🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Grand Caravan

Year:

2000

Platform:

NS (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Grand Caravan (NS generation) was a leading minivan in the late 1990s and early 2000s, known for its practicality, seating capacity, and family-friendly features. It competed directly with models like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Ford Windstar.

Competitive Analysis:

Differentiated by its Stow 'n Go seating (introduced later, but the design principles were present), comfortable ride, and robust powertrain options for its class. The 2000 model represented a refinement of the popular NS platform.

Key Features:

Spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, optional all-wheel drive (though less common on the Grand Caravan compared to the Town & Country), powerful V6 engine options.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Coverage:

All Dodge Grand Caravan models for the 2000 model year.

Engine Variants Covered:

3.3L V6 (e.g., VIN codes E, G) and 3.8L V6 (e.g., VIN code L).

Trim Levels Covered:

All trim levels, including SE, LE, Sport, and ES models.

Page Count:

3763 pages

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine diagnostics.

Transmission Systems:

Automatic transmission (41TE/AE) diagnosis, overhaul, fluid service, control systems.

Drivetrain Systems:

Front-wheel drive, axles, CV joints, wheel bearings.

Suspension Systems:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link solid axle), shock absorbers, springs, alignment.

Brake Systems:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), hydraulic systems, parking brake.

Steering Systems:

Power steering system, steering column, linkage, pump, rack and pinion.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body controls, power distribution, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant service.

Body And Trim:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, bumpers, glass replacement.

Chassis And Frame:

Frame construction, body mounting, underbody components.

Fuel System Details:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control system.

Emissions Control Systems:

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, evaporative canister.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil change, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for all major systems, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II diagnostics and code interpretation.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement (e.g., head gasket, water pump), transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, alternator replacement, power steering pump replacement, AC compressor replacement.

Overhaul Procedures:

Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds.

Installation Procedures:

Component installation, accessory installation guidance.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for all major circuits, including engine control, lighting, power accessories, and HVAC.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners across all vehicle systems.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and wiring diagrams.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Extensive coverage of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and other relevant control modules, including procedures for retrieval and interpretation.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual. Text is generally searchable.

Binding Type:

Not applicable (digital download)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

3.3L V6 (3301 cc, 201 ci), 3.8L V6 (3778 cc, 231 ci).

3.3L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 158 hp @ 4600 rpm

3.3L V6 Torque:

Approx. 190 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

3.8L V6 Horsepower:

Approx. 180 hp @ 4400 rpm

3.8L V6 Torque:

Approx. 235 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection).

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor-based system depending on specific engine and production date.

OBD Ii Standard:

Compliant with OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) standards.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

41TE / 41AE (Ultradrive)

Optional Transmission:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) often paired with specific engine/trim levels, though primarily front-wheel drive.

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, with torque converter lock-up for improved fuel efficiency.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 119.3 inches

Length:

Approx. 189.5 inches

Width:

Approx. 72.0 inches

Height:

Approx. 67.8 inches

Curb Weight:

Varies by model and equipment, typically around 4,000 - 4,300 lbs.

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 30.4 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 78.9 cu ft

Cargo Volume Max:

Approx. 150.0 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Three-star rating (typical for SUVs/minivans of this era).

Anti Lock Brakes:

Standard (ABS).

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts for all seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models featured a standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Higher trims could have upgraded stereo systems with more speakers.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on ABS for braking control. No electronic stability control or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Connectivity Features:

No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Options for aftermarket installations exist.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter:

If equipped, replace annually or every 15,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Inspect every 30,000 miles, change fluid and filter every 60,000 miles or as per severe service schedule.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 100,000 miles (for platinum-tipped spark plugs).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 (API Service SG, SH, or SJ)

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.3L V6: 3.75 quarts (with filter); 3.8L V6: 4.0 quarts (with filter)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix of HOAT coolant and distilled water)

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Gear Oil Specifications:

Not applicable for front-wheel-drive vehicles; transmission fluid used.

Common Issues:

Transmission solenoid failures (especially on the 41TE), EGR valve issues, power steering pump leaks, intermittent electrical gremlins, door lock actuator problems, rear axle bearing wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), has a long history of producing versatile and family-oriented vehicles. The Caravan nameplate, introduced in 1984, effectively created the minivan segment.

Model Evolution:

The 2000 Grand Caravan is part of the second generation (NS) of the minivan, which ran from 1996 to 2000. This generation introduced significant updates over the first generation, including a more aerodynamic design and improved interior packaging. The NS platform was well-received for its driving dynamics and comfortable ride.

Production Years:

1996-2000 (NS Generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2000 model might be scarce, the Grand Caravan/Caravan nameplate consistently received accolades for its practicality and value in the minivan segment throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s.