Segment:
Minivans (MPVs - Multi-Purpose Vehicles)
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile transportation
Key Competitors 2002:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Mercury Villager
Vehicle Attributes:
Spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, family-oriented features, available all-wheel drive (AWD)
Benefit To Owner:
Inexpensive way to keep vehicle working properly, empowers DIY repairs and maintenance, detailed instructions for experienced mechanics.
Powertrain:
Engine Systems, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission
Chassis:
Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Brakes, Steering, Tires/Wheels, Frame & Bumpers
Electrical Electronic:
Audio, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules, Engine Control Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Wiring
Body Comfort:
Body, Heating & Air Conditioning
Emissions:
Emissions Control, Emissions Control 2.5L Turbo Diesel
Comfort Convenience:
Heating & Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics and repair, power seat adjustments, interior trim service.
Maintenance:
Lubrication & Maintenance, Service Intervals, Fluid Specifications
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for complete disassembly and reassembly of components
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common issues, diagnostic procedures for various systems
Clutch Service:
Although primarily automatic transmission vehicles, the manual might cover clutch service if any variants or related components use them (e.g., AWD differentials).
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and experienced mechanics. Covers detailed illustrations, torque specifications, and procedural guidance.
Engine Options:
2.4L 4-cylinder (16-Valve Gasoline DOHC MPI), 3.3L V6 (Gasoline SMPI), 3.3L V6 (Enthanol Flex Fuel), 3.8L V6 (Gasoline SMPI), 2.5L 4-cylinder Turbo Diesel (16 Valve)
2.4L DOHc Mpi (Estimated):
Approx. 150 hp @ 5900 rpm, Approx. 169 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
3.3L V6 Smpi (Estimated):
Approx. 180 hp @ 4700 rpm, Approx. 200 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
3.8L V6 Smpi (Estimated):
Approx. 200 hp @ 5000 rpm, Approx. 233 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
2.5L Turbo Diesel (Estimated):
Approx. 114 hp @ 4200 rpm, Approx. 191 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Injection Type:
MPI (Multi-Point Injection) for gasoline, SMPI (Sequential Multi-Point Injection) for V6 gasoline. Turbocharged direct injection for diesel.
Diesel Engine Code:
ERD (Typically associated with the 2.5L Turbo Diesel)
V6 Engine Codes:
EGH (3.3L), EGT (3.3L Flex Fuel), EGJ (3.8L)
Wheelbase Short Wheelbase:
Approx. 112.1 inches (Caravan/Voyager)
Wheelbase Long Wheelbase:
Approx. 119.1 inches (Grand Caravan/Grand Voyager/Town & Country)
Cargo Volume:
Varies significantly by configuration and wheelbase, generally offering substantial cargo space with seats removed.
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,700 - 4,500 lbs depending on engine and drivetrain
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not readily available for specific year/model without direct NHTSA database access, but minivans of this era generally aimed for good frontal protection.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Not readily available for specific year/model without direct NHTSA database access.
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal:
Not readily available for specific year/model without direct IIHS database access.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most models.
Traction Control:
Available traction control system on some models.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, available side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
All-row seatbelt systems, including pretensioners for front seats.
Audio System:
Factory radio/cassette/CD player, optional premium audio systems with amplifiers.
Rear Seat Entertainment:
Available factory rear-seat video entertainment system (RSES) with VCR or DVD player on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard speed control (cruise control) on most models.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power sliding doors (optional), power liftgate (optional).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 - 7,500 miles, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Timing Belt Replacement:
For 2.4L DOHC engines, timing belt replacement is critical, typically around 90,000-100,000 miles or 7 years.
Engine Oil:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 recommended for most engines. Refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature.
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) is generally specified for Chrysler automatic transmissions of this era.
Coolant:
Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Automatic Transmission Troubles:
Intermittent shifting problems, torque converter issues, solenoid failures are not uncommon in higher mileage units.
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine and transmission mounts can lead to vibration and noise, especially under acceleration.
Suspension Components:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings are common wear items due to vehicle weight and usage.
Cooling System:
Plastic radiator end tanks can become brittle and leak; water pump seal failures can also occur.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Turbocharger issues, glow plug failures, and fuel injection system maintenance are key for the 2.5L Turbo Diesel.
Chrysler Minivan Legacy:
Chrysler pioneered the modern minivan segment with the original Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager in 1984, setting the standard for family vehicles.
Third Generation:
The RS/RG platform represents the third generation of Chrysler's minivans, introduced for the 1996 model year and receiving significant updates over its lifespan.
Manufacturing Locations:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA (depending on specific model and platform generation).
