Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Minivan
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chevrolet Venture, Ford Windstar, Kia Sedona.
Strengths:
Spacious interior, flexible seating, powerful optional V6 engine, generally good value.
Weaknesses:
Interior material quality could be improved, fuel economy average for the class, transmission issues reported on some early models.
Body Styles:
Standard Wheelbase (SWB) and Long Wheelbase (LWB) options.
Seating Configurations:
Available in 7-seater configurations with Stow 'n Go seating on select trims starting in later model years, though 2005 may have traditional removable seats.
Service Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostic information for the 2005 Dodge Caravan.
Component Coverage:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior.
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF or similar, based on common sales practices)
Engine Mechanical:
Disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, diagnostics, specifications for all engine variants.
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control systems, engine tuning, performance diagnostics.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair procedures for automatic transmissions.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive systems, axle shafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, differentials.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, struts.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, horns, power windows, locks, mirrors.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, roof rack systems.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for various systems, wiring diagrams.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, component tolerances.
Depth:
Full factory-level repair and diagnostic procedures, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.
Accuracy:
Factory-originated data ensures accuracy for all procedures and specifications.
Engine Option 1:
2.4L Inline-4 (2.4 DOHC 16V)
Engine Option 1 Hp:
150 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine Option 1 Torque:
160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Option 2:
3.3L V6 (3.3 OHV 12V)
Engine Option 2 Hp:
180 hp @ 5000 rpm
Engine Option 2 Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Option 3:
3.8L V6 (3.8 OHV 12V)
Engine Option 3 Hp:
200 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine Option 3 Torque:
240 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, EGR system, evaporative emissions control.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 18 gallons (68 L)
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Good (for 2005 models with specific equipment)
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Good (for 2005 models with specific equipment)
IIHS Frontal Offset Impact:
Acceptable (for 2005 models)
ABS:
Standard on all models.
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims/models.
Airbags Front:
Standard driver and front passenger airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional or standard on higher trims (front side airbags).
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts for all seating positions, front seat belt pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., copper, platinum, iridium).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified).
Coolant Spec:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically pink or orange.
Transmission Common Problems:
Early models (pre-2005) of the 41TE/42LE transmission can experience solenoid issues, torque converter shudder, or failure of the input/output shaft seals.
Engine Common Problems:
Rear main seal leaks on V6 engines, intake manifold gasket leaks (on some models), PCV system issues.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings; noisy front struts/shocks.
Electrical Common Problems:
Faulty blower motor resistor, issues with power window regulators, odometer failures, ABS sensor failures.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge has a long history of producing robust and practical vehicles, often focusing on value and utility in segments like trucks and vans.
Caravan Lineage:
The Dodge Caravan, along with its Chrysler and Plymouth siblings, pioneered the minivan segment in the early 1980s. The 2005 model belongs to the fourth generation (2001-2007), which saw significant updates in styling and features.
Assembly Locations:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA (depending on specific model year variations).
Car Of The Year:
While the Caravan has historically received various awards, specific major 'Car of the Year' accolades for the 2005 model are not prominent; it consistently remained a strong seller in its segment.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings vary by model year and specific powertrain, but generally considered average to below average for reliability in the mid-2000s, particularly concerning transmission and certain electrical components. Consult historical consumer reports for detailed insights.
