Segment:
Full-size Minivan
Target Audience:
Families, commercial users
Competitors:
Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Dodge Grand Caravan, Plymouth Grand Voyager
Versatility:
Spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, Stow 'n Go (later models, but foundation laid)
Comfort:
Comfortable ride, family-oriented amenities
Engine Options:
V6 powertrain offered strong performance for its class
Engine Mechanical:
All engine types, overhaul, repair, diagnosis
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, ECU diagnosis
Transmission Automatic:
Service, repair, diagnosis, fluid service
Transmission Manual:
Service, repair, diagnosis, fluid service
Brake System:
Hydraulic system, ABS, disc and drum brakes, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, struts, shocks, control arms, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, accessories
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant service
Body Interior:
Seating, trim, door panels, headliner, body shell repair
Body Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, doors, tailgate, glass, seals
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, passive restraint systems
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, component replacement
Transmission Rebuild:
Detailed steps for automatic transmission disassembly and assembly
Brake Service:
Pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding procedures
Suspension Repair:
Component replacement, strut and shock absorber installation
Electrical Diagnosis:
Component testing, wiring harness repair, electrical connector service
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant recharging, component replacement, leak detection
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, rust mitigation
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full rebuilds and diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine: 3.0L V6 (approx. 60,000 miles), 3.3L/3.8L V6 (approx. 100,000 miles with platinum plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or per severe service schedule.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate and engine).
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent OAT coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Failure:
The 41TE/42LE transmission could be prone to failure if not properly maintained, particularly the torque converter clutch and input/output shafts.
Head Gasket Leaks:
Some 3.3L and 3.8L engines may develop head gasket leaks, especially at higher mileage.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, aging wiring harnesses, ground points, and modules can lead to various electrical issues.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Common leak point on many Chrysler engines.
Heater Core Leaks:
The location of the heater core within the dashboard can make replacement labor-intensive.
Chrysler Minivan Legacy:
Chrysler pioneered the minivan segment with the original Dodge Caravan/Plymouth Voyager.
Generation Ns:
This represents the second generation of Chrysler minivans (originally launched as the NS platform).
Key Updates 1996:
Refreshed styling, improved safety features, and new powertrain options introduced for 1996.
Assembly Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Production Years:
1996-2000 (for this generation)