Vehicle Segment:
Minivan / MPV
Target Demographic:
Families, individuals requiring flexible cargo and passenger space.
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Kia Sedona, Chrysler Town & Country/Voyager.
Versatility:
Flexible seating arrangements (Stow 'n Go introduced later, but adaptable configurations are a hallmark).
Value Proposition:
Often offered a strong balance of features, space, and affordability.
Completeness Statement:
This manual is presented as the 'Best Manual Available' and 'Complete Manual - No Missing Pages', emphasizing its thoroughness over inferior alternatives.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine control systems (ECM/PCM), fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, lubrication system, turbocharging (if applicable), transmission (automatic and manual), driveline components (CV joints, axles, differentials)
Chassis:
Brake system (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), steering system, suspension system (front and rear), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, wiring diagrams, fuses and relays, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), infotainment system, climate control electronics, body control module (BCM)
Body:
Body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, glass, seats, bumpers, convertible tops (if applicable), chassis and frame, collision repair information
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul/rebuild, transmission overhaul/rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical diagnostics and repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearance specifications, fluid capacities, component part numbers (where applicable for service), diagnostic specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Options:
3.3L V6 (EGA), 3.8L V6 (L32), 2.4L 4-cylinder (less common in North America for this generation, but possible).
3.3L V6 (Ega) Specifications:
Displacement: 3.3 Liters (199.7 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 93.0 mm x 76.2 mm, Compression Ratio: 9.1:1, Horsepower: approx. 180-185 hp @ 5000 rpm, Torque: approx. 210-215 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm.
3.8L V6 (L32) Specifications:
Displacement: 3.8 Liters (230.6 cu in), Bore x Stroke: 96.0 mm x 86.0 mm, Compression Ratio: 9.4:1, Horsepower: approx. 200-215 hp @ 5000 rpm, Torque: approx. 235-240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 12.5 US quarts (11.8 Liters) with max/min marks on reservoir.
Transmission Type Std:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE).
Transmission Type Opt:
Manual Transmission (less common, typically with 4-cylinder engines or base models).
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specification, check manual for exact superseded part numbers).
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 10.5 US quarts (9.9 Liters) for dry fill, 7.5 US quarts (7.1 Liters) for pan drop and refill.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 119.3 inches (3030 mm)
Length:
Approx. 189.6 inches (4816 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.5 inches (1892 mm)
Height:
Approx. 68.5 inches (1740 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind Front Seats:
Approx. 163.0 cu ft (4616 Liters)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,200 lbs (1724 - 1905 kg), depending on engine and equipment.
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3,800 lbs (1724 kg) with optional towing package.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-star (2001-2004 models, potential variations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-star (2001-2004 models, potential variations)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags, potential variations)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on some base configurations.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models.
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags available on select trims.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, front seat belt pretensioners.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette tape, optional premium audio systems available.
Rear Entertainment:
Optional rear seat entertainment system with VCR or DVD player available on some trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Park Assist:
Rear parking assist sensors were an optional feature on some models.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Optional feature for remote locking and unlocking.
OBD Ii Compliance:
Fully OBD-II compliant, allowing for electronic diagnostic scanning.
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 (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-97,000 km) or as per manual, especially under severe service.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (97,000-161,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 is common; check manual for specific viscosity and API service classification.
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically pink or orange. Do not mix coolant types. Refer to manual for exact specification (e.g., MS-9769).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
ATF+4 or specific power steering fluid; verify with manual.
Transmission Problems:
Intermittent shifting issues, torque converter shudder, internal seal leaks in automatic transmissions (common in many Chrysler products of this era).
Engine Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on earlier 3.3L engines), occasional oil leaks, potential for head gasket issues under extreme conditions.
Suspension Components:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings are common wear items due to vehicle weight and usage.
Electrical Quirks:
Power window failures, issues with interior lighting, intermittent problems with instrument cluster or power door locks.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history in the automotive market, known for performance and utility vehicles.
Caravan Genesis:
The Dodge Caravan (along with its Plymouth Voyager sibling) pioneered the minivan segment in the early 1980s.
Third Generation Facelift:
The 2001-2006 models represent a significant update or redesign of the third generation, introducing improved styling and features.
Production Location:
Primarily North American assembly plants (e.g., Windsor, Ontario; St. Louis, Missouri).
Platform:
Based on Chrysler's 'RS' platform for minivans of this era.
