Category:
Full-size minivan, family vehicle
Target Audience:
Families, fleet operators, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Freestar/Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Uplander, Kia Sedona
Vehicle Strengths:
Spacious interior, versatile seating (Stow 'n Go available on later models), comfortable ride, powerful V6 engines
Manual Value:
Provides comprehensive coverage for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the vehicle, saving significant costs on professional service.
Engine:
Complete service, diagnosis, and repair for all engine variants (3.3L, 3.8L, 4.0L V6)
Transmission:
Service and repair for automatic transmissions (e.g., 41TE, 42LE, 45RFE/62TE)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) systems, including axles, CV joints, and differential components
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems (struts, control arms, bushings, shock absorbers)
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads, hydraulic lines, ABS, parking brake)
Electrical:
Complete electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, lighting, power distribution, battery, starter, alternator
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, glass, trim, bumpers, liftgate, power sliding doors
Body Interior:
Interior trim, seating systems, dashboard, instrument cluster, airbags
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pump, lines, injectors, evaporative emission control (EVAP)
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, coolant hoses, fan
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes
Powertrain Control:
Engine Control Module (ECM/PCM) and related sensors/actuators
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic codes, trouble shooting procedures, wiring diagrams for diagnostics
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair:
Engine component replacement (e.g., head gaskets, timing components), transmission rebuild procedures, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, including symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls
Installation:
Installation guides for major components, accessories, and replacement parts
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic values
Body Work:
Procedures for body panel alignment, door mechanism repair, liftgate/sliding door adjustment and repair
Depth:
Factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using diagnostic scan tools, interpreting data streams, and performing actuator tests
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems
Engine 1 3.3L:
3.3L V6 (EGA/EGH)
Engine 1 Specs:
Overhead Valves (OHV), 12 valves, ~180 hp @ 5000 rpm, ~210 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2 3.8L:
3.8L V6 (EGL/CGH)
Engine 2 Specs:
Overhead Valves (OHV), 12 valves, ~200-215 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm, ~235-245 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm
Engine 3 4.0L:
4.0L V6 (2007 MY)
Engine 3 Specs:
Single Overhead Cam (SOHC), 24 valves, ~250 hp @ 6000 rpm, ~260 lb-ft torque @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower Range:
180-250 hp
Torque Range:
210-260 lb-ft
Induction:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (specific P/N often Mopar OAT or equivalent blue coolant)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (check manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, especially for heavy use (check manual).
Spark Plugs:
100,000 miles for original equipment (e.g., Champion copper or platinum plugs) on 3.3L/3.8L. Check manual for specific type and interval for 4.0L.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type and manufacturer recommendation.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions), SAE 10W-30, or SAE 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Type 7176 or ATF+4
Transmission Problems:
Potential issues with torque converter, solenoids, and valve body in some automatic transmissions, particularly with higher mileage and neglected maintenance.
Engine Mounts:
Cracked or worn engine mounts leading to vibration or clunking noises.
Suspension:
Wear in ball joints, control arm bushings, and struts, leading to noise and alignment issues.
Power Sliding Doors:
Motor failures, cable issues, or sensor problems with power sliding doors.
Alternator:
Early failure of alternators on some models.
Wiper Motors:
Failure of the front or rear wiper motors.
Dodge Heritage:
Dodge has a long history in American automotive manufacturing, known for robust and often performance-oriented vehicles. In the minivan segment, Dodge established itself as a leader with the Caravan/Grand Caravan.
Generation Rt:
The 2003-2007 Grand Caravan represents the fourth generation (RS) of the platform, which saw significant styling updates and improvements in features and powertrains.
Key Updates 2003 2007:
Introduction of the 4.0L V6 engine and Stow 'n Go seating on some later models of this generation (though Stow 'n Go became more prominent in the next generation).
Manufacturing Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Production Years:
2003-2007
