Market Position:
The Dodge Caravan (and its Plymouth Voyager and Chrysler Town & Country siblings) were pioneers and dominant players in the minivan segment during the 1990s and early 2000s. They offered unparalleled practicality, seating capacity, and family-oriented features.
Competitors:
Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna.
Key Features Vehicle:
Spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements (Stow 'n Go not yet available on this generation), front-wheel drive, availability of all-wheel drive (on some models), family-focused amenities, powerful engine options.
Key Features Manual:
Comprehensive coverage for a specific model year, detailed diagrams, step-by-step repair procedures, diagnostic information, and specifications crucial for DIY mechanics and professional technicians alike.
Systems Covered:
Lubrication & Maintenance, Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Brakes, Clutch, Cooling, 2.5L Turbo Diesel Cooling, Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules, Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Wiring, Engine, Exhaust System, Exhaust System and Turbocharger, Frame & Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering, Transmission/Transaxle, Tires/Wheels, Body, Heating & Air Conditioning, Emissions Control, 2.5L Turbo Diesel Emissions Control
Page Count:
Not specified, but comprehensive
Manual Type:
Factory Repair Service Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (2.4L EDZ I4, 2.5L Turbo Diesel VM Motori), fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, turbocharger (for diesel), transmission (4-speed automatic A604 FWD, 3-speed automatic 119), clutch (for diesel manual variant, though less common).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels and tires, driveline components (CV joints, axles).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, audio system, power accessories (windows, locks), HVAC controls, electronic control modules (ECM, TCM), restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts), speed control, vehicle theft security system, chime/buzzer systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics, HVAC system troubleshooting.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair, including engine overhaul, transmission service, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, body panel repair, HVAC component replacement.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork procedures. Includes specifications for torque values, clearances, and alignments.
Engine Option 1:
2.4L DOHC I4 (EDZ 'World Engine' derivative), 150 hp @ 5800 rpm, 168 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine Option 2:
2.5L Turbo Diesel VM Motori I4 (R425-T), 114 hp @ 4200 rpm, 177 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm (Note: Diesel variant requires specific procedures)
Horsepower Range:
114-150 hp
Torque Range:
168-177 lb-ft
Fuel System Type:
Gasoline: Multi-point fuel injection. Diesel: Indirect injection (rotary pump).
Engine Control Unit:
Chrysler's proprietary engine control modules (ECMs), specific part numbers vary by engine and emissions calibration.
Transmission Type Gasoline:
4-speed automatic (A604 FWD, 'Ultradrive' transaxle)
Transmission Type Diesel:
3-speed automatic (119 series) or potentially a manual gearbox for the diesel variant, though less common in North America.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (or equivalent)
Transmission Rebuild:
Manual covers complete transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including torque specifications for clutch packs and valve body components.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 112.1 inches (standard wheelbase), 119.3 inches (long wheelbase)
Length:
Approximately 176.5 inches (standard), 185.5 inches (long)
Seating Capacity:
Up to 7 passengers (depending on configuration)
Cargo Volume:
Significant, varies by configuration and seat folding.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3500-4000 lbs, depending on engine and options.
Towing Capacity:
Variable, typically around 2000-3500 lbs with optional towing packages.
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) - as tested by NHTSA for similar models.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models, traction control (optional on some powertrains).
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side impact door beams, three-point seatbelts for all occupants, LATCH child seat anchor system.
Infotainment Options:
Factory AM/FM/CD or cassette players, optional premium audio systems, rear entertainment systems (later models).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control (speed control), optional rear parking sensors (later models/packages).
Connectivity Features:
Basic connectivity, typically limited to optional auxiliary inputs on aftermarket head units.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as specified by severe driving conditions.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (HOAT coolant).
Engine Oil Spec:
API Service SN or newer, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for exact recommendation based on climate).
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent OAT coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems Powertrain:
Premature transmission failure (especially earlier A604 units), head gasket leaks (2.4L EDZ), intake manifold gasket leaks, EGR valve issues, some fuel pump failures.
Common Problems Chassis Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, instrument cluster pixel degradation, power steering pump leaks, ABS sensor failures.
Oil Filter Example:
Wix 57712, Fram PH10052, Bosch 3323
Air Filter Example:
Wix 49201, Fram CA8031
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of producing rugged and practical vehicles, known for their performance and value. The Caravan cemented their reputation in the family vehicle segment.
Caravan Evolution:
The 2001 Caravan belongs to the second generation (NS, 1996-2000) or is an early model of the third generation (RS, 2001-2007), depending on the specific production date and platform. This manual likely covers the transition or the early RS platform which retained many NS underpinnings.
Production Location:
North America (e.g., Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA)
