Vehicle Segment:
Minivan, designed for family transport and versatility.
Competitors 2003:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Chrysler Town & Country.
Selling Points:
Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, available all-wheel drive (later models, not explicitly stated for 2003 but common for the generation), proven powertrain options.
Utility For Owner:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and undertake repairs, saving money and understanding their vehicle better.
Utility For Mechanic:
Provides the exact same detailed, factory-authorized procedures used by dealership technicians.
Powertrain:
Engine systems, cooling, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission/transaxle, differential & driveline.
Chassis:
Suspension, brakes, steering, tires/wheels, frame & bumpers.
Electrical & Electronics:
Audio, chime/buzzer, electronic control modules (ECMs), heated systems, horn, ignition control, instrument cluster, lamps, message systems, power systems, restraints, speed control, vehicle theft security, wipers/washers, wiring diagrams.
Body & HVAC:
Body, heating & air conditioning.
Emissions:
Emissions control, including specific sections for the 2.5L Turbo Diesel variant.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues across all systems.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and repair, including engine overhaul, transmission service, brake caliper replacement, etc.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, and lubrication.
Technical Specifications:
Torque settings, fluid capacities, fluid types, specifications for wear limits, and component clearances.
Electrical Diagrams:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, aiding in diagnosis and repair.
Depth:
Expert-level detail suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and component rebuilds.
Engine Options:
3.3L V6 (EGA), 3.8L V6 (L32). A 2.4L 4-cylinder (EDZ) was also available. The manual also specifically mentions a 2.5L Turbo Diesel, indicating comprehensive coverage of all available powertrains for the model year.
3.3L V6 (Ega) Approximate Horsepower:
180 hp
3.3L V6 (Ega) Approximate Torque:
205 lb-ft
3.8L V6 (L32) Approximate Horsepower:
200 hp
3.8L V6 (L32) Approximate Torque:
230 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or waste spark ignition (depending on engine).
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with thermostatically controlled fan.
Wheelbase Inches:
112.1 inches (for long wheelbase variants, standard may differ slightly)
Length Inches:
Approximately 189.8 inches (standard), 201.0 inches (long wheelbase)
Cargo Volume Cubic Feet:
Highly variable depending on seating configuration; typically over 100 cu. ft. with seats removed.
Curb Weight Lbs:
Varies by engine and trim, typically in the range of 3,700-4,200 lbs.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Rating 2003:
Likely 4 stars (Good) for the 2003 model year, based on general performance of the generation.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Rating 2003:
Likely 4 stars (Good) for the 2003 model year.
ABS:
Standard or available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, potentially optional side airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all seating positions, including integrated child seat anchors (LATCH).
Audio System Options:
Various AM/FM/CD/Cassette players, optional Infinity speaker systems, and available rear-seat entertainment systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard or available Speed Control (Cruise Control).
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available Remote Keyless Entry system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Typically 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Varies by plug type; e.g., platinum plugs often 100,000 miles, standard copper plugs much sooner.
Engine Oil Type:
Likely SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic blend or full synthetic, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification (verify with manual).
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (MS-9602) or equivalent for automatic transmissions (verify with manual).
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) type coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water (verify with manual).
Common Problems:
Transmission solenoid failure (especially on earlier models of this generation), EGR valve issues, power window motor failures, rear climate control blower motor issues, suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods).
Wheel Lug Nut Torque:
Approximately 100-120 lb-ft (verify specific value in manual).
Dodge Minivan Legacy:
Dodge pioneered the minivan segment with the original Caravan/Voyager in the mid-1980s, establishing a dominant market position.
Third Generation Rs:
The 2003 Caravan belongs to the third generation (RS, 1996-2000) which was significantly redesigned with a larger footprint, improved safety, and more powerful engine options. This information suggests the manual might cover updates or refinements for the 2003 model year, though the core platform is from the previous generation. *Correction: The third generation RS ran from 1996-2000. The fourth generation (also RS, but internally different) began with the 2001 model year. Therefore, the 2003 Caravan is part of the fourth generation, which featured aerodynamic styling and updated powertrains.*
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada and Saltillo, Mexico.
