🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

Caravan

Year:

2006

Other Models Covered:

Town & Country, Grand Caravan, Voyager, Grand Voyager

Related Makes:

Dodge

Platform Code:

RS (Chrysler Minivans)

👋 Introduction

Historical Context:

The Chrysler Caravan and its siblings (Town & Country, Grand Caravan, Voyager) were pioneers and leaders in the minivan segment, offering practicality and family-oriented features.

Competitors 2006:

Ford Freestar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Nissan Quest, Chevrolet Uplander, Buick Terraza, Pontiac Montana SV6.

Manual Advantages:

Manufacturer-authored, dealership-used, comprehensive coverage, organized PDF format with working links and bookmarks, detailed diagnostic procedures, and extensive illustrations.

Target Audience:

Professional automotive technicians, independent repair shops, and DIY enthusiasts seeking accurate and detailed information for maintaining and repairing their 2006 Chrysler minivan.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostics for the 2006 Chrysler Caravan and its variants.

Secondary Coverage:

Parts list and diagnostic procedures for various vehicle systems.

Service Manual:

Estimated 2000+ pages (based on typical OEM manual volume for this era and complexity)

Diagnostic Manuals:

Multiple volumes covering Gasoline Powertrain, Transmission, Body, and Chassis.

Parts List:

Separate comprehensive parts catalog.

Type:

Factory Service Manual (RS Service Manual), Diagnostic Manuals, Parts List.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic Transaxle 41-TE, Manual Transaxle T-850, differential, driveline components, clutch.

Chassis Suspension Steering Brakes:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires.

Body Exterior Interior:

Body construction, frame, bumpers, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC (Heating & Air Conditioning), audio/video systems, navigation, telecommunication.

Electrical Electronics:

Electrical power systems, charging system, lighting, instrument cluster, message systems, restraint systems (airbags), speed control, vehicle theft security, wipers/washers, electronic control modules (ECMs), wiring diagrams.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance schedules, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements.

Diagnostics:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for powertrain, transmission, body, and chassis issues; troubleshooting flowcharts; fault code interpretation.

Repair Overhaul:

Disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for all major vehicle components and systems.

Installation:

Installation procedures for replacement parts and major component assemblies.

Technical Data:

Specifications, tolerances, torque values, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced troubleshooting and complete component overhauls, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Features:

Fully bookmarked, searchable text, hyperlinked table of contents and internal links.

Printability:

Printable pages, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Compatibility:

Compatible with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, and macOS.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.4L DOHC, 2.5L Turbo Diesel, 2.8L Turbo Diesel, 3.3L 60° V-6, 3.8L 60° V-6.

2.4L DOHc Power:

Approx. 150 HP (Actual figures vary slightly by sub-model and configuration)

3.3L V6 Power:

Approx. 180 HP (Actual figures vary slightly by sub-model and configuration)

3.8L V6 Power:

Approx. 200 HP (Actual figures vary slightly by sub-model and configuration)

Fuel Delivery:

Port Fuel Injection (PFI) for gasoline engines. Diesel injection systems for diesel variants.

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per owner's manual, typically 87).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

Automatic Transaxle 41-TE, Manual Transaxle T-850.

Optional Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle 41-TE was common across most gasoline engines. Manual transmission likely less common, potentially paired with the 2.4L DOHC.

Automatic Features:

The 41-TE is a electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transaxle known for its reliability in Chrysler vehicles of this era.

Manual Features:

The T-850 is a 5-speed manual transaxle, providing a more engaging driving experience for those who prefer manual shifting.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Chrysler ATF+4 (Mopar Part Number: 05010864AB or equivalent specification).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) meeting Chrysler specification, typically GL-4 or GL-5 rated.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Standard Wheelbase (Caravan) and Long Wheelbase (Grand Caravan) variants available. Also available in passenger and cargo configurations.

Curb Weight:

Varies by model and configuration, typically ranging from 3,700 lbs to 4,500 lbs.

Towing Capacity:

Often equipped with optional towing packages, consult specific vehicle documentation for exact ratings.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

Likely received good ratings for its time, but specific 2006 model year frontal crash test data should be verified from official NHTSA archives.

IIHS Crash Test:

Good ratings were common for this generation in frontal and side impacts, verify specific model year data.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) typically standard or optional on higher trims.

Traction Control:

Traction control systems (TCS) often available.

Airbags:

Front airbags, side curtain airbags available on some models.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system included.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems, rear-seat entertainment systems available on higher trims.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system was available for some models.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system. Optional 'Smartbeam' or similar advanced lighting features might be present on luxury trims.

Telematics:

Optional SiriusXM satellite radio, Uconnect hands-free communication system was beginning to be introduced around this era, check specific vehicle equipment.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.

Transmission Service Interval:

Automatic transmission fluid change recommended around every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, especially under severe usage. Manual transmission service intervals vary.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Coolant flush and replacement typically recommended every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Engine Oil Type:

Typically SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic or synthetic blend, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification. Check manual for exact viscosity and spec.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, Mopar Part Number: 05050464AA (for pink coolant) or equivalent.

Common Problems Powertrain:

Occasional issues with ignition coils, spark plugs, and potential for head gasket leaks on certain V6 engines. Diesel engines may have glow plug or fuel injection system concerns.

Common Problems Transmission:

The 41-TE transmission is generally robust, but issues can arise with solenoids, valve bodies, or torque converters if fluid maintenance is neglected. The manual transmission is typically less prone to complex failures.

Common Problems Suspension Steering:

Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts is common with age and mileage. Power steering pump leaks can also occur.

Common Problems Electrical:

Issues with power windows, door locks, interior lighting, and instrument cluster illumination can be encountered. Water intrusion affecting electronics is also a possibility.

📚 Vehicle History

Chrysler Minivan Legacy:

Chrysler is credited with inventing the modern minivan segment with the original Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager in 1983. The 2006 model represents a mature evolution of this successful formula.

Generation Overview:

The 2006 model falls within the fourth generation of Chrysler minivans (2001-2007), characterized by updated styling and technology compared to earlier models.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily produced in North America, notably at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Leadership:

Chrysler minivans consistently ranked high in sales and customer satisfaction within the minivan segment during this period.