🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Year:

1998, 1999

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (GV/GS/GR/GT)

Platform Code:

ASG (Autostick, Sedan, Grand)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Minivan

Target Audience:

Families, commercial use (fleet operators), DIY mechanics

Key Competitors:

Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna

Distinguishing Factors:

Strong V6 engine options, flexible interior configurations, established DaimlerChrysler (then Chrysler Corporation) minivan platform

Vehicle Strengths:

Spacious interior, versatile seating, comfortable ride, robust powertrain options

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth, accurate factory information for DIY repairs and advanced maintenance, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Regions:

North America

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (exact count varies by specific printing/version, but designed for comprehensive coverage)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Download PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, powertrain control module (PCM)

Drivetrain:

Transmission (automatic), transaxle, differentials, drive axles, transfer case (if applicable to specific models)

Chassis:

Steering system, suspension system (front and rear), brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires

Electrical:

Starting and charging system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control module (BCM), HVAC controls, entertainment system, wiring diagrams

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, roof, glass, body repair procedures

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical circuit testing

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component removal and installation, torque specifications, alignment procedures

Overhaul:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, component rebuilding instructions

Specifications:

General technical specifications, tolerances, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure readings

Level:

Comprehensive Factory Level

Detail Level:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, component-level repair, wiring diagrams with pinpoint tests

Troubleshooting:

Extensive troubleshooting trees and flowcharts

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable PDF for easy navigation

Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for printing

Print Option:

Printable in its entirety or specific pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

EDZ (2.4L DOHC I4)

Engine Displacement 1:

2.4 Liters (148 cu in)

Engine Configuration 1:

Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC

Horsepower 1:

150 hp @ 5,800 rpm (approximate)

Torque 1:

167 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (approximate)

Engine Code 2:

3.0L V6 SOHC

Engine Displacement 2:

3.0 Liters (182 cu in)

Engine Configuration 2:

V6, SOHC

Horsepower 2:

158 hp @ 5,200 rpm (approximate)

Torque 2:

181 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approximate)

Engine Code 3:

3.3L V6 SOHC

Engine Displacement 3:

3.3 Liters (203 cu in)

Engine Configuration 3:

V6, SOHC

Horsepower 3:

180 hp @ 5,200 rpm (approximate)

Torque 3:

200 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm (approximate)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 Octane (Minimum)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Type Optional:

Optional: Autostick (manual shifting capability on select models)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+3 (Mopar)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.7 quarts (8.2 liters) for total fill, 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for drain and fill

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short:

111.8 inches (2839 mm)

Wheelbase Long:

119.3 inches (3030 mm) - Grand Caravan

Length Short:

187.1 inches (4752 mm)

Length Long:

194.6 inches (4943 mm) - Grand Caravan

Width:

72.0 inches (1829 mm)

Height:

68.3 inches (1735 mm)

Seating Capacity:

7 Passengers (standard)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 30-45 cu ft (varies by configuration)

Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded:

Approx. 70-80 cu ft

Curb Weight Approx:

3,600 - 4,200 lbs (depending on configuration and engine)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:

5,300 - 5,700 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:

4-star (1998-1999 models)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:

4-star (1998-1999 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating Front Driver:

5-star (1998-1999 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating Rear Passenger:

4-star (1998-1999 models)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available/standard on some trims

Traction Control:

Traction control system (TCS) available on some models

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts for all outboard occupants, lap belts for center rear occupants

Child Safety:

Rear door child safety locks, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system not standard on these early models, check specific vehicle build.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player standard. CD player optional. Upgraded Infinity sound systems available on higher trims.

Display:

Basic analog gauges and warning lights. No integrated color display for navigation or advanced infotainment.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control

Parking Assistance:

Rear parking assist sensors not available.

Auxiliary Input:

No factory auxiliary audio input. Aftermarket adapters available.

Bluetooth:

Not available from factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic blend or full synthetic oil). Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months with conventional oil, as per owner's manual recommendations for severe duty.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with original equipment spark plugs (e.g., Champion copper or platinum).

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with original equipment spark plugs (e.g., Champion copper or platinum).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with appropriate coolant.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30

Engine Oil Type:

API Certified SAE 5W-30, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification.

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (blue)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems Powertrain:

Head gasket leaks (especially on early 3.3L V6), transmission solenoid failures, ignition coil failures, oil pressure sensor issues.

Common Problems Chassis:

Front suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rod ends, struts), rear axle bearing noise, power steering pump leaks.

Common Problems Electrical:

Instrument cluster failure (dimming or total failure of gauges), power window motor failures, blower motor resistor failure, door lock actuator issues.

Common Problems Body:

Rust on rocker panels and wheel wells, sliding door mechanism issues, rear liftgate strut failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand:

Dodge (division of Chrysler Corporation, later DaimlerChrysler)

Previous Generation:

First Generation Dodge Caravan (1984-1995)

Generation Intro Year:

1996

Design Changes From Previous:

Complete redesign with smoother, more aerodynamic styling, improved interior packaging, and expanded options.

Production Location:

Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Windsor Assembly Plant)

Production Years For Model Line:

1984-2007 (for North American Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Award Type:

Caravan was consistently a top seller and highly rated minivan for family transport.

Award Source:

Frequently cited by automotive publications for practicality and value.