Segment:
Mid-size Minivan
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, Independent Repair Shops, Dealership Service Departments
Competitors 2001:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Montana/Trans Sport, Plymouth Voyager/Grand Voyager
Vehicle Highlights:
Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, comfortable ride, available all-wheel drive (AWD) on some trims.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical information essential for proper diagnosis and repair, significantly reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Powertrain:
Gasoline and Diesel Engine Mechanical, Fuel, Ignition, Emissions, Cooling, Lubrication; Automatic Transmission (e.g., 41TE, 42LE/AE, 45RFE/46RFE) Mechanical and Hydraulic, Torque Converter, Electronic Controls
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering System (Power Steering, Steering Column), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc, ABS, Traction Control), Wheels and Tires
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Interior Trim, HVAC System, Seats, Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Power Windows/Locks/Mirrors, Audio System, Security System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance (Oil Changes, Fluid Checks, Filter Replacements), Lubrication, Tire Rotation, Brake Inspections
Diagnostics:
Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing (Resistance, Voltage, Current), Scan Tool Procedures, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and Transmission Control Module (TCM) Diagnostics
Repair Rebuild:
Engine Removal/Installation, Cylinder Head Servicing, Piston/Connecting Rod Service, Crankshaft Service, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Gearbox/Rack Replacement, Electrical Component Replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major mechanical and electrical repairs. Includes detailed diagnostic trees and specifications for professional technicians.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Scalability:
High resolution, allowing for clear printing of diagrams and text.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Engine Options 2001:
2.4L (147 cu in) DOHC I4 (Chrysler's GEMA engine), 3.3L (201 cu in) OHV V6, 3.8L (231 cu in) OHV V6
Diesel Option Availability:
Available in European markets, typically a 2.5L or 2.8L VM Motori Turbo-Diesel
3.3L V6 Horsepower:
Approx. 180 hp @ 4,600 rpm
3.8L V6 Torque:
Approx. 270 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel Delivery Gasoline:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Waste Spark depending on engine
Emission Systems:
Catalytic Converter, EGR Valve, Oxygen Sensors, Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) System
Standard Transmission Gasoline:
4-Speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (45RFE/46RFE) with V6 engines, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) option available with V6 and specific transmissions
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602) is the recommended fluid for most automatic transmissions of this era.
Torque Converter:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy at cruising speeds.
Wheelbase:
Standard: 112.1 inches; Grand: 119.3 inches
Length:
Standard: 184.6 inches; Grand: 192.5 inches
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Standard: ~34 cu ft; Grand: ~42 cu ft (varies by configuration)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,800 - 4,500 lbs depending on engine, drivetrain, and trim
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Generally good for its era, though specific ratings can vary. The 2001 Caravan received 4-star ratings for driver and passenger frontal impact in some tests.
Active Safety:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Optional Traction Control (TCS)
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, Optional side-impact airbags, Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system.
Audio System Options:
Base AM/FM stereo with cassette, Optional AM/FM stereo with CD player, Optional premium Infinity sound system.
Rear Seat Entertainment:
Optional overhead video monitor and single-disc DVD player available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors were common options, often bundled in convenience packages.
Oil Change Interval Gasoline:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult owner's manual for specific recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or as specified by the manual, especially if towing or operating in severe conditions.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 API Service SN or higher (consult manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, meeting MS-9769. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Common Problems:
Interior Power Window/Lock failures, Grinding noise from front suspension (struts/ball joints), Transmission solenoid pack issues (leading to shifting problems), Heater core leaks, Oil filter adapter housing leaks (3.3L/3.8L V6), PCM failures, ABS sensor failures.
Engine Specific Issues:
3.3L/3.8L V6: Rear main seal leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks.
Oil Filter Example:
Mopar MO-090 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 51372, Fram PH3950)
Dodge Minivan Legacy:
Dodge pioneered the minivan segment with the original Caravan/Voyager in 1984, establishing a dominant market presence.
Third Generation Ns:
The 2001 model is part of the third generation (NS) introduced in 1996, featuring a more aerodynamic design, increased interior space, and the introduction of the 'quad-cab' style with sliding doors on both sides.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Windsor, Ontario, Canada (Windsor Assembly Plant)
