🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Model Years:

2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

Segment:

Minivan

Platform Code:

RS (Fourth Generation)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Market Segment:

The Dodge Caravan (and its sibling, the Chrysler Voyager/Town & Country) was a cornerstone of the minivan segment, offering practicality, seating capacity, and family-oriented features for decades.

Key Competitors:

Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Mercury Monterey.

Manual Advantage:

This manual's strength lies in its comprehensive nature and detailed, step-by-step instructions with visual aids, catering to a wide range of user expertise.

Intended Users:

Do-it-yourself owners, independent repair shops, and professional dealership technicians.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicles Covered:

Chrysler/Dodge Caravan (2003-2007)

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (typically 1500+ pages for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Digital Format Notes:

Not a scanned manual, implying high-quality digital reproduction.

Operating Systems:

Windows, Mac

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Print Capability:

Yes

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine systems, Transmission/transaxle, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Emissions control

Chassis:

Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Tires/wheels, Frame & bumpers

Electrical And Electronics:

Audio, Chime/buzzer, Electronic control modules (ECMs), Horn, Ignition control, Instrument cluster, Lamps, Message systems, Power systems, Restraints (Airbags), Speed control, Vehicle theft security, Wipers/washers, Navigation/telecommunication, Wiring

Body And Comfort:

Body, Heating & air conditioning, Heated systems

Maintenance:

Lubrication and maintenance, Routine inspections, Fluid changes, Filter replacements

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for all covered systems, Troubleshooting guides, Fault code interpretation (likely, based on ECM coverage)

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step disassembly and reassembly for major components (engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering, body), Component repair procedures

Component Installation:

Installation procedures for various parts and systems

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Includes complete disassembly procedures.

Visual Aids:

Hundreds of photos and illustrations to guide repair procedures.

Manual Indexing:

Component & System index included for easy navigation.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High quality, non-scanned digital format, implying clear text and images.

Printability Details:

Printable pages, allowing for physical reference during work.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely covers multiple engine variants offered during this generation, most notably the 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines. Some early models or specific markets might have had a 2.4L 4-cylinder. The manual would detail specifications for all applicable engines.

Displacement:

3.3 Liters (201 cubic inches)

Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), V6

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port fuel injection (MPI)

Displacement:

3.8 Liters (230 cubic inches)

Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), V6

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port fuel injection (MPI)

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 180-205 hp depending on engine and year.

Torque Range:

Approximately 205-240 lb-ft depending on engine and year.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual coil packs (most common).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Automatic Transmission

Transmission Model V6:

4-speed automatic transaxle (e.g., 41TE, 42LE family).

Transmission Control:

Electronic control with diagnostic capabilities.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid, Type 9602 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 112.5 inches (standard wheelbase)

Length:

Approximately 176.3-189.9 inches (depending on short/long wheelbase versions, which were available in this generation)

Width:

Approximately 72.1 inches

Height:

Approximately 68.0-69.3 inches

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 3,800 - 4,300 lbs, depending on configuration and engine.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by configuration, typically around 5,500 - 5,800 lbs.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

The 2003-2007 Caravan generally received good ratings in frontal impacts. Specific model years and configurations might vary. The manual would provide detailed safety system information.

IIHS Ratings:

Likely acceptable to good ratings for its time. The manual would detail specific safety system components.

Airbags:

Front airbags standard. Optional side airbags or enhanced front airbags may have been available depending on trim level and year. The 'Restraints' section of the manual would cover these.

Seatbelts:

All seating positions equipped with three-point seatbelts. The manual details seatbelt maintenance and operation.

Antilock Brakes ABS:

Standard on most models. The 'Brakes' section covers ABS operation and service.

Traction Control:

Optional on some models. Covered in the 'Speed Control' or dedicated sections.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Factory AM/FM/CD players, optional premium audio systems, rear-seat entertainment options (less common in early models of this generation but available later).

Navigation Telecommunication:

Optional navigation systems were available in higher trims. The 'Navigation/telecommunication' section of the manual would detail their operation and troubleshooting.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control functionality, detailed in the 'Speed Control' section.

Rear Parking Assist:

Optional rear park assist sensors may have been available on some trims.

Accessory Power:

12V power outlets for accessories are standard. Manual covers power systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Typical:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for precise intervals based on Severe/Normal service).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles, or as specified for severe service. The manual will provide the definitive schedule.

Coolant Change Interval:

Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles, or as specified for HOAT coolant.

Engine Oil Type Typical:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (check manual for specific engine recommendation and API service classification).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically Mopar P/N 05136035AA or equivalent (often pink/orange).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

ATF+4 or manufacturer-specified power steering fluid.

Common Repairs Engine:

Head gasket leaks (especially on the 3.8L), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil filter housing leaks, spark plug ejection (less common on this generation but a known Chrysler issue).

Common Repairs Transmission:

Transmission solenoid issues, torque converter shudder, potential for transmission overheating if not maintained.

Common Repairs Suspension Steering:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, wheel bearings, and occasional suspension component rust.

Common Repairs Electrical:

Power window motor failures, blower motor resistor issues, HVAC control module problems, intermittent power accessory failures.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mopar MO-090, Wix 57060, Fram PH8A or equivalent (consult manual for exact fitment).

Air Filter Part Number Example:

Mopar P0459993AA, Wix WA10000, Fram CA4315 or equivalent.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history in American automotive manufacturing, known for a range of vehicles from trucks to muscle cars and family vehicles like the Caravan.

Caravan Fourth Generation:

This generation (RS) represented a significant update to the minivan platform, featuring more rounded styling, improved aerodynamics, and updated powertrains compared to its predecessor. It also saw the introduction of Stow 'n Go seating in later iterations of this generation (though this manual primarily covers the earlier part of the RS platform).

Production Period For Generation:

The fourth generation was produced from 2001 to 2007. This manual specifically covers the 2003-2007 model years within this generation.

Assembly Plants:

Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and Saltillo, Mexico.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Caravan Awards:

While specific awards for the 2003-2007 model years are less prominent than early Caravans, the minivan segment as a whole was highly competitive. Dodge Caravans were consistently popular for their value and family-friendly features, earning them strong sales and customer loyalty.

Consumer Satisfaction General:

Customer satisfaction varied by specific model year and trim, with common minivan complaints of interior wear and tear and some electrical issues common to the era. However, the overall practicality was highly regarded.