🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Year:

2003

Engine Variant:

Diesel (+Diesel)

Platform Code:

NS (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Minivan

Target Audience:

Families, businesses requiring people or cargo transport.

Key Competitors:

Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Oldsmobile Silhouette, Buick GL8.

Unique Selling Points:

Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, front-wheel drive, available all-wheel drive (in some generations/markets), strong aftermarket support.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers DIY mechanics and professional technicians with factory-accurate data to maintain and repair the 2003 Dodge Caravan, including the less common diesel variant.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Digital (PDF) based on common sales practices for these types of manuals

Estimated Page Count:

Refer to specific product listing for exact count, typically 1000+ pages for a comprehensive factory service manual.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for gasoline and specific diesel engines (e.g., 2.5L I4, 3.3L V6, 3.8L V6, and likely VW 2.5L TDI Diesel variant if applicable to 2003 model year in certain markets).

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (e.g., A604, A670, 42LE) diagnosis, repair, and overhaul, including torque converter and related systems.

Drivetrain:

Front Wheel Drive (FWD) axle and hub assembly, CV joints, differential service.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson strut, rear twist-beam axle, springs, shock absorbers, bushings, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc, rear drum or disc brakes, ABS system diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis, pump, rack and pinion, steering linkage, tie rod ends.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, power windows, power locks, interior electronics.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, heater core, blower motor, climate control operation.

Body:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, liftgate, bumpers, interior trim, seat removal, glass replacement.

Chassis:

Frame construction, underbody components, exhaust system, fuel tank, fuel lines.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, air filter replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, transmission, electrical, and other systems.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle components and systems.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II codes explanation, diagnostic connector location, diagnostic tool usage for engine management, ABS, and other modules.

Overhaul:

Engine rebuild specifications, transmission overhaul procedures.

Installation:

Replacement procedures for components such as alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, AC compressors, etc.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive Factory Level - Covers everything from routine maintenance to major component overhauls and advanced diagnostics.

Detail Level:

Includes torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, electrical schematics, component testing procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Typically PDF, allowing for searchable text and easy navigation.

Diagram Quality:

High-quality, clear, and detailed diagrams and illustrations as per factory standards.

Physical Binding:

If printed: Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability and lay-flat usability. (Not applicable if digital).

Physical Paper:

Durable, heavy-stock paper suitable for workshop environments. (Not applicable if digital).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Gasoline Engine Options:

2.4L DOHC I4 (GEMA engine), 3.3L OHV V6 (Chrysler EPT engine), 3.8L OHV V6 (Chrysler EPT engine).

Diesel Engine Option:

Likely a Volkswagen 2.5L TDI 5-cylinder turbo-diesel, commonly found in export markets or specific configurations. Manual will detail its unique service requirements.

Hp Range:

Gasoline: Approximately 150 hp (2.4L) to 180 hp (3.8L). Diesel: Specific output will vary based on the exact VW engine variant, but typically in the 130-150 hp range with higher torque.

Torque Range:

Gasoline: Approximately 160 lb-ft (2.4L) to 230 lb-ft (3.8L). Diesel: Typically higher torque output than gasoline engines, often exceeding 250 lb-ft.

Gasoline Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Diesel Injection Type:

Direct injection, likely Pumpe Düse (PD) or similar common rail system for the TDI engine.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline for gas engines, Diesel fuel for diesel engine.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Chrysler A604, A670, 42LE).

Optional Transmission Type:

No manual transmission typically offered on US-market Caravans of this generation. Overseas markets might have variations.

Transmission Control:

Electronic Pressure Control (EPC) or similar electronic control module (ECM) integration.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific fluid (e.g., ATF+4 or equivalent for Chrysler transmissions).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 112.5 inches.

Length:

Approximately 189.5 inches.

Width:

Approximately 72.0 inches (excluding mirrors).

Height:

Approximately 67.5 inches.

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Highly variable based on seating configuration, but generally around 30-40 cubic feet.

Cargo Volume Max:

Can exceed 140 cubic feet with rear seats removed.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,800 - 4,200 lbs depending on engine and equipment.

Towing Capacity:

Typically around 2,000 - 3,500 lbs, depending on engine and optional towing packages.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Refer to NHTSA archives for specific ratings, generally good for its era.

IIHS Crash Test Results:

Refer to IIHS archives for specific ratings.

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. Optional side airbags may have been available.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all occupants, with pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM radio, CD player, cassette player, optional premium sound systems, and rear entertainment options on some trims.

Navigation:

Aftermarket or dealer-installed navigation systems were uncommon for this model year, but possible.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control system.

Rear Parking Sensors:

Optional rear park assist sensors may have been available.

Auxiliary Input:

Unlikely to have standard auxiliary inputs; aftermarket solutions would be required.

Power Outlets:

12V power outlets for accessory charging.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation).

Engine Coolant Flush:

Recommended at approximately 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as specified for the transmission type.

Engine Oil Type Gas:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30) and API service classification.

Engine Oil Type Diesel:

Refer to manual for specific diesel-rated oil viscosity and API classification (e.g., CJ-4 or equivalent).

Coolant Type:

Typically a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water. Specific Mopar coolant may be recommended.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Failures:

Transmission issues (e.g., solenoid pack failure, clutch wear), head gasket leaks (on some V6 engines), EGR valve issues (diesel and gas), power steering leaks, suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods).

Diesel Specific Concerns:

Potential for glow plug issues, injector problems, turbocharger wear, and specific diesel emission control system faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later FCA, now Stellantis), has a long history of producing rugged and practical vehicles, including a strong presence in the minivan segment.

Caravan Legacy:

The Dodge Caravan, along with its Plymouth Voyager and Chrysler Town & Country siblings, pioneered the minivan segment in the early 1980s and have been a benchmark for the class.

Second Generation:

The 2003 model year falls into the second generation (NS platform, 1996-2007), which saw significant updates including longer wheelbases, revised styling, and improved powertrains compared to the original.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily produced at Chrysler assembly plants in North America (e.g., Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Dodge Caravan nameplate has historically been a strong contender and was often recognized in automotive publications for its utility and value, though specific awards for the 2003 model year should be verified.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Varies by year and component; specific reliability ratings for the 2003 model should be consulted from historical Consumer Reports data.

Emissions Standards:

Compliant with EPA emissions standards for the 2003 model year.