Segment:
Full-size minivan
Target Audience:
Families, fleet operators, DIY mechanics, professional technicians.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Ford Freestar/Windstar, Chevrolet Uplander/Venture.
Vehicle Strengths:
Spacious interior, versatile seating (Stow 'n Go), comfortable ride, practical for families and cargo.
Benefit To Owner:
Enables owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and undertake repairs, saving time and money.
Benefit To Technician:
Provides factory-level diagnostic procedures, specifications, and repair techniques essential for efficient and accurate service.
Major Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical, HVAC, Body, Interior, Diagnostics
Powertrain Control Module (PCM):
Detailed diagnostics, component testing, and replacement procedures for the PCM and related sensors.
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Origin:
Factory Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) equivalent.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and overhaul for all gasoline engines offered.
Engine Performance:
Fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, cooling system, lubrication system diagnostics and repair.
Transmission Automatic:
Comprehensive repair and overhaul procedures for the 4-speed and 6-speed automatic transmissions (e.g., 41TE, 42RLE, 62TE).
Transmission Manual:
Details for any manual transmission variants if applicable (less common for Grand Caravan).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system diagnostics, repair, including ABS, traction control, and electronic stability control (ESC) components.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering linkage components diagnosis and repair.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, ball joints, and wheel bearings.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations, power distribution, charging system, starting system, lighting systems, and accessory circuits.
HVAC:
Air conditioning and heating system diagnostics, component replacement, refrigerant handling, climate control module.
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, liftgate, bumpers, glass, exterior trim, and convertible top (if applicable).
Body Interior:
Interior trim panels, seats, dashboard, center console, interior lighting, and accessory components.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Extensive troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding procedures, and repair strategies.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed instructions for routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and belt inspections.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing major components like alternators, starters, fuel pumps, water pumps, and more.
Repair And Overhaul:
In-depth procedures for repairing and rebuilding major vehicle systems, including engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Testing:
Procedures for using diagnostic tools, interpreting scan tool data, and performing specific circuit tests.
Alignment And Balancing:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures, tire balancing instructions.
Reprogramming And Calibration:
Procedures for programming electronic modules, calibrating sensors, and key fobs.
Body Repair:
Detailed sections on frame straightening, collision repair guidelines, and body panel alignment.
Wheel And Tire:
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) diagnosis and reset procedures, wheel bearing replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostic Tools Usage:
Guidance on using OBD-II scanners, MUT-II (Chrysler's proprietary diagnostic tool) functionality, and specific diagnostic procedures.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics).
Engine 3.3L V6:
3.3L (3301cc) OHV V6, 180 hp @ 5000 rpm, 205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. Engine Code: EGY.
Engine 3.8L V6:
3.8L (3778cc) OHV V6, 197 hp @ 5200 rpm, 230 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm. Engine Code: EGN.
Engine 4.0L V6:
4.0L (3952cc) SOHC V6, 251 hp @ 5800 rpm, 259 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm. Engine Code: ENH (High Output).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 3.3L and 3.8L; 89 octane recommended for 4.0L).
Injection System:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI).
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, 5 Year/100,000 Mile Formula (typically purple).
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API Certified. (Consult specific engine for variations).
Oil Capacity:
3.3L: 4.5 US qts (4.3L) with filter. 3.8L: 4.5 US qts (4.3L) with filter. 4.0L: 5.0 US qts (4.7L) with filter. (Always verify dipstick).
Transmission Type Base:
4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE or 42RLE) on most models.
Transmission Type Optional:
6-speed automatic transmission (62TE) available on higher trims or with the 4.0L engine.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar Automatic Transmission Fluid, Type 9602).
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
4-speed: Approx. 4.0 US qts (3.8L) dry, 8.0 US qts (7.6L) with torque converter. 6-speed: Approx. 4.5 US qts (4.3L) dry, 9.5 US qts (9.0L) with torque converter. (Always verify capacity).
Wheelbase:
121.1 inches (3076 mm)
Length:
199.5 inches (5067 mm)
Width:
78.5 inches (1994 mm)
Height:
68.9 inches (1750 mm)
Seating Capacity:
7 or 8 passengers depending on configuration.
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 39.6 cubic feet (1121 liters).
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 79.5 cubic feet (2251 liters).
Cargo Volume Max:
Approximately 140.5 cubic feet (3978 liters) with 2nd and 3rd rows folded.
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 4400 - 4700 lbs (2000 - 2130 kg) depending on engine and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 6050 - 6350 lbs (2744 - 2880 kg).
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2008 model year).
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2008 model year).
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars (2008 model year).
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
5 Stars (2008 model year).
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good (for models tested).
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard on most trims (often referred to as ESP or Electronic Stability Program).
Traction Control:
Standard, often integrated with ESC.
Airbags Front:
Advanced multi-stage front airbags.
Airbags Side:
Optional or standard side curtain airbags for all rows.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (severe service) or 6,000-7,500 miles (normal service) or as indicated by the Oil Change Indicator System.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or at 30,000-45,000 miles depending on driving conditions.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on service conditions (severe duty recommended for frequent towing or stop-and-go).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 or equivalent specified fluid. Consult manual for precise type.
Wiper Blade Size:
Driver: 20 inches, Passenger: 18 inches, Rear: 14 inches (typical sizes, verify).
Common Problems Powertrain:
Transmission solenoid issues, torque converter shudder (especially on 42RLE), occasional oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan.
Common Problems Electrical:
Power window motor failures, interior light malfunctions, CAN bus communication errors, instrument cluster issues.
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Worn ball joints and tie rod ends, sway bar links, strut mount bearings.
Common Problems HVAC:
Blend door actuator failure, refrigerant leaks, blower motor resistor issues.
Dodge Minivan Legacy:
Dodge pioneered the minivan segment with the original Caravan in the 1980s, setting a benchmark for family vehicles.
Rt Generation Introduction:
The RT generation (2008-2016) was a significant redesign, moving to a unibody platform with improved styling and features.
Key Innovations For Era:
Introduction of the Stow 'n Go seating system, entertainment systems, and improved powertrain options.
Manufacturing Location:
Windsor Assembly Plant, Windsor, Ontario, Canada.