Target Audience:
Families, commercial use, DIY mechanics.
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture.
Versatility:
Known for flexible seating, ample cargo space, and family-friendly features.
Availability:
Widely available with various engine and trim options, making it a popular choice in the segment.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.4L I4, 3.3L V6, 3.8L V6, 2.5L CRD Diesel), Transmission (4-speed Automatic, 5-speed Manual), Drivetrain (FWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Twist Beam Axle), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Drums/Discs)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), HVAC, Lighting, Audio, Power Accessories
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Seats, Glass, Climate Control System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Belt and Hose Inspections
Repair:
Engine Mechanical Repairs, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Servicing, Suspension and Steering Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Bodywork Repairs
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing Procedures, Symptom-Based Diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and diagnostic procedures.
Engine 1:
2.4L Inline-4 (GEMA engine family)
Engine 2:
3.3L V6 (EGA engine family)
Engine 3:
3.8L V6 (EGH engine family)
Engine 4:
2.5L CRD (Common Rail Diesel) Inline-4 (VM Motori)
2.4L I4 Horsepower:
Approx. 150 hp @ 5800 rpm
3.3L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 180 hp @ 5000 rpm
3.8L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 200 hp @ 5000 rpm
2.5L Crd Horsepower:
Approx. 130-140 hp @ 4000 rpm (market dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (2.4L, 3.3L, 3.8L), Diesel (2.5L CRD)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 119.2 inches
Length:
Approx. 189.8 - 201.0 inches (depending on model variant)
Width:
Approx. 73.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 67.2 - 68.9 inches
Seating Capacity:
7-8 Passengers
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 21.0 - 32.0 cu ft
Cargo Volume Max:
Approx. 140.5 - 166.7 cu ft
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,700 - 4,200 lbs (depending on engine and features)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2003-2007 models, some variations may exist)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2003-2007 models, some variations may exist)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:
4 Stars (2003-2007 models, some variations may exist)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
4 Stars (2003-2007 models, some variations may exist)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
4 Stars (2003-2007 models, some variations may exist)
ABS:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Optional on many models, standard on some higher trims/engines
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional on some models, particularly later years.
Airbags Front:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional side curtain airbags available on some trims.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System:
Available with AM/FM stereo, CD player, cassette player (early models), and optional Infinity premium audio system.
Rear Entertainment:
Optional rear-seat entertainment system (RSE) with DVD player and screens available on some trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist sensors on some later models.
Aux Input:
Not commonly available for this generation. Aftermarket solutions may exist.
Bluetooth:
Not typically factory-installed. Aftermarket head units or adapters would be required.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic blend recommended). Refer to manual for specific engine recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles depending on usage. Manual specifies interval and fluid type.
Spark Plug Replacement:
3.3L/3.8L V6: 100,000 miles (long-life plugs). 2.4L I4: Varies, consult manual.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific engine and temperature range requirements)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent approved fluid)
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Mopar P/N 05103530AA or equivalent.
Cv Axles:
Front CV joint wear, especially with higher mileage or aggressive driving.
Transmission Solenoids:
Failure of transmission solenoids can lead to shifting problems (e.g., failure to shift out of gear).
Power Steering Pump:
Leaking or failing power steering pump leading to noise or loss of assist.
Rear Hatch Struts:
Weakening or failing rear hatch struts.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearing wear causing noise and vibration.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and practical vehicles, with a focus on performance and utility.
Generation:
This period covers the third generation (NS) of the Dodge Caravan, introduced in 2001 (as a 2001 model) and updated for 2003 with a facelift and revised powertrain options.
Manufacturing Plants:
Windsor Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis Assembly Plant, Missouri, USA (operations moved/ceased later in the model run).
Jdpowers Dependability:
While specific awards vary by year, the Dodge Caravan consistently ranked in the upper half of the minivan segment in J.D. Power studies for initial quality and dependability during its production run.
Consumer Reports:
Often cited for practicality and affordability by consumer organizations, though some powertrain components have received mixed reliability ratings.
Safety Certifications:
Compliant with all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its model years.
