Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Dodge Grand Caravan
Dodge Grand Caravan Models:
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.
Noise in Front Suspension Due to Worn Sway Bar Bushings/End Links
Worn sway bar bushings or sway bar end links may cause a rattling or clunking noise from the front suspension during low-speed driving. Though not always the root cause, front struts are often replaced for this condition.
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.
Dodge Grand Caravan Recalls (Recent)
Inadvertent Airbag Deployment
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Condensation from the AC (HVAC) system may leak from the drain grommet onto the occupant restraint control (ORC) module. This can lead to illumination of the airbag warning light and/or inadvertent airbag deployment. An inadvertent airbag deployment could result in injury and/or a vehicle crash. Dealers will replace the affected airbag module to correct this concern. This recall is expected to begin during August of 2011. The Chrysler recall number is L01.
Learn more »Right Side Power Liftgate Pinch Sensor May Fail
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Certain vehicles may have been manufactured with a right side liftgate pinch sensor that does not function properly. As a result, increased force may be required in order to stop the power liftgate during its final closing stages. If the power liftgate were to close on an appendage, personal injury may result. Dealers will replace the right side liftgate pinch sensor to correct this concern. The Chrysler recall number is M17.
Learn more »Engine May Suffer Internal Damage and Stop Running
RepairPal Expert Overview:
667 vehicles equipped with a 3.6L engine are being recalled because a connecting rod bearing can fail due to debris inside the engine block. Connecting rod failure may lead to engine seizure, which can increase the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the engine to correct this concern. The Chrysler recall number is L33.
Learn more »Potential Loss of Steering Ability
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Some vehicles may have been assembled with a missing or incorrectly installed steering column pivot rivet. This could result in a loss of steering capability, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect the rivet and repair the steering column as required. This recall is expected to begin during June 2011. The Chrysler recall number is L23.
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Right Rear Hub and Bearing Assembly May Fail
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The right rear hub and bearing assembly may not have been fully machined. This could result in decreased durability. A failed hub assembly could cause the wheel to separate from the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the right rear hub assembly to correct this concern. The Chrysler recall number is M13.
Learn more »Dodge Grand Caravan Questions and Answers
How much does the Grand Caravan SE weights?
I have a 1991 AWD Dodge Grand Caravan SE. I need to remove the transaxle to replace the Rear Main Oil Seal. This transaxle has a Power Transfer Unit and I don't know how to disconnect it so I can p...
starts great cold then dies when it gets to normal operating temp. it will not die if i keep rpm high or stay above 55 mph. if i go bellow 55 mph it dies. then i haft to wait 20 30 min. then it sta...
I have had the same problem as several others with my 91 Grand Caravan 3.3 V6 for three years - will not start when below 40 degrees. But this year is the worst with temps hovering below freezing a...
Caravan starts and idles fine but engine dies when you put it in gear.
Dodge Grand Caravan Stories
bout this van on may 4 2012 187000 on it the preson said there was nothen wrong so i gave him 1500 for it well needed brake cables both rear and from the pedal needs all the ev. replaces now needs to have the das replaces is there any thinking i for got it will not pas insp. now iam out 1500 plus 1000 in part still will not pas insp. reasion i bout it is my girl friend is in a wheel chair
Bought at 34,000 miles from CarMax after one year of service in a rental fleet. Post-purchase inspection revealed right front axle leak, repaired by Dodge dealer under warranty. At 35,700 miles, MIL and traction control light popped on. Dodge dealer diagnosed bad cam sensor, replaced under warranty. At 35,990, MIL and traction control light back on. Dodge dealer diagnosed need to replace two phasers. Parts (and tools to replace) on order, told car is OK to drive.
purchased new 2002, power sliding door stopped working 2005
door locks 2009, power seat 2011. only 89,000km.
never again.
I have had a great luck with my 2006 grand calavan. 20235.00 miles and no major Needs Radiator. and leeks oil But I love it this is my 3rd dodge calavan. Not sure if I would buy another one only because of the new body style. Looks like it would burn more gas.I get 22 city and 28-32 highway.
We've had our Dodge Grand Caravan for 5 years. Overall, its been a very good vehicle. My only gripes are that it goes through brakes about every other year. For this reason, its a good idea to get them replaced with someone who offers a lifetime warranty. This way, when you have to replace the brakes you just pay for the labor. My other gripe is the radiator just went on it at 77,000 miles. Maybe my expectations are too high but based on the cost of vehicles these days this is something that should last the life of the vehicle. Back in the 80's, it was not uncommon to have to replace the radiator. I have a Nissan with almost 100,000 miles and I still have the same radiator.