Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
1996 Dodge Grand Caravan Problems
Underbody Coolant Leak
Coolant leaks coming from the underbody on vehicles equipped with rear heat/AC are common. The underbody hoses should be inspected as part of regular maintenance. If you drive on roads where salt is prevalent the problem is generally more severe. Some 2005 models are involved in a special service action, no government recall was issued.
Odor from HVAC vents
Some vehicles may develop a musty odor coming from the HVAC system, Dodge has issued a cleaner/disinfectant and a coating for the evaporator designed to inhibit bacterial growth.
Power Windows May Stop Working
One or more power windows may stop working due to a failed window motor or regulator. In some cases these items are replaced as a set. If not, diagnoses will be required to determine which is at fault.
Key May Not Start Car or Release From Ignition
Intermittently, the key may not start the car or release from the ignition. If it is excessively worn, replace the key. If the new key doesn't work, replacing the lock cylinder including tumblers should correct this concern.
Moan/Fog Horn Sound May Be Heard While Turning at Slow Speed
A moaning or fog horn sound may be heard while turning at a slow speed. Installing a finned power steering cooler will help alleviate the problem, but it may be necessary to replace the power steering rack.
Timing Cover Oil/Coolant Leaks are Common
Timing cover oil and coolant leaks are common, the oil and coolant don't normally mix. Our technicians recommend to replace the timing chain and cam sprocket if the timing cover is removed to reseal - or for any other reason.
Airbag Light Due to Failed Clockspring
Illuminated of the airbag warning light may be caused by a lost connection between the clockspring (behind the steering wheel) and the steering wheel-mounted electrical components. Other steering wheel-mounted controls like the horn, speed (cruise) control, or radio controls (if equipped) may be inoperative. There is a lifetime warranty on the clockspring as specified in a combination of recall campaigns. For more information on these recalls please us the following links; 1996-1998 models, please click here». For 1998-2000 models, please click here»
Valve cover gaskets/cam plugs may leak oil
Auxillary Heater Hose Connections May Develop Coolant Leaks
The auxiliary heater hose connections (that are routed to the rear heater under the vehicle) can develop coolant leaks.
Rear brake drum rust
Transmission Problems on AWD Vehicles Due to Mismatched Tires
AWD equipped vehicles can show a wide range of transmission problems, often caused by using the wrong-sized and/or mismatched tires. Be sure that all the tires are the same and that all four are replaced at the same time. Dodge recommends tire rotation every 7,500 miles.
Noisy or Failed Power Door Locks
If the door lock actuators (integrated into the door latch assembly) are noisy and/or not working, the latch should be replaced. For some model years, the actuator for the sliding door is available separately from the latch.
Water Leak Onto the Passenger Side Floor
Hood misalignment, cowl cover misalignment, wiper module drain tube(s), and/or the lower plenum drain hose may cause the HVAC housing to leak water onto the passenger side floor. Diagnoses will be required to confirm the location of a water leak in the front passenger area.
Issues Causing Delayed Transaxle Engagement
A delay in the transaxle engagement (greater than three seconds) may have multiple causes, including a defective pump, defective internal lip seals, valve body components, park-reverse-neutral-drive lever switch, and the output speed sensor. Proper diagnoses will be necessary to determine the exact cause.