Market Segment:
Minivan (Family vehicle, utility transport).
Key Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Trans Sport, Mercury Villager.
Vehicle Positioning:
The Dodge Caravan (as part of the Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth minivan family) was a segment pioneer and leader, known for its versatility, passenger comfort, and available Stow 'n Go seating (introduced later but the platform established the trend).
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive repair and maintenance information, empowering owners to perform DIY tasks, saving on labor costs, and ensuring proper upkeep of a versatile family vehicle.
Primary Coverage:
Complete service, repair, maintenance, and diagnostics for the 2000 Dodge Caravan.
Secondary Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, component locations, troubleshooting guides, specifications.
Estimated Page Count:
Est. 1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, starting, charging, emissions control.
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (automatic), differential, driveline, transaxle, power transfer unit.
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Suspension systems, steering systems, brake systems (hydraulic, ABS), tires, wheels.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, starter, charging, ignition, instrument panel, audio, horn, vehicle speed control, turn signals, hazard lights, wipers, washer, lamps, passive restraints, heated systems, power distribution, power locks, security, power seats, power windows, power mirrors, chime/buzzer.
Body Chassis Comfort:
Frame, bumpers, exhaust system, body, heating, air conditioning, overhead console.
Maintenance Procedures:
Lubrication schedule, fluid changes, filter replacements, general upkeep, inspection procedures.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II).
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly, system repairs.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Detailed wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component testing, harness repair.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagram Quality:
High-quality diagrams and illustrations for clarity in repair procedures.
Printability:
All pages are printable.
Binding Type:
Digital Download (no physical binding)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (digital format)
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for archive extraction if applicable).
Operating Systems:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac.
Standard Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Optional Transmission Type:
None (4-speed automatic was standard across most engines for this year)
Transmission Control:
Electronic control, likely with limp-in mode.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
ATF+3 or ATF+4 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 113.0 inches
Length:
Approx. 190.0 inches (Standard Wheelbase), Approx. 201.0 inches (Long Wheelbase/Grand Caravan)
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and configuration, typically 3600-4200 lbs.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically 5000-5600 lbs.
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
NHTSA ratings vary, often 3 or 4 stars for rollover resistance.
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags. Side airbags were less common on this model year.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, integrated into seat design.
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette, optional CD player, optional premium audio systems. Manual covers diagnosis and repair of these factory units.
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional vehicle speed control system.
Diagnostic Interface:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, facilitating modern diagnostic scan tool use.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Recommend checking manual, often around 30,000-60,000 miles for severe service.
Coolant Change Interval:
Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-4 years for conventional coolant.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30, API Certified (refer to manual for specific viscosity and API service category).
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant (e.g., Mopar OAT) or HOAT (Hybrid OAT), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual).
Common Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on 3.3L/3.8L V6), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil filter adapter leaks, spark plug blow-out (on 2.7L V6, not typically on 2000 models but related family issues), PCV system issues.
Common Transmission Issues:
Torque converter shudder, transmission fluid leaks, internal component wear (especially with high mileage).
Common Suspension Steering Issues:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, struts/shocks, sway bar links.
Common Electrical Issues:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator failures, instrument cluster failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, door lock switch failures.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing functional and versatile vehicles, with the Caravan being a cornerstone of their utility and family vehicle offerings.
Third Gen Features:
The third generation (RS) introduced a more aerodynamic design, improved safety features, and a wider range of engine options compared to its predecessors. It continued the minivan formula with front-wheel-drive layout and ample interior space.
Manufacturing Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; Saint Louis, Missouri, USA.
Third Gen Production Years:
1996-2000
