Vehicle Segment:
Compact Minivan
Target Audience:
Families, fleet operators, commercial users
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Nissan Quest
Platform Strength:
Reputation for practicality, versatility, and affordability
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners and technicians to perform a wide range of repairs and maintenance, reducing labor costs and ensuring vehicle longevity
Overall Scope:
Comprehensive service, repair, diagnostics, and maintenance procedures
Estimated Page Count:
High (typically 1500-2500+ pages for full factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE) service and repair, transaxle
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, driveshafts
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wiper systems
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, upholstery, HVAC system, climate control, seating systems, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts)
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component testing, flowcharts
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuilding, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Depth Level:
Expert-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Engine Code Gasoline:
3.3L V6 (EGA) - Naturally Aspirated
Engine Displacement Gasoline:
3301 cc (201.5 cubic inches)
Engine Configuration:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Gasoline:
Approx. 180-185 hp @ 5000 rpm (varies slightly by year/tune)
Torque Gasoline:
Approx. 200-205 lb-ft @ 3600-4000 rpm (varies slightly by year/tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Alternative Engine Options:
Optional 3.8L V6 (L32) engine may be present in some markets or specific trims, though less common for SWB models in this range.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Codes:
41TE, 42LE (common for this era/platform)
Optional Transmission:
Manual transmission not typically offered or widely available on US-market Caravans of this generation.
Transmission Control:
Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (ECAT)
Fluid Type Specification:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602 or equivalent)
Wheelbase Swb:
Approximately 112.1 inches (2847 mm)
Overall Length Swb:
Approximately 175.4 inches (4455 mm)
Overall Width:
Approximately 72.4 inches (1839 mm)
Overall Height:
Approximately 67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Varies, but designed for practical cargo capacity for its class.
Curb Weight:
Typically in the range of 3,800 - 4,200 lbs (1724 - 1905 kg), depending on configuration.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Typically around 5,500 - 5,800 lbs (2495 - 2631 kg).
NHTSA Crash Test Front Driver:
Good (5-star rating often achieved in frontal impacts for this generation)
NHTSA Crash Test Front Passenger:
Good (5-star rating often achieved in frontal impacts for this generation)
IIHS Crash Test Side:
Acceptable to Good (depending on specific model year and equipment, early models may vary)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) available on some trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags may be available on later models.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for all seating positions.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems, and rear-seat entertainment options available.
Navigation:
Limited factory navigation options, if any, for this model year range.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist sensors available on select higher trims.
Auxiliary Inputs:
No standard auxiliary audio inputs; aftermarket solutions might be available.
Bluetooth:
Not available from the factory for this model year range.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on towing or severe usage (refer to manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for iridium or platinum plugs.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 3.73W-90 (check manual for precise recommendation and API service category)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., Mopar 5 Year / 100,000 Mile Formula)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific requirement)
Common Trans Failure:
Transmission solenoid failures, torque converter issues, and internal wear can be concerns; regular fluid changes are critical.
Common Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks (particularly on earlier 3.3L engines), oil leaks, and occasional ignition coil pack failures.
Common Suspension Wear:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings is common due to vehicle weight and usage.
Electrical Quirks:
Door lock actuators, power window regulators, and instrument cluster problems have been reported.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing family vehicles and commercial vans, establishing a reputation for durability and value.
Caravan Introduction:
The Dodge Caravan (and its Plymouth Voyager/Chrysler Voyager siblings) pioneered the minivan segment in the mid-1980s.
Fourth Gen Launch:
The fourth generation (RS body) was introduced for the 2001 model year and received updates through 2007, including styling refreshes and powertrain refinements.
Swb Variant:
The SWB (Short Wheelbase) model was a core offering, balancing maneuverability with practicality, often aimed at smaller families or urban use.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at Chrysler's Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
Segment Popularity:
The Dodge Caravan consistently ranked as a top-selling minivan for many years due to its market appeal and feature set.
Safety Awards:
Achieved good results in government safety tests for its class during its production run.
Consumer Reviews:
Generally positive consumer reviews for practicality and value, with some common mechanical concerns noted.
