Market Niche:
Family hauling, versatile cargo transport.
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Silhouette/Trans Sport.
Vehicle Attributes:
Spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, comfortable ride, relatively affordable pricing.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides authoritative, dealer-level technical information for maintenance, diagnosis, and repair, crucial for owners looking to maintain or repair their vehicle effectively.
Vehicle Years:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Region Focus:
North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific model year and engine; typically over 1000 pages for comprehensive coverage.
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF likely)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (all variants), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic and manual if applicable), drivetrain components (axles, CV joints).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), climate control electronics, body control modules, diagnostic connectors.
Body:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, windows, glass, bumpers, seals, body repair procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, chassis lubrication.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, and electrical component diagnosis.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring harness testing, component testing procedures.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine component clearances, suspension alignment specifications, brake pad/rotor measurements, electrical resistance values.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to advanced engine and transmission diagnostics and rebuilds. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Format Details:
Likely PDF; searchability and printability are key features.
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.
Binding:
Not applicable for digital download.
Paper:
Not applicable for digital download.
Engine Options:
2.4L 4-Cylinder (2AZ-FSE), 3.0L V6 (106), 3.3L V6 (EGA), 3.8L V6 (L32)
Dominant Engine Early Generation:
3.0L V6
Dominant Engine Later Generation:
3.3L V6 and 3.8L V6
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 150 hp (2.4L) to 215 hp (3.8L V6)
Torque Range:
Approximately 165 lb-ft (2.4L) to 240 lb-ft (3.8L V6)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across all engine variants.
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 87).
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (41TE/42LE)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Manual Transmission (rare, primarily on earlier 4-cylinder models).
Transmission Features:
Overdrive, Electronic Controls (for automatic transmissions).
Wheelbase:
113.1 inches (for standard wheelbase versions)
Length:
Approximately 175-180 inches (standard), 190-195 inches (long wheelbase Grand Caravan)
Cargo Volume Behind First Row:
Highly configurable; significant volume, exceeding 100 cubic feet.
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 3,700 - 4,200 lbs, depending on engine and equipment.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for models tested)
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum (standard); optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional on higher trim levels and later model years.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (standard on most models from mid-generation onwards).
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, with shoulder belts in the front and rear seating positions.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player. Amplified systems available.
Rear Seat Entertainment:
Optional rear entertainment screens and VHS players available on higher trims, particularly on Grand Caravan models.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Keyless Entry:
Optional, typically with remote key fob.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant from 1996 onwards, located under the dashboard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or as per severe service schedule.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles for modern platinum or iridium plugs.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature range and engine).
Engine Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) antifreeze, typically Mopar OAT coolant (pink).
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) or equivalent.
Engine Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks (especially on 3.3L/3.8L V6), oil leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks, PCV system issues, spark plug blowouts (less common on later years).
Transmission Common Problems:
Slipping, delayed engagement, torque converter shudder, issues with solenoids and valve bodies.
Suspension Common Problems:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, and struts/shocks leading to clunking noises and poor handling.
Electrical Common Problems:
Faulty power window motors, power lock actuators, HVAC blower motor resistor, and instrument cluster failures.
Brand Identity:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler), known for performance and practicality.
Generation Overview:
The third generation (RS) introduced a more aerodynamic design, improved interior packaging, and a wider range of powertrain options, solidifying the Caravan's market dominance.
Key Redesigns Within Generation:
Mid-cycle refresh in 2001 brought updated styling, interior features, and powertrain improvements.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Caravan and its siblings (Plymouth Voyager, Chrysler Town & Country) were frequent recipients of Car and Driver's '10Best' list in their early years, establishing the minivan segment.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings varied by year and powertrain, with some years showing average to below-average reliability, particularly concerning transmission and electrical systems.
