🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Year:

2001

Platform Code:

NS (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Minivan (family vehicle, versatile cargo/passenger transport)

Key Competitors:

Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Mercury Villager

Vehicle Strengths:

Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, available AWD, strong V6 engine options, value proposition.

Manual Value Proposition:

Essential for owners and independent repair shops seeking accurate, factory-authorized procedures and specifications for maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of the 2001 Dodge Caravan.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Regions:

North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)

Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2000 (estimated for a comprehensive service manual)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (likely)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (including overhaul), fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control, engine diagnostics

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE/AE/TE), clutch, manual transmission (if applicable), transfer case (AWD models), transmission diagnostics and repair

Drivetrain Systems:

Front-wheel drive (FWD), all-wheel drive (AWD), axles, CV joints, differential

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, power steering, alignment specifications

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS, parking brake, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, Wiper/washer systems

HVAC Systems:

Air conditioning (A/C) system, heating system, ventilation, climate control, refrigerant types

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, hoods, liftgates, interior trim, seats, glass replacement, body repair procedures

Safety Restraints:

Airbags, seat belts, SRS system diagnostics

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad replacement, tire rotation

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)

Repair Procedures:

Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for all major systems

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical parameters, emissions data

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely printed paper, but digital PDF versions are common in the aftermarket.

Print Quality:

Original factory manuals typically feature high-quality printing, crisp text, and clear, detailed diagrams. Aftermarket reprints may vary.

Binding Type:

Stapled, perfect bound, or comb-bound for printed versions, depending on the publisher.

Paper Type:

Durable, high-quality paper stock designed to withstand workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

2.4L DOHC Inline-4 (GEMA)

Engine Displacement 1:

2378 cc

Engine Bore X Stroke 1:

87.5 mm x 96.0 mm

Engine Compression Ratio 1:

9.1:1

Engine Horsepower 1:

150 hp @ 5600 rpm (approx.)

Engine Torque 1:

170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Block Material 1:

Aluminum

Engine Cylinder Head Material 1:

Aluminum

Engine Fuel System 1:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Ignition System 1:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil Packs

Engine Emission Controls 1:

Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), O2 sensors

Engine Option 2:

3.3L OHV V6 (EGA)

Engine Displacement 2:

3301 cc

Engine Bore X Stroke 2:

91.0 mm x 86.1 mm

Engine Compression Ratio 2:

9.3:1

Engine Horsepower 2:

180 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Torque 2:

205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Block Material 2:

Cast Iron

Engine Cylinder Head Material 2:

Aluminum

Engine Fuel System 2:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Ignition System 2:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil Packs

Engine Emission Controls 2:

Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), O2 sensors

Engine Option 3:

3.8L OHV V6 (L32)

Engine Displacement 3:

3778 cc

Engine Bore X Stroke 3:

96.0 mm x 87.0 mm

Engine Compression Ratio 3:

8.9:1

Engine Horsepower 3:

215 hp @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Engine Torque 3:

245 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)

Engine Block Material 3:

Cast Iron

Engine Cylinder Head Material 3:

Aluminum

Engine Fuel System 3:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Ignition System 3:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil Packs

Engine Emission Controls 3:

Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), O2 sensors

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (41TE/AE/TE)

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Manual (less common for this generation, primarily on base models if available)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronic pressure control, torque converter lock-up, intelligent shifting logic.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Chrysler Material Standard MS-9602)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.5-10 quarts (8-9.5 liters) for refill after drain and fill (capacity varies).

Transmission Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by engine and transmission model, detailed in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

119.3 inches (3030 mm) for long wheelbase models, 112.1 inches (2847 mm) for short wheelbase models.

Length:

Approximately 189.8 inches (short wheelbase) to 201.1 inches (long wheelbase).

Width:

72.0 inches (1829 mm)

Height:

68.1 inches (1730 mm)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)

Tire Sizes:

Commonly 215/65R16, 225/60R16, and 225/55R17 depending on trim and options.

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Varies by wheelbase, e.g., ~45-60 cu ft.

Cargo Volume Max:

Varies by wheelbase, e.g., ~150-180 cu ft.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3800 - 4500 lbs (1724 - 2041 kg) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by model, typically around 5700-6000 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Rating Driver:

4 Stars (for 2001 models with specific equipment)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Rating Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2001 models with specific equipment)

IIHS Small Overlap Front:

Not rated (IIHS testing standards evolved significantly after 2001)

Anti Lock Braking System ABS:

Standard on most trims, optional on some base models.

Traction Control System TCS:

Optional on some models, especially with V6 engines and AWD.

Airbag System:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags available on some trims.

Seat Belt System:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, 3-point seat belts for second and third-row occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player and optional cassette. Premium Infinity sound systems were available on higher trims.

Rear Seat Entertainment:

Optional rear-seat entertainment systems (e.g., VCR or early DVD players) were available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Rear Parking Assist:

Optional on some models.

OBD Ii Port:

Standard 16-pin OBD-II diagnostic port located under the dashboard.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil for optimal performance. Check owner's manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection. Harsh conditions may require more frequent changes.

Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:

Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with long-life spark plugs (e.g., iridium).

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with long-life spark plugs (e.g., iridium or platinum).

Coolant Flush And Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years. Use OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for automatic transmissions, or more frequently under severe use. Filter replacement recommended.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 is commonly recommended for most conditions (refer to manual for precise specification).

Engine Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or Dex-Cool compatible coolant. Mopar Part Number 05103531AA or equivalent.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or specified power steering fluid (refer to manual).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for specific type).

Common Issue Transmission Slipping:

Automatic transmission slipping or delayed engagement can be caused by worn clutch packs, low fluid pressure, or faulty solenoids. Regular fluid and filter changes are critical. The 41TE series transmissions are known for potential issues if not maintained.

Common Issue Power Sliding Door Motors:

Early models of the power sliding door could experience failures in the motor or regulator. Manual operation is a fallback.

Common Issue Front Suspension Wear:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts are common wear items due to vehicle weight and usage. Periodic inspection is advised.

Common Issue Heater Core Leaks:

Heater core leaks can lead to coolant loss and a wet passenger-side floor. Replacement is a labor-intensive job.

Common Issue Ignition Coil Failure:

Misfires and rough running can be attributed to failing ignition coils, especially on the 3.8L V6.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Minivan Legacy:

Dodge pioneered the modern minivan segment with the original Caravan/Voyager in 1984, setting a benchmark for family transport.

Third Generation Ns Platform:

The 2001 Caravan is part of the third generation (NS) introduced in 1996, featuring a redesigned exterior, improved interior packaging, and more powerful engine options. It represented a significant update from its predecessor.

Trim Levels And Variants:

Available in various trims like SE, LE, Sport, and ES, with short and long wheelbase options, and front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and Saltillo, Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 2001 model are not prominently cited, the Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan consistently received positive recognition for its practicality, spaciousness, and value in the minivan segment throughout its generations.