🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan

Year:

2006

Vehicle Platform:

NS (Long wheelbase) / RS (Short wheelbase)

Chassis Code:

NS (Grand Caravan), RS (Caravan)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan were segment-defining minivans, popular for their versatility, practicality, and family-oriented features. This manual targets DIY mechanics, professional technicians, and fleet managers seeking detailed repair information for this generation.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed primarily with the Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager (before its discontinuation), Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Ford Windstar. The 2006 model represents a mature platform with known characteristics and common repair needs.

Key Features:

Comprehensive digital format for easy navigation and searchability, official factory data, detailed diagrams, and procedures crucial for accurate repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All major mechanical, electrical, and body systems for 2006 Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan models.

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely PDF-based with search functionality)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, traction control), body electrical, HVAC, body and frame, safety systems (airbags, seat belts), diagnostics and troubleshooting.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, lubrication, tune-up, engine diagnostics and repair, fuel injection system service, cooling system flushing and repair, exhaust system replacement, transmission fluid change and overhaul, CV axle replacement, wheel bearing replacement, suspension component replacement, power steering system service, brake pad/rotor replacement, brake caliper service, ABS system troubleshooting, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, HVAC system recharge and repair, body panel repair, interior trim removal, airbag system safety precautions and service.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component-level repair, including detailed exploded views, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (likely searchable PDF or proprietary viewer)

Print Quality:

High resolution, suitable for on-screen viewing and printing of individual pages.

Binding Type:

N/A (Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.3L V6 OHV 12-Valve (EGA)

Engine Displacement Primary:

3.3 liters (3301 cc)

Engine Bore Primary:

3.58 inches (91 mm)

Engine Stroke Primary:

3.27 inches (83 mm)

Engine Compression Ratio Primary:

9.0:1

Engine Horsepower Primary:

180 hp @ 5000 rpm

Engine Torque Primary:

205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Optional Engine 1:

3.8L V6 OHV 12-Valve (L32)

Engine Displacement Optional 1:

3.8 liters (3778 cc)

Engine Bore Optional 1:

3.91 inches (99.3 mm)

Engine Stroke Optional 1:

3.30 inches (84 mm)

Engine Compression Ratio Optional 1:

8.4:1

Engine Horsepower Optional 1:

205 hp @ 5200 rpm

Engine Torque Optional 1:

230 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with ignition coil on plug (COP) or coil packs

Engine Management:

Chrysler's NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar ECU

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (41TE / 42LE)

Optional Transmission:

N/A (Only automatic offered for this year)

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up clutch, likely with a tow/haul mode.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (dry fill), 2.5-3 quarts (fluid change only)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length Short Wheelbase:

175.5 inches (4458 mm)

Exterior Length Long Wheelbase:

189.8 inches (4821 mm)

Exterior Width:

72.0 inches (1829 mm)

Exterior Height:

67.9 inches (1725 mm)

Wheelbase Short Wheelbase:

112.1 inches (2847 mm)

Wheelbase Long Wheelbase:

119.3 inches (3030 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

4000-4400 lbs (1814-2000 kg) depending on configuration

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row Short Wheelbase:

Approx. 122.6 cu. ft.

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row Long Wheelbase:

Approx. 159.5 cu. ft.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3,800 lbs (1724 kg) with optional towing package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (for most configurations).

IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:

Good (for models with improvements).

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (TCS) (optional on some trims).

Passive Features:

Front airbags, available front side-impact airbags, three-point seat belts for all occupants, LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Optional in-dash CD player, AM/FM radio, available rear-seat entertainment system (DVD player), auxiliary input jacks.

Driver Assistance:

Cruise control, optional rear parking assist sensors.

Connectivity:

Basic connectivity through audio system, typically no Bluetooth or USB ports standard on base models.

Convenience Features:

Power windows, power door locks, power sliding doors (optional), power liftgate (optional), remote keyless entry.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil Change:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (consult manual for specific recommendations).

Service Intervals Transmission Fluid:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km); change fluid and filter typically every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on severity of use.

Service Intervals Coolant:

Replace coolant every 30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km) or 2-5 years, depending on coolant type. Use HOAT coolant.

Service Intervals Spark Plugs:

Typically 30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions) or SAE 10W-30. Meets Chrysler MS-6395 specification.

Fluid Specifications Coolant:

Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) color (usually orange or pink), or equivalent.

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Known Issues:

Transmission issues (slipping, torque converter shudder), rear axle seal leaks, front suspension wear (ball joints, control arm bushings), power sliding door mechanism problems, coolant leaks from intake manifold or radiator, HVAC blend door actuator failure, intermittent electrical issues.

Filter Part Numbers Oil Filter:

Mopar: MO-899, Fram: PH3614, Wix: 51372 (examples, verify with specific vehicle VIN).

Filter Part Numbers Air Filter:

Mopar: 04861714AA, Fram: CA7100, Wix: 49150 (examples, verify with specific vehicle VIN).

Filter Part Numbers Cabin Air Filter:

Mopar: 04727226AA, Fram: CF8852, Wix: 24455 (examples, verify with specific vehicle VIN).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, as a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing popular vehicles, with the Caravan being instrumental in creating and popularizing the minivan segment in the 1980s.

Model Evolution:

The 2006 Caravan/Grand Caravan is part of the fourth generation (2001-2007) of the Dodge minivans, which saw significant updates in styling, interior amenities, and powertrain options.

Production Location:

Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

Production Years Generation:

2001-2007

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Dodge Caravan and its sibling, the Chrysler Town & Country, have historically received numerous accolades as family vehicles and segment leaders, though specific awards for the 2006 model year would vary annually and by publication.