Positioning:
Essential DIY resource for owners of the 2000 Dodge Caravan, offering significant cost savings on repairs and maintenance.
Advantage:
Provides factory-level detail, often exceeding third-party manuals in accuracy and scope, crucial for complex repairs.
Features:
Step-by-step instructions, comprehensive technical data, diagrams, parts lists, and pictures for easy understanding and execution of repairs.
Powertrain:
Engine (3.3L V6, 3.8L V6), Transaxle, Differential, Driveline, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires, Frame, Bumpers
Electrical:
Battery, Starter, Charging System, Ignition System, Instrument Panel, Audio Systems, Horn, Vehicle Speed Control, Turn Signals, Hazard Lights, Wipers/Washers, Lamps, Passive Restraints, Electrically Heated Systems, Power Distribution, Power Locks, Theft/Security, Power Seats, Power Windows, Power Mirrors, Chime/Buzzer Warning Systems
Body And Comfort:
Body, Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Overhead Console
Maintenance:
Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Tire Rotation, Belt Inspection, Basic Checks
Repair:
Component Replacement, Diagnostics, Reassembly, System Overhauls
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Charts, Symptom-to-Cause Analysis, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance and fluid checks to detailed component removal, repair, and reassembly procedures, including diagnostic strategies and wiring diagrams.
Engine Options:
3.3L (3301cc) OHV V6, 3.8L (3778cc) OHV V6
3.3L Horsepower:
150 hp @ 4600 rpm
3.3L Torque:
180 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
3.8L Horsepower:
158 hp @ 4400 rpm (early models), 166 hp @ 4400 rpm (later models)
3.8L Torque:
203 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (early models), 207 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (later models)
Injection:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU:
Manufacturer-specific ECU with OBD-II diagnostics
Wheelbase:
112.1 inches (Standard Wheelbase), 119.3 inches (Long Wheelbase)
Length:
189.8 inches (Standard), 197.0 inches (Long)
Cargo Volume:
Varies significantly based on seating configuration and wheelbase (typically 140-150 cu ft max).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3700-4000 lbs depending on engine and configuration.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4/5 Stars (for 2000 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4/5 Stars (for 2000 model year)
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard on most trims.
Passive Safety:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), front seatbelt pretensioners, child seat anchors (LATCH), side-impact door beams.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require shorter intervals.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles or as per severe service schedule.
Coolant Change:
Initial change at 5 years/100,000 miles, then every 2 years/50,000 miles thereafter. Use Mopar HOAT coolant.
Engine Oil:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30. Check owner's manual for exact specification and capacity (approx. 4.5 quarts for 3.3L, 5.0 quarts for 3.8L).
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Gold/Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Common Problems:
Transmission solenoid failures (especially early models), rear axle seal leaks, EGR valve issues, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, oil cooler line leaks (if equipped), door lock actuator problems, power window motor failures.
Oil Filter Example:
Mopar: MO-090, Fram: PH3731, Wix: 51515
Air Filter Example:
Mopar: 04596086, Fram: CA8990
Heritage:
Dodge, as part of Chrysler, has a long history in the minivan segment, pioneering many features that became standard.
Third Generation:
The 2000 Caravan belongs to the third generation (1996-2000), which featured a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic shape, improved interior packaging, and updated powertrains compared to the second generation.
Production Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada
