🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Grand Caravan

Year:

2002

Platform:

NS (Third Generation)

Chassis Code:

VG

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2002 Grand Caravan was a segment leader in the minivan market, known for its practicality, versatility, and passenger comfort. This manual caters to owners and independent repair shops seeking in-depth technical information for maintenance and repair.

Competitive Analysis:

Competitors included the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Ford Windstar. The Grand Caravan differentiated itself with its Stow 'n Go seating (though not yet introduced in 2002, the foundations of its practical interior were present), available all-wheel drive, and robust V6 engine options.

Key Features:

This software manual provides official, factory-level data, crucial for accurate diagnostics and repairs. Its digital format ensures easy access and searchability, a significant advantage over older printed manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

2002 Dodge Grand Caravan

Engine Variants Covered:

3.3L V6 OHV, 3.8L V6 OHV

Transmission Variants Covered:

41TE (3-speed automatic), 42LE (4-speed automatic)

Estimated Page Count:

Over 2000 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems, engine diagnostics and troubleshooting

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls, fluid and filter replacement, troubleshooting

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive axles, CV joints, differential maintenance

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, disc brakes, drum brakes, hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), parking brake

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, HVAC controls, body control module (BCM), fuse box diagrams, wiring schematics

Body Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system components, fuel tank, exhaust system

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (R134a), heater core, blower motor, climate control modules, refrigerant handling and charging

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake pad replacement

Troubleshooting Procedures:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for engine, transmission, electrical, and HVAC issues

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems

Diagnostic Procedures:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) codes, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic connector locations, scan tool usage

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, pressure readings

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics. Includes detailed diagrams and schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF, EXE, or similar)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Searchability:

Typically includes searchable text capabilities for quick information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1:

3.3L (3301cc) OHV V6

Engine 1 Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Cylinder Heads

Engine 1 Bore Stroke:

3.917 in x 3.579 in (99.5 mm x 90.9 mm)

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

8.9:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

180 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2:

3.8L (3778cc) OHV V6

Engine 2 Configuration:

Overhead Valve (OHV), Cast Iron Block, Aluminum Cylinder Heads

Engine 2 Bore Stroke:

3.917 in x 3.976 in (99.5 mm x 101.0 mm)

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

8.9:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

205 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack configuration

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

41TE Automatic (3-Speed)

Transmission Type Optional:

42LE Automatic (4-Speed with Overdrive)

Transmission Control:

Electronic Control Module (ECM) for shift control and diagnostics

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

119.3 inches (3030 mm)

Length:

189.4 inches (4811 mm)

Width:

72.0 inches (1829 mm)

Height:

67.5 inches (1715 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 140.5 cu ft (4000 mm, with second and third rows folded/removed)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 95.0 cu ft (2690 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 46.1 cu ft (1305 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

4,000 - 4,300 lbs (1814 - 1950 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:

5,600 - 5,800 lbs (2540 - 2630 kg)

Towing Capacity Max Approx:

3,500 lbs (1588 kg) with optional towing package

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

★★★★ (4 Stars)

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

★★★★ (4 Stars)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

★★★★ (4 Stars)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

★★★★ (4 Stars)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

★★★★ (4 Stars)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models

Traction Control:

Optional (often with premium trims or AWD)

Airbags Front:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional front-seat side airbags

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models feature a standard AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player. Higher trims offered a premium Infinity sound system and a rear-seat entertainment system (RSE) with a VHS player or DVD player.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Key features include ABS and optional traction control. Cruise control was standard on most trims.

Connectivity Features:

Primarily basic accessory power outlets. No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles or 3 to 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to owner's manual for specific recommendation).

Transmission Fluid Filter Change:

Recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for automatic transmissions (ATF+4).

Spark Plug Replacement:

100,000 miles for platinum or iridium spark plugs (typical for this era's upgrades).

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or 2-4 years.

Brake Fluid Change:

Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type 3.3L:

SAE 5W-30 (API certified)

Engine Oil Type 3.8L:

SAE 5W-30 (API certified)

Engine Oil Capacity 3.3L:

Approx. 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change

Engine Oil Capacity 3.8L:

Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT) or equivalent (typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 11.0 - 12.5 quarts (10.4 - 11.8 liters)

Known Issues General:

Common issues include transmission solenoid failure (especially in early 42LE), HVAC blower motor resistor failure, EGR valve issues, and potential for intake manifold gasket leaks.

Known Issues Engine:

Cracked cylinder heads on earlier 3.3L/3.8L engines, though less common by 2002. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or rear main seal.

Known Issues Suspension:

Worn front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends) due to vehicle weight. Premature wear of sway bar links.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), has a long history of producing reliable and practical vehicles. The Grand Caravan lineage began in 1984, revolutionizing the minivan segment.

Model Evolution:

The 2002 model year falls within the third generation (NS) of the Grand Caravan, which ran from 1996 to 2007. This generation saw significant updates in styling, safety, and powertrain options, evolving from the original K-car based minivans.

Production Location:

Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Chrysler Canada Assembly Plant)

Production Years:

1996-2007 (Third Generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions General:

While specific awards for the 2002 model year might be scarce, the Grand Caravan consistently ranked as a top family vehicle and a segment leader in sales and practicality throughout its third generation.

Ratings Consumer:

Generally well-regarded for its utility and value, though reliability ratings sometimes lagged behind key Japanese competitors.

Certifications Safety:

Met all federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) for the 2002 model year.