Target Audience:
Professional technicians and serious DIY mechanics.
Content Type:
Step-by-step repair procedures, critical specifications, illustrations/pictures, maintenance, disassembly, assembly, cleaning, and reinstalling procedures.
Benefit:
Empowers owners to make informed decisions for maintenance and repair, teaching factory-trained technician knowledge.
Primary Coverage:
Repair, Service, Maintenance, Troubleshooting
Estimated Page Count:
Detailed page count not specified, but described as comprehensive like a factory service manual.
Type:
Repair Service Manual / Factory Service Manual Equivalent
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanicals, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control.
Powertrain:
Transmission (automatic), driveline, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS if equipped).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting and charging system, instrument cluster, body electronics, power accessories.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seating, HVAC system, body controls.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems, including disassembly, cleaning, reassembly, and installation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers with basic mechanical and electrical knowledge.
Engine Options:
Likely includes 2.4L (2.4L I4), 3.0L (3.0L V6), and 3.3L (3.3L V6) engines, common for this generation.
Horsepower Torque:
Specific figures vary by engine and year, but generally in the range of 150-180 hp for V6 engines.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).
Transmission Type Standard:
Automatic Transmission (likely 3-speed or 4-speed automatic).
Transmission Type Optional:
Manual transmission was generally not a common option for this model in North America, but may exist in certain markets or specific configurations.
Transmission Features:
Overdrive functionality on 4-speed units.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 112.1 inches (standard wheelbase) and 119.4 inches (long wheelbase).
Seating Capacity:
Typically 7 passengers across three rows, with various seating configurations.
Cargo Volume:
Variable based on seating configuration and wheelbase, offering significant cargo space.
Curb Weight:
Varies by configuration, generally in the 3,500-4,000 lb range.
NHTSA Ratings:
Specific NHTSA ratings for these years vary, but generally were considered average for the era. Side impact airbags were becoming available as an option.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, seat belts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions; consult manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as per manual. Use appropriate ATF+4 or equivalent.
Engine Oil Specification:
Typically SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API certified oil. Refer to manual for exact specification and viscosity.
Coolant Specification:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check manual for specific Mopar part number or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Consult manual for exact type.
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, wheel bearings, front suspension components (ball joints, tie rods), exhaust system, ignition coils (on some V6 models).
Electrical Gremlins:
Intermittent electrical issues can occur due to aging wiring or components, particularly in body control modules and power door locks.
Engine Performance Issues:
Oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets), cooling system leaks (heater core, radiator), and occasional transmission issues (slipping, delayed engagement).
Dodge Minivan Legacy:
Dodge was a pioneer in the minivan segment with the original Caravan/Voyager.
Ns Platform Introduction:
The NS platform, introduced for the 1996 model year, represented a significant redesign with improved aerodynamics, a stiffer chassis, and updated powertrains.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
