Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Minivan
Key Competitors:
Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Pontiac Trans Sport/Oldsmobile Silhouette (GM Minivan Platform), Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Mercury Villager.
Vehicle Appeal:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, flexible seating arrangements, versatile cargo capacity, suitable for families and cargo hauling.
Powertrain:
Engine (Gasoline), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transaxle (Automatic and Manual), Power Transfer Unit (if applicable)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System (including Power Steering), Brakes (including ABS), Tires and Wheels, Frame and Bumpers
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System (Alternator, Regulator), Starting System (Starter, Ignition), Ignition System, Lighting (Lamps, Turn Signals), Instrument Panel and Systems, Audio Systems, Horns, Vehicle Speed Control System, Wiper and Washer Systems, Restraint System (Airbags), Power Door Locks, Vehicle Theft Security System, Power Windows, Power Seats, Power Mirrors, Chime Warning/Reminder System, Electrically Heated Systems, Overhead Console, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Body, Heating and Air Conditioning, Emission Control Systems
Maintenance:
Lubrication, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, Power Steering Fluid, Transmission Fluid), Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement, Wiper Blade Replacement
Diagnostics And Repair:
Troubleshooting guides, Component testing, System diagnostics (e.g., starting system, charging system, braking system), Engine repair (major and minor), Transmission repair, Suspension and steering component replacement, Brake system overhaul, Electrical system troubleshooting and repair, HVAC system service, Body panel repair (basic)
Component Replacement:
Removal and installation procedures for all major and many minor components, including but not limited to: engine, transmission, starter, alternator, radiator, water pump, fuel pump, brake calipers, master cylinder, suspension arms, struts, steering rack, power window motors, door locks, seats, mirrors.
Depth:
Comprehensive Workshop Level (covering diagnostics, disassembly, repair, assembly, and reassembly of most vehicle systems)
Engine Option 1:
3.3L (3301cc) V6 OHV (12-valve) 'EGA' / 'EPE' Engine
Engine Power 1:
Approximately 158-182 hp (depending on year and specific variant)
Engine Torque 1:
Approximately 190-205 lb-ft (depending on year and specific variant)
Engine Option 2:
3.8L (3778cc) V6 OHV (12-valve) 'L32' Engine
Engine Power 2:
Approximately 180-215 hp (depending on year and specific variant)
Engine Torque 2:
Approximately 230-267 lb-ft (depending on year and specific variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor Ignition (depending on specific engine variant and year)
Automatic Transmission Option:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle (e.g., 42LE)
Manual Transmission Option:
Manual Transaxle not commonly offered for this generation Town & Country/Voyager, primarily automatic.
Transmission Control:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) for shift logic and performance.
NHTSA Ratings:
Varies by year and specific crash test, generally good for its class at the time. Likely 4-star or 5-star for frontal impact.
ABS:
Standard on many models, optional on others. Anti-lock Braking System.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags are standard. Side airbags may be optional on later models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all outboard seating positions.
Audio Options:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD players, some models may have optional premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity).
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models. Vehicle Speed Control System.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors are common features, often standard on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to specific manual for exact recommendation).
Coolant Change Interval:
Initial fill is often long-life, subsequent changes typically every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Often recommended around 30,000-60,000 miles, especially under severe driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for precise viscosity and specification based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) type coolant, typically Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (blue color).
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 4) for most automatic transmissions of this era, or equivalent Mopar specified fluid.
Common Powertrain Issues:
Head gasket failures (especially on 3.3L and 3.8L engines, particularly earlier models), transmission solenoid issues, torque converter problems, intake manifold gasket leaks.
Common Chassis Issues:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, wheel bearing failures, rear axle bearing issues, power steering pump leaks.
Common Electrical Issues:
Faulty power window motors, door lock actuator failures, instrument cluster problems (e.g., dead pixels, gauge failures), ABS sensor failures, radiator fan control module failures.
Chrysler Minivan Legacy:
Chrysler pioneered the modern minivan segment with the Dodge Caravan/Plymouth Voyager in the mid-1980s, setting the standard for utility and family transport.
Third Generation:
This generation (NS platform) represented a significant redesign from the previous generation, introducing more aerodynamic styling, improved safety, and enhanced interior flexibility.
Manufacturing Plant:
Windsor Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.
