Segment:
Full-size minivan (often referred to as a 'people mover' or 'family vehicle').
Key Selling Points:
Versatile interior space, sliding doors for easy access, comfortable ride, available Stow 'n Go seating (on some trims).
Competitors 2006:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Freestar, Chevrolet Uplander, Kia Sedona, Hyundai Entourage.
Flexible Seating:
Optional Stow 'n Go seating allows second and third-row seats to fold flat into the floor, maximizing cargo space.
Sliding Doors:
Standard dual sliding rear doors for convenient passenger entry and exit, particularly in tight parking spaces.
Purpose:
To educate the owner on the safe and proper operation, maintenance, and care of their 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Primary Coverage:
Features, controls, maintenance, service schedules, DIY activities, towing, safety considerations for the 2006 Dodge Caravan.
Secondary Coverage:
Operating instructions, warning lights, dashboard indicators, climate control, audio system, seating adjustments, cargo management.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 200-250 pages (typical for a model year owner's manual).
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system basics.
Chassis:
Braking system operation, steering system operation, suspension system overview, tire information.
Electrical:
Lighting system, basic electrical component identification (fuses, relays), battery care.
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control system, power windows, door locks, seat adjustments, audio system operation, interior lighting.
Safety Security:
Airbag system, seat belt operation, child restraint systems (LATCH), anti-theft system, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) operation.
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, replacing windshield wiper blades, bulb replacement (basic).
Do It Yourself:
Limited DIY tasks, likely covering very basic maintenance and adjustments, not in-depth repairs.
Towing:
Towing recommendations, trailer wiring connection basics, towing capacity guidelines.
Troubleshooting:
Identification of warning lights and their meanings, basic troubleshooting steps for common dashboard indicators.
Depth:
Operational and owner-level information; does not provide diagnostic codes, detailed repair procedures, or complete schematics. Focuses on safe operation and routine maintenance.
Readability:
Readable on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
Searchability:
Likely includes searchable text within the PDF for efficient information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable on standard home or office printers.
Quality:
Digital replica of original factory manual; quality dependent on scanning of original document. Expected to be clear and legible.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Length:
Approximately 190.5 inches (4839 mm)
Width:
Approximately 75.1 inches (1908 mm)
Height:
Approximately 68.5 inches (1739 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 119.2 inches (3028 mm)
Seating Capacity:
7 passengers (standard)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 19.2 cubic feet (544 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 66.7 cubic feet (1889 liters) (with seats up)
Cargo Volume Max:
Approximately 140.1 cubic feet (3967 liters) (with seats folded/removed)
Curb Weight Min:
Approximately 4,230 lbs (1919 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Min:
Approximately 5,700 lbs (2585 kg)
Towing Capacity Max:
Approximately 3,800 lbs (1724 kg) (with optional towing package and appropriate engine)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for models tested in 2006)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (for models tested in 2006)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars (for models tested in 2006)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4 Stars (for models tested in 2006)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good (for models tested in 2006)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Tpms:
Standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Airbags Front:
Standard advanced front airbags for driver and front passenger.
Airbags Side:
Optional side-curtain airbags for all three rows (available on select trims).
Seat Belts:
All seating positions equipped with three-point seat belts. Front seat belt pretensioners.
Child Restraints:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for second-row seating positions.
Audio System:
Base AM/FM/CD player, optional Sirius Satellite Radio, optional premium audio systems with more speakers.
Rear Seat Entertainment:
Optional overhead or seat-mounted DVD player with integrated screen for rear passengers.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear park assist sensors to help detect obstacles while backing up.
Auxiliary Input:
Some models may feature an auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external media players.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on oil type and usage).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as recommended based on wear pattern.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually, depending on environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
3.3L/3.8L V6: Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Platinum-tipped plugs. 4.0L V6: Varies, consult manual.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Check owner's manual; generally every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) under normal driving conditions. Severe usage may require more frequent changes.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified, synthetic blend recommended).
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.3L/3.8L V6: Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter. 4.0L V6: Consult manual.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Dodge OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, 5-year/100,000 mile service life. (Mopar P5023874 or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 4). (Mopar P5189993 or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 where specified).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (Mopar 04303088 or equivalent).
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads/rotors, tires, suspension components (ball joints, tie rods), exhaust system.
Powertrain Concerns:
Transmission issues (slipping, delayed engagement) can occur with higher mileage; engine mounts may degrade. Some instances of oil leaks or coolant consumption on older models.
Electrical Concerns:
Power window regulators, interior lighting issues, power sliding door mechanisms can be prone to wear or failure.
Body Concerns:
Rust can be an issue in areas with heavy road salt use, especially on rocker panels and wheel wells. Sealing around sliding doors can deteriorate.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing reliable and practical vehicles, including a significant presence in the minivan market.
Caravan Introduction:
The Dodge Caravan (and its Plymouth Voyager sibling) pioneered the minivan segment in 1984, revolutionizing family transportation.
Generation 2006:
The 2006 model year falls within the third generation (RS, 2001-2007) of the Caravan, which saw significant updates in styling, technology, and powertrain options.
Assembly Locations:
Primarily assembled at Chrysler's Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
Sales Performance:
The Caravan was a segment leader in sales for many years, known for its affordability and practicality.
Segment Awards:
While specific awards for the 2006 model year might vary, the Dodge Caravan has historically been recognized for its family-friendly features and value within the minivan segment.
Consumer Ratings:
Consumer satisfaction ratings often cite the Caravan's practicality and cargo space, though some may note reliability concerns with certain components compared to top-tier competitors.
Safety Certifications:
Meets all federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) for 2006.