Target Audience:
Families, fleet operators, DIY mechanics, professional technicians.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Montana SV6.
Versatility:
Known for its flexible seating configurations (Stow 'n Go available in later models, but the foundation for this generation). Optimized cargo and passenger capacity.
Powertrain Options:
Offered with robust V6 engine options focused on torque and hauling capacity.
Value Proposition:
Often positioned as a value-oriented choice in the minivan segment, offering substantial utility for the price.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for engine assembly, disassembly, component testing, and overhaul.
Engine Management:
Diagnostic procedures, sensor testing, fuel injection system diagnosis and repair.
Transmission Automatic:
Diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and fluid service for automatic transmissions.
Transmission Manual:
Diagnosis, repair, overhaul, and fluid service for manual transmissions (if applicable).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive systems, axles, CV joints, and differentials.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering linkage, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system diagnosis, ABS system, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, pump and rack repair, steering column service.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system, ignition system.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, heater core and evaporator service.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, door and liftgate mechanisms, interior trim removal and installation.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms.
Body Controls:
Power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry system, power sliding doors (if equipped).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component repair and replacement.
Removal Installation:
Comprehensive guides for removing and installing all major and minor components.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed breakdowns and reassembly procedures for various systems.
Adjustments:
Procedures for various adjustments, including wheel alignment, brake adjustments, and door alignment.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, wear limits, and performance data.
Depth:
Bumper-to-bumper coverage, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Illustrations:
Detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photographs for clear guidance.
Special Tools:
Reference to and illustration of required special service tools.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-Star (for most configurations in this generation)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-Star (for most configurations in this generation)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
4-Star (for most configurations in this generation)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-Star (for most configurations in this generation)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags Front:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional side curtain airbags for all three rows.
Seatbelts:
All seating positions equipped with three-point seatbelts. Second and third-row seats feature integrated child seat anchors (LATCH).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 20,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended at 60,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific type and procedure.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 60,000 miles or 5 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
~3.5 - 4.0 quarts (3.3L V6), ~4.0 - 4.5 quarts (3.8L V6) - Consult manual for exact capacity.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (MS-5901)
Coolant:
Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Issues:
Some models may experience issues with the transmission solenoid pack or torque converter clutch (TCC) slippage.
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine mounts can lead to excessive vibration and noise.
Power Sliding Doors:
The mechanism for power sliding doors can require lubrication or adjustment, and occasional motor failures.
Rear Wiper Motor:
The rear wiper motor is a common point of failure.
Sway Bar Links:
Wear in the sway bar links and bushings can cause clunking noises over bumps.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing practical and robust vehicles, particularly trucks and vans.
Grand Caravan Introduction:
The Grand Caravan nameplate debuted in 1991 as a longer-wheelbase version of the original Dodge Caravan, establishing the minivan as a popular family vehicle.
Fourth Generation Launch:
The RS generation (2001-2007) brought substantial updates in styling, interior packaging, and available technology, solidifying its position in the market.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured at Chrysler's Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
Production Period:
2003-2007 model years fall within the RS generation of the Grand Caravan.