Segment:
Mid-size Minivan
Target Audience:
Families, fleet operators, DIY mechanics, professional technicians.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Freestar/Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Uplander, Kia Sedona.
Versatility:
Known for its flexible interior, seating for up to seven passengers, and ample cargo space, making it a popular family vehicle.
Value Proposition:
Offered a balance of practicality, features, and affordability in the minivan segment.
Engine:
Detailed coverage of all powertrain components, including diagnostic procedures, component removal/installation, and specifications.
Transmission:
Comprehensive repair and maintenance for automatic transmissions, including troubleshooting, fluid service, and internal component work.
Brakes:
Coverage of hydraulic systems, ABS, disc and drum brake service, parking brake adjustments, and component replacement.
Steering Suspension:
Detailed information on power steering systems, suspension components (shocks, struts, ball joints, control arms), steering linkage, and alignment procedures.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, power accessories, instrument cluster, and body control modules.
Body And Chassis:
Includes information on body panels, doors, interior trim, seat mechanisms, power sliding doors and liftgate, and chassis components.
HVAC:
Service and repair for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, including component diagnosis and refrigerant handling.
Safety Systems:
Coverage of airbag systems, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and related sensors.
Preventative Maintenance:
Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and other routine maintenance tasks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for nearly all vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Charts:
Inclusion of comprehensive diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Component Disassembly Reassembly:
Detailed instructions for breaking down and rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork.
Engine 1 Displacement:
3.3L (3301 cc)
Engine 1 Type:
3.3L V6 (2V SOHC)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 180-190 hp (varies slightly by year/tune)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 200-210 lb-ft (varies slightly by year/tune)
Engine 2 Displacement:
3.8L (3778 cc)
Engine 2 Type:
3.8L V6 (2V SOHC)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 200-215 hp (varies slightly by year/tune)
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 230-240 lb-ft (varies slightly by year/tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Coil-on-Plug (COP) depending on engine variant and year.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle (e.g., 41TE, 42LE)
Optional Transmission Type:
N/A (Automatic was standard across most trims)
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shifting logic.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 119.3 inches
Length:
Approx. 192.9 - 199.0 inches (depending on model year and configuration)
Width:
Approx. 72.0 inches
Height:
Approx. 68.0 - 69.0 inches
Seating Capacity:
7 Passengers
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 20.2 - 26.5 cu ft
Cargo Volume Max:
Approx. 140.1 - 150.0 cu ft
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,900 - 4,300 lbs
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5,600 - 5,800 lbs
NHTSA Front Impact:
Generally good ratings for its era, with some variations by year. Check specific year NHTSA reports for details.
IIHS Ratings:
Variable, some models received 'Acceptable' or 'Good' ratings in frontal crash tests. Check specific year IIHS reports.
ABS:
Standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Available on some higher trims or later models.
Airbags:
Front airbags standard. Optional side airbags available on some trims.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Audio Systems:
Standard AM/FM/CD players, with optional premium audio systems and rear-seat entertainment options on some trims.
Navigation:
Rare, but potentially available as a dealer-installed option or integrated into higher-end stereos in later years.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Assist:
Rear park assist sensors became available on some models during this generation.
Auxiliary Input:
Not common for this era; auxiliary inputs for external media devices were rare.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended around every 30,000-100,000 miles, depending on usage and fluid type. Crucial to check manual for specific interval and ATF type.
Coolant Flush:
Often around every 30,000-60,000 miles or 3-5 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type (e.g., copper, platinum, iridium), typically 30,000-100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Typically SAE 3.7L V6: 5W-30; 3.8L V6: 3.5W-30 or 5W-30 (check manual for exact specification and API service category).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent specifications like ATF 96/998370).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler's HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically orange in color, or equivalent (e.g., Zerex G-05).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Transmission Issues:
Some models experienced issues with transmission solenoid packs, torque converters, or valve bodies. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Engine Issues:
Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks (especially on earlier 3.3L), and occasional rear main seal leaks.
Electrical Issues:
Issues with power window motors, power sliding door mechanisms, and interior lighting can occur.
Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common wear items, particularly with higher mileage.
Evaporative Emissions Control Evap:
Evap system leaks, particularly from charcoal canisters or purge valves, can cause Check Engine Lights.
Dodge Brand Focus:
Known for performance-oriented vehicles, but also had a strong presence in practical segments like trucks and minivans.
Generation Context:
This generation represents the fourth generation of the Dodge Caravan and its Chrysler/Plymouth platform mates, introduced in 2001.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Chrysler Voyager/Town & Country and Plymouth Voyager.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at Chrysler's Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and also in St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
