Market Position:
The Dodge Caravan was a segment-defining minivan, a dominant force in the family transportation market, known for its versatility and practicality.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with vehicles such as the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, and Chevrolet Venture, often praised for its Stow 'n Go seating (introduced later but the platform was designed for versatility).
Key Features:
Spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, available all-wheel drive (AWD) on certain models, long-wheelbase (Grand Caravan) for maximum cargo space.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic and manual), drivetrain, chassis, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical system (including wiring diagrams), body and interior, heating and air conditioning (HVAC), safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), diagnostics and troubleshooting, maintenance, specifications.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled maintenance, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake system service, suspension and steering alignment, electrical system diagnosis, component replacement, body panel repair, HVAC system servicing, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) procedures, wiring harness repair.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic strategies and repair procedures.
Diagnostics:
Includes detailed diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems, troubleshooting charts, and explanations of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics and wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits.
Body And Trim:
Detailed instructions for body panel removal and installation, interior trim component service, and minor collision repair procedures.
Specifications Tables:
Extensive tables of all technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and fluid capacities.
Primary Engine:
3.3L V6 OHV 12-valve (EGA)
Optional Engine 1:
3.8L V6 OHV 12-valve (L32)
Optional Engine 2:
2.4L 4-Cylinder DOHC 16-valve (EDZ) - Less common for these years, but possible
Horsepower 3.3L:
Approx. 180 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque 3.3L:
Approx. 205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 3.8L:
Approx. 205 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque 3.8L:
Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Exterior Length Short:
Approx. 176.5 inches
Exterior Length Long:
Approx. 191.8 inches (Grand Caravan)
Exterior Width:
Approx. 71.9 inches
Exterior Height:
Approx. 68.3 inches
Cargo Volume Short:
Approx. 96.3 cu ft (with rear seats removed)
Cargo Volume Long:
Approx. 133.0 cu ft (with rear seats removed)
Wheelbase Short:
Approx. 113.3 inches
Wheelbase Long:
Approx. 119.3 inches (Grand Caravan)
Curb Weight Avg:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs
Ratings NHTSA Front:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger)
Ratings NHTSA Side:
4-star (front and rear passengers)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (on some models), optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
Passive Features:
Front airbags, available side-impact airbags, LATCH child seat anchors, crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column.
Infotainment:
Base models typically featured a basic AM/FM radio with CD player. Optional upgrades included premium audio systems, rear-seat entertainment systems with DVD players, and in-dash CD changers.
Driver Assistance:
Cruise control was standard. ABS was standard on front disc brakes. Traction control and electronic stability control were available as options or on higher trim levels.
Connectivity:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily featured power outlets for accessories. Available rear-seat audio jacks. No integrated Bluetooth or USB ports on standard systems.
Service Intervals Oil:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, refer to manual for exact specification).
Service Intervals Filters
Service Intervals Filters:
Engine oil filter: Replace with oil change. Engine air filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Service Intervals Spark Plugs:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Long-life spark plugs, e.g., platinum or iridium).
Fluid Specifications Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified meeting Chrysler MS-6395 or equivalent).
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Fluid Specifications Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT, or equivalent (e.g., 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water).
Fluid Specifications Transmission
Fluid Specifications Transmission:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) for 41TE/42LE transmissions.
Known Issues:
Transmission solenoid issues, power sliding door malfunctions, intermittent electrical problems, potential for head gasket failure (especially on 3.3L and 3.8L engines under heavy use), fuel pump failures, HVAC blend door actuator issues.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Spec
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) or Pentastar Power Steering Fluid (depending on specific steering rack).
Tire Pressure Spec:
Refer to vehicle placard (typically 30-35 PSI depending on tire size and load).
Alignment Spec:
Front and rear toe, camber, and caster specifications provided for proper alignment.
Brand Heritage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing practical and robust vehicles, particularly known for its trucks and performance cars, but also for pioneering the modern minivan.
Model Evolution:
The Caravan, introduced in 1984, revolutionized family transport. The 2005-2007 models represent the fourth generation of the minivan, featuring updated styling, improved interiors, and enhanced safety features. This generation was also sold as the Chrysler Town & Country and the Volkswagen Routan (rebadged).
Production Years:
1984-2007 (RS platform generation for these years)
Production Locations:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
