Model:
RS/RG Town & Country, Caravan, Voyager
Platform:
NS (North American Minivan Platform)
Chassis Code:
RS (Grand Caravan/Town & Country), RG (Caravan/Voyager)
Segment:
Full-size Minivan
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and owners seeking to understand or perform maintenance/repairs.
Competitors:
Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chevrolet Venture, Pontiac Montana, Buick Terraza
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive coverage for DIY repairs, significant cost savings on maintenance and repairs, empowerment of vehicle owners.
Digital Advantage:
Instant download, accessibility, searchability, and potential for easy printing of relevant sections.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service and Repair
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (indicative of a full workshop manual, likely over 1000 pages)
Type:
Digital Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine Overhaul & Rebuilding, Timing Belt Replacement, Serpentine Belt Routings, Firing Orders, Engine Performance, Transmission Removal & Installation, Transmission In Car Servicing, U-Joint AND CV-Joint Service Procedures
Chassis:
Brakes, Front End & Alignment Procedures & Specifications, Suspension
Body And Interior:
Sunroofs
Electrical And Diagnostics:
Wiring Diagrams, Trouble Codes, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts, Computer Diagnostic Codes
HVAC:
Air Conditioning & Capacities
Drivetrain:
Includes service procedures for front-wheel drive axles (CV joints), U-joints, and differential components.
Maintenance:
Factory Maintenance Schedules & Charts, Routine Maintenance
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul & Rebuilding, Transmission Servicing, Brake Servicing Producers, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures, General Repair Procedures
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Troubleshooting & Diagnostics, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts, Engine Performance Analysis
Torque Specifications:
Complete torque specifications for all critical fasteners are provided, essential for proper assembly and preventing component damage.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers diagnostics, repair, rebuild, and factory maintenance)
Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications
Wiring Schematics:
Complete and detailed wiring diagrams are a key feature, essential for diagnosing electrical faults.
Body Repair:
While the primary focus is mechanical and electrical, workshop manuals of this caliber often include sections on body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, and interior trim access, crucial for comprehensive restoration or repair.
Engine Options:
3.3L V6 (EGA), 3.8L V6 (L32), 2.4L 4-cylinder (ED1 - less common in some markets/trims)
Horsepower 3.3L:
Approx. 180-185 hp
Torque 3.3L:
Approx. 200-205 lb-ft
Horsepower 3.8L:
Approx. 200-215 hp
Torque 3.8L:
Approx. 230-245 lb-ft
Injection Type:
Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU Type:
Chrysler's NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar integrated systems
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water (refer to manual for specific Mopar P/N)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 119.3 inches (standard wheelbase), 124.2 inches (long wheelbase)
Length:
Approx. 189.7 inches (standard), 194.6 inches (long)
Curb Weight:
Varies by trim and configuration, typically 4,000 - 4,500 lbs
Towing Capacity:
Optional towing package available, consult vehicle placard for specific rating.
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
4/5 Stars (2005 model year testing)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
4/5 Stars (2005 model year testing)
NHTSA Side Driver:
4/5 Stars (2005 model year testing)
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger:
4/5 Stars (2005 model year testing)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for models with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
All-position three-point seat belts, front seat pretensioners
Audio Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette, optional rear entertainment system (DVD player).
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear park assist sensors on some models.
Power Outlets:
12V auxiliary power outlets
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid:
Recommended interval is often around 60,000-100,000 miles, but inspection is crucial. ATF+4 is known for its longevity, but regular checks are vital. Consult the manual for the precise interval.
Timing Belt:
For 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines, timing chains are used, which are generally maintenance-free for the life of the engine. The manual will detail any checks or recommended replacements if applicable.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 for the 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines (check manual for exact specification for your engine).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 12.7 quarts (3.2 gallons) for 3.3L V6, approx. 14.2 quarts (3.5 gallons) for 3.8L V6. Always verify with manual.
Common Problems:
Transmission issues (especially torque converter clutch shudder/failure), rear axle seal leaks, ABS sensor failures, HVAC blend door actuator failures, oil filter adapter leaks, potential head gasket issues on higher mileage 3.8L engines.
Specific Recall Information:
Manual would be the best source for specific recalls relevant to the 2005 model year and these platforms. Common recalls might involve airbags, fuel systems, or braking components.
Dodge Minivan Legacy:
Dodge pioneered the minivan segment with the original Caravan in 1984, establishing a strong market presence.
Third Generation Ns:
This 2005 model falls within the third generation (1996-2007) of Chrysler's minivans, which saw significant updates in styling, safety, and powertrain over its lifespan. The RS/RG designation refers to the specific chassis codes for this generation.
Assembly Locations:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Family Vehicle Awards:
While specific awards for the 2005 model may not be readily available without deep archival search, the Dodge Caravan/Town & Country/Voyager platform has historically been recognized for its practicality and value in family transportation reviews.
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings for this generation varied, often citing mixed reliability, particularly concerning the powertrain and certain electrical components. The manual's detailed troubleshooting will be crucial for owners.
