1997 Dodge Caravan problems
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Common 1997 Dodge Caravan problems
The 1997 Dodge Caravan, also known as the Grand Caravan, is a popular choice for families due to its spacious interior and versatile seating options. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems based on complaints from owners.
One of the most reported issues is related to the power window motor and switches, which may fail. This problem can affect the smooth operation of the windows, causing inconvenience and potentially requiring costly repairs.
The 1997 Dodge Caravan has also had a history of recalls, with 15 recalls issued for this model year alone. These recalls cover a wide range of components, including seat belts, electrical systems, fuel systems, and airbags. Some of these recalls may require replacement of certain parts or even entire systems, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Another common problem reported by owners is related to the clockspring assembly, which may have been wound incorrectly during the vehicle assembly process. This issue can affect the functionality of the frontal airbags, potentially compromising the safety of the vehicle.
Additionally, some trim material can loosen and drop into the rear outboard seat belt assembly, causing the seat belt to become inoperative. This issue can be particularly concerning for families with young children, as it can affect the safety of the vehicle in the event of a crash.
Other common problems reported by owners include issues with the brakes, electrical system, suspension, transmission, steering, and air conditioning/heat. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to major safety concerns, and may require costly repairs or replacement of certain components.
It is important for owners of the 1997 Dodge Caravan to stay up-to-date on recalls and regularly maintain their vehicle to prevent potential issues. It is also recommended to address any concerns or issues as soon as possible to prevent them from becoming more serious and costly to repair.
What is the most common problem with the Dodge Caravan?
Some of the top Dodge Grand Caravan problems include shifting issues, a faulty Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), and engine troubles.
What are the best years for the Dodge Caravan?
There are a couple of excellent choices for the Dodge Caravan. We recommend the 2007, 2010, 2019, and 2020 selections. We hope this information is helpful! It might feel overwhelming to select the best year for the Caravan, so our knowledge should make the process much easier.
Are Dodge Caravans known for transmission problems?
Dodge Grand Caravan Common Problems
A common problem customers experience with their Dodge Grand Caravan is delayed transmission engagement and hard shifting when driving.
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.
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 is the most reliable Dodge Caravan?
The Dodge Grand Caravans with the best reliability are the 2020, 2007, and 2010 models. Some of the top Dodge Grand Caravan problems include shifting issues, a faulty Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), and engine troubles.
Is used Dodge Caravan a good car?
Although there are some troublesome years for the Dodge Caravan, it's generally a dependable vehicle option if you're interested in a minivan. Some of the newest versions even prove more reliable as they age, a massive bonus for those behind the wheel.
Do Dodge Caravans last long?
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.
1997 Dodge Caravan car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Caravan problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Dodge Caravan vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Dodge Caravan
The NHTSA has received 787 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Dodge Caravan. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Dodge Caravan vehicles.
2022-07-30
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-27
- 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).
2016-03-11
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE ENGINE SHUT DOWN WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND RESTARTED AFTER A FEW MINUTES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS DUE TO ELECTRICAL FAILURES WITHIN THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 250,000.
2014-09-22
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE RADIO STOP WORKING AND THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS ACTIVATED INDEPENDENTLY. IN ADDITION, THE CHECK ENGINE, AIR BAG AND BATTERY WARNING LIGHTS WOULD ILLUMINATE AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2014-03-24
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-13
- VIN: 2B4FP2532VR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH OVER A PUDDLE OF WATER, THERE WAS A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST. THE FAILURE ONLY OCCURRED WHENEVER THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING OVER A PUDDLE OF WATER, CAUSING THE SERPENTINE BELT TO BECOME DETACHED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC THREE DIFFERENT TIMES WHERE THE SERPENTINE BELT WAS RECONNECTED EACH TIME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,000.
2014-03-23
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-23
- VIN: 1B4GP45R6VB
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WHEN THE VEHICLE IS ON, THE KEY CAN BE REMOVED AND THE ENGINE REMAINS ON. *TR
2013-08-24
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-23
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2B4FP25B2VR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MY WIFE PARK THE VAN INSIDE THE GARAGE, TURN OFF THE RADIO, ENGINE AND LIGHTS. SHE OPEN THE DRIVERS DOOR AND SEE FLAMES AND SMOKE COMING BY THE PARKING BRAKE HANDLER. AND ALL THE LIGHTS ON THE VAN WERE ON. SHE REMOVE THE KIDS FROM THE VAN AND MY SON CALL 911.POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND EXTINGUISH THE FIRE, REMOVE THE VAN FROM THE GARAGE AND CHECK IT AND FOUND POSSIBLE ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTION .CHECK THE VAN TODAY 8-24 2013 AND FOUND THAT THE FIRE START AT THE HEAD LIGHT SWITCH. DIM SWITCH OK AND MIRROR SWITCH OK. THE FIRE DAMAGE THE LEFT SIDE OF THE DASHBOARD, WINDSHIELD, SUN VISOR AND CELLING. I HAVE THIS VAN SINCE NEW, NEVER HAVE A PROBLEM BEFORE. AND NEVER SEE A PROBLEM LIKE THIS. *TR
2013-08-01
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1B4GP44R8VB
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED INADVERTENTLY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BRUISES AND SCRATCHES TO THE RIGHT ARM WHEN THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 39,000.
2012-08-04
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-30
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2B4GP4532VR
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE PARKED AT A STOP SIGN THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SMOKE. A FIRE THEN APPEARED COMING OUT OF THE HOOD. 911 WAS CALLED AND FIRE SQUAD CAME. WITHIN 5 MINUTES THE ENTIRE FRONT OF THE CAR WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. FIRE EXTINGUISHERS WERE USED BUT IT COULD NOT PUT OUT THE FIRE. FIRE TRUCK CAME AND BY THIS TIME THE ENTIRE VEHICLE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. FIREMEN USED WATER TO FINALLY CONTROL THE FIRE. FIRE RESTARTED AND HAD TO BE PUT OUT AGAIN AND EVENTUALLY THE FIRE WAS COMPLETELY EXTINGUISHED. IT WAS PERHAPS ONLY 10 MINUTES FOR THE FIRE TO START, SPREAD, AND COMPLETELY AND UTTERLY DESTROY THE VAN. BECAUSE OF THE INTENSITY, QUICKNESS OF THE FIRE, AND THE DIFFICULTY IN PUTTING IT OUT, IT APPEARS TO BE A FUEL RELATED FIRE. I READ THAT DODGE HAD FUEL LINE "O" RINGS THAT COULD BE DEFECTIVE AND THAT COULD HAVE BEEN THE CAUSE. I CALLED DODGE HEADQUARTERS AND EXPLAINED THE EVENT. I AM STILL WAITING FOR A CALL BACK. *TR
2012-07-11
STEERING,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-09
- VIN: 1B4GP44R5VB
- Components: STEERING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE POWER STEERING FAILED AND THE WINDOWS BECAME FOGGY, CAUSING VERY DANGEROUS CONDITIONS FOR THE DRIVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PERSONAL MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSIS AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SERPENTINE BELT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED; HOWEVER THE CONTACT HAD JUST REPLACED THE SERPINITINE BELT 2,000 MILES PRIOR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 114,000.
2012-04-23
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-22
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN . THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 3 MPH AND ATTEMPTING A TURN, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE ROD FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NEITHER DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED.THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 200,000.
2012-02-25
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-07
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B4GP45R0VB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WAS TRAVELING HOME FROM WORK, RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC HEAVY BUT MOVING CLOSE TO POSTED SPEED LIMIT (65 MPH). TRAFFIC SLOWED IN FRONT OF ME AND I ALSO SLOWED, THEN TRAFFIC CAME TO A SUDDEN STOP, SO I ALSO INCREASED PRESSURE ON THE BRAKES. WHILE DOING SO, THE PEDAL WENT RIGHT TO THE FLOOR, I LOST BRAKE PRESSURE AND STARTED MOVING TO THE LEFT TO AVOID A COLLISION BUT WAS NOT ABLE TO. MY VAN HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. I HAD TIME AND SPACE TO STOP AND NOT COLLIDE IF THE BRAKES WOULD NOT HAVE FAILED, BUT WHEN I LOST BRAKES, THE DISTANCE BETWEEN MY VAN AND THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME CLOSED TOO QUICKLY FOR ME TO AVOID THE COLLISION. THE VAN WAS DAMAGED ON THE FRONT RIGHT (PASSENGER) SIDE, BUT WHEN I GOT THE VAN BACK HOME OFF OF THE TOW TRUCK, I SAW BRAKE FLUID ON MY DRIVEWAY FROM THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE VAN. A FEW DAYS LATER I GOT THE VAN ON JACKSTANDS TO LOCATE THE FLUID LEAK AND FOUND THE PROBLEM TO BE TERRIBLY CORRODED BRAKE LINES RUNNING ALONG THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE IN THE AREA OF THE DRIVER'S DOOR. THERE IS SOME FLEXIBLE STEEL BRAIDED LINE AND WHERE IT JOINS THE RIGID LINE, THERE IS A SO MUCH CORROSION THAT THE LINE IS LITERALLY RUSTING AWAY. SEARCHING ON THE INTERNET I HAVE FOUND THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH CHRYSLER MINIVANS FROM 1997 TO 2000. I FEEL IT IS A MANUFACTURING PROBLEM. I AM 55 YEARS OLD AND HAVE WORKED ON CARS ALL OF MY ADULT LIFE AND HAVE NEVER SEEN BRAKE LINES CORRODE LIKE THIS. AS THERE ARE MANY VANS LIKE MINE ON THE ROAD, I WONDER HOW MANY OTHER VANS HAVE BRAKE LINES THAT ARE IN SIMILAR CONDITION AS THE ONES ON THIS VAN? IT WAS SIMPLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE THESE LINES WOULD FAIL. NOW WHEN I DRIVE IN TRAFFIC AND SEE A CHRYSLER PRODUCT VAN I ASK MYSELF "DOES THAT DRIVER KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THE BRAKE LINE PROBLEM?" I THINK PEOPLE NEED TO BE INFORMED! THERE ARE SO MANY POTENTIAL ACCIDENTS JUST WAITING TO HAPPEN! CHRYSLER NEEDS TO DO SOMETHING! *TR
2011-11-23
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-11-23
- VIN: 1B4GP45R6VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH THE VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING, THE ENGINE OVERHEATED, THE ALTERNATOR AND AIR CONDITIONER FAILED. THE VEHICLE MERGED ONTO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE ENGINE AND NOTICED THE SERPENTINE BELT DETACHED FROM THE PULLEY AND WAS DRAGGING ON THE GROUND. THE CONTACT CONNECTED THE BELT BACK ONTO THE PULLEY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND STATED THERE WAS NO FAILURE; HOWEVER, THE PULLEY COULD BE REPLACED FOR $1000. THIS FAILURE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 210,000.
2011-10-10
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-04
- VIN: 1B4GH54L7SX
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE ABS SYSTEM ACTIVATED EVEN THOUGH THE PAVEMENT WAS DRY. THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE ABS SYSTEM PREVENTED THE BRAKES FROM FUNCTIONING AT ALL AND I ROLLED THROUGH AN INTERSECTION EVEN THOUGH I WAS PRESSING FIRMLY ON THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE ABS WARNING INDICATOR EVENTUALLY ILLUMINATES INDICATING SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH THE SYSTEM HOWEVER, I DON'T THINK IT SHOULD HAVE FAILED IN SUCH A WAY AS TO PREVENT ANY BRAKING ACTION FROM OCCURRING. THIS PROBLEM HAS ONLY HAPPENED ONCE BUT I WAS VERY LUCKY THAT NO OTHER VEHICLES WERE TRAVELING THROUGH THAT INTERSECTION AT THE SAME TIME THAT THIS PROBLEM CAUSED ME TO ROLL THROUGH IT WHILE THE STOPLIGHT WAS RED FOR ME. *KB
2011-08-15
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-02
- VIN: 1B4GP54L6VB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL LEAK IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FROM DEGRADING O-RINGS ON FUEL INJECTION RAIL. FUEL DRIPPING ONTO ENGINE FROM FUEL RAIL CLAMP O-RINGS REPLACED PREVIOUSLY ON NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 00V268000 IN 2002. CONTACTED DAIMLER CHRYSLER AT 800-853-1403 REQUESTING DANGEROUS REPEAT PROBLEM WITH FUEL O-RINGS BE REPAIRED BY DEALER AT NO-CHARGE.MANUFACTURER DECLINED FREE REPAIR REQUEST STATING MY 1997 VEHICLE HAS TOO MANY MILES.
2011-06-28
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-11
- VIN: 1B4GP44R0VB
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH THE HEADLIGHTS MALFUNCTIONED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WHO CONFIRMED THAT THE BODY CONTROL MODULE WAS FAULTY AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT DID NOT HAVE THE BODY CONTROL MODULE REPLACED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER REGARDING THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AT NIGHT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 164,000.
2011-04-20
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-19
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT NOTICED STEAM COMING FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE AS THE RADIATOR OVERHEATED AND EXPLODED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THE CONTACT WAS AWAITING DIAGNOSIS. THE CONTACT DID NOT INFORM THE MANUFACTURER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
2010-10-29
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-10
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2B4GP4536VR
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE SUDDENLY CAUGHT FIRE WHILE HE WAS DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH. THE CONTACT CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE AND A FIRE REPORT WAS AVAILABLE. THE ENTIRE ENGINE COMPARTMENT WAS BURNED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO STATED THAT THEY WOULD SEND SOMEONE TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. THE LOCAL DEALER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL 00V268000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE: FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM). THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 170,000.
2010-09-29
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: 2B4GP45R2VR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH IN RAINY WEATHER, THE FAN BELT SUDDENLY FAILED, CAUSING THE STEERING AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM TO ALSO FAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAN BELT WAS NOT IN A LOCATION AROUND THE FAN UNIT TO HOLD IT IN PLACE AND WOULD FAIL AGAIN IF WET. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 31,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 33,000.
2010-08-16
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-15
- VIN: 2B4GP45B4VR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. STARTING AT ABOUT 30,000 MILES, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WOULD MYSTERIOUSLY COME ON, MAKE 4 TO 5 WIPES AND TURN OFF. WE MADE JOKES ABOUT THE GHOST RIDING WITH US. IT WAS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM, HAPPENING ABOUT EVERY MONTH OR SIX WEEKS. IT COULD NOT BE REPRODUCED ON DEMAND. FINALLY, AT 72,000, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS REFUSED TO TURN ON FROM THE STALK--EXCEPT WHEN THE WINDSHIELD WAS GIVEN A "SQUIRT" OF FLUID BY LIFTING UP ON THE TURN SIGNAL/WIPER CONTROL STALK, THEN THEY GAVE THE REGULAR THREE WIPES AND TURNED OFF. THE DEALER REPLACED THE ENTIRE SWITCH UNIT. IT DID NOT HELP. THEN THEY CALLED CHRYSLER'S "SUPER TECH 800 NUMBER" AND NO HELP WAS PROVIDED. SINCE THE CAR COULD NOT BE INSPECTED WITH NO WIPER FUNCTION, THE ENTIRE BODY CONTROL MODULE WAS REPLACED (COMPUTER) WHICH FIXED THE PROBLEM. COST: $741.00. SINCE ALL OF THE MECHANICAL PARTS OF THE WIPER SYSTEM WORKED, IF THIS HAPPENED AGAIN, I DETERMINED I WOULD SIMPLY PULL A HOT WIRE THROUGH THE DASH TO AN "ON-OFF" SWITCH AND CONNECT THAT UP TO THE WIPER FEED--ESTIMATED COST OF LESS THAN $10.00. *TR
2010-07-09
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-08
- VIN: 1B4GP54L8VB
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH IN RAINY WEATHER CONDITIONS, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND WOULD NOT STEER TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT AND THEN IT THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE SERPENTINE BELT CAME OFF. THE BELT WAS PUT REPLACED AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THIS WAS A KNOWN FAILURE FOR HIS YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL VEHICLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 150,000.
2010-06-21
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2B4FP2532VR
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC STOP THERE WAS AN UNUSUAL NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. SHE THEN NOTICED THERE WERE FLAMES COMING FROM THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE FENDER. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN UNDISCLOSED LOCATION. THE CONTACT BELIEVED NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 00V268000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE: FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM) WAS THE CAUSE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER ADVISED HER THAT HER VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 175,000.
2010-03-02
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-19
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2B4FP253XVR
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: 1997 DODGE CARAVAN GAS ON THE INSIDE OF THE CAR*CW THE CONSUMER STATED AFTER HE FILLED THE GAS TANK, IT QUICKLY RAN OUT. AS THE CONSUMER WAS GOING BACK TO THE GAS STATION, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE SAFELY. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME TO PUT THE FIRE OUT. THE CONSUMER WAS THEN INFORMED THE FUEL RAIL HAD BURST AND CAME LOOSE WHICH CAUSED FUEL TO LEAK, WHICH CAUSED THE FIRE. *JB
2009-12-29
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-07
- VIN: 2B4GP45R7VR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: VEHICLE METAL BRAKE LINES RUSTED TO THE POINT OF FAILURE. ON A 1997 DODGE CARAVAN, THE METAL TUBE BRAKE LINES LEADING FROM THE DISTRIBUTION BOX TO THE REAR BRAKE WHEEL CYLINDERS RUSTED TO THE POINT THAT THEY FAILED UNDER USE. VEHICLE BRAKE LINES HAD TO BE REPLACED TOTALLY, AND THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. *TR
2009-12-27
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: BELT SLIPPED OFF MY 1997 DODGE CARAVAN.... ALSO WHEN I GOT HOME FELL FROM TOW TRUCK BECAUSE OF ICE !~! BUT WOULD NOT OF HAPPEN IF A RECALL WOULD HAVE HAPPENED ALREADY LOOK AT ALL THOSE COMPLAINTS OUT THERE.. *TR
2009-10-18
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-16
- VIN: 1B4GP45R6VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SERPENTINE BELT SLIPS OFF PULLEY SYSTEM WHEN DRIVEN THROUGH STANDING WATER IN ROAD,THIS DISABLES POWER STEERING,COOLING AND BATTERY,WHICH IN TURN DISABLES LIGHTS,POWER WINDOWS AND FUEL PUMP. I HAVE ENCOUNTERED THIS PROBLEM SEVERAL TIMES WITH BOTH MY 97 AND 98 CARAVAN. BELT IS DRIED OFF AND RE ATTACHED. *TR
1997 Dodge Caravan recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 15 recalls for different components of the 1997 Dodge Caravan.
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.
2009-05-11
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2006-03-13
- Manufacturer: BRAKE PARTS, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT BRAKE CYLINDERS FOR CERTAIN FORD, DAIMLERCHRYSLER, AND JEEP PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE BRAKE CYLINDERS WERE SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF NAPA, RAYBESTOS, AIMCO, AC DELCO, CARQUEST, BENDIX, AND WAGNER. ONLY PRODUCTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 27, 2005 THROUGH JANUARY 17, 2006 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.
- Consequence: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN LEAD TO A DECREASE IN BRAKE LINE PRESSURE AND AN INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE, WHICH CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: AFFINIA (BRAKE PARTS, INC.) WILL REPLACE THE SUBJECT BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AFFINA GROUP CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-323-0354.
2006-03-13
- Manufacturer: ANZO USA, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.
2003-10-24
- Manufacturer: WIX FILTERATION PRODUCTS DIVISION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, MODELS WIX FILTER PART NUMBERS 33576, 33577, 33734; NAPA FILTER PART NUMBERS 3576, 3577, 3734; AND CARQUEST FILTER PART NUMBERS 86576, 86577, 86734 USED ON 1996-2000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY, DODGE CARAVAN, AND PLYMOUTH VOYAGER VEHICLES, CAN CAUSE THE FUEL LINES TO LEAK.
- Consequence: A POSSIBLE FIRE CAN OCCUR IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE.
- Remedy: WIX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. NOTE: THIS DOES NOT INVOLVE ANY PRODUCTS MANUFACTURED BY THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP. NOR ANY DAILMERCHRYSLER DEALERS. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING NOVEMBER 2003. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT WIX AT 704-864-6711.
2003-09-26
- Manufacturer: INTERCONTINENTAL AUTO PARTS
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 17, 2002, AND JANUARY 20, 2003, SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES LISTED ABOVE. THE FILTER MAY EXPERIENCE MALFUNCTION OF THE QUICK CONNECTOR EITHER BLOCKING FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE OR CAUSING A FUEL LEAK. THIS DOES NOT INVOLVE ANY PRODUCTS MANUFACTURED BY THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP. NOR ANY DAILMERCHRYSLER DEALERS.
- Consequence: IF THIS CONDITION OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, THE ENGINE COULD STALL. ALSO, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, THE FUEL LEAK COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy: AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS FOR 1995-2000 SHORT WHEELBASE CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY, PLYMOUTH VOYAGER AND DODGE CARAVAN MINIVANS PART NO. 18232 AND DATE CODE 0237, 0249, OR 0252. REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS FOR 1995-2000 LONG WHEELBASE CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY, PLYMOUTH VOYAGER AND DODGE CARAVAN MINIVANS PART NO. 18230 AND DATE CODE 0237, 0249, 0251, OR 0304. REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS FOR 2001-2004 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY, PLYMOUTH VOYAGER AND DODGE CARAVAN MINIVANS PART NO. 28871 AND DATE CODE 0249. THESE PART NUMBERS AND DATE CODES APPEAR ON THE GOLD-TONE FILTER. DISTRIBUTORS AND RETAILERS WILL BE NOTIFIED TO ISOLATE AND RETURN AFFECTED INVENTORY. OWNERS WHO HAVE HAD THE FUEL FILTER SERVICED ON ONE OF THE APPLICABLE VEHICLES AFTER SEPTEMBER 17, 2002 SHOULD RETURN THEIR VEHICLE TO THE SERVICE FACILITY TO BE INSPECTED TO SEE IF THE FUEL FILTER THAT WAS INSTALLED IS ONE THAT IS INVOLVED IN THE RECALL. IF SO, THE OWNERS SHOULD HAVE THE FILTER REPLACED. TO RECEIVE A FULL REFUND PLUS THE COST OF POSTAGE, OWNERS SHOULD CUT THE CONNECTORS FROM THE HOSES, RINSE THE CONNECTORS AND RETURN THEM TOGETHER WITH PROOF OF THE AMOUNT PAID FOR THE REPLACEMENT PART AND LABOR, TO INTERCONTINENTAL AT INTERCONTINENTAL AUTO PARTS, INC., P.O. BOX 861, MAHWAH, NJ 07430, ATTN: FUEL FILTER RECALL. INTERCONTINENTAL WILL MAIL A FULL REFUND TO THE OWNER.
2002-11-07
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINI VANS, THE CLOCKSPRING ASSEMBLY MAY HAVE BEEN WOUND INCORRECTLY DURING THE VEHICLE ASSEMBLY PROCESS.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION WILL MANIFEST ITSELF THROUGH ILLUMINATION OF THE AIR BAG WARNING LAMP, AND COULD EVENTUALLY RESULT IN A DRIVER'S AIR BAG OPEN CIRCUIT, IF THE PART IS NOT REPLACED IN A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CLOCKSPRING ASSEMBLY ON ALL VEHICLES WITH 70,000 MILES OR LESS. AN EXTENDED LIFETIME WARRANTY WILL ALSO BE PLACED ON THIS COMPONENT FOR ALL AFFECTED VEHICLES, REGARDLESS OF MILEAGE. DAIMLERCHRYSLER WILL ALSO REIMBURSE OWNERS WHO HAVE PAID TO HAVE THE CLOCKSPRING REPLACED ON THEIR VEHICLES. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 18, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
2002-03-08
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS, SOME TRIM MATERIAL CAN LOOSEN AND DROP INTO THE REAR OUTBOARD SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY, CAUSING THE SEAT BELT TO BECOME INOPERATIVE.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TRIM WITH FOAM BLOCKERS AND INSPECT AND REPLACE ALL 3RD ROW SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 3, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
2000-09-13
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS BUILT WITH 3.3L AND 3.8L ENGINES HAVE FUEL RAILS WITH NITROLE RUBBER O-RING SEALS THAT CAN DEGRADE OVER TIME. FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE UNDERHOOD FUEL INJECTION FUEL RAIL COULD RESULT, INCREASING THE LIKELIHOOD OF A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SEAL ON THE VEHICLE FUEL RAILS TO PREVENT EXTERNAL LEAKAGE OF FUEL FROM THE FUEL RAIL CROSSOVER TUBE, SHOULD THE EXISTING O-RINGS CONTINUE TO DEGRADE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JANUARY 25, 2002. DUE TO THE LARGE QUANTITY OF VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THIS CAMPAIGN, THE OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BE PHASED OVER THE NEXT SEVERAL MONTHS. HOWEVER, IF A VEHICLE IS LEAKING FUEL FROM THE O-RINGS, THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE TAKEN INTO A DEALER TO HAVE THIS REPAIRED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
1998-08-06
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH INTEGRATED CHILD SEATS. THE SHOULDER HARNESS RESTRAINT ON THE INTEGRATED CHILD SEAT CAN BECOME DIFFICULT TO EXTRACT WHEN THE SAFETY BELT LATCH PLATE BECOMES CONTAMINATED.
- Consequence: THIS CAN CAUSE DIFFICULTY IN RELEASING A CHILD FROM THE RESTRAINT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL CLEAN THE LATCH MECHANISM. AN EXTENDER WILL BE ADDED TO THE EMERGENCY RELEASE ANCHOR FOR THE CHILD SEAT SAFETY BELTS SO THAT THE RELEASE CLIPS ARE MORE VISIBLE AND ACCESSIBLE TO THE OPERATOR IN THE EVENT THAT THE RETRACTOR MECHANISM CAN NOT BE UNLOCKED. IN ADDITION, AN INSTRUCTIONAL OWNER'S MANUAL SUPPLEMENT CARD WILL BE PROVIDED.
1997-11-13
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: TIRES:BEAD
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER MINIVANS EQUIPPED WITH P215/65R15 GOODYEAR CONQUEST TIRES MOUNTED ON STEEL WHEEL. THE TIRES CAN EXPERIENCE A SUDDEN AIR PRESSURE LOSS WITHOUT WARNING.
- Consequence: SUDDEN TIRE FAILURE COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF DRIVER CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE TIRES THAT WERE MOUNTED ON STEEL WHEELS.
1997-04-28
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: WHEELS:RIM
- Summary: THE STEEL ROAD WHEELS WERE DAMAGED BY THE EQUIPMENT USED TO MATCH MOUNT THE WHEEL TO THE TIRE.
- Consequence: A SCORE MARK WAS MADE ON THE WHEEL, AFFECTING THE DURABILITY OF THE WHEEL.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE ALL ROAD WHEELS (AND FULL SIZE SPARE TIRES) WITH NEW WHEELS.
1996-10-29
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: THE MASTER CYLINDER REAR SEAL, BETWEEN THE HYDRAULIC FLUID AND THE VACUUM RESERVOIR, MAY NOT SEAL ADEQUATELY ALLOWING HYDRAULIC FLUID TO BE DRAWN INTO THE POWER ASSIST VACUUM RESERVOIR.
- Consequence: AS THE HYDRAULIC FLUID IN THE MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR DECREASES, THE LEVEL SENSOR WILL DETECT THE LOSS OF FLUID AND ILLUMINATE THE INSTRUMENT PANEL BRAKE WARNING LAMP. CONTINUED OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE WITH THE WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED CAN RESULT IN EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCES.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER ON ALL AFFECTED VEHICLES. ADDENDUM (4-14-97): VEHICLES INSPECTED PER CHRYSLER RECALL NO. 707 AND FOUND TO BE OUTSIDE THE LISTED SUSPECT MASTER CYLINDER DATE CODE RANGE, MUST NOW HAVE THE MASTER CYLINDER PRIMARY PISTON REPLACED (CHRYSLER RECALL NO. 714).
1996-10-24
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: SEAT BELTS:INTEGRATED CHILD SEAT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH INTEGRAL CHILD SEATS. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. ON THE INTEGRAL CHILD SEAT, THE SHOULDER BELTS RESTRAINING THE CHILD RETRACT AND LOCK IN PLACE AFTER THE BELT BUCKLE IS CONNECTED TO THE LATCH PLATE. THE LATCH PLATE MOVEMENT LOCKS THE BELTS TO MAKE SURE THE CHILD IS RESTRAINED IN THE CASE OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Consequence: THE LATCH PLATE LOCATED IN THE SEAT CUSHION AREA MUST BE FREE TO MOVE BACK AGAINST ITS STOP AFTER THE BUCKLE IS REMOVED TO ALLOW THE SHOULDER BELTS TO BE PULLED OUT. ALWAYS BE SURE THE AREA AROUND THE LATCH PLATE IS FREE OF FOOD OR OTHER ITEMS THAT MIGHT PREVENT THE LATCH PLATE FROM MOVING BACK.
- Remedy: OWNERS ARE BEING PROVIDED WITH A VIDEO TAPE AND 2 HARNESS CLIPS. THE VIDEO TAPE INSTRUCTS OWNERS ON THE PROPER USE AND MAINTENANCE OF THE CHILD SEATS.
Negative 1997 Dodge Caravan car reviews
Positive 1997 Dodge Caravan car reviews
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This has been an excellent vehicle for us! :)
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I'm so glad to hear that you've been enjoying your vehicle! It's great to hear that you haven't had any major issues, and even when you did have to replace the AC compressor recently, it sounds like everything went smoothly. With over 100,000 miles on it, your vehicle is definitely a reliable one!
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This car is not only fun to drive, but also reliable as long as you take good care of it. If you notice any issues with the car, make sure to address them as soon as possible, and it will continue to run smoothly without any problems.
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Hey there! I wanted to share my experience with these Chrysler vans. While they do have a common issue with poor quality solder used throughout the vehicle, I found a solution that made mine run like new again! If you're willing to pull the dash apart and resolder everything (heater control wires, instrument cluster, radio speakers, etc.), you'll be amazed at the difference it makes. I was able to pick up mine for a thousand bucks and it's been running great ever since. I have the 3.8 V-6 and it's still awesome, although I did have a shop change the rear spark plugs and wires for me since I'm no longer willing to be a contortionist at age 62. Just wanted to give you an update a year later - it's still running strong with only minor issues. The oil pressure sensor tends to freeze every morning in this Montana weather, which triggers an annoying alarm until it warms up. The sliding doors can also freeze shut until it warms up, but overall I'm still very happy with my purchase. Here's to hoping for an early Spring!
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This has been a terrific van. It has never failed to start and had no repairs except for brakes and normal maintenance. It is a pleasure to drive, gets good fuel mileage, and rides very good. I like it so much, I bought a 2006 Town & Country last December, but I am not getting rid of my '97.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Dodge Caravan problems:
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan Problems and Complaints - 39 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1997-dodge-grand-caravan/problems
Top 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan Problems · Power Window Motor and Switches May Fail · Underbody Coolant Leaks From Rear Heat/AC Are Common · Key May Not Start Car ...
Common Issues with Dodge Caravan Starters - Q&A
https://www.justanswer.com/dodge/0qywv-sometimes-when-try-start-dodge-caravan.html
Jun 20, 2007 ... Hello! A very common problem with the Caravan models that causes this symptom is burned internal contacts inside the starter motor.
1997 Dodge Caravan Problems and Complaints - 32 Issues
https://repairpal.com/1997-dodge-caravan/problems
Top 1997 Dodge Caravan Problems · Power Window Motor and Switches May Fail · Stalling or Low Engine Idle Speed Due to Dirty Throttle Body · Cleaner/Disinfectant ...
Common Caravan Door Lock Problems: Troubleshooting Electric ...
https://www.justanswer.com/dodge/2v12m-1996-dodge-grand-caravan-electric-door-continuously-locks.html
Dec 8, 2009 ... What causes intermittent locking and unlocking of electric door in Dodge grand caravan? - Answered by a verified Dodge Mechanic.
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan has electrical problems - Maintenance ...
https://community.cartalk.com/t/1997-dodge-grand-caravan-has-electrical-problems/92671
Mar 2, 2016 ... Both those circuits are controlled by the Body Control Module. The BCM's on these vehicles are well known for their failures that RockAuto is ...
Other years of Dodge Caravan
Are you having problems with your 1997 Dodge Caravan?
Chadd Tremblay 2024-10-19
My car is 7 years old with 76,000 miles and unfortunately, it's not in good condition anymore. The warranty has expired and various items have been going wrong such as the cupholders and front panel being busted, electrical problems, and the service engine light keeps going on. Despite being told that there was nothing wrong, it turns out there was a short circuit in the computer which was never fixed. Additionally, there have been several oil leaks and the valve cover gaskets have been replaced twice. The struts and linkage also need to be replaced and now there are more problems with oil leaking and overheating, only to find out that the head gasket is bad and needs to be replaced amongst other things. Unfortunately, the trade-in-value is now nothing. However, I have decided to donate it for a tax deduction. I have learned my lesson and will be looking for a foreign car from now on.
Andrew Heaney 2024-10-09
Within 2 years, things started to go wrong with my Dodge vehicle. There was wind noise in the driver's side that the dealer attempted to fix multiple times, but it still persists. Additionally, the wipers and cruise control would activate on their own, as if there was a ghost in the car. Recently, I discovered a gas leak in the A/C system that will cost $1,200 to repair. It has been a frustrating experience dealing with these issues one after the other. Unfortunately, I have lost faith in Dodge products and will not be purchasing from them again. It was disappointing that even though I had reported the wind noise issue during the warranty period, it was not resolved and now that the warranty has expired, Dodge is unable to assist me further.
Hailey Hills 2024-09-25
This is my first American vehicle, but unfortunately it hasn't been very reliable. I've had to change the serpentine belt at least three times, and the power steering pump and water pump during a road trip. Now the dealer is suggesting a $1000 check for the service engine soon alarm light. While buying new may save you a couple of thousand dollars, it's important to have peace of mind while driving.
Giles Renner 2024-08-03
One of the best cars I have ever owned, along with Honda. I enjoyed driving it every time. I never experienced any back pain on long drives. When properly serviced, it was always dependable. Even when not carrying dogs and people, it always had enough room to carry the things I needed to finish building a cabin. The exterior finish still looks like new.
Bennett Hodkiewicz 2024-06-04
I have had a very negative experience with this vehicle. The transmission failed at 137,000 miles and I have had to replace many components, including the brain and brake pedal light switch, multiple times. Despite these challenges, I have put an additional 20,000 miles on the vehicle since acquiring it. Based on my experience, I will not be purchasing this type of vehicle again.