Market Position:
The Dodge Grand Caravan has historically been a dominant player in the North American minivan segment, known for its practicality, spaciousness, and family-friendly features. This manual caters to owners and technicians needing to maintain and repair these popular vehicles.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with vehicles like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country, and Kia Sedona. Its strong value proposition and available Stow 'n Go seating made it a benchmark in the segment.
Key Features:
Focus on DIY repair, professional workshop procedures, comprehensive coverage, detailed diagrams and illustrations, step-by-step instructions.
Coverage Areas:
All mechanical and electrical systems, body and chassis, interior and exterior components.
Page Count:
Comprehensive (specific page count not provided, but implies full workshop manual scope)
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable (likely PDF)
Systems Covered:
Engine (3.3L, 3.8L V6, 4.0L V6), Transmission (4-speed Automatic, 6-speed Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS, Traction Control), Exhaust, Cooling, Fuel, Electrical System (wiring diagrams, components, diagnostics), Climate Control (HVAC), Body and Frame, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, overhaul and repair instructions, electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams interpretation, specifications and torque values, fluid capacities and types, special tool recommendations.
Technical Depth:
In-depth, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostic strategies and component-level repairs.
Primary Engine 3.3L:
3.3L V6 (42TE automatic transmission), 175 hp @ 5000 rpm, 205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Primary Engine 3.8L:
3.8L V6 (4-speed 42LE/42RLE or 6-speed 62TE automatic transmission), 197 hp @ 5200 rpm, 245 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Primary Engine 4.0L:
4.0L V6 (6-speed 62TE automatic transmission), 251 hp @ 5900 rpm, 259 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Engine Type:
SOHC V6 (3.3L, 3.8L), SOHC V6 (4.0L)
Fuel System:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP)
Emission Controls:
Catalytic Converter, EGR system, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 121.2 inches
Length:
Approximately 203.0 inches
Width:
Approximately 78.5 inches
Height:
Approximately 68.9 inches
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 31.5 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded:
Approximately 79.4 cubic feet
Cargo Volume With 2Nd And 3Rd Row Folded:
Approximately 140.1 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
Approximately 4,300 - 4,700 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 6,050 - 6,450 lbs
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
5 Stars (2008, 2009)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
5 Stars (2008, 2009)
NHTSA Side Driver Front Seat:
5 Stars (2008, 2009)
NHTSA Side Rear Seat:
5 Stars (2008, 2009)
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good (2008, 2009)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC - available on some trims/years)
Passive Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional curtain airbags, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Infotainment Systems:
Available Uconnect infotainment system with touchscreen navigation, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, CD/DVD player, and auxiliary audio input.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking assist (ParkSense), rearview camera (available on some trims).
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling (with Uconnect), USB port for media playback.
Convenience Features:
Power sliding doors, power liftgate, Stow 'n Go seating (folds flat into the floor), rear-seat entertainment system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
3.3L/3.8L V6: 100,000 miles (original iridium plugs); 4.0L V6: 100,000 miles (original iridium plugs).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect at 30,000 miles, change as needed or at 60,000-100,000 miles depending on driving conditions and fluid condition.
Engine Oil Type 3.3L 3.8L:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Type 4.0L:
SAE 5W-20 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.3L:
4.7 US quarts (4.5 Liters)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.8L:
4.7 US quarts (4.5 Liters)
Engine Oil Capacity 4.0L:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, Extended Life (MS-9769)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 11.0 US quarts (10.4 Liters)
Known Issues:
Transmission solenoids can fail, Power Sliding Door (PSD) motor issues, AC compressor clutch failure, exhaust manifold leaks, interior trim rattles, potential for ABS sensor issues, early models may experience transmission fluid leaks.
Brand Heritage:
Dodge, a marque with a long history of performance and utility vehicles, introduced the Grand Caravan as a versatile family hauler, building on the legacy of the original Caravan and Voyager minivans developed with Chrysler.
Model Evolution:
The 2008-2009 models represent the fourth generation (2008-2017) of the Grand Caravan, which saw significant updates in styling, powertrain options, and interior features, including the refinement of the Stow 'n Go seating system.
Production Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Dodge/Chrysler minivan plant)
