🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Grand Caravan

Generation:

NS (Second Generation)

Generation Years:

1996-2007 (with facelift in 2001)

Chassis Codes:

NS

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Minivan

Purpose:

Family transport, cargo hauling, versatile utility vehicle

Key Competitors:

Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Vans, Plymouth Voyager/Voyager

Attributes:

Spacious interior, flexible seating (Stow 'n Go available later in generation), optional all-wheel drive (AWD), comfortable ride, practical design

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance information for DIY mechanics and independent shops.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

USA, Canada, Europe

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system, starting and charging system

Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE), manual transmission (if applicable), drive axles, differentials, transfer case (if AWD)

Chassis:

Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), steering system, suspension (front and rear), wheels and tires

Body And Electrical:

Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, heating and air conditioning (HVAC), electrical system (lighting, power accessories, body control modules), safety systems (airbags, seatbelts)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, brake pad replacement, tune-ups

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnosis

Repair And Overhaul:

Engine repair (short block, long block, cylinder head), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, body panel repair

Installation And Adjustment:

Component installation, timing belt/chain adjustment, clutch adjustment (if manual), alignment specifications

Scope:

A-Z, comprehensive coverage for all repairs and maintenance

📊 Manual Specifications

Type:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes (typical for factory manuals)

Printable:

Yes

Resolution:

High-resolution scans/digital creation

Type:

N/A (Digital)

Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

2.4L Inline-4 (2.4L DOHC I4)

Engine Option 1 Code:

EDZ (1997-2002)

Engine Option 1 Hp:

~150 HP

Engine Option 1 Torque:

~160 lb-ft

Engine Option 2:

3.3L V6 (3.3L OHV V6)

Engine Option 2 Code:

EGA

Engine Option 2 Hp:

~158 HP (early models), ~180 HP (later models)

Engine Option 2 Torque:

~205 lb-ft (early models), ~205 lb-ft (later models)

Engine Option 3:

3.8L V6 (3.8L OHV V6)

Engine Option 3 Code:

EWX

Engine Option 3 Hp:

~180 HP (early models), ~200 HP (later models)

Engine Option 3 Torque:

~235 lb-ft (early models), ~235 lb-ft (later models)

Type:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor-based (earlier models)

🔧 Transmission

Type 1:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 41TE)

Type 2:

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with 4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 42LE)

Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (or equivalent Mopar fluid, check specific year/manual)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short:

~112.2 inches

Wheelbase Long:

~119.3 inches (Long Wheelbase - LWB)

Length Swb:

~188.8 inches

Length Lwb:

~200.2 inches

Width:

~72.0 inches

Height:

~68.0 inches

Cargo Volume Swb:

~150.5 cubic feet (behind front seats)

Cargo Volume Lwb:

~167.0 cubic feet (behind front seats)

Curb Weight:

~3800 - 4400 lbs (depending on engine and configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver:

Good (for models with side airbags, consult specific year tests)

NHTSA Front Passenger:

Good (for models with side airbags, consult specific year tests)

ABS:

Standard on most models

Traction Control:

Available on some models

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags (standard), available side airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts in all seating positions, integrated child seat anchor points

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM stereo with cassette or CD player, optional premium sound systems, rear entertainment systems (later models)

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

Parking Sensors:

Available on later models

Auxiliary Inputs:

Generally not available, aftermarket solutions required for modern connectivity

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific engine/oil type)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (ATF+4 recommended)

Spark Plugs:

Refer to manual, typically 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., platinum/iridium)

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-3 years

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature)

Coolant:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 or specific Mopar power steering fluid

Common Problems:

Transmission failure (especially early 41TE units), oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan), water pump leaks, evaporator core failure (AC), power sliding door issues, starter motor failures, ignition coil issues (DIS system).

Recalls:

Check NHTSA for specific model year recalls related to airbags, ignition switches, or other safety components.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Chrysler Corporation (Dodge brand)

Segment Introduction:

Dodge was a pioneer in the modern minivan segment with the original Caravan and Grand Caravan.

Generation Ns:

The NS generation represented a significant redesign from the previous AS platform, offering improved aerodynamics, interior space, and updated styling. A major facelift occurred in 2001.

Manufacturing Locations:

Windsor, Ontario, Canada; Saltillo, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Popularity:

Consistently one of the best-selling minivans in North America during its production run.

Consumer Reports:

Mixed ratings throughout its lifecycle; often praised for practicality and affordability, with some concerns about reliability, particularly regarding the transmission.