Dodge Grand caravan problems
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Dodge Grand caravan model years
Common Dodge Grand caravan problems
The Dodge Grand Caravan, a popular vehicle for families and fleet operators, has faced numerous problems and recalls in recent years. One of the most significant issues is related to the transmission, with owners reporting harsh shifting and failures.
Brake problems are another prevalent issue, with premature wear and inadequate performance being reported. This not only compromises the vehicle's safety but also adds to the financial burden of owners. One owner mentioned that the brakes wear out faster than expected due to undersized components.
Electrical malfunctions are also a common problem, with malfunctioning power doors, erratic window behavior, and issues with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). For instance, one owner reported that their 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan has sliding doors that randomly shut on people, and a liftgate that has closed on their head. Such malfunctions pose significant safety risks and can result in expensive repairs.
Fuel system leaks have been a concern in some Vantage-modified 2016-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan vehicles, with recalls issued by the NHTSA due to deteriorating fuel pump gaskets. These leaks can pose a serious fire hazard, causing concern among owners.
Seat strikers may fail in crashes, compromising occupant safety during front and rear impact crashes. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) issued a recall due to weld failures on the outboard rear seat strikers and front outboard seat strikers in 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan vehicles.
Insufficient coating on rear brake caliper pistons in 2018-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan vehicles can reduce rear brake performance, increasing the risk of accidents. Chrysler (FCA US LLC) issued a recall due to this defect.
The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan has also faced consumer complaints, including a cracked torque converter in the transmission, which can cause slipping and issues with gear shifting. Dodge has been aware of this issue but has not issued a recall, instead manufacturing a repair kit to fix the fracture. If a vehicle did not receive these needed repairs, owners may face expensive repair bills.
The stock headlights on the Dodge Grand Caravan are noticeably dimmer than a standard vehicle headlight. Some consumers even complained that they were nearly useless. To remedy this, new, higher wattage bulbs will have to be put in the lights, and the regulator chip that was the cause of the recall needs to be replaced. Due to the faulty regulator chip, there are several electrical issues with the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan. The power locks regularly fail, which can be inconvenient, but the bigger issue is that the electrical problems can cause stalling. Some consumers even reported that stalling has happened at highway speeds, which can be incredibly dangerous.
In summary, the Dodge Grand Caravan has faced numerous problems and recalls, particularly related to the transmission, brakes, electrical systems, and fuel system leaks. These issues can lead to costly repairs, safety hazards, and inconvenience for owners.
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.
Is the Dodge Grand Caravan reliable?
The Dodge Grand Caravan Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 2nd out of 8 for minivans. The average annual repair cost is $673 which means it has average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average and the frequency of those issues is low, so major repairs are uncommon for the Grand Caravan.
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 does a Dodge Grand Caravan usually 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 Grand caravan years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Grand caravan cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Grand caravan model years:
- Dodge Grand caravan 1996
- Dodge Grand caravan 2008
- Dodge Grand caravan 2016
- Dodge Grand caravan 2010
- Dodge Grand caravan 2005
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Grand caravan model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Grand caravan years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Grand caravan car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Grand caravan , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Grand caravan vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Grand caravan model years
A total of 449 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 Grand caravan model years
There were a total of 349 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 Grand caravan model years
There were a total of 538 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 Grand caravan model years
There were a total of 26 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 13761 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Grand caravan . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Grand caravan vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Grand caravan 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 2C4RDGDG1CR
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While driving around 30mph, the van completely shut down. With nowhere to pull over on the right, and to avoid an accident, I turned left onto a side road. I quickly realized I had no power steering or brakes. I had 2 children in the vehicle and school had just let out. Luckily there was no accident. With no brakes, I just coasted until I came to a stop on the side of the road. I wasn’t able to move the shifter into park. After a few minutes, everything came back to life. I was able to shift to park, start it up and drive away. No warning lights came on. No check engine light. This situation could have become really bad, really quick.
Dodge Grand caravan 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 2C4RDGBG1FR
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH and depressing the brake pedal to come to a complete stop at the traffic stop light, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power and stopped in the middle of the roadway. The contact stated that upon restarting the vehicle, the vehicle operated as needed. The contact stated that the failure recurred several times while driving, and the vehicle was able to restart after several attempts. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact of an unknown recall but did not provide a diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V461000(Power Train), but the VIN was not included. No further information was provided. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 135,000.
Dodge Grand caravan 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 2C4RDGCGXJR
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Right sliding door does not lock when lock button is pushed and will swing open during driving and can be opened when parked while the lock system is still in place. Also the door when manually closed has trapped an arm and does not stop closing. Also have bubbles on front hood from unknown cause. Door problem started several weeks ago and was looked at then and also today at the dealer.
Dodge Grand caravan 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 2C4RDGCG1HR
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My headrest, on the passenger side of my minivan, decided that it wanted to act as though the airbags had been deployed and the plastic snapped that holds the metal rod and now my headrest is deployed as though I was in an accident even though I wasn't.
Dodge Grand caravan 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 2C4RDGBG7GR
- Components: SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Closed the driver side sliding door and the headrest on the driver seat exploded open. Car was not in motion. Door shut and head rest adjacent to it just popped apart and hit the head of the person in the driver seat.
Dodge Grand caravan 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 2D4RN5D17AR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The win modules failed, engine shut off while driving. Yes. Not been inspected. No warnings
Dodge Grand caravan 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 2D4RN4DE2AR
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: We've had two separate incidents a few months apart where a tire suddenly feel off the vehicle. In both instances, the studs had been sheared off. Then, last week, a 2009 Chrysler Town and Country lost a wheel that hit my house. I checked the vehicle, and the studs were sheared off that one as well. Google turns up a studs recall for the 2012-2021, but that recall doesn't go far enough back.
Dodge Grand caravan 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 2D4RN4DE2AR
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: Was going to pick a friend up from the airport, stopped at the gas station because the van suddenly started handling funny, and noticed 4 wheel studs were sheared off. Had to tow the vehicle to the shop.
Dodge Grand caravan 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 2C4RDGEG8GR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The rear passenger sliding door is making a buzzing noise when unlocking. I have had it lock up a few times where I can't open the door and this is a big safety hazard. I have kids and if something was to happen and I couldn't open the door. I see there is an extended warranty for this problem. I called the dealership and they looked up my vin # and said I was not covered. The door lock actuator needs to be replaced.
Dodge Grand caravan 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 2C4RDGBG6GR
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The back door on my 2016 Dodge Grand caravan on the driver side will not open from the inside or the outside I can't get my infant out if there was a fire or an accident vehicle only has 47,000 miles on it
Dodge Grand caravan 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 2C4RDGBG3ER
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: While driving in the parking lot of my kids school to drop them off in the morning, I heard a loud noise and felt something hit me in the back of my head with some force. It was not painful, but was actually very uncomfortable. I stopped in the parking lot to see what it was. I noticed that my driver side headrest was out of place (the fabric portion was popped forward) away from the plastic backing. I could see the the springs inside the headrest. My husband used a zip tie to pull the headrest back together. My vehicle was not in any accidents to cause this to happen. I did not take it to a dealer to inspect, as it just occurred. There were no warning signs/lights. It was very unexpected and abrupt. No one was injured, but my head was actually uncomfortable and I very glad that I did not have my son driving at the time, as he could have been injured due to the spring loaded force.
Dodge Grand caravan 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 2C4RDGCG0HR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: originally coding a cylinder 2 misfire, I had spark plugs and coil packs replaced but the engine light continues to stay on. Have done multiple compression tests and it looks like the cylinder needs to be replaced and maybe the engine rebuilt. It wont pass inspection with the light on and the light is permanently on. already paid almost 1,000 to get spark plugs and coil packs replaced and diagnostics.
Dodge Grand caravan 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 2C4RDGCG1DR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Don't work the wireless switch starin and the key
Dodge Grand caravan 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
- VIN: 2C4RDGEG2ER
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated while operating the vehicle, the passenger’s side electronic sliding door locking mechanism malfunctioned and erroneously unlatched. Additionally, on several occasions, the sliding door failed to unlatch, and the door could not be opened. The contact stated that occasionally while driving at undisclosed speeds, the message that the door was not latched securely was displayed. During the failure, the interior roof light remained illuminated, and the vehicle would not lock as intended. The battery was disconnected and reconnected to correct the failure. The vehicle was taken to the local mechanic who diagnosed that the siding door locking mechanism was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 235,000.
Dodge Grand caravan 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 2C4RDGCG0DR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: While driving our key in the ignition will loosen to the left and completely shut off all electrical for the car. The first time this occurred we were driving 55mph on the highway and had to safely steer off of three lanes of traffic with our kids in the backseat, at the time we thought it was a fluke. Now this is happening more frequently. It is the exact same issue listed under recall L25 “the ignition key inadvertently moves into the OFF or ACCESSORY position, the engine will turn off, which will then depower various key safety systems including but not limited to air bags, power steering, and power braking. Loss of functionality of these systems may increase the risk of crash and/or increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.”
Latest 5 recalls Dodge Grand caravan
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 164 recalls for different components of the Dodge Grand caravan.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Grand caravan 2010
- Report Received Date: 2020-07-07
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro vehicles. These vehicles may have a loose or missing brand emblem in the center of the steering wheel. The loose emblem or the securing nuts for the emblem within the driver air bag module may become projectiles in the event of a driver air bag deployment.
- Consequence: Projectiles as a result of driver air bag deployment in the event of a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag cover with a redesigned cover, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W09.
- Model: Dodge Grand caravan 2008
- Report Received Date: 2020-07-07
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro vehicles. These vehicles may have a loose or missing brand emblem in the center of the steering wheel. The loose emblem or the securing nuts for the emblem within the driver air bag module may become projectiles in the event of a driver air bag deployment.
- Consequence: Projectiles as a result of driver air bag deployment in the event of a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag cover with a redesigned cover, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W09.
- Model: Dodge Grand caravan 2009
- Report Received Date: 2020-07-07
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2008-2010 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan and 2007-2011 Dodge Nitro vehicles. These vehicles may have a loose or missing brand emblem in the center of the steering wheel. The loose emblem or the securing nuts for the emblem within the driver air bag module may become projectiles in the event of a driver air bag deployment.
- Consequence: Projectiles as a result of driver air bag deployment in the event of a crash can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's air bag cover with a redesigned cover, free of charge. The recall began February 11, 2021. Owners may contact FCA US LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is W09.
- Model: Dodge Grand caravan 2019
- Report Received Date: 2020-05-15
- Manufacturer: Vantage Mobility International, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Vantage Mobility International, LLC (Vantage) is recalling certain Vantage-modified 2016-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan vehicles. The fuel pump gasket may deteriorate, allowing fuel to leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Vantage will notify owners, and will provide parts and reimbursement to owners for repair facilities to replace the fuel tank gasket, free of charge. The recall began May 19, 2020. Owners may contact Vantage customer service at 1-800-488-9082.
- Model: Dodge Grand caravan 2018
- Report Received Date: 2020-05-15
- Manufacturer: Vantage Mobility International, LLC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Vantage Mobility International, LLC (Vantage) is recalling certain Vantage-modified 2016-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan vehicles. The fuel pump gasket may deteriorate, allowing fuel to leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Vantage will notify owners, and will provide parts and reimbursement to owners for repair facilities to replace the fuel tank gasket, free of charge. The recall began May 19, 2020. Owners may contact Vantage customer service at 1-800-488-9082.
Latest negative Dodge Grand caravan car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Grand caravan car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2009
My wife and I decided to purchase this vehicle after she spotted one on the highway and fell in love with its appearance. Although I personally preferred the styling of the Chrysler Town and Country, we ultimately chose this vehicle due to its excellent value and abundance of extra features. One of these features, the 3.8 engine, was not particularly important to me, but it was a nice addition nonetheless. Recently, I noticed some rust stains on the rear seat backs, despite the fact that we have not placed anything in the rear well that could have caused this. Upon further inspection, I discovered some metal bars beneath each stain, which I suspect may be the cause of the discoloration. I plan to bring this to the attention of my dealership during my next service appointment.
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Vehicle year: 1999
I bought this van used with only 17,000 miles on it back in 2000 and it has been an amazing long-term investment. The cost of ownership has been minimal and the ES model had everything I needed at the time. The 3.8 ltr engine has plenty of power at 180hp and it comfortably seats 7 people, making it perfect for long trips. I live in TX and have taken this van to CA, Orlando, FL, and many other surrounding states, and it has never let me down. It averages 23 mpg city/hwy and I have even gotten up to 29 mpg on the highway, with an average of 25 mpg. As of 5/09, it has 229,000 miles on it and the only major repairs I have had to make were a rebuilt transmission at 190K and a new catalytic converter at 185K. Other than that, it has just been minor wear and tear repairs like alternators, water pumps, pulleys, sensors, and switches. I would definitely buy this van again, but my wife wants something different after 10 years. In my opinion, the 1999 ES model is still the best looking with its 17-inch wheels.
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Vehicle year: 2018
I really appreciate a lot of legroom, which is why I chose this minivan. With the seat all the way back, my son or daughter in the second row behind me also have enough legroom. I didn't feel the need for the touchscreen, blindspot check, or cameras around the car, so I opted for a value-priced vehicle. I'm very happy with my choice and find it incredibly comfortable with its 8-way and lumbar support driver's seat, substantial engine horsepower, and separate heating controls for the driver, passenger, and rear rows. These features make my SXT trim a joy to drive. It's unbeatable when it comes to loading it up to fix houses, and the towing capacity is great. The built-in roof racks are also a plus. This is my second Grand Caravan of this generation, and I currently have 56K miles on it. It's been very reliable, and I never worry when driving it. It may not be the coolest car, but it has way more utility than a so-called sport utility vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 1999
I have to say, this van has been incredibly reliable! Despite having 225,000 miles, it has only had minor problems. About a year ago, I had to replace the alternator, but that was the only major issue. Recently, the cooling fans went out, which caused the radiator to crack. I replaced the radiator, but I'm still trying to figure out what's wrong with the fans. Unfortunately, the gas mileage hasn't been great for the past year. It used to get great gas mileage and I could go from East Georgia to North Alabama on 3/4 tank of gas. However, after a routine oil change, I had to put gas in it three times just to make it to Florida. Since then, it hasn't been as efficient. Weird, right? Other than that, I've had no problems with it. It's very roomy, comfortable, and drives great!
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Vehicle year: 2012
Since 1989, I have owned three minivans: a Ford Areostar, a Dodge Caravan, and a Chevy Venture (which was a disaster). After dumping a lot of money into the Venture, I decided to bite the bullet and purchase a 2012 Program GC SXT in December 2012. The van was red and had 28,000 miles on it. In just under three years, I drove it to 91,500 miles without a single problem. I did have a couple of recalls, but nothing serious. I replaced the front brakes at 90k miles, one set of tires at 55k, and the air filter once. I also did oil changes and tire rotations every 5k miles. Although I did replace the battery twice, it was only because I had an aftermarket backup camera installed that didn't shut off the monitor, which ran down the battery a couple of times. It was quite comfortable on long trips, and I drove many 12+ hour days with no issues. I was so happy with this van that I decided to trade it for another nearly identical Red 2015 SXT. The main reason was that the 2012 was nearing 100k miles, I had another year of traveling planned, and the 6-year 100k warranty was about to expire. I could trade for a 3-year newer van with much lower miles for nearly the same payment. I hope this one will be as trouble-free as the 2012. As a retired but active guy who appreciates the utility of the minivan, I highly recommend them. UPDATE on the 2015: I purchased it with 22,000 miles on the odometer, and it now has 62,000 trouble-free miles. I replaced the tires at 48k, and that's it. It still performs like the 2012, and I maintain it like I did the 2012. I still travel quite a bit, and this vehicle suits my needs. The other day, I had lunch with three other old guys from work whom I had not seen in several years. All four of us were driving fifth-generation Dodge Caravans. They are the new Lincoln, I reckon.
Are you having problems with your Dodge Grand caravan?
Emanuel Padberg 2025-09-06
Vehicle year: 2003
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2003 Sport Grand Caravan that I bought from an auto dealer in the winter of 2006 with 139000km on it. To prepare for the winter, I put in a new battery before driving it off the lot. Since then, I've put on 50500km and have only had to replace a few parts, including the brake pads, rotor disc, headlamp bulb, wiper blades, and a set of spark plugs. While I have noticed some shuddering in 1st and 2nd gear, it's not too frequent. Additionally, the signal light handle doesn't turn back. Overall, I think this is a reliable car that can last a long time if you take good care of it. Thanks for reading!
Al Streich 2025-09-05
Vehicle year: 2002
I purchased this van 6 months ago and unfortunately, I have experienced a number of issues with it. The AC compressor required a repair which cost me $400, and I have also had to replace the brakes. Additionally, the left tire sensor and computer are currently malfunctioning, with the cost of replacing the computer alone being $4000. One of the power sliding doors is also broken, and there are issues with the wiring to my signal lights. I initially had no problems with the van until 2 days after my warranty expired. Despite my concerns, I have not received the support I was hoping for from Dodge. As a parent of 4 children, it is important for me to have a reliable vehicle, and unfortunately, this van has not met my expectations.
Cielo Batz 2025-09-05
Vehicle year: 1996
Congratulations on your Caravan purchase! It's amazing how well it has held up over the years, with 156K on the odometer and still running okay. Although the 3.0 engine has burned oil since day one due to the leaking seals, it's manageable. The idler pulley may be worn out, but it's cheaper to replace the belt with the next smaller one to fend off squeaking. One of the resistors in the fan switch also went south at 130K, but you can still choose from the other 4 speeds. The 3-speed model of the transmission is rock solid, making it an overall great van for the daily abuse it takes.
Emmet Gottlieb 2025-09-04
Vehicle year: 2018
I purchased a 2017 Grand Caravan brand new with only 15 miles. From day one, I noticed some issues with the engine. When running in park, the engine was missing, and when at a stop with my foot on the brake, there was a surge in the engine. While driving, there was a miss in the engine, and it surged like the transmission was starting to slip. I took it to the dealer, and they updated the computer. They also advised me not to use E85, even though it is rated to use it. I explained that I had never used E85 and was only using premium gas. They told me that premium gas was as bad as E85 and caused the computer to act up. They advised me to only use regular unleaded fuel, and in a couple of tanks, it should work itself out. Three tanks later, it is not as bad as it was, but it still acts up almost daily. I have always been a Dodge Guy, and my dad used to own a Dodge Dealership, but I wish I hadn't bought this one. At the moment, I am only getting 12 mpg in the city and 19 or 20 on the highway, and I only have about 2,100 miles on it. Update: I still own this car, and I now have 20,000 miles on it. We took a road trip and had lots of issues. It wouldn't pull itself up the mountains (had to floor the gas), had issues with the cruise, gas mileage still sucks, and the van still surges and slams into gears. I wish I had never bought it. Dodge Caravans are not the best. I have been in for service three times for the same issues, and they keep telling me it's because my wife drives differently than I do. This is the worst vehicle I have ever owned.
Mohamed Erdman 2025-09-03
Vehicle year: 2002
Over the past 5+ years of owning this car, I have invested over $8,000 in engine repairs and maintenance. Despite my efforts, the car has unfortunately experienced endless mechanical problems, resulting in weeks of repair time and out-of-pocket expenses for rental cars. In hindsight, I believe that choosing a Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna would have been a better investment. I have found it frustrating to deal with the local Dodge Dealer for repairs, as they do not prioritize customer satisfaction. While the interior of the Caravan is comfortable for my family of 4, the persistent mechanical issues have overshadowed this positive aspect.