🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Year:

1997

Body Style:

Minivan

Drivetrain Configuration Covered:

Right-Hand Drive (RHD) and Left-Hand Drive (LHD)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact/Minivan

Target Audience:

Families, individuals needing cargo/passenger space, DIY mechanics, professional technicians.

Key Competitors:

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

Vehicle Attributes:

Practicality, spacious interior, versatile seating configurations, front-wheel drive (available all-wheel drive in some generations).

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides the essential technical data required for maintaining and repairing the 1997 Dodge Caravan, including RHD and LHD variations, making it a comprehensive resource for a wide range of owners and technicians.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Lubrication and Maintenance, Suspension, Differential and Driveline, Brakes, Clutch, Cooling System, Battery, Starter, Charging System, Ignition System, Instrument Panel, Body Electrical, HVAC, Fuel System, Engine Mechanical, Transmission, Steering System, Body and Frame, Electrical Diagnosis and Wiring Diagrams

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed engine disassembly, assembly, specifications, troubleshooting, and diagnostics for all covered engine variants.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Coverage for both automatic and manual transmissions, including repair, overhaul, clutch service, differential service, and driveline component repair.

Brakes:

Comprehensive brake system service, including disc and drum brake procedures, ABS diagnostics and repair, and hydraulic system servicing.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement, alignment specifications, steering system repair, and power steering system servicing.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures for various modules, and troubleshooting common electrical faults.

HVAC:

Air conditioning and heating system service, refrigerant handling, component diagnosis, and repair procedures.

Body Frame:

Information on body panel repair, door and window mechanisms, interior trim, and basic structural information.

Maintenance Tasks:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, and lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common problems related to engine performance, starting, charging, braking, and electrical systems.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for most major vehicle systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, crucial for accurate diagnosis and repair.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed specifications, tolerances, torque values, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick access to information.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.4L I4 (142 hp @ 5200 rpm, 147 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm), 3.0L V6 (150 hp @ 5200 rpm, 170 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm), 3.3L V6 (158 hp @ 4800 rpm, 195 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm)

Horsepower Range:

142 - 158 hp

Torque Range:

147 - 195 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Engine Identification Codes:

2.4L: EDZ, 3.0L: ECE, 3.3L: EVE

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Types:

4-speed automatic (most common), 5-speed manual (less common, primarily with 2.4L engine)

Optional Transmissions:

All-wheel drive (AWD) availability may be tied to specific engine and trim levels, typically with automatic transmission.

Automatic Transmission Codes:

A604 (4-speed automatic)

Manual Transmission Codes:

NV1500 (5-speed manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 112.1 inches

Length:

Approx. 177.1 inches

Width:

Approx. 72.5 inches

Height:

Approx. 68.9 inches

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3500 - 4000 lbs (depending on engine and configuration)

Towing Capacity:

Typically around 2000-3500 lbs, consult specific vehicle owner's manual for exact rating.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

NHTSA frontal crash test ratings for 1997 models: Driver - 4 stars, Passenger - 4 stars. Side impact ratings were not consistently applied across all configurations in this era.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - often optional or standard on higher trims, Traction Control (less common on base models).

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, front and rear seat belts, child seat anchor points (LATCH system not standard). Side impact door beams.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory radio with AM/FM stereo, cassette player. Optional CD player available on higher trims or as an aftermarket upgrade.

Display Technology:

Basic analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer (if equipped), fuel level, and engine temperature. Warning lights for system status.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control (standard on most models), optional ABS and traction control. No advanced electronic driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on basic audio and climate controls. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using recommended oil type and viscosity.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace every 30,000 miles under normal conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

2.4L I4: ~100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium), 3.0L/3.3L V6: ~100,000 miles (Platinum).

Engine Oil Specification:

API Service SG or SH. Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 for most conditions. Consult manual for extreme temperature recommendations.

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler/Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT - Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent. 50/50 mix with distilled water. Color: typically orange or red. Capacity: ~10.5 quarts (3.3L V6).

Transmission Fluid Specification:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4) is recommended for most Chrysler/Dodge automatics of this era. Capacity: ~4.5 quarts (dry fill for A604).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3, SAE J1703.

Common Problems Engine:

Head gasket failures (especially on V6 engines), intake manifold gasket leaks, starter motor issues, fuel pump failures.

Common Problems Transmission:

A604 automatic transmission can experience solenoid issues, torque converter shudder, and occasional transmission control module (TCM) problems. Clutch wear on manual transmissions.

Common Problems Suspension:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links are common due to vehicle weight and usage. Strut and shock absorber wear.

Common Problems Electrical:

Faulty power window motors, door lock actuators, instrument cluster problems (dimming lights), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, ABS sensor issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Minivan Legacy:

Dodge pioneered the minivan segment with the original Caravan in the early 1980s, establishing a strong reputation for practicality and family-friendliness.

Second Generation Caravan:

The 1997 model is part of the second generation (1996-2000) of the Dodge Caravan, which featured a significant redesign from the first generation, offering improved aerodynamics, safety, and a more refined interior.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in North America, with plants in St. Louis, Missouri, and Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

Production Years Of Generation:

1996-2000

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

The Dodge Caravan and its Chrysler minivan siblings were consistently recognized for their practicality and value, often appearing on 'best buy' lists and earning positive reviews for family utility during their production run.

Industry Impact:

Helped define and dominate the minivan market segment, setting benchmarks for interior space, versatility, and family-oriented features.