Positioning:
Family-oriented, practical, versatile people mover
Key Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Venture
Selling Points:
Spacious interior, flexible seating, V6 engine option, available AWD (depending on trim/market)
Utility:
Essential for DIY maintenance, repairs, and understanding vehicle systems
Engine:
All major engine components, diagnostics, repair, removal/installation
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE/42LE), diagnostics, repair, removal/installation
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive, axles, CV joints, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering linkage, components
Brakes:
Disc brakes (front and rear), ABS, parking brake system
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, accessories, wiring diagrams
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter, pipes
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, restraint systems
Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components
Disassembly Assembly:
Complete instructions for dismantling and reassembling vehicle components
Installation:
Guidance for installing new or replacement parts
Checks Inspections:
Pre-purchase inspections, routine checks
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic checks to major component overhaul
Diagnostics:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and diagnostic flowcharts
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical parameters
File Format:
Typically PDF for digital versions, printed for physical
Print Quality:
High-resolution text and diagrams (for printed/high-quality digital)
Binding Type:
Perfect bound or spiral bound (for printed)
Paper Type:
Durable, coated paper for workshop use (for printed)
Length:
Approx. 189.4 inches
Width:
Approx. 72.1 inches
Height:
Approx. 67.5 inches
Passenger Capacity:
7 Passengers (typically with 2-2-3 or 2-3-3 seating)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 20.6 cu. ft.
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 75.1 cu. ft.
Cargo Volume Max:
Approx. 147.1 cu. ft. (with seats removed)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 5,700 - 5,900 lbs
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars (2003 model year typical)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars (2003 model year typical)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (depending on specific configuration and testing year)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (Standard on most trims)
Traction Control:
Available on some models/trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags; available side airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts for all occupants, LATCH child seat anchors
Audio Options:
AM/FM stereo, CD player, cassette player (optional), premium audio systems available
Rear Seat Entertainment:
Available rear seat video system (RSVS) on some trims
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Parking Assist:
Rear park assist sensors available on some models
Power Outlets:
12V auxiliary power outlets
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles (if equipped)
Spark Plugs:
Platinum plugs typically last 100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and interval)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial interval, often around 90,000-105,000 miles for the 3.3L V6. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified, meets MS-6395)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Mopar OAT (MS-9769) or equivalent
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901)
Common Problems:
Transmission issues (slipping, harsh shifting), heater core leaks, power window motor failures, starter failures, exhaust manifold cracks, PCM failures
Timing Belt Risk:
Critical to adhere to timing belt replacement intervals to avoid severe engine damage.
Brand Focus:
Chrysler's long history of innovation in the minivan segment
Generation:
Third Generation (RS) - Launched in 1996, facelifted in 2001
Facelift Impact:
The 2003 model year falls under the refreshed RS generation, featuring updated styling and features compared to earlier models.
Production Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Model Run:
1996-2007 (for the RS platform)
Previous Awards Association:
Caravan has a history of being a segment leader and has received numerous accolades over its production run, often cited for practicality and value.
Consumer Ratings General:
Generally favorable for its segment during its production years, particularly for its utility and family-friendly features.