Segment Role:
Family vehicle, versatile people and cargo mover.
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture.
Versatility:
Flexible seating configurations (Stow 'n Go seating was introduced later, but early models offered good interior space and modularity).
Powertrain Options:
Choice of reliable V6 engines, known for a good balance of power and everyday usability.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (ECU/PCM), transmission (automatic, potentially manual for specific engines).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front and rear, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
12V battery system, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument panel and gauges, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horns, audio system wiring, basic comfort and convenience features wiring.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, hood, liftgate, bumpers, glass, seals, structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant handling, diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, tire rotation, cabin air filter replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common fault symptoms, wiring diagrams, component testing, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures (e.g., cylinder head, brake calipers), sensor replacement, actuator replacement, wiring harness repair.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures utilizing scan tools for powertrain, ABS, and potentially airbag systems. Detailed explanations of sensor inputs and outputs.
Repair Level:
Covers everything from basic DIY maintenance to advanced mechanical and electrical repairs, suitable for professional technicians and experienced home mechanics.
Engine Code 1:
EDZ (3.3L V6)
Displacement 1:
3.3 Liters (203 cubic inches)
Configuration 1:
Overhead Valve (OHV), V6
Horsepower 1:
Approximately 180 hp @ 5000 RPM
Torque 1:
Approximately 200 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM
Fuel System 1:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Code 2:
EGH (3.8L V6)
Displacement 2:
3.8 Liters (230 cubic inches)
Configuration 2:
Overhead Valve (OHV), V6
Horsepower 2:
Approximately 200-215 hp @ 5000 RPM (depending on application)
Torque 2:
Approximately 230-240 lb-ft @ 3600 RPM (depending on application)
Fuel System 2:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Compression Ratio 3.3L:
8.9:1
Compression Ratio 3.8L:
9.0:1
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Octane Recommendation:
87 Octane (Minimum)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Automatic was standard across most trims for this year)
Transmission Control:
Electronic control with torque converter lock-up.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 4.0-4.5 quarts (pan drop and refill), 10.0-11.0 quarts (total capacity including torque converter).
Length:
Approximately 189.4 inches (Short Wheelbase)
Width:
Approximately 72.0 inches
Height:
Approximately 66.2 inches
Wheelbase Short:
Approximately 112.1 inches
Wheelbase Long:
Approximately 119.2 inches (Grand Caravan models)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Varies by wheelbase, typically around 30-40 cu ft.
Cargo Volume Max:
Varies by wheelbase, typically around 140-160 cu ft.
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3800 - 4200 lbs (depending on engine and trim)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 5500 - 5800 lbs
Towing Capacity:
Approximately 2000-3500 lbs (depending on engine and options)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Good (for models with side airbags)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
Good (for models with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seatbelts for all occupants.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems, steering wheel controls on higher trims.
Rear Seat Entertainment:
Optional rear-seat video screens and DVD players were available.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically factory equipped; aftermarket solutions may exist.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions and oil type).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (if equipped).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (recommended, consult manual for specifics).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (most common), SAE 10W-30 for warmer climates.
Engine Oil Specification:
API Certified, SM or SN category.
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or specified Mopar power steering fluid.
Transmission Issues:
Potential for torque converter shudder, solenoid failures, or transmission fluid leaks, particularly with higher mileage.
Cooling System:
Water pump leaks, radiator issues, and cooling fan motor failures are not uncommon.
Ignition System:
Coil-on-plug or distributor cap/rotor wear (depending on specific engine variant), spark plug fouling.
Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts/shocks due to vehicle weight and family usage.
Power Sliding Door Mechanisms:
These can develop issues with motors, cables, and rollers.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history in automotive manufacturing, known for performance and practical vehicles.
Caravan Introduction:
The Dodge Caravan (and its Plymouth Voyager counterpart) pioneered the minivan segment in the early 1980s.
Generation Third Gen:
The 2001-2007 Caravan is the fourth generation, featuring a significant redesign from the previous generation.
Model Year 2002 Updates:
For 2002, minor updates may have been made, but it largely carried over the successful redesign from 2001. Focus on styling refinements and potentially feature shuffling.
Manufacturing Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Chrysler Canada Assembly Plant)
Initial Reception:
The minivan segment, pioneered by the Caravan, was highly successful and received widespread acclaim for its utility and family-friendliness upon introduction.
Model Year Specific Awards:
While the 2002 model itself may not have specific awards, the platform it's based on has been a consistent performer in the minivan segment.
