Vehicle Segment:
Compact Minivan
Key Competitors:
Ford Aerostar, Chevrolet Lumina APV/Venture, Nissan Quest, Toyota Previa
Vehicle Selling Points:
Versatile interior seating, front-wheel drive configuration, practicality for families and cargo hauling.
Target Audience:
Do-It-Yourself (DIY) mechanics, home repair enthusiasts, professional technicians.
Covered Areas:
Introduction, Lubrication and Maintenance, Front Suspension and Drive Shafts, Rear Suspension and Driveline, Brakes, Manual Transaxle Clutch, Cooling System, Electrical, Engine, Exhaust System and Intake Manifold, Frame and Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering, Transaxle, Wheels/Tires, Body, Heating and Air Conditioning, Emission Control Systems, Component Index
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (Specific number not provided, but typical for a full workshop manual)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Systems:
Engine repair, overhaul, diagnosis, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, exhaust system.
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual transaxle, clutch, rear suspension, front suspension, drive shafts, driveline, wheels, tires.
Chassis Systems:
Brakes, steering, frame, bumpers.
Body Systems:
Body construction, interior, exterior components, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, ignition system, instrument cluster, accessories.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic charts, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and reinstallation.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, suitable for both basic maintenance and advanced repairs, including engine overhaul and major component replacement.
Engine Options:
2.5L (150 cu in) Turbocharged I4 (JX), 3.0L (181 cu in) V6 (297)
Horsepower 2.5L Turbo:
Approx. 150 hp @ 4400 rpm (specific figure can vary)
Torque 2.5L Turbo:
Approx. 173 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (specific figure can vary)
Horsepower 3.0L V6:
Approx. 141 hp @ 4800 rpm (specific figure can vary)
Torque 3.0L V6:
Approx. 171 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (specific figure can vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Multi-port for V6, likely EFI for Turbo I4)
Cylinder Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, V6
Engine Codes:
JX (2.5L Turbo I4), 297 (3.0L V6)
Transmission Options:
3-speed Automatic (A604/41TE), 5-speed Manual Transaxle (Getrag G353)
Transmission Options Availability:
Manual transaxle availability was limited, especially on higher trims and V6 models.
Automatic Transmission Type:
Chrysler's 4-speed automatic transaxle (A604/41TE) with FWD layout. Known for its early electronic control.
Manual Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transaxle, likely sourced from Getrag.
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA ratings for 1992 are not readily available in a standardized format comparable to modern testing. However, the second-generation Caravan was designed with improved safety features over the first generation.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was optional on some models.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became standard equipment in 1992 across all minivans for Dodge.
Seat Belts:
Standard front and rear seat belts. Child seat anchors (LATCH) were not standard equipment in this era.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific severe vs. normal service recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Check fluid level regularly. Replacement interval typically around 30,000-60,000 miles, or as specified by Chrysler's recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine; typically between 30,000-100,000 miles. V6 may have different intervals than I4 turbo.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, or SJ category. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on ambient temperature. Refer to manual for exact specification.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (or equivalent Chrysler specification for the A604/41TE transmission).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Mopar coolant recommended.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), exhaust system (rust), brake components, fuel pump, heater core (especially on V6 models).
Engine Specific Concerns:
The 3.0L Mitsubishi V6 (297) can experience head gasket issues or intake manifold gasket leaks. The 2.5L turbo (JX) can have turbocharger wear or intercooler issues if not properly maintained.
Transmission Concerns:
The A604/41TE automatic transmission, while advanced for its time, can be sensitive to fluid quality and maintenance. Valve body issues or solenoid failures can occur.
Dodge Minivan Legacy:
Dodge Caravan (and its Plymouth Voyager sibling) pioneered the minivan segment in North America in 1984, revolutionizing family transportation.
Second Generation Changes:
The 1992 model year represents the second generation of the Dodge Caravan (AS platform, 1991-1995). Key updates for this generation included revised styling, a longer wheelbase option, improved aerodynamics, and enhanced safety features like the standard driver-side airbag.
Manufacturing Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Chrysler Canada Assembly Plant)
