🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan / Grand Caravan / Voyager

Model Years Covered:

2000

Platform:

NS (Second Generation)

Dodge Platform Code:

NS

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Minivan

Target Audience:

Owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics.

Key Competitors 2000:

Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Oldsmobile Silhouette, Buick Terraza (later)

Versatility:

Flexible seating arrangements (Stow 'n Go was not yet introduced but removable seats offered good cargo space).

Value Proposition:

Often offered more features for the price compared to competitors.

Comprehensiveness:

Covers all major mechanical and electrical systems for the specified model year.

Practicality:

Provides step-by-step instructions and diagrams essential for accurate repair.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Workshop Service & Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair Procedures

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (2.4L DOHC, 3.0L V6 SOHC, 3.3L V6 OHV, 3.8L V6 OHV), Transmission (3-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic)

Chassis:

Suspension (front independent, rear solid axle), Steering (power rack and pinion), Brakes (front disc, rear drum, ABS)

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging systems, ignition, body control modules, instrument cluster, audio systems

Body:

Interior and exterior trim, body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC, climate control

Exhaust System:

Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, fuel tank, lines.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation, spark plug replacement

Engine Repair:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head repair, piston/ring replacement, timing belt/chain service

Transmission Service:

Fluid and filter changes, transmission overhaul, seal replacement

Brake Service:

Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush, ABS component testing

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting circuits, component testing, wiring harness repair

Suspension Repair:

Strut/shock absorber replacement, ball joint service, bushings, tie rod ends, wheel bearing replacement.

Steering System Service:

Power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering linkage.

HVAC System:

Compressor, condenser, evaporator, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant service (with R-134a).

Lighting And Accessories:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, power accessories troubleshooting.

Depth:

Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Support:

Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, and component testing specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital (PDF recommended for clarity and searchability)

Searchability:

Likely includes searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual.

Binding Recommendation:

Coil binding or three-ring binder for ease of use and page laying flat.

Paper Recommendation:

Durable, high-quality paper for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.4L I4 (DOHC, naturally aspirated), 3.0L V6 (SOHC, Mitsubishi engine, naturally aspirated), 3.3L V6 (OHV, naturally aspirated), 3.8L V6 (OHV, naturally aspirated)

2.4L I4 Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5900 rpm

2.4L I4 Torque:

170 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

3.0L V6 Horsepower:

158 hp @ 5250 rpm

3.0L V6 Torque:

180 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm

3.3L V6 Horsepower:

180 hp @ 4900 rpm

3.3L V6 Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

3.8L V6 Horsepower:

215 hp @ 5000 rpm

3.8L V6 Torque:

240 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Injection:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Engine Code 3 3L:

EGA

Engine Code 3 8L:

EGH

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Availability:

Automatic transmission standard on most models, manual transmission not typically offered for this year.

Transmission Types:

A604 4-speed automatic (often with 2.4L and 3.0L engines), 42LE 4-speed automatic (often with 3.3L and 3.8L engines)

Overdrive:

All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear).

Atf Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase In:

119.3

Length In:

193.7 (Caravan), 201.0 (Grand Caravan)

Width In:

72.0

Height In:

67.2

Cargo Volume Cu Ft Max:

Approximately 150-160 cu ft (depending on configuration and model length)

Curb Weight Lbs Typical:

3700 - 4200 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4-star (for 2000 model year models)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4-star (for 2000 model year models)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System standard on most trims, optional on base models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, front seat belt pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/CD or cassette player, optional premium audio systems with amplifiers.

Rear Seat Entertainment:

Optional rear-seat video monitors and VCR/DVD players were available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Keyless Entry:

Optional or standard depending on trim level.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were common options.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend recommended).

Transmission Service Interval:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles, or as per manual recommendations, depending on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

100,000 miles for platinum or iridium spark plugs.

Engine Oil Capacity 3 3L V6:

4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent.

Transmission Reliability:

Some models, particularly those with the 42LE transmission, could experience solenoid issues or torque converter shudder if not properly maintained.

Ignition Switch:

Intermittent starting issues can sometimes be traced to a worn ignition switch.

Power Window Motors:

Can be a common failure point.

Rear Suspension:

Leaf springs can weaken over time, affecting ride height and handling.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Minivan Pioneer:

Dodge was a pioneer in the minivan segment with the original Caravan/Voyager in the mid-1980s.

Ns Generation Introduction:

The NS generation was introduced for the 1996 model year and ran until 2000, receiving updates throughout its lifecycle.

Facelift 1998:

The 2000 model year is part of the facelifted NS generation, featuring updated styling and features.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list in its earlier generations, setting benchmarks for the segment.

Jd Power Ratings:

While specific ratings vary year to year, the Caravan was generally considered a strong contender in initial quality and dependability within its class during this era, though often trailed by Japanese competitors.