🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caravan/Grand Caravan

Years Covered:

2001, 2002

Chassis Code:

NS (for these model years)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan were highly successful and popular minivans, dominating the segment for many years. They offered a blend of practicality, passenger capacity, and versatility, making them a go-to choice for families.

Competitors:

Competed directly with other major minivans of the era, including the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, and Chevrolet Venture/Pontiac Montana/Oldsmobile Silhouette (GM's minivans).

Vehicle Features:

Spacious interior with flexible seating arrangements (Stow 'n Go seating was introduced later but the platform allowed for significant cargo and passenger flexibility), comfortable ride, wide range of powertrain options.

Value:

This manual provides the essential technical information for owners and independent repair shops to maintain and repair these vehicles, offering significant cost savings compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for all Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan models from 2001-2002.

Estimated Pages:

Estimated 1500-2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era). Specific page count not provided, but assumed to be extensive.

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (likely PDF or similar digital format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, starting system, charging system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control systems (EVAP, EGR), engine diagnostics.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, valve body, electronic controls, fluid and filter service.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive axle shafts, CV joints, differential.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, tie rods), rear suspension (leaf springs, shock absorbers), steering linkage.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, master cylinder, power booster, ABS system diagnostics and repair.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, evaporator, condenser), heater core, blower motor, controls.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, child seat anchors (LATCH).

Body And Chassis:

Body construction, frame alignment, structural repairs, door mechanisms, glass replacement, collision repair procedures.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.

Repair Procedures:

Engine component replacement, transmission repair, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical system troubleshooting and repair.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams for fault finding.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, module communication.

Depth:

Detailed, comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic strategies.

Diagnostics Depth:

In-depth diagnostic flowcharts, electrical schematics for tracing circuits, component testing procedures, and specifications for diagnosing faults within the Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), and other electronic modules.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF (Portable Document Format) for easy digital access and printing.

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory service manuals, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images. Searchable text functionality is often a feature of good PDF manuals.

Binding:

Not applicable for digital download, but if a printed version were available, it would typically be spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use in a workshop environment.

Paper Quality:

Not applicable for digital download, but original manuals were typically printed on durable paper designed for workshop environments.

Coverage Level:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual, implying full diagnostic, repair, overhaul, and maintenance procedures for all systems. Unlike an owner's manual, this is intended for technicians.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2001 2002:

2.4L I4 ( Naturally Aspirated), 3.3L V6 (Naturally Aspirated), 3.8L V6 (Naturally Aspirated).

2.4L I4 Horsepower:

Approximately 150 hp @ 5200 rpm (exact figure may vary slightly by year).

2.4L I4 Torque:

Approximately 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (exact figure may vary slightly by year).

3.3L V6 Horsepower:

Approximately 180 hp @ 4800 rpm (exact figure may vary slightly by year).

3.3L V6 Torque:

Approximately 205 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (exact figure may vary slightly by year).

3.8L V6 Horsepower:

Approximately 190 hp @ 4600 rpm (exact figure may vary slightly by year).

3.8L V6 Torque:

Approximately 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (exact figure may vary slightly by year).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI).

Fuel Pump Type:

Electric in-tank fuel pump.

Engine Identification:

Common engine codes include EER (3.3L V6), GEP (3.8L V6). Specific codes for the 2.4L should be confirmed in the manual.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard Engines:

4-speed automatic transmission (41TE/AE) was standard on V6 engines. The 2.4L engine was often paired with a 5-speed manual transmission (NV1500) or optional automatic.

Transmission Optional:

5-speed manual transmission (NV1500) available on some engine configurations, particularly the 2.4L. 4-speed automatic (42LE) was used with the 3.8L engine in some applications.

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronic controls, often with tow/haul mode, providing adaptive shifting based on driving conditions.

Transmission Cooling:

Automatic transmission fluid cooler integrated into the radiator or a separate external cooler.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 119.3 inches (Grand Caravan long wheelbase), 113.0 inches (Caravan short wheelbase).

Length:

Approx. 198.9 inches (Grand Caravan), 179.7 inches (Caravan). Specific dimensions can vary by trim.

Width:

Approx. 72.1 inches (width without mirrors), 79.3 inches (width with mirrors). Exact figure may vary by year/trim.

Height:

Approx. 68.4 inches.

Cargo Volume:

Substantial cargo capacity, typically exceeding 100 cubic feet with rear seats removed/folded. Specific figures vary by configuration.

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine and configuration, generally between 3,800 - 4,500 lbs.

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches).

Wheel Size:

Typically 15 or 16 inches for these model years, depending on trim level.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Likely received good ratings in frontal and side impact tests for its era, though specific ratings should be verified via NHTSA archives. Minivans of this period focused on passenger safety.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard or optional depending on trim. Traction control may have been available on higher trims or as an option.

Passive Safety:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side airbags, three-point seatbelts for all occupants, height-adjustable seatbelt anchors, child seat anchors (LATCH).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette tape player. Optional premium audio systems and rear entertainment systems were available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard or optional cruise control for highway driving comfort.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Available remote keyless entry system for convenience.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Interval:

Recommended to change automatic transmission fluid and filter every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on usage (e.g., towing).

Coolant Interval:

Long-life coolant typically recommended for replacement every 5 years or 100,000 miles. Standard coolant every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 is common for most engines. Always verify specific viscosity and API service classification in the owner's manual or this service manual.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent Mopar-approved fluid) for automatic transmissions. Manual transmission fluid specifications vary by gearbox type.

Coolant Type:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol based) suitable for Chrysler vehicles, or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant.

Common Problems 2001 2002:

CV joint wear, power steering leaks, HVAC blower motor failures, occasional transmission solenoid issues, rear brake wear, exhaust system corrosion. The 3.3L and 3.8L engines are generally robust but can develop intake manifold gasket leaks.

Oil Filter Example:

Mopar Part Number MO-097 or equivalent from aftermarket brands like Fram PH3614, Wix 51049. Specific part number varies by engine.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Minivan Legacy:

Dodge pioneered the minivan segment with the original Caravan in 1984, setting the standard for family vehicles. The Caravan has consistently been a segment leader in sales and innovation.

Ns Generation Details:

The 2001-2007 NS generation represented a significant redesign, offering improved aerodynamics, chassis dynamics, and interior amenities. It was built on Chrysler's NS platform.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in North America, with plants in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and St. Louis, Missouri, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Leadership:

The Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan were consistent recipients of awards and accolades in the minivan segment throughout their production history, often cited for practicality, value, and family-friendliness.

Consumer Reports Historical:

Consumer Reports ratings varied by year and specific model, but the Caravan platform was generally well-regarded for its utility, with some years receiving stronger recommendations than others regarding reliability.