Segment:
Mid-size minivan
Description:
The Dodge Caravan was a highly popular and versatile family vehicle, known for its practicality and spacious interior.
Competitors:
Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna
Features:
Front-wheel drive, flexible seating configurations, optional all-wheel drive (less common on this specific year/model), and a range of engine options.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, fuel injection, starting and charging, emissions controls, onboard diagnostics (OBD-II)
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE) disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, overhaul; Manual transmission (if applicable) service
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive components, CV joints, axles, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering components, wheel alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS system, hydraulic system, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, linkage
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories, power distribution, body control modules (BCM)
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system service and repair
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, glass replacement
Chassis:
Frame and body structural components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component replacement and adjustment
Diagnostics:
Fault code interpretation, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring analysis
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive (dealer-level) - includes detailed specifications, procedures, and troubleshooting for technicians
Engine Code:
Various, commonly 2.4L DOHC I4 (EDZ) and 3.0L SOHC V6 (6G72 - Mitsubishi origin), 3.3L OHV V6 (EGA), 3.8L OHV V6 (EWE)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 150 hp (2.4L I4) to 170+ hp (3.8L V6)
Torque Range:
Approx. 170 lb-ft (2.4L I4) to 230+ lb-ft (3.8L V6)
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Octane Rating:
Typically 87 octane (R+M)/2 for V6 engines, 87 or higher recommended for 2.4L
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water) or equivalent HOAT coolant
Oil Type 2 4L:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or Conventional
Oil Type V6:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 Synthetic or Conventional (check specific engine)
Oil Capacity 2 4L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L)
Oil Capacity V6:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.0 quarts (3.3 - 3.8 L) depending on engine variant
Spark Plugs:
Specific recommendations vary by engine; e.g., Champion or NGK copper or platinum plugs
Type:
4-speed automatic (e.g., 41TE, 42LE)
Type:
Manual transmission was less common or phased out for this generation in many markets for Caravan.
Transaxle:
Front-wheel drive transaxle
Automatic Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar)
Automatic Capacity:
Approx. 6-8 quarts (5.7-7.6 L) for a dry fill; 3-4 quarts for a pan drop and refill
Length Approx:
177.6 - 190.5 inches (4511 - 4839 mm) depending on wheelbase
Width Approx:
72.0 inches (1829 mm)
Height Approx:
65.9 - 68.7 inches (1674 - 1745 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row Approx:
27.9 - 35.5 cu ft (0.79 - 1.00 m³)
Cargo Volume Max Approx:
147.7 - 153.7 cu ft (4.18 - 4.35 m³)
Curb Weight Approx:
3500 - 4000 lbs (1588 - 1814 kg) depending on configuration
Towing Capacity Max:
Typically around 2000-3500 lbs (907-1588 kg) with proper towing package and engine
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for models tested)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable to Good (depending on specific tests and year variations within the generation)
ABS:
Standard on some models, optional on others
Traction Control:
Optional on some V6 models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all outboard seating positions, lap belts for center positions
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player standard, optional CD player, optional premium sound systems.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control standard, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
OBD Ii:
Equipped with OBD-II diagnostic system for emissions and engine monitoring.
Phone Integration:
Not typically equipped with modern Bluetooth or smartphone integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km) depending on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) for automatic transmissions, or sooner under severe use.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or 2-5 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar) or equivalent
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Water/washer fluid mixture
Common Problems:
Transmission solenoid issues, intake manifold gasket leaks (3.3L V6), EGR valve problems, power window regulator failures, rear axle bearing noise, AC system leaks.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, now Stellantis)
Generation:
NS (Third Generation, 1996-2000)
Key Updates Ns:
Slightly revised styling, improved aerodynamics, more powerful engine options, enhanced safety features, and introduction of OBD-II diagnostics.
Manufacturing Locations:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
Production Years For Model:
1999 model year production typically from mid-1998 to mid-1999.
