🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Year:

2000

Generation Name:

Third Generation (RS)

Platform Code:

NS (shared with Chrysler Voyager/Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Minivan

Target Audience:

Families seeking practical, versatile transportation.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Plymouth Voyager.

Vehicle Strengths:

Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, sliding doors, comfortable ride, robust powertrain options for the era.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the detailed information needed for efficient and accurate maintenance and repair, saving time and money compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Coverage:

3.0L V6 (Mitsubishi 6G72), 3.3L V6 (Chrysler EFA), 3.8L V6 (Chrysler EGH)

Transmission Coverage:

3-speed automatic (30-40LE), 4-speed automatic (41TE, 42LE)

Major Systems:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior, Safety Systems, Emissions Control

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, valve train components, timing belt/chain replacement, oil pump, oil pan, lubrication system diagnostics and repair.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system diagnostics, ignition system testing and repair, emissions control systems (EGR, PCV, evaporative emissions), engine cooling system service, cooling fan operation.

Transmission Mechanical:

Automatic transmission disassembly, assembly, component identification, torque converter service, valve body diagnostics, clutch pack inspection, seal replacement.

Transmission Control:

Transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics, shift solenoid testing, hydraulic system pressure testing, troubleshooting shift complaints.

Drivetrain:

Front wheel drive axle and CV joint service, differential maintenance, driveshaft inspection (if applicable).

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends), wheel bearing service, power steering system diagnostics and repair, steering gear service.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system service (pads, rotors, calipers, shoes, drums), hydraulic system bleeding, parking brake adjustment, ABS system diagnostics and component testing.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuse and relay identification, charging system testing (alternator, battery), starting system troubleshooting, lighting system repair, horn, wipers, power windows, power locks.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant charging, compressor service, blower motor replacement, heater core service, climate control system troubleshooting.

Body And Interior:

Door panel removal, seat removal, interior trim panel replacement, exterior panel alignment, bumper service, glass replacement, tailgate/liftgate operation and repair.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnosis and repair procedures, seatbelt service, child restraint system anchors.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush and fill, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid and filter change, differential fluid change, power steering fluid flush.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon problems, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) retrieval and interpretation, live data analysis for engine and transmission performance.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications and special tool requirements for all major component repairs and replacements.

Installation Procedures:

Guidance on installing aftermarket parts or replacing major components.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repair.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on required tools, including diagnostic scanners, pressure gauges, multimeters, and specialized engine/transmission tools.

Technical Specifications:

Detailed specifications for all components, including torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance, and pressure readings.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-the-go reference.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations.

Binding Type:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

3.0L SOHC V6 (Mitsubishi 6G72)

Engine 1 Displacement:

2972 cc (181.4 cu in)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

91.1 mm x 76.0 mm (3.59 in x 2.99 in)

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

8.9:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

185 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2:

3.3L OHV V6 (Chrysler EFA)

Engine 2 Displacement:

3301 cc (201.5 cu in)

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

93.0 mm x 81.0 mm (3.66 in x 3.19 in)

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

9.1:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

158 hp @ 4700 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

190 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Engine 3:

3.8L OHV V6 (Chrysler EGH)

Engine 3 Displacement:

3778 cc (230.5 cu in)

Engine 3 Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 86.0 mm (3.78 in x 3.39 in)

Engine 3 Compression Ratio:

8.4:1

Engine 3 Horsepower:

180 hp @ 4400 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil packs

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

3-speed automatic (30-40LE - typically with 3.0L V6)

Transmission Type Optional 1:

4-speed automatic (41TE - typically with 3.3L V6)

Transmission Type Optional 2:

4-speed automatic (42LE - typically with 3.8L V6)

Transmission Features:

Selectable overdrive on 4-speed models, electronically controlled with lock-up torque converter.

Transmission Fluid Specification:

ATF+3 (Mopar)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

112.1 inches (2847 mm)

Length:

189.4 inches (4811 mm)

Width:

72.0 inches (1829 mm)

Height:

66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Seating Capacity:

7 passengers (2 front, 2 middle, 3 rear bench)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 35-40 cu ft

Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded:

Approx. 70-80 cu ft

Cargo Volume With 2Nd And 3Rd Rows Removed:

Approx. 120-140 cu ft

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3900-4300 lbs (depending on engine and options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Approximately 5500-5700 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3800 lbs (with optional towing package)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4 stars (1999-2000 models)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4 stars (1999-2000 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Driver:

5 stars (1999-2000 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

4 stars (1999-2000 models)

ABS:

Standard on most trims (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS optional on some)

Traction Control:

Available on some models (e.g., with 3.8L engine)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners.

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in second row

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette, optional CD player. Basic speaker systems.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Keyless Entry:

Optional remote keyless entry system.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by era; primarily focused on basic audio and comfort features. No factory-integrated Bluetooth or advanced smartphone connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions - consult manual for specifics)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed

Spark Plug Replacement:

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

Transmission Fluid And Filter Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles

Coolant Flush And Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years

Timing Belt Replacement:

Refer to manual for specific engine (typically 90,000-100,000 miles for 3.0L Mitsubishi engine, other engines may have chains)

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 (API Certified - check manual for exact spec)

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

ATF+3 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid

Common Issue 1:

Transmission issues (e.g., slipping, hard shifts, torque converter shudder), particularly with the 41TE/42LE transmissions. Regular fluid changes are crucial.

Common Issue 2:

Intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on 3.3L and 3.8L engines) leading to coolant leaks or misfires.

Common Issue 3:

Power steering pump failures or leaks.

Common Issue 4:

Squeaks and rattles from the interior or suspension components due to age and mileage.

Common Issue 5:

EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve issues leading to rough idling or stalling.

Common Issue 6:

Door lock actuator failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand Legacy:

Chrysler Corporation's performance-oriented brand, known for innovation and muscular styling.

Caravan Introduction:

The Dodge Caravan, along with its Plymouth Voyager and Chrysler Town & Country siblings, pioneered the minivan segment in 1984.

Third Generation Rs Introduction:

The third generation (RS body style) was introduced for the 1996 model year, featuring a more aerodynamic design, optional all-wheel-drive (discontinued mid-generation), and improved interior packaging.

2000 Model Year Updates:

For 2000, the Caravan received minor cosmetic updates, including revised grille and taillight designs, and potential powertrain refinements.

Manufacturing Location:

Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA

Production Years For Rs Generation:

1996-2000

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award 1:

While specific awards for the 2000 model year are less documented, the Caravan platform consistently ranked high in segment sales and practicality for families throughout its tenure.

Award 2:

Often cited for its value and versatility in automotive reviews of the period.