Segment:
Full-size Minivan
Target Audience:
Families, commercial use, general automotive repair technicians
Key Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Venture SV6
Vehicle Strengths:
Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, powerful engine options, comfortable ride, reputation for utility and family-friendliness.
Benefit To Owner:
Enables DIY maintenance and repair, reduces repair costs, empowers understanding of vehicle systems, essential for proper diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Benefit To Technician:
Provides authoritative repair procedures, specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts, crucial for efficient and accurate repairs.
Primary Coverage:
North America
Trim Levels Covered:
All available trim levels (e.g., SE, Sport, ES)
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1500 pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, printable)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine control systems (ECM), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE/42LE), clutch system (if applicable), drive shafts, axles, differential
Chassis:
Steering system, suspension system (front and rear), brake system (ABS included), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting system, ignition system, instrument cluster, body electrical controls, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), infotainment system wiring, HVAC controls, safety system wiring (airbags, ABS)
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, doors, liftgate, glass, HVAC system operation and repair, body sealing
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups, spark plug replacement, belt and hose inspection/replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, electrical circuit testing, component testing
Repair:
Engine component repair (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds
Installation:
Component installation and alignment (e.g., suspension, engine, transmission)
Specification Updates:
Torque specifications, alignment specifications, fluid capacities, electrical schematics
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhaul, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Option 1:
3.3L V6 OHV (EGA)
Engine Option 2:
3.8L V6 OHV (L32)
Horsepower 3.3L:
Approx. 158 hp @ 4800 RPM
Torque 3.3L:
Approx. 203 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM
Horsepower 3.8L:
Approx. 180 hp @ 4700 RPM
Torque 3.8L:
Approx. 240 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Control Module:
Standard diagnostics and programming for the ECM are covered.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 119.3 inches (Long Wheelbase) / 112.3 inches (Short Wheelbase - less common in '02)
Length:
Approx. 193.9 inches (Long Wheelbase)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 30.2 cu ft (Long Wheelbase)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 82.0 cu ft (Long Wheelbase, with 3rd row stowed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (depending on engine and options)
Towing Capacity:
Varies by configuration, typically around 2,000 - 3,500 lbs when properly equipped.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (2002 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (2002 Model Year)
IIHS Small Overlap Frontal:
Not Applicable/Not Tested (pre-dates rigorous testing in this category)
ABS:
Standard on most models (Antilock Braking System)
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional or standard on higher trims (Side impact airbags)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as specified by severe service conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (for most conditions, check manual for variations)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, color: Pink (HOAT is also common, manual is definitive)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Complaints Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, intake manifold gasket leaks, timing belt tensioner issues (on older models, not typically belt-driven in '02), occasional head gasket failures on high mileage units.
Common Complaints Transmission:
Slipping gears, harsh shifting, failure of solenoids or valve body, premature wear of clutch packs, potential for transmission cooler leaks affecting fluid.
Common Complaints Electrical:
Faulty power window motors, issues with rear wiper motors, problems with the ignition switch or TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) on later models.
Common Complaints Suspension Brakes:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, premature brake wear, ABS sensor failures.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing durable and practical vehicles, particularly trucks and minivans.
Caravan Introduction:
The Dodge Caravan (and its Plymouth Voyager counterpart) pioneered the minivan segment in the mid-1980s.
Generation 2001 2007:
The 2002 model belongs to the second generation (NS, 1996-2000) or the beginning of the third generation (RS, 2001-2007) depending on market interpretation and minor updates. The 2001 model year marked the introduction of the redesigned RS platform, so the 2002 model is part of this contemporary generation. The manual will cover the RS platform specifics.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada; Saltillo, Mexico.
Car And Driver 5 Best Trucks:
The Caravan/Voyager/Town & Country platform was frequently recognized by Car and Driver in their '10Best' lists in its earlier iterations, solidifying its segment leadership.
Jd Power Ratings:
Historically, J.D. Power ratings varied by year and model; the 2002 model would have specific ratings for dependability and initial quality covered in automotive reviews of the time.
Safety Certifications:
Compliant with all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for the 2002 model year.
