1996 Dodge Grand Caravan Problems
RepairPal has identified the most common problems with the 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan as reported by actual vehicle owners. We'll tell you what the problem is and what it'll take to fix it.
Refine by vehicleThere have been reports of premature head gasket failure; an updated gasket design is available to correct this problem.
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.
The auxiliary heater hose connections (that are routed to the rear heater under the vehicle) can develop coolant leaks.
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.
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.
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.
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.
When braking during low speeds (under 10 MPH), the brake pedal may vibrate and the ABS hydraulic unit may cause a rumbling noise. This is caused by a momentary loss of the wheel speed signal to the ABS controller. Adjusting or replacing the wheel speed sensor will commonly fix this problem.
The door ajar light may illuminate and chime during driving, even when the sliding door is closed. Often, this is caused by a faulty switch in the C-pillar; a revised switch is available.
The rear lift gate support (prop) attaching bolts may break, causing the lift gate to fall unexpectedly. Thorough inspection of the bolts is required; if the support washers are loose, the supports need to be replaced.
A malfunctioning switch in the steering column can cause the front windshield wipers to self-activate or not turn off. A failed windshield switch will require replacement.
Problems with the wiper parking circuit or wiper motor can cause the windshield wipers not to stop in the proper position.
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»
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.
A momentary loss of power steering can occur when the AC or defroster is on during high humidity conditions. This is due to condensation from the evaporator draining onto the serpentine belt. To fix the problem, a spout on the AC evaporator drain and a new serpentine belt should be installed. Some vehicles may need a revised serpentine belt tensioner.