Target Audience:
Families, Fleet Operators, DIY Mechanics
Competitors 2001:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture
Dv Platform Era:
Second Generation (1996-2007) - known for its practicality and spaciousness
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the 2001 Dodge Caravan, empowering owners and technicians with accurate procedures.
Engine:
3.3L V6 (EGA), 3.8L V6 (L32)
Transmission:
Automatic Transaxle (41TE, 42LE)
Brakes:
Front Disc, Rear Drum (ABS/Non-ABS)
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Torsion Beam
Steering:
Power Rack and Pinion
Electrical:
Complete Wiring Diagrams, Component Locations, Diagnostics
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Body And Trim:
Interior and Exterior Trim, Doors, Liftgate, Seating
Exhaust:
Exhaust System Components and Service
Fuel:
Fuel Tank, Pump, Lines, Injectors
Cooling:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses
Powertrain Control:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) Codes and Troubleshooting
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Engine Repair:
Head Gasket Replacement, Piston and Ring Service, Valve Train Adjustment
Transmission Repair:
Transmission Rebuild Procedures, Solenoid Replacement, Fluid Flushes
Brake Service:
Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement, Rotor/Drum Machining, Bleeding Procedures
Suspension Repair:
Strut Replacement, Ball Joint Service, Bushing Replacement
Steering Repair:
Power Steering Pump Replacement, Tie Rod End Service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Wiring Faults, Component Testing, Sensor Replacement
HVAC Repair:
AC Compressor Replacement, Evaporator Service, Blower Motor Replacement
Body Repair:
Panel Replacement, Door Mechanism Adjustment, Glass Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic Diagnostic Flowcharts for Common Issues
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing major and minor components
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhaul)
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using scan tools and diagnostic equipment
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all fasteners
Clearances:
Engine and transmission component clearances
Schematics:
Detailed electrical and vacuum schematics
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4 Stars (for 2001 models)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4 Stars (for 2001 models)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional (on some models)
Airbags Front:
Standard Driver and Passenger Airbags
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) - becoming more common in 2001
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (ATF+4)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SN or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.3L:
4.0 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 3.8L:
4.0 quarts (with filter)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Chrysler ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid + 4)
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Orange) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or Mopar Power Steering Fluid
Transmission Slippage:
Common on higher mileage units; often related to fluid degradation or solenoid issues.
Power Sliding Door Motors:
Can fail, leading to a non-functional sliding door. Manual override often available.
Rear Suspension Sag:
Can occur due to worn springs or shocks, especially when heavily loaded.
Cv Axle Boots:
Can tear, leading to grease loss and eventual CV joint failure.
Evaporator Core Leaks:
Can cause AC system failure and a sweet smell inside the cabin.
Heater Core Leaks:
Can lead to cabin heating issues and coolant leaks.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history of producing reliable and practical vehicles, with the Caravan being a pioneering minivan.
Rg Platform Generation:
This RG platform represents the second generation of the Dodge Caravan, introduced in 1996, evolving from the original K-car based models.
Design Influences:
The RG platform brought a more aerodynamic design and improved interior packaging compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; Saltillo, Mexico
Production Years Rg Platform:
1996-2007
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Dodge Caravan (and its Plymouth Voyager sibling) frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best list in its early years, highlighting its category dominance.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports provided varying ratings throughout the RG platform's life, with some years receiving better marks for reliability than others.
Epa Fuel Economy Est Highway 3.3L:
Approx. 24 MPG
Epa Fuel Economy Est City 3.3L:
Approx. 18 MPG
Epa Fuel Economy Est Highway 3.8L:
Approx. 22 MPG
Epa Fuel Economy Est City 3.8L:
Approx. 17 MPG