Key Selling Points:
Versatility, passenger capacity, cargo space, family-oriented design
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Mercury Villager
Family Appeal:
Designed for families with multiple seating configurations and ample interior space
Versatility:
Configurable seating and flexible cargo arrangements
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emission controls, exhaust system, automatic transmission, manual transmission (if applicable)
Chassis:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, brake system (front, rear, ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, body control modules, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams
Body:
Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, climate control
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom analysis, diagnostic procedures for all major systems, OBD-II diagnostics
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine teardown and reassembly, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component repair
Technical Bulletins:
Information on recalls, service bulletins (TSBs), and manufacturer recommendations
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair procedures
Engine Options:
2.4L (147 cu in) I4 (G4CS / G4CS-1), 3.0L (182 cu in) V6 (6G72), 3.3L (203 cu in) V6 (EGA)
2.4L I4 Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5600 rpm (approximate)
2.4L I4 Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approximate)
3.0L V6 Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5000 rpm (approximate)
3.0L V6 Torque:
180 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
3.3L V6 Horsepower:
158 hp @ 4700 rpm (approximate)
3.3L V6 Torque:
190 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)
0-60 Mph Estimate:
9.5 - 11.5 seconds (depending on engine and configuration)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Options:
Manual Transmission (less common, typically on base models and certain engines)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (Chrysler spec) or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.5 quarts (170-180 mm) (check dipstick)
Wheelbase:
112.1 inches (2847 mm)
Length:
189.7 inches (4818 mm)
Width:
72.5 inches (1841 mm)
Height:
68.4 inches (1737 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 14.0 - 18.0 cu ft (depending on configuration)
Cargo Volume With 3Rd Row Folded:
Approx. 47.0 - 55.0 cu ft
Cargo Volume With 2Nd And 3Rd Row Removed:
Approx. 120.0 - 150.0 cu ft
Curb Weight Estimate:
3,700 - 4,200 lbs (1678 - 1905 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
5,500 - 5,800 lbs (2495 - 2630 kg)
NHTSA Rollover Resistance Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (typical for SUVs/minivans of this era)
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Available, standard on some higher trims and later years
Traction Control:
Limited availability, often optional on higher trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, three-point belts for rear occupants
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system not standard, but provisions for child restraints exist
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player options, speaker configurations vary by trim level.
Rear Entertainment:
Optional rear-seat video system (RVS) with integrated screen or separate overhead display available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims.
Parking Assist:
Rear parking assist sensors were an optional feature for some model years.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available on mid-to-high trim levels.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended for extended intervals)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
I4: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (platinum/iridium). V6: 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) (copper/platinum, depending on specific plugs)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or 2-4 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
I4: 4.5 quarts (4.3 L), V6: 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Antifreeze/Coolant (ETR-4) or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Problems:
Intermittent shifting issues, torque converter clutch (TCC) shudder, failure of the transmission control module (TCM) or solenoid pack (common in higher mileage units)
Engine Issues:
Head gasket leaks (especially on V6 engines), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil filter housing leaks, timing belt replacement on I4 engines (critical maintenance item)
Electrical Issues:
Power window failures, door lock actuator problems, intermittent dashboard warning lights, issues with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM)
Suspension And Steering:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, sagging rear springs (due to load capacity), steering pump noise
Exhaust System:
Rust and corrosion of exhaust components, catalytic converter failure
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and practical vehicles, establishing a reputation for value and capability.
Generation:
Second Generation (1996-2000) - Introduced a more aerodynamic design, improved safety features, and updated powertrains. This generation saw significant updates over its predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; Newark, Delaware, USA
Sales Performance:
The Caravan was a consistently strong seller in the minivan segment, often leading the market in sales volume.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Dodge Caravan and its siblings (Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager) were frequent recipients of automotive awards, including Car and Driver's '10Best' list for their segment leadership and innovation.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by model year and specific components; the manual is essential for addressing common issues and maintaining optimal performance.
Safety Certifications:
Manufactured to meet all applicable US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
