🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Model Years Covered:

2008, 2009

Platform Code:

JS (short wheelbase), RT (long wheelbase for Grand Caravan)

Chassis Code:

JS

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Minivan / People Carrier

Target Audience:

Families, individuals requiring flexible cargo and passenger space, DIY mechanics, professional technicians.

Key Competitors:

Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Freestar/Windstar, Chevrolet Uplander/Venture, Kia Sedona.

Vehicle Strengths:

Spacious interior, versatile seating (Stow 'n Go on many trims), comfortable ride, good fuel economy for its class, strong V6 engine options.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Dodge Caravan

Related Models:

Chrysler Town & Country, Chrysler Grand Voyager, Volkswagen Routan (sharing platform)

Estimated Pages:

Over 2500 (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (3.3L, 3.8L, 4.0L V6), Transmission (41TE/AE, 62TE Automatic)

Chassis:

Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Twist Beam with Watt's Linkage), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc), Wheels and Tires

Electrical:

Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio Systems, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), SRS (Airbag) System

Body And Trim:

Exterior Panels, Doors, Liftgate, Sliding Doors, Interior Trim, Seats, Upholstery

Maintenance:

Fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, transmission), filter replacements, tune-up procedures, belt replacement, spark plug replacement

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, component testing

Repairs:

Engine mechanical repairs, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component replacement, HVAC system servicing, exhaust system repairs

Special Procedures:

Body and frame alignment, airbag system service, keyless entry system programming, diagnostic tool usage

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF with hyperlinked sections for easy navigation.

Quality:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Variant:

3.3L V6 (EGA)

Engine 1 Displacement:

3301 cc

Engine 1 Configuration:

SOHC V6

Engine 1 Horsepower:

175 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 2 Variant:

3.8L V6 (L32)

Engine 2 Displacement:

3778 cc

Engine 2 Configuration:

OHV V6

Engine 2 Horsepower:

197 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 3 Variant:

4.0L V6 (NAG)

Engine 3 Displacement:

3952 cc

Engine 3 Configuration:

SOHC V6

Engine 3 Horsepower:

251 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

259 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Induction Type:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Emission Control:

Catalytic Converter, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission 1 Type:

4-speed Automatic (41TE/AE)

Transmission 1 Features:

Electronically Controlled, Overdrive

Transmission 2 Type:

6-speed Automatic (62TE)

Transmission 2 Features:

Electronically Controlled, AutoStick Manual Shifting, Overdrive

Drive Type:

Front Wheel Drive (FWD)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Mopar)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Short Wb:

119.2 inches (3028 mm)

Wheelbase Long Wb:

121.6 inches (3089 mm) - Grand Caravan

Length Short Wb:

189.8 inches (4821 mm)

Length Long Wb:

203.0 inches (5157 mm) - Grand Caravan

Width:

72.0 inches (1829 mm)

Height:

68.9 inches (1750 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 140 cu ft (short wheelbase), 163 cu ft (Grand Caravan)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 31 cu ft (short wheelbase), 37 cu ft (Grand Caravan)

Curb Weight Typical:

4300 - 4700 lbs (1950 - 2130 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5700 - 6000 lbs (2585 - 2721 kg)

Standard Wheel Size:

16 inches

Standard Tire Size:

P225/65R16

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (2008/2009 models)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (2008/2009 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

Good (2008/2009 models)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

Good (2008/2009 models)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:

Acceptable (2008 models), Good (2009 models)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (2008/2009 models)

Stability Control:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - Standard on most trims

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) - Standard

Anti Lock Brakes:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, available side curtain airbags for all rows.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts in all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats, LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and premium audio systems with amplifier and subwoofer.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system with touchscreen interface.

Rear Seat Entertainment:

Available rear-seat entertainment system with DVD player and screens.

Parking Assist:

Available ParkSense rear park assist system (ultrasonic sensors).

Auxiliary Input:

Available auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.

Bluetooth:

Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 10,000 - 15,000 miles (16,000 - 24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

3.3L/3.8L: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Platinum or Iridium); 4.0L: 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for normal service, sooner for severe service. ATF+4 recommended.

Coolant Flush And Replace:

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

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 (preferred for fuel economy and emissions), SAE 5W-30 also acceptable per manufacturer.

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.3L/3.8L: 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter; 4.0L: 6 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter.

Coolant Type:

Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant meeting Chrysler MS-9769.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Problems:

Transmission solenoid pack failures (especially 41TE/AE), power door/liftgate actuator issues, EGR valve clogging (3.3L/3.8L), interior rattles and trim wear, potential water pump leaks.

Stow N Go Mechanism:

Occasional issues with the folding mechanism for Stow 'n Go seats, requiring lubrication or adjustment.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history in vehicle manufacturing, known for performance and utility vehicles. The Caravan nameplate is synonymous with the minivan segment, which Chrysler virtually invented.

Generation:

Fourth Generation (2001-2007) / Fifth Generation (2008-2016) - The 2008-2009 models represent a significant refresh and transition period.

2008 Updates:

Major refresh for 2008. Introduction of the new 4.0L V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission option (62TE), updated interior and exterior styling, and enhancements to the Stow 'n Go seating system. Rebranded as the Grand Caravan for longer wheelbase models, while a shorter wheelbase Dodge Caravan remained.

Manufacturing Plant:

Windsor Assembly Plant, Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Kbb Best Family Car:

Often recognized by automotive publications like Kelley Blue Book for its family-friendly features and value.

Jd Power Initial Quality:

While specific model year awards vary, Dodge Caravans generally performed reasonably well in initial quality studies within their segment.