🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Grand Caravan

Model Years Covered:

2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

Generation Code:

RS (2001-2007)

Platform:

Chrysler RS platform (minivan)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Full-size Minivan

Key Selling Points:

Versatility, Seating Capacity, Cargo Space, Family-oriented features

Primary Competitors:

Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Freestar/Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Uplander

Innovations:

Stow 'n Go seating (introduced later in this generation), integrated DVD entertainment systems

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Comprehensive Parts List Catalog

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific engine/option package; typically hundreds of pages

Type:

Parts List Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF) or Print

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Fuel System, Exhaust System

Chassis:

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires

Body:

Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Seating

Electrical:

Lighting, Wiring Harnesses, Fuses, Relays, Accessories

Climate Control:

HVAC System Components

Safety Features:

Airbags, Seatbelts, Restraint Systems

Part Identification:

Specific part numbers for all components

Labor Estimation:

Labor hour estimates for various repair procedures

Depth:

Detailed component breakdown and assembly views for part identification and sourcing

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution diagrams and text for clarity

Binding Type:

N/A (for digital format) / Spiral or Perfect Bound (for print)

Paper Type:

N/A (for digital format) / Durable stock (for print)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

3.3L V6 (3295cc) OHV 12-valve, SOHC (depending on year)

Engine Option 2:

3.8L V6 (3778cc) OHV 12-valve

Engine Option 3:

4.0L V6 (3952cc) SOHC 24-valve (introduced in 2005)

Horsepower Range:

180 - 215 hp (depending on engine and year)

Torque Range:

200 - 240 lb-ft (depending on engine and year)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Codes Examples:

EGA (3.3L), GPM (3.8L), ERB (4.0L)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-Speed Automatic

Transmission Type Optional:

None (All-Wheel Drive option available on some models)

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, TorqueFlite A604/A670 variants

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

119.2 inches

Length:

199.5 inches

Width:

78.1 inches

Height:

67.7 inches

Max Cargo Volume:

Approximately 140-160 cubic feet (varies by seating configuration)

Curb Weight Range:

4,200 - 4,600 lbs (depending on configuration)

Towing Capacity:

3,500 lbs (with optional towing package)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good (GH)

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Traction Control:

Optional or Standard on higher trims/later years

Electronic Stability Control:

Optional on some models, standard on later ones (e.g., ESC)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger; Optional side airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, integrated child seat anchors (LATCH)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette, optional premium audio systems

Navigation:

Optional in-dash navigation system (typically on higher trims)

Rear Seat Entertainment:

Optional overhead or in-dash DVD player with rear screens

Parking Assist:

Optional rear park assist sensors

Remote Keyless Entry:

Standard or Optional

Power Sliding Doors And Liftgate:

Optional on most trims

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (consult manual for specific fluid type and interval)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically 30,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., copper, platinum, iridium)

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 (depending on engine and climate) - API certified

Coolant Specification:

Chrysler OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant

Transmission Fluid Specification:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)

Common Problem 1:

Transmission issues (solenoid failures, torque converter shudder)

Common Problem 2:

Power sliding door (PSD) motor and actuator failures

Common Problem 3:

Water pump leaks

Common Problem 4:

Climate control blower motor resistor failure

Common Problem 5:

Check engine light due to various sensors (e.g., EGR, O2 sensors)

Common Problem 6:

Suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods)

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler)

Generation Start Year:

2001

Generation End Year:

2007

Mid Cycle Refresh:

2005 (significant updates including new 4.0L engine option and Stow 'n Go seating)

Manufacturing Plant:

Windsor Assembly Plant, Windsor, Ontario, Canada

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Popular Mechanics Editor Choice:

Often recognized by automotive publications for its practicality and family-friendly features

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Ratings varied throughout the generation, with some years showing better reliability than others. The 2005-2007 models with the 4.0L engine and updated features generally received more favorable reviews.