Make:
Dodge, Chrysler, Plymouth
Model:
Caravan, Town & Country, Voyager
Generation Code:
RG (Chrysler), NS (Dodge/Plymouth)
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Montana, Mercury Monterey
Unique Selling Points Of Vehicles:
Spacious interior, Stow 'n Go seating (introduced later in the generation, but foundational for the platform), versatile cargo capacity, comfortable ride, relatively affordable pricing
Model Years Covered:
2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typically 1500-3000+ pages for full factory service manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel, Ignition, Emission Control, Starting, Charging
Transmission Systems:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE, 45RFE, 42RLE), Manual Transmission (less common), Drivetrain, Axles, CV Joints
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic, ABS), Wheels and Tires
Electrical Systems:
Battery, Starting and Charging, Lighting, Instruments, Gauges, Warning Systems, Body Control Modules, Power Accessories (Windows, Doors, Seats), HVAC Controls, Audio Systems
Body And Interior:
Body Construction, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Bumpers, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Seats, Restraint Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Belt Inspections and Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) Scan Tool Procedures, DTC Code Explanations, System Circuit Diagnosis, Component Testing
Repair Procedures:
Engine Repair and Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair, HVAC System Repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step troubleshooting for common symptoms and problems
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Transmission Type Standard:
4-Speed Automatic (e.g., 41TE/42LE)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (e.g., 45RFE/42RLE with select engines/models)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Wheelbase Inches:
Approx. 119.2 inches
Length Inches:
Approx. 195.5 - 202.6 inches (depending on model/wheelbase)
Width Inches:
Approx. 74.5 inches
Height Inches:
Approx. 68.1 inches
Max Cargo Volume Cu Ft:
Over 150 cu. ft. (with rear seats removed/stowed)
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approx. 4000-4500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity Lbs:
Up to 3800 lbs (with optional towing package)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
4 stars (for models equipped with front airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:
4 stars (for models equipped with front airbags)
ABS:
Standard or Optional (depending on trim/year)
Traction Control:
Optional (TCS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags standard; optional side airbags available on some models.
Seatbelts:
All seating positions equipped with three-point seat belts.
Audio System Options:
AM/FM Stereo with CD player, cassette player, optional premium audio systems with amplifiers and subwoofers.
Rear Seat Entertainment:
Optional rear-seat video entertainment system with screens and headphone jacks available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking assist sensors available.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically available in this era; aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (depending on oil type used and driving conditions - consult manual for specifics)
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Miles:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (severe service may require more frequent changes)
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type - platinum/iridium recommended)
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN or newer, SAE 5W-30 (or 10W-30 depending on climate, consult manual)
Coolant Specification:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula) - Pink color
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Problem 1:
Transmission issues (e.g., slipping, harsh shifting, particularly with the 41TE/42LE transmission, often related to solenoid pack or torque converter failure).
Common Problem 2:
Water pump leaks, especially common with the 3.3L and 3.8L OHV engines.
Common Problem 3:
CV joint wear and boot failure.
Common Problem 4:
Power sliding door mechanism issues (if equipped).
Common Problem 5:
Heater core leaks leading to interior moisture and coolant smell.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler)
Generation Overview:
This generation represents a significant redesign for the minivans, offering improved styling, safety features, and powertrain options compared to previous generations. It was a crucial period for Chrysler's dominance in the minivan segment.
Assembly Locations:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Ward Top 10 Engines:
The 3.8L V6 was recognized by Ward's AutoWorld as one of the '10 Best Engines' in the past, highlighting its refinement and power delivery for its time.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied during this generation; specific model years and engines had different scores. The manual is essential for understanding common issues and their remedies.
