 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Construction:
Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Cylinder Heads
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Chrysler spec like MS-9769.
Transmission Option 1:
4-speed Automatic (41TE / 42LE)
Transmission Option 2:
5-speed Manual (NV3500, less common)
Automatic Features:
Electronic control, torque converter lock-up, overdrive.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602).
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 3.5-4.5 quarts (dry fill), 8-9 quarts (total capacity).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic blend/full synthetic oil recommended). Check manual for specific mileage recommendations based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles for Platinum or Iridium plugs (check specific engine and plug type).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and fluid type used.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions). Check manual for specific viscosity and API service classification.
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901) or equivalent ATF+4 can sometimes be used, verify with manual.
Common Problems:
Automatic transmission solenoid/pump issues, power sliding door motor/gear failures, rear suspension sag, interior trim wear, HVAC blower resistor failure, catalytic converter failure.
Dodge History:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later FCA, now Stellantis), has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for trucks, muscle cars, and family vehicles.
Caravan Introduction:
The Caravan (and its Plymouth Voyager and Chrysler Town & Country siblings) pioneered the minivan segment in the early 1980s.
Generation Details:
This generation (NS/RS, 2001-2007) is the fourth generation of the Chrysler minivan platform, featuring updated styling, improved powertrains, and new features like Stow 'n Go.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
