Segment:
Full-size Minivan
Target Audience:
Families, commercial users requiring passenger transport.
Key Competitors:
Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Freestar/Windstar (previous gen), Kia Sedona, Hyundai Entourage.
Powertrain Options:
V6 engines, available AWD (on some trims/years, though less common for 2009 Grand Caravan).
Interior Flexibility:
Stow 'n Go seating system (optional, standard on some trims), multiple seating configurations.
Cargo Capacity:
Ample cargo space, especially with second and third-row seats folded or removed.
Engine Mechanics:
Engine overhaul, timing belt/chain, cooling system, lubrication, fuel system components, exhaust system.
Transmission Service:
Automatic transmission (41TE/42LE family, possibly 62TE), manual transmission (if applicable), torque converter, transmission control module (TCM).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD), axle shafts, differential, drive shafts.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS, ESP, brake fluid specifications, caliper service, rotor replacement.
Suspension:
Front suspension (McPherson strut, control arms), rear suspension (independent suspension, trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear/rack and pinion, tie rods.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, multiplexing.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant specifications, performance testing.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, glass replacement, structural components.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, occupant classification system.
Infotainment And Electronics:
Radio, navigation system, Uconnect system (if equipped), instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry.
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, transmission fluid changes.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, sensor testing.
Repair Procedures:
Component removal and installation (e.g., starter, alternator, water pump, fuel pump, brake calipers), wiring harness repair, seal replacement.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed steps for major component overhaul and replacement, including engine and transmission.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, clearances, and tolerances.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed wiring diagrams and diagnostic procedures.
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
5-star driver, 5-star passenger (for 2009 model year)
NHTSA Side Crash:
4-star front, 4-star rear (for 2009 model year)
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good (for 2009 model year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Esp:
Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional front side-impact airbags, optional roof-rail airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts for all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-6,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Filter:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles, depending on environmental conditions.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 30,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. iridium, refer to manual).
Transmission Fluid:
Change every 30,000-60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific interval and procedure).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or newer, ILSAC GF-5 certified (for most engines, confirm with manual).
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant (Mopar).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent.
Transmission Slippage:
Some 41TE/42LE transmissions can experience slippage or harsh shifting due to worn clutches or solenoid issues. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Power Sliding Doors:
Mechanism can become stiff or fail due to wear, lubrication issues, or electrical faults in motors/switches.
Cv Joints:
Front CV joints can wear out, leading to clicking noises during turns.
Heater Core:
Heater core leaks can occur, leading to coolant loss and a sweet smell inside the cabin.
Accessory Drive Belt:
Wear and tear on the serpentine belt and tensioner can lead to noise or failure.