🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Generation:

Fourth Generation (RS)

Chassis Code:

RS

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Minivan

Key Role:

Family vehicle, versatile cargo and passenger transport.

Key Competitors:

Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Plymouth Voyager, Chrysler Town & Country.

Versatility:

Configurable seating (Stow 'n Go introduced later in the generation), ample cargo space.

Value Proposition:

Often offered a more budget-friendly alternative to some competitors.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

Estimated Page Count:

1000-1500+ (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, based on product description)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, including disassembly, inspection, assembly, timing, lubrication, cooling system, exhaust system, emissions control.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection, starting system, charging system, powertrain control module (PCM) diagnostics, wiring diagrams.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair for manual transmissions (if applicable to specific models within the year range).

Transmission Automatic:

Detailed procedures for automatic transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, fluid and filter changes, and troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive axle shafts, universal joints, differential maintenance and repair.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, tie rods, power steering fluid specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), hydraulic system, ABS components, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, rotor and pad replacement.

Body And Frame:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, underbody, chassis inspection and repair procedures.

Electrical System:

Complete electrical system diagnostics, lighting systems, accessories, body control module (BCM), fuses and relays, body wiring diagrams.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system service, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control panel.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter replacement, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, emissions control components.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing common wear items like brake pads, rotors, belts, hoses, battery, starter, alternator.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle issues, fault code interpretation.

Overhaul Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including specifications for clearances and torque values.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic charts, wiring diagrams, symptom-based troubleshooting trees for various systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Detail Level:

Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic procedures, wiring schematics, and component tolerances.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable if professionally produced PDF, allowing quick access to specific information.

Scalability:

High resolution for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.4L (2378 cc) DOHC Inline-4 (GEMA engine), 3.3L (3301 cc) OHV V6, 3.8L (3778 cc) OHV V6.

2.4L I4 Power:

Approx. 150 hp @ 5900 rpm

2.4L I4 Torque:

Approx. 160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

3.3L V6 Power:

Approx. 180 hp @ 5000 rpm

3.3L V6 Torque:

Approx. 205 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

3.8L V6 Power:

Approx. 200-215 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm (depending on year/application)

3.8L V6 Torque:

Approx. 230-245 lb-ft @ 3000-3400 rpm (depending on year/application)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for V6, 87 or higher for I4)

Induction:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Ignition:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Coil-on-Plug (COP) depending on engine variant and year.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed automatic transaxle (e.g., 41TE, 42LE, 42RLE depending on engine)

Optional Transmission:

Manual transmission (less common, usually on base models or specific years)

Transmission Features:

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

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 119.2 inches (3028 mm)

Length:

Approx. 187.4 - 190.2 inches (4760 - 4831 mm) depending on configuration

Width:

Approx. 73.7 inches (1872 mm)

Height:

Approx. 67.7 - 68.5 inches (1720 - 1740 mm) depending on suspension/roof configuration

Max Cargo Volume:

Exceeds 150 cubic feet with rear seats removed/folded (varies by configuration).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,700 - 4,200 lbs (1678 - 1905 kg) depending on engine and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5,600 - 6,000 lbs (2540 - 2722 kg).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Good (typically rated for driver and passenger in frontal impacts for this era).

IIHS Ratings:

Varies by year; some models received 'Acceptable' or 'Good' in frontal offset tests. Side impact ratings often varied.

ABS:

Standard on most models, Anti-lock Braking System.

Traction Control:

Available on some higher trims or later model years.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Optional side airbags available on some models.

Seat Belts:

All seating positions equipped with three-point seat belts. Front seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Radio Options:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player (early models), and available premium audio systems. Rear entertainment systems (DVD players) became available on later models/trims.

Climate Control:

Manual climate control or available automatic climate control systems.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Parking Assist:

Available rear park assist sensors on some later models.

Aux Input:

Not typically equipped with standard auxiliary audio input (requires aftermarket solutions).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 30,000 to 45,000 miles (48,000 to 72,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Replace Iridium spark plugs every 100,000 miles (160,000 km); Platinum/Copper plugs may have shorter intervals (consult manual).

Transmission Fluid:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change fluid and filter every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific ATF type.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 recommended for most models, SAE 10W-30 for some earlier 3.3L V6 applications. Always verify with manual.

Engine Oil Type:

API Service SM, SL, or SJ certified, meeting ILSAC GF-4 or GF-3 specifications.

Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically Mopar 05103531AA or equivalent, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF +4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or equivalent specified by Chrysler/Dodge for these models.

Transmission Failures:

Some automatic transmissions (especially early models) were prone to issues like solenoid failures, torque converter shudder, and planetary gearset wear. Regular fluid changes are critical.

Engine Misfires:

Can be caused by ignition coil issues, spark plug fouling, or fuel injector problems, particularly on the V6 engines.

Suspension Wear:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common due to vehicle weight and mileage.

Power Door Locks Windows:

Actuators and switches for power accessories can fail over time.

Evaporative Emissions System:

Issues with the EVAP canister purge solenoid or vent valve can trigger check engine lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and practical vehicles, with the Caravan being a cornerstone of its minivan offerings.

Fourth Gen Debut:

The RS generation debuted for the 2001 model year, introducing a more modern exterior design and updated interior.

Key Updates:

Introduction of the GEMA 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, improved V6 engines, available AWD (All-Wheel Drive) on certain models (later in the generation), and the introduction of the Stow 'n Go seating system for the 2005 model year onwards, significantly boosting its practicality.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Stellantis Windsor Assembly Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Jd Power Ratings:

Ratings varied by year; often received average to below-average ratings in initial quality and dependability studies during this period, particularly for transmission reliability.

Car And Driver Editors Choice:

Not consistently awarded 'Editors' Choice' by major publications during this generation.

Safety Certifications:

Complied with all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for the years of production.