Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, fleet managers, owners seeking in-depth understanding
Competitors 2003:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Plymouth Voyager/Grand Voyager
Utility:
Versatile seating configurations, ample cargo space, family-oriented features
Powertrain Options:
Known for its robust V6 engines and a less common diesel option in some markets
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, driveline, fuel system, exhaust system
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Body electrical, instrument cluster, lighting, starting and charging, infotainment, diagnostics
Body And Trim:
Interior and exterior trim, body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code explanations
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul procedures
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, detailed electrical schematics
Gasoline Engine 1:
2.4L (2429cc) DOHC 16-valve I4 (Code: EDZ)
Gasoline Engine 2:
3.3L (3301cc) OHV 12-valve V6 (Code: EGA)
Gasoline Engine 3:
3.8L (3778cc) OHV 12-valve V6 (Code: ETR)
Diesel Engine:
2.5L (2499cc) Turbocharged I4 Diesel (Code: R425) - Common in export markets
Gasoline 2.4L Hp:
150 hp @ 5800 rpm
Gasoline 2.4L Torque:
160 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Gasoline 3.3L Hp:
180 hp @ 5000 rpm
Gasoline 3.3L Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Gasoline 3.8L Hp:
215 hp @ 5000 rpm
Gasoline 3.8L Torque:
240 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Gasoline Injection Type:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Diesel Injection Type:
Direct Injection (Turbocharged)
Recommended Gasoline:
87 Octane Regular Unleaded
Wheelbase Ns:
111.9 inches
Wheelbase Rs:
123.8 inches
Cargo Volume Ns Max:
Approx. 125.9 cu ft (with rear seats removed)
Cargo Volume Rs Max:
Approx. 159.5 cu ft (with rear seats removed)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3800 - 4300 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3800 lbs (with optional towing package and 3.8L engine)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 stars (2003 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 stars (2003 model year)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard on all models
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Airbags Front:
Standard driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front and rear side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts in all seating positions, front seat belt pretensioners
Audio System Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, cassette player; optional premium audio systems
Rear Seat Entertainment:
Optional rear-seat entertainment system (e.g., VCR or DVD player)
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist system
Power Outlets:
12V power outlets in dashboard and rear seating areas
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Approx. 100,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (check manual for specific intervals and fluid type)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.3L/3.8L:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., Mopar 5 Year / 100,000 Mile Formula)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Power Window Motors:
Known for premature failure of window regulator motors and switches.
Transmission Overheating:
Some models can experience transmission overheating, especially under heavy loads, often addressed by external coolers.
Heater Core Leaks:
Heater core can develop leaks, leading to coolant loss and fogging of the windshield.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can wear out prematurely.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history in American automotive manufacturing, often associated with performance and utility vehicles.
Caravan Lineage:
The Dodge Caravan, along with its Plymouth Voyager sibling, pioneered the minivan segment in the early 1980s.
Third Generation:
The 2003 model belongs to the third generation of the Caravan (1996-2007), characterized by a more aerodynamic design and improved interior packaging.
Manufacturing Plant:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada (primarily)
Production Years Generation:
1996-2007
Berkaitan Awards:
Frequently appeared on 'Car and Driver' 10 Best lists in its earlier iterations. The 2003 model benefited from continuous refinements.
Consumer Reports Reliability Tendency:
Generally rated average to below average in reliability for this generation, particularly concerning certain powertrain and electrical components. Manual is crucial for addressing these.
