Target Audience:
Families, commercial users requiring versatile passenger/cargo transport
Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Montana
Versatility:
Flexible seating configurations, ample cargo space, sliding rear doors
Powertrain Options:
Reliable V6 engine options offering a balance of power and efficiency for its class
Value Proposition:
Affordable and practical transportation solution
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Secondary Coverage:
Diagnostic, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (typically 2000+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals)
Type:
Factory Authorized Workshop Manual (PDF format)
Powertrain:
Engine (3.3L V6, 3.8L V6), Transmission (4-Speed Automatic), Drivetrain, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, Rear Drum/Disc), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), Ignition System, Charging System
Body And Frame:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Glass, Seats, Body Sealing, Structural Components
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Points
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptoms Analysis, Component Testing Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Schematics
Repair And Rebuild:
Component Removal and Installation, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Service, Electrical Component Repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Engine 1 Displacement:
3.3L (3301cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
3.3L V6 (12-valve OHV, SOHC variations)
Engine 1 Power Output:
Approx. 180-190 hp @ 5200 rpm (depending on year and exact spec)
Engine 1 Torque Output:
Approx. 205-210 lb-ft @ 3400-4000 rpm (depending on year and exact spec)
Engine 2 Displacement:
3.8L (3778cc)
Engine 2 Configuration:
3.8L V6 (12-valve OHV, SOHC variations)
Engine 2 Power Output:
Approx. 200-215 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm (depending on year and exact spec)
Engine 2 Torque Output:
Approx. 235-240 lb-ft @ 3200-4000 rpm (depending on year and exact spec)
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 11.5 quarts (10.9 liters) for 3.3L/3.8L V6
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil Pack
Length:
Approx. 189.4 inches (4811 mm)
Width:
Approx. 72.0 inches (1829 mm)
Height:
Approx. 68.2 inches (1732 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 112.5 inches (2858 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 150.4 cu ft (4259 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 89.0 cu ft (2520 liters)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4000-4400 lbs (1814-1996 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 5700-6000 lbs (2585-2722 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4/5 Stars (for applicable years)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4/5 Stars (for applicable years)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable/Good (depending on specific year and equipment)
ABS:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Available on some models
Airbags Front:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front-seat side airbags on some models
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts in all seating positions
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM CD player, optional cassette, premium Infinity audio systems available on higher trims.
Rear Entertainment:
Optional rear-seat video entertainment system (VES) with flip-down screen and headphone jacks available on some models.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park assist sensors available on some models.
Auxiliary Inputs:
N/A (no standard aux input for this era; aftermarket solutions exist)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as per severe service recommendations
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Orange) Antifreeze/Coolant, 5/100, or equivalent
Transmission Failures:
Common issues with solenoids, torque converter clutch, and valve body in the 41TE/42LE transmissions, particularly with deferred maintenance.
Power Sliding Doors:
Actuator motors, cables, and switches can fail, leading to operational issues.
Climate Control Actuators:
Blend door actuators for HVAC can fail, affecting temperature control and air direction.
Wheel Bearings:
Front wheel bearings can wear out prematurely, causing noise and vibration.
Rear Suspension Springs:
Rear coil springs can sag or break over time due to the vehicle's weight.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing versatile vehicles, with the Caravan being a segment-defining product.
Generation Introduction:
The 2001-2007 models represent the third generation (NS) of the Dodge Caravan, which was a significant redesign.
Key Updates:
Improved aerodynamics, updated interior styling, enhanced safety features, and more powerful engine options compared to previous generations.
Production Locations:
Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Chrysler Canada Assembly Plant)
Production Period:
Manufactured from 1995 (as 1996 model year) through 2007 for the NS platform.
