Dodge Caravan problems
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Dodge Caravan model years
Common Dodge Caravan problems
The Dodge Caravan, a minivan manufactured from 1984 to 2020, has been a popular choice among drivers.
Transmission problems are the most common complaint among Dodge Caravan owners. These problems can lead to dangerous driving conditions and expensive repairs. Some specific transmission issues include transmission failure, a short in the transaxle control module, and successful forward shift followed by a lockup. These problems can be inconvenient, expensive, and even dangerous in certain conditions.
Engine problems are another issue that has been reported among Dodge Caravan owners. These problems can be just as costly to deal with as transmission issues. Some specific engine problems include complete engine failure, the check engine light constantly turning on while driving, and a flat-out refusal to start.
Interior accessory issues are another common problem among Dodge Caravan owners. These issues can include problems with the power door locks, power windows, and other interior accessories. These problems can be inconvenient and can lead to expensive repairs.
The worst model years for the Dodge Caravan include 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006. These model years are known for having a straight shot of models that went wrong. The dominant reasons for the downfall of these years include transmission issues, engine problems, and interior accessory issues.
When considering a used Dodge Caravan, it is important to be aware of these common problems and to choose a model year that is known for reliability. By doing so, you can reduce the likelihood of encountering these issues and make the smartest investment decision for your life.
What years are bad for the Dodge Caravan?
Dodge Grand Caravan Years To Avoid
- 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. If you're looking for a good minivan, steer clear of the 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. ...
- 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan. Like the 2005 model, the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan has brake issues. ...
- 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan. Many 2011 Dodge Grand Caravans have electrical issues.
Do Dodge Caravans have problems?
Other common problems for various Dodge Caravan model years include the front crankshaft seal popping out, power door lock failure, and engine stalling.
What year did Dodge Caravans have transmission problems?
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (which has since merged with other European brands to form Stellantis) issued a recall in 2016 for more than 1.1 million of their vehicles, including specific models of the 2011-2016 Town & Country and Grand Caravan, because of a defect that could cause the transmission to unexpectedly shift ...
How many miles will a Dodge Caravan last?
Typically, a Dodge Grand Caravan will survive 200,000-300,000 miles with excellent care, which places high mileage for the vehicle around the 200,000-mile mark and good mileage at 150,000 miles. Anything better than these numbers is a testament to your effort.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Caravan years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Caravan cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Caravan model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Caravan model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Caravan years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Caravan car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Caravan , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Caravan vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Caravan model years
A total of 785 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Caravan model years
There were a total of 290 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Caravan model years
There were a total of 874 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Caravan model years
There were a total of 42 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 11704 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Caravan . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Caravan vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Caravan 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-08
- VIN: 1B4GT54L7YB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Twice over the winter my serpentine belt came off as I was driving through a puddle. Nothing deeper than a few inches. It also happened once last year.
Dodge Caravan 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-21
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Dodge Caravan. The contact stated that while his wife was driving 30 MPH, the headrest inadvertently deployed. The headrest struck the contact on the head. The driver sustained no injuries. Medical attention was not sought. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact there was no warranty coverage on the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000. The VIN was not available.
Dodge Caravan 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-21
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-24
- VIN: 1D4GP24R26B
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The vehicle is turning off completely ir dying when driving. This is happening multiple times. I have to coast safely to pull over, can barely steer to get off the road. This happened 3 times on the way to town. This is very dangerous, I was lucky that I was able to pull over. If I was on express way I would have been in a crash.i don't feel safe driving the car with it cutting off intermittently without any warning.
Dodge Caravan 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-29
- VIN: 1D8HN54P08B
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The van lunges the shuts off while driving happens any time any place, just had the crankshaft position sensor following the codes it was showing, and it still does it.
Dodge Caravan 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-26
- VIN: 1B4GP25R51B
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: .
Dodge Caravan 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-27
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-23
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2008 Dodge Caravan. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25 mph, an unknown Toyota Minivan entered his driving route and crashed into the vehicle. The driver sustained injuries to his back, neck, and feet and bruising. Medical attention was provided. The passenger sustained injuries to his neck, back, and shoulder, and medical attention was provided. A police report was filed. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to his resident. The air bags did not deploy. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified about the failure. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000. The VIN was not available.
Dodge Caravan 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-05-18
- VIN: 2B4GP2538YR
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Belt under hood keeps falling off and or breaking car seizes up and locks up almost crashed a few times Also engine problems smokes a lot wipers don’t work windows won’t go down also transmission jerks when driving
Dodge Caravan 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-09
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-10
- VIN: 1D4GP25BX6B
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Twice upon driving tonight, I pressed the pedal to accelerate when the light turned green, and the driver seat unlocked and pulled me backwards. If I wasn't holding on to the steering wheel I would have lost control of the car and been involved in an accident. I was able to press the break with the tip of my toe, manage to put the car in park, readjust the seat and go back into drive. All this while the light had turned green and cars were accelerating behind me. This happened twice tonight!! I am taller than my mom, but she is the primary driver of this vehicle. And this has started happening more often. I am VERY concerned for her safety with this issue driving to work and heading home. And she is a senior driver. You can imagine my concern... We always check the seats when first getting into the car to make sure everything is ok. But now the seat is dislodging without warning ️. Could this possibly be a recall issue we missed? I think it's time to trade in this vehicle for a different one if nothing can be done
Dodge Caravan 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-09
- VIN: 2D4GP44L85R
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Air bag Light stays On, even with seat belt attached, so this means air bag is not working, not sure driver side, or passenger. went to Dodge dealer, they would NOT fix it!!
Dodge Caravan 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-27
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-03
- VIN: 1B4GP45R6TB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 1996 Dodge Caravan. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was a strong gasoline odor inside the vehicle. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle, he opened the hood and noticed a fuel leak on top of the engine. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact made a local dealer aware of the failure; however, the vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000.
Dodge Caravan 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2022-10-25
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Caravan. The contact stated that the headlights appeared hazy and clogged. Additionally, the contact stated that the headlight failed to illuminate and provide proper illumination while driving. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
Dodge Caravan 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-17
- VIN: 1B4GP45R2XB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 1999 Dodge Caravan. The contact stated while driving at approximately 30 MPH, the serpentine belt failed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the serpentine belt needed to be replaced. The serpentine belt was replaced however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was then taken back to the dealer a third time where the serpentine belt was replaced again however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was not notified the third time. Additionally, The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 00V268000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact stated that a friend had jumped his vehicle due to the battery had failed when gasoline started to spill onto the engine. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure multiple times but the contact stated that the service rep disconnected and the call would be redirected. The failure mileage was approximately 202,335.
Dodge Caravan 1997
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-27
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-30
- VIN: 1b4gp45r6vb
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I know it's my solenoid my vehicle won't go out of 2 gear. My name is [XXX].[XXX] my number is [XXX]. I'm not sure if anything can be done being the vehicle is so old but I thought I'd give it a try. Email is [XXX]. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Dodge Caravan 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-18
- VIN: 1b4gp45r2xb
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 1999 Dodge Caravan. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle failed to function as needed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the timing belt needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Dodge Caravan 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-02
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Dodge Caravan. The contact stated that after securing her infant child inside the vehicle, his wife started the vehicle and then exited the vehicle. After closing the door, it was discovered that all the doors had erroneously locked causing the child to become trapped inside the vehicle until her husband was able to open the door using a second key fob. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. Prior to the failure, the contact indicated that the key fob auto start feature had malfunctioned and failed to start the vehicle. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The VIN was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 13,000.
Latest 5 recalls Dodge Caravan
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 213 recalls for different components of the Dodge Caravan.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Caravan 2017
- Report Received Date: 2018-02-08
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017 Dodge Caravan and Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The brake switches on these vehicles may malfunction, keeping the brake lights illuminated and/or allowing the vehicle to be shifted out of the PARK position without the brake pedal being pushed.
- Consequence: Having the brake lamps continuously illuminated or being able to shift the vehicle out of PARK when the brake pedal is not pressed (and the ignition is in the RUN mode) can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake switches, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is U09.
- Model: Dodge Caravan 2006
- Report Received Date: 2010-08-10
- Manufacturer: CURT MFG. INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CURT MFG IS RECALLING CERTAIN CLASS 3 RECEIVER HITCHES, P/N 13347, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON 1997-2007 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY VANS, 1996-2007 DODGE CARAVANS, AND 1996-2004 PLYMOUTH VOYAGER VANS. WHEN THE HITCH IS LOADED TO THE MAXIMUM RATING, THE HITCH MAY FRACTURE OR BREAK AT THE BEND LOCATION WHERE THE MAIN BODY OF THE HITCH MEETS THE HITCH MUFFLER STRAP.
- Consequence: IF THE AREA IN QUESTION FRACTURES OR BREAKS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN UNSTABLE DRIVING CONDITION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: CURT MFG WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE THE HITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING AUGUST 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CURT MFG AT 1-715-831-8713.
- Model: Dodge Caravan 2007
- Report Received Date: 2010-08-10
- Manufacturer: CURT MFG. INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CURT MFG IS RECALLING CERTAIN CLASS 3 RECEIVER HITCHES, P/N 13347, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON 1997-2007 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY VANS, 1996-2007 DODGE CARAVANS, AND 1996-2004 PLYMOUTH VOYAGER VANS. WHEN THE HITCH IS LOADED TO THE MAXIMUM RATING, THE HITCH MAY FRACTURE OR BREAK AT THE BEND LOCATION WHERE THE MAIN BODY OF THE HITCH MEETS THE HITCH MUFFLER STRAP.
- Consequence: IF THE AREA IN QUESTION FRACTURES OR BREAKS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN UNSTABLE DRIVING CONDITION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: CURT MFG WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE THE HITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING AUGUST 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CURT MFG AT 1-715-831-8713.
- Model: Dodge Caravan 2004
- Report Received Date: 2010-08-10
- Manufacturer: CURT MFG. INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CURT MFG IS RECALLING CERTAIN CLASS 3 RECEIVER HITCHES, P/N 13347, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON 1997-2007 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY VANS, 1996-2007 DODGE CARAVANS, AND 1996-2004 PLYMOUTH VOYAGER VANS. WHEN THE HITCH IS LOADED TO THE MAXIMUM RATING, THE HITCH MAY FRACTURE OR BREAK AT THE BEND LOCATION WHERE THE MAIN BODY OF THE HITCH MEETS THE HITCH MUFFLER STRAP.
- Consequence: IF THE AREA IN QUESTION FRACTURES OR BREAKS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN UNSTABLE DRIVING CONDITION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: CURT MFG WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE THE HITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING AUGUST 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CURT MFG AT 1-715-831-8713.
- Model: Dodge Caravan 2001
- Report Received Date: 2010-08-10
- Manufacturer: CURT MFG. INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CURT MFG IS RECALLING CERTAIN CLASS 3 RECEIVER HITCHES, P/N 13347, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON 1997-2007 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY VANS, 1996-2007 DODGE CARAVANS, AND 1996-2004 PLYMOUTH VOYAGER VANS. WHEN THE HITCH IS LOADED TO THE MAXIMUM RATING, THE HITCH MAY FRACTURE OR BREAK AT THE BEND LOCATION WHERE THE MAIN BODY OF THE HITCH MEETS THE HITCH MUFFLER STRAP.
- Consequence: IF THE AREA IN QUESTION FRACTURES OR BREAKS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN UNSTABLE DRIVING CONDITION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: CURT MFG WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE THE HITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING AUGUST 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CURT MFG AT 1-715-831-8713.
Latest negative Dodge Caravan car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Caravan car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1999
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I bought my car a little over 2.5 years ago with 56,000 miles on it, and it's still going strong with 142,000 miles! The only issue I've had was the AC fan motor going out about 3,000 miles ago, but it was an easy and inexpensive fix. I've only had to change the front brakes twice, which is pretty good considering how much I drive.
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Vehicle year: 2002
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your second caravan! It sounds like it handles really well and is comfortable to ride in. I'm also happy to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your previous caravan, with no need for repairs. Thank you for the recommendation about the 6 cylinder model, I'm sure it will be helpful for those considering a purchase. Overall, it sounds like you're really satisfied with your caravan and I hope it continues to serve you well!
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Vehicle year: 2007
This van has a 3.3L engine and it responds very well. I bought it with 36,000 miles and, other than a hard downshift from 2nd to 1st gear when making a full stop, I haven't had any problems. I took it to the dealer and they fixed the issue by re-flashing the computer software. My family and I love our van, especially my two kids who enjoy having more than enough space.
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Vehicle year: 1996
I purchased this vehicle in 1998 with 79,000 miles and have owned it for over 12 years. Throughout this time, I have only experienced routine maintenance problems. During the winter months, I put snow tires on the front and have had no issues handling up to 8 inches of snow. The 3.8 L V6 engine provides plenty of power when needed to pass cars on the highway. I love the comfortable cruising experience with the 4 captains seats. Recently, I completed a round trip from MA to NC with no complaints and averaged 23 mpg. When used around town, I remove the 3rd row seat for extra cargo storage and can even fit up to 10-foot-long pieces of lumber inside if needed. I also enjoy the trip computer with the built-in compass. Overall, this vehicle has been a reliable and versatile choice for my needs.
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Vehicle year: 2001
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my family vehicle. It's honestly the best one I've ever owned! I bought it brand new from the dealership back in 2001 and it's been a reliable companion ever since. I drive 400 miles one way to visit my family several times a year and it used to be such a long, tiring and cramped journey when I drove a sedan. But with my trusty minivan, it's now a comfortable and pleasant ride! I'm happy to say that I haven't had any major problems with the powertrain either. :)
Are you having problems with your Dodge Caravan?
Lorenz Bartell 2025-04-19
Vehicle year: 1999
One of the challenges with fixing problems on this car is that they don't seem to stay fixed. For instance, you may replace a sensor, but after 30,000 miles, it goes bad again. Similarly, fixing a leak may only result in spots on the driveway again in a short time. It's hard to tell whether the dealer service is bad or if they're using the same low-quality parts that the car came with. If you're in the market for a minivan, it's best to avoid used Chrysler models as they can be a headache that won't go away. However, if you're willing to spend a bit more, a new Chrysler minivan can be a great option, especially since you can get a well-equipped one for around $20,000. While Toyota and Honda models may start at $25,000 and go up from there, it's worth biting the bullet and spending the extra money for a reliable vehicle.
Thaddeus Kilback 2025-04-15
Vehicle year: 2006
I have owned my van, affectionately named 'Bonnie', for 5 years now. The best thing about this vehicle is its value. When I bought it new, Chrysler was practically giving them away, so I thought it would be perfect for our family's needs, especially for the kids' sports activities. As noted on Edmunds reliability rating, we did have to replace the water pump at 45k and the rack and pinion steering within the first year of ownership. However, aside from regular maintenance, that's about it. Currently, the odometer reads 71k. I will admit that it's not the most fuel-efficient vehicle, with an estimated 21mpg all around, and only slightly better on the highway, nowhere near the advertised 26 mpg. Nevertheless, I find the ride to be very comfortable. It's also worth noting that this van is American-made in Fenton, MO, which is a rarity these days.
Evert Fadel 2025-04-15
Vehicle year: 1998
I love my Caravan! It's such a versatile car and I've found it to be perfect for everything from hauling stuff home from Home Depot to taking the dogs to the park. I've had it for 4 years now and have had no major problems, just routine maintenance. I would definitely buy another one!
Maximilian O'Hara 2025-04-13
Vehicle year: 1997
The Van is quite spacious, even though it is not the grand caravan. Although the controls were a bit confusing at first, they became easier to use over time. Unfortunately, I had to replace the transmission and differential at 50,000 miles, which was quite frustrating. However, after the repairs, the van ran smoothly until it unexpectedly died 200 miles away from home at a rest area a few days later. Despite this, we take good care of the van and do not drive it too hard. The passenger sliding door tends to come out of alignment frequently and can be a bit difficult to shut unless you push down on it. Additionally, the front passenger side door panel is a bit loose and cracked. Overall, the van has its quirks, but it still serves us well.
Brent Hirthe 2025-04-12
Vehicle year: 1998
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car. Like any other vehicle, it needs to be serviced regularly to keep it running smoothly. I bought the car used in 2006 because my family needed a car at the time. Overall, the experience has been fairly decent, but there were some bumps in the road. After the final note was paid, I had to replace several parts such as the alternator, water and fuel pumps, brake booster, thermostat, radiator, relay fan, and more within 6-8 months. However, I'm grateful that I had a means of transportation during that time. I've learned my lesson and will avoid buying a Dodge in the future. Thank you for listening to my story!