🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Year:

2006

Product Name:

Dodge Caravan 2006 Factory Service Repair Manual

Platform:

NS (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Caravan of this era was a dominant player in the minivan segment, known for its practicality, spacious interior, and versatility for families and cargo hauling.

Competitors:

Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chevrolet Venture/Venture.

Vehicle Features:

Flexible seating configurations, Stow 'n Go seating (introduced in later generations but Caravan was a pioneer), comfortable ride, ample cargo space.

Value Proposition:

This manual provides professional-grade repair and maintenance information equivalent to what official Dodge dealerships utilize, empowering owners and independent technicians to perform accurate and efficient servicing.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete workshop procedures, electrical diagrams, mechanical repair, diagnostics, maintenance

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (ZIP archive likely containing PDF files)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain, Exhaust System

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Doors, Mirrors), Starting & Charging System

Body & Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, Restraint Systems (Airbags)

HVAC:

Air Conditioning, Heating, Ventilation, Climate Control System

Routine Maintenance:

Oil Change, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel, Cabin), Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Level Checks & Top-offs, Wiper Blade Replacement, Tire Rotation

Major Repairs:

Engine Overhaul/Rebuild, Transmission Rebuild/Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement (Struts, Ball Joints, Bushings), Brake Component Replacement (Pads, Rotors, Calipers), Steering Rack Replacement, Axle Replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing Procedures

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Circuit Diagnosis, Wiring Harness Repair, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, Module Programming/Reprogramming

Bodywork:

Panel Replacement, Door Hinge/Latch Adjustment, Glass Replacement, Bumper Repair/Replacement

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics for in-depth troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

ZIP archive containing PDF documents

Quality:

Likely scanned from original factory documentation, quality may vary but is generally clear and legible for technical information and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Option:

3.3L V6 (3301cc)

Engine 1 Code:

EGA

Engine 1 Horsepower:

180 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2 Option:

3.8L V6 (3778cc)

Engine 2 Code:

L32

Engine 2 Horsepower:

205 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 11.5 quarts (10.9 liters) with max/min lines for 3.3L, 12.2 quarts (11.5 liters) for 3.8L.

Oil Capacity:

4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for 3.3L, 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) for 3.8L (with filter change).

Spark Plugs:

Refer to manual for specific type and gap (e.g., Champion, NGK, copper or platinum).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 3.3L:

42LE Automatic Transmission

Transmission Type 3.8L:

42LE Automatic Transmission (often paired with the 3.8L as well)

Transmission Features:

Electronic overdrive, torque converter lock-up.

Atf Spec:

ATF+4 (MS-9602)

Atf Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) for a dry fill, 2.5-3.0 quarts (2.4-2.8 liters) for a fluid change.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

119.3 inches (3030 mm)

Length:

189.4 inches (4811 mm)

Width:

72.0 inches (1829 mm)

Height:

67.5 inches (1715 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 143.4 cubic feet (4059 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 29.0 cubic feet (821 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4000-4300 lbs (1814-1950 kg) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5600 lbs (2540 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) with optional towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

Good (Driver and Passenger) for 2006 models (refer to specific year for definitive results).

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable (refer to specific year for definitive results).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger. Available side curtain airbags for all rows on some trims.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, front seat belt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional Infinity premium audio system available on higher trims. Rear entertainment system (DVD player) was an option on some models.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, power sliding doors (optional).

HVAC Features:

Manual climate control standard, optional automatic climate control on higher trims. Rear A/C and heat vents are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (4,800-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (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:

Every 30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or per severe service schedule. Crucial for longevity of the 42LE transmission.

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-30 (most common, consult manual for exact spec based on temperature).

Coolant Spec:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically Mopar 50/50 mix.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Problems:

Transmission solenoid issues (especially in earlier models of this generation), EGR valve clogging, potential for rear axle bearing wear, power steering pump noise, window regulator failures, interior trim wear.

Recommendations:

Regularly inspect and replace PCV valve, clean throttle body, check for vacuum leaks, maintain cooling system, and address any early signs of transmission slippage.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust and practical vehicles, with the Caravan being a groundbreaking vehicle that essentially defined the modern minivan segment.

Generation:

This 2006 model represents the third generation (NS) of the Dodge Caravan, which ran from 2001-2007. It received a significant refresh for 2005, including updated styling and available features.

Manufacturing Plants:

Primarily manufactured in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

Model Run:

The Dodge Caravan was produced from 1984 through 2020, with the NS generation being a significant evolution of the platform.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Ratings:

While specific awards for the 2006 model are numerous across various consumer guides for its segment, it consistently ranked high in practicality and value for money in its class.

Used Car Value:

Generally retains good value due to its enduring utility and popularity as a family vehicle.