1997 Dodge Grand caravan problems
Social links
Common 1997 Dodge Grand caravan problems
The 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan, like many other vehicles, has its share of common problems that owners have reported. While the search results do not provide specific details about the 1997 model, they do offer insights into the types of issues that have affected various model years of the Grand Caravan, which can still be relevant for the 1997 version.
Transmission problems are a common issue across different model years of the Dodge Grand Caravan. These issues can manifest as difficulty shifting, jerking, lurching, or the transmission slipping out of gear, making it challenging to drive the vehicle smoothly and safely.
Power door lock failure is another problem that has affected various model years of the Grand Caravan, including the 2005 version. While the search results do not provide specific details about the 1997 model, it is possible that this issue could also affect the 1997 Grand Caravan. Power door lock failure can be caused by a faulty key or internal switch, which may result in the doors not locking properly or unlocking unexpectedly, posing a security risk and an inconvenience for the vehicle's occupants.
Engine stalling is another problem that has been reported for various model years of the Dodge Grand Caravan, including the 2003 version. Although there are no specific details about the 1997 model, engine stalling can be a serious issue that affects the vehicle's drivability and safety. This problem can be caused by a dirty throttle body, which may result in low engine idle speed or frequent stalling, especially during acceleration or when the engine is warmed up.
In addition to these specific problems, the Dodge Grand Caravan has also been known to have issues with oil leaks, front crankshaft seal popping out, power door lock failure, engine stalling, transmission failure, and odd noises in the front suspension. While the search results do not provide specific details about the 1997 model, these issues can affect the vehicle's reliability, performance, and safety, and may require costly repairs or replacements.
It is important to note that the Dodge Grand Caravan is generally considered a dependable minivan, and many owners have reported few or no significant problems with their vehicles. However, it is always a good idea to be aware of the potential issues that may affect a particular model year, as this can help owners to identify and address problems early on, potentially saving them time, money, and hassle in the long run.
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.
Is Dodge Grand Caravan a reliable car?
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 was the best year for the Dodge Grand 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.
What is the problem of Dodge Grand Caravan?
Dodge Grand Caravan Common Problems
The current Dodge Grand Caravan generation debuted for 2008. Since then, drivers have complained about a number of frequent issues, including premature brake wear, engine stalling, hard gear changes, transmission failure, and faulty air conditioning.
Is the Dodge Grand Caravan a reliable car?
The Dodge Grand Caravan is a reliable minivan with a 3.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal. The Dodge Grand Caravans with the best reliability are the 2020, 2007, and 2010 models.
Is Dodge Grand Caravan expensive to maintain?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Dodge Grand Caravan is $673, compared to an average of $647 for minivans and $652 for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
What year Dodge Caravans are the best?
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.
1997 Dodge Grand caravan car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Grand caravan problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Dodge Grand caravan vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Dodge Grand caravan
The NHTSA has received 666 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Dodge Grand caravan. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Dodge Grand caravan vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-21
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1B4GP54L0VB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: MY VAN WAS PARKED OUT SIDE LUCKYS ON MITALDA NEAR W MAUDE AVENUE IN SUNNYVALE CA 94086 I WAS USING THE WATER REFILLING STATION AND STARTED TO SMELL SMOKE WHEN I TURNED AROUND I IMIDEATLLY NOTICED THAT THE DRIVERS SIDE REAR TAILLIGHT WAS ON FIRE. NOT HAVING A FIRE EXTINGUISHER I TOOK THE BOTTLE OF WATER I HAD IN MY HANDS AND STARTED TO THROW WATER ON IT UNTIL THE FLAMES WENT OUT. WHAT IN THE HELL WOULD MAKE THAT HAPPEN? IS MY VAN UP FOR RECALL? I JUST PURCHASED THE VAN JUST A WEEK AGO. IT HAS BEEN A NIGHT MARE FOR ME NOT TO MENTION EXTREMELY COSTLY REPLACING EVERYTHING'S THAT'S BEEN GOING OUT. THE A/C CLUSTER THE DASH CLUSTER THE POWER WINDOW MOTOR. THE REAR VENT MOTOR. COUNTLESS BULBS AND FUSES.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-26
- VIN: 1B4GP54L8VB
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR SUDDENLY LOST POWER WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT 60MPH; ENGINE REMAINED ON. I PULLED OVER, TURNED OFF THE CAR, AND IT STARTED BACK UP AGAIN AND DROVE FINE FOR ABOUT 2 MILES. 'SERVICE ENGINE SOON' LIGHT CAME ON. WHEN IT LOST POWER AGAIN, I SLOWED AND THEN TRIED TO REACCELERATE, AND IT DROVE FINE FOR ABOUT 5 MILES, ENOUGH TO GET ME OFF THE FREEWAY AND TO A SAFE LOCATION. I CHECKED THE OIL AND TRANSMISSION LEVELS, WHICH WERE OK, AND THERE WAS NOTHING LEAKING UNDER THE CAR. WENT TO AN APPOINTMENT, AND CAME BACK TO THE CAR, WHICH STARTED UP AND DROVE OK FOR ABOUT A HALF MILE, THEN IT SHUT DOWN COMPLETELY AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT. THIS TIME IT WOULDN'T START BACK UP AGAIN, SO I PUSHED IT ONTO A SIDE STREET, WHERE IT STARTED UP FINE AND DROVE TO THE NEAREST GAS/REPAIR STATION. NOW, THE VAN WON'T START AGAIN. VAN WAS PROCEEDING STRAIGHT IN ALL SITUATIONS.
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B4GP44R5VB
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SERPENTINE BELT COMES OFF WHILE DRIVING IN SNOW CAUSING LOSS OF POWER STEERING ON SLIPPERY ROAD SURFACES. LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND ABILITY TO REGAIN VEHICLE CONTROL WAS COMPROMISED BY LACK OF STEERING ASSIST CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO LEAVE THE ROADWAY. I CONTACTED CHRYSLER AND THEY SAID THERE IS NO RECALL FOR MY VEHICLE.THIS WAS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION AS A SCHOOL BUS WAS NEAR MY VEHICLE WHEN THIS INCIDENT HAPPENED. THIS ISSUE NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED AND A RECALL SHOULD BE MANDATED. *TR
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-21
- VIN: 1B4GP54L8VB
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: PART 2 I'VE READ ON HERE THAT GATES HAS A BELT/PULLEY FIX FOR THIS PROBLEM. IF THEY HAVE ONE, CHRYSLER CAN MAKE ONE. THIS IS A DANGEROUS PROBLEM THAT CAN HAPPEN ANY TIME TO MANY DODGE VANS, IT RESULTS IN OTHER DAMAGES, SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING CONTROL, POSSIBLE INJURY EVEN DEATH TO MANY PEOPLE AT ONE TIME. MANY OTHER VEHICLES HAVE SERPENTINE BELTS WITHOUT THIS PROBLEM SO IT CAN BE FIXED. IT'S A REPEATED DESIGN FLAW & SHOULD BE CORRECTED IMMEDIATELY. A NTSB RULE GOES SOMETHING LIKE THIS "A COMPANY IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY FORESEEABLE PROBLEMS IN THEIR PRODUCT" THE SAME GOES FOR THE BRAKE LINES CORRODING ENOUGH FOR FAILURE TO OCCUR IN JUST A FEW YEARS, THIS IS ALSO UNACCEPTABLE. THIS IS A $29,850 VEHICLE NOT A $2,000 1967 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE, MY BEETLE HAS THE ORIGINAL BREAK LINES. AND IN GOOD SHAPE. ALL BREAK LINES ARE TO BE STAINLESS STEEL TO RESIST RUST AND CORROSION. THIS IS PURELY LACK OF QUALITY IN MATERIALS USED TO MAKE THESE LINES AND THE COMPANY ALSO SHOULD BE MADE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM BY WARNING ALL OWNERS ABOUT THE PROBLEM AND REPLACING ALL DEFECTABLE LINES WITH GOOD QUALITY LINES.
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-21
- VIN: 1B4GP54L8VB
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: PART 1.... I USED TO BE A MECHANIC AND TOW TRUCK OPERATOR. MY MINI VAN "LIKE MOST OTHERS" IS USUALLY DRIVEN BY A FEMALE & WITH A LOAD OF CHILDREN. IF DRIVING IN RAIN OR THROUGH A WATER PUDDLE THE BELT JUMPS OFF CAUSING LOSS OF POWER STEERING OVERHEATING BATTERY DRAIN ETC, IS A DANGEROUS EVEN DEADLY PROBLEM, IF A TURN IS NEEDED AT THE TIME THIS BELT JUMPS OFF, EVEN A STRONG HEALTHY MAN CAN LEAVE THE LINE OF INTENDED TRAVEL AND HIT WHAT EVER IS IN THE WAY, A CURB, A PEDESTRIAN OR EVEN CAUSE A HEAD ON COLLISION. THIS MOSTLY HAPPENS DURING RAINY/NASTY DAYS & BECAUSE OF THE COMPLEXITY OF REPLACING THE BELT, AND THE DAMAGE THAT IS CAUSED WHEN IT COMES OFF, THE VEHICLE USUALLY REQUIRES A TOW 4 REPAIR. IT IS STATED THAT, WHEN A CONSUMER MAKES A COMPLAINT & IF THE SAME COMPLAINT IS REPEATED AN INVESTIGATION WILL BE STARTED. THIS IS AN OLD PROBLEM WITH MANY, MANY, MANY COMPLAINTS YET, I SEE "NO ACTION, NOT EVEN AN INVESTIGATION INTO THIS PROBLEM", WHY?? CONSUMERS ARE DEPENDING ON YOU "SAFECAR.GOV, NHTSA" ETC. WHAT WILL IT TAKE, "A DEATH" TO START AN INVESTIGATION? OR, SHOULD I SAY, HOW MANY??? I KNOW THERE HAS BEEN ACCIDENTS BECAUSE OF THIS, AND A LOT OF DAMAGE JUST FROM THE BELT AS IT JUMPS OFF AND GOES FLOPPING AROUND, NOT TO MENTION THE PEOPLE THAT BURNED UP THEIR MOTOR EVEN STARTED A FIRE TRYING TO GET HOME, TO A SHOP ETC. THIS PROBLEM HAS BEEN A PLAGUE SINCE DAY ONE AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN AT LEAST FIXED ON THE NEXT YEARS MODEL BUT CHRYSLER JUST IGNORED IT. THEIR HAVE BEEN MANY VEHICLES WITH THESE SERPENTINE BELTS,, CHRYSLER VANS IS THE ONLY ONES THAT I KNOW OF WITH THIS PARTICULAR PROBLEM. THIS IS A DEADLY PROBLEM THAT SHOULD BE REPAIRED BY THE CHRYSLER CORPORATION SINCE THEY KNEW ABOUT THE PROBLEM FROM THE START AND JUST FLAT OUT IGNORED IT. THE GAS LINE DECAYING AND SUSPENSION STRUT MOUNTS RUSTING AWAY ON THESE SAME MODELS WILL BE MY NEXT POST
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-21
- VIN: 1B4GP54L8VB
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: PART 1 1/2 THE GAS LINE DECAYING AND THE SUSPENSION STRUT MOUNTS RUSTING AWAY, BOTH OF THESE ARE DEADLY, A RUSTY/CORRODED BREAK LINE WILL JUST LEAK A DROP AT THE TIME, MOST PEOPLE JUST REFILL THE FLUID RESERVOIR AND NEVER THINK ABOUT AGAIN, EVENTUALLY THE BREAK LINE FAILS ALL AT ONCE, THIS IS BECAUSE YOU ACTUALLY PUT MORE PRESSURE ON THE LINES THAN USUAL AND THE WEAK SPOT RUPTURES LIKE A WEAK SPOT IN A BALLOON WOULD. THAT MEANS THAT YOU WERE IN A BAD SITUATION ALREADY AND NOW YOU DON'T HAVE ANY BREAKING POWER AT ALL. WHAT DO YOU THINK HAPPENS NEXT??? ALL BREAK LINES ARE STAINLESS STEAL SO AS TO RESIST RUST AND CORROSION, THE ONLY REASON A BREAK LINE FAILS IN THIS LITTLE AMOUNT OF TIME IS BECAUSE THE MANUFACTURE IS PRODUCING AN INFERIOR PRODUCT AND SHOULD HAVE ALREADY BEEN MADE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. NOW,, THE STRUT MOUNTS, AS SOON AS THE COMPANY FOUND OUT THAT THEY HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE MOUNTS RUSTING THEY SHOULD HAVE RECALLED THE VEHICLES AND SPRAYED $10 WORTH OF UNDERCOATING OVER THE PARTS AFTER REMOVING THE RUST TO STOP ANY MORE RUST FROM FORMING. IF THE STRUT MOUNT IS RUSTED ENOUGH, IT CAN FAIL AT ANY TIME "USUALLY WHEN AT HIGHER SPEEDS AND YOU HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD,, THAT SENDS AN EXTRA AMOUNT OF FORCE TO THE SUSPENSION. THE STRUT COMES UP THROUGH THE HOOD AND THE WHEEL MAY GO ANY WAY AND HIT ANY PART OF THE WHEEL WELL AND SUSPENSION THE AXLE MAY COME OUT OF THE WHEEL OR TRANSMISSION , ALL OF THAT MEANS YOU MAY HAVE TOTAL LOSE OF BREAKS AND OR STEERING. ALL 3 OF THESE PROBLEMS COULD HAVE EASILY AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN CORRECTED WHEN FIRST REALIZED MANY YEARS AGO, INSTEAD THEY KEPT RIGHT ON MANUFACTURING VEHICLES THE SAME WAY WITH THE SAME IMPERFECTIONS AND IF YOU GO TO A DEALER TODAY WITH EITHER OF THESE PROBLEMS THEY WILL SAY IT IS THE FIRST TIME THEY HAVE HERD OF IT, IT OUT OF WARRANTY, ETC. AND WILL NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT FIXING IT UNLESS WE PAY
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-21
- VIN: 1B4GP54L8VB
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: PART 1 1/2 THE GAS LINE DECAYING AND THE SUSPENSION STRUT MOUNTS RUSTING AWAY, BOTH OF THESE ARE DEADLY, A RUSTY/CORRODED BREAK LINE WILL JUST LEAK A DROP AT THE TIME, MOST PEOPLE JUST REFILL THE FLUID RESERVOIR AND NEVER THINK ABOUT AGAIN, EVENTUALLY THE BREAK LINE FAILS ALL AT ONCE, THIS IS BECAUSE YOU ACTUALLY PUT MORE PRESSURE ON THE LINES THAN USUAL AND THE WEAK SPOT RUPTURES LIKE A WEAK SPOT IN A BALLOON WOULD. THAT MEANS THAT YOU WERE IN A BAD SITUATION ALREADY AND NOW YOU DON'T HAVE ANY BREAKING POWER AT ALL. WHAT DO YOU THINK HAPPENS NEXT??? ALL BREAK LINES ARE STAINLESS STEAL SO AS TO RESIST RUST AND CORROSION, THE ONLY REASON A BREAK LINE FAILS IN THIS LITTLE AMOUNT OF TIME IS BECAUSE THE MANUFACTURE IS PRODUCING AN INFERIOR PRODUCT AND SHOULD HAVE ALREADY BEEN MADE TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. NOW,, THE STRUT MOUNTS, AS SOON AS THE COMPANY FOUND OUT THAT THEY HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE MOUNTS RUSTING THEY SHOULD HAVE RECALLED THE VEHICLES AND SPRAYED $10 WORTH OF UNDERCOATING OVER THE PARTS AFTER REMOVING THE RUST TO STOP ANY MORE RUST FROM FORMING. IF THE STRUT MOUNT IS RUSTED ENOUGH, IT CAN FAIL AT ANY TIME "USUALLY WHEN AT HIGHER SPEEDS AND YOU HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD,, THAT SENDS AN EXTRA AMOUNT OF FORCE TO THE SUSPENSION. THE STRUT COMES UP THROUGH THE HOOD AND THE WHEEL MAY GO ANY WAY AND HIT ANY PART OF THE WHEEL WELL AND SUSPENSION THE AXLE MAY COME OUT OF THE WHEEL OR TRANSMISSION , ALL OF THAT MEANS YOU MAY HAVE TOTAL LOSE OF BREAKS AND OR STEERING. ALL 3 OF THESE PROBLEMS COULD HAVE EASILY AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN CORRECTED WHEN FIRST REALIZED MANY YEARS AGO, INSTEAD THEY KEPT RIGHT ON MANUFACTURING VEHICLES THE SAME WAY WITH THE SAME IMPERFECTIONS AND IF YOU GO TO A DEALER TODAY WITH EITHER OF THESE PROBLEMS THEY WILL SAY IT IS THE FIRST TIME THEY HAVE HERD OF IT, IT OUT OF WARRANTY, ETC. AND WILL NOT EVEN THINK ABOUT FIXING IT UNLESS WE PAY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-29
- VIN: 1B4GT54L7VB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING AT 62 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER AND THE BODY CONTROL MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 77,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-06
- VIN: 2B4GP44RXVR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AT RANDOM GAUGES WILL STOP WORKING ON THE DASHBOARD AND THE ABS LIGHT WILL TURN ON. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THIS IS ACTUALLY MY MOTHER'S VAN AND A VAN THAT I HAD PREVIOUSLY OWNED. IT SEEMS THAT THESE VEHICLES SEEM TO HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THE SECURITY SYSTEM NOT DISARMING AS YOU TRY TO ENTER THE VEHICLE. YOU CAN UNLOCK THE DOORS FROM THE OUTSIDE, BUT AS SOON AS YOU GET IN THE VEHICLE AND TRY TO START IT, IT IMMEDIATELY SHUTS BACK DOWN AS A SECURITY PRECAUTION. A SIMPLE SMACK ON THE DASH CURES IT RIGHT UP, BUT BEING AS HOW IT'S MY MOTHER'S VAN NOW; SHE DOESN'T HAVE THE STRENGTH TO SIMPLY "SMACK" THE DASH AND GET EVERYTHING WORKING AGAIN. IT SEEMS AS THOUGH, THIS IS NOT THE ONLY KNOWN ISSUE. I HAVE READ ABOUT IT THROUGH SEVERAL DIFFERENT PEOPLE AND HAVE EXPERIENCED IT MYSELF ON TWO SEPARATE VANS. I HONESTLY BELIEVE THAT DAIMLER/CHRYSLER SHOULD ADDRESS THIS ISSUE AND NOT HAVE THE CONSUMER FIX IT, SEEING AS HOW IT IS AND ISSUE THAT'S BURIED IN THE DASHBOARD AND NOT OUT IN PLAIN SIGHT, LIKE SOME MECHANICAL ISSUES. THEY FIXED THE PROBLEM WITH THE CLOCK SPRING IN THE STEERING WHEEL, BECAUSE IT COULD SET OFF THE AIRBAG AT ANY GIVEN MOMENT. WELL, WITH ME HAVING TO SMACK THE DASH SEVERAL DIFFERENT TIMES, HER SPEEDOMETER IS OFF BY 50 MPH NOW. I AM HOPING FOR A RECALL NOTICE ON THIS ISSUE, DUE TO THE FACT THAT ONE MORE GOOD WHACK COULD SET OFF THE AIRBAG AND REALLY INJURY SOMEBODY. THANK YOU. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-09
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B4GP44R1VB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, ALL OF THE BRAKE FLUID DRAINED FROM THE BRAKE LINES AND THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A TREE. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 160,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-21
- VIN: 1B4GP44R7VB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I PURCHASED MY 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN FROM A PRIVATE PARTY IN 2009, AND SHORTLY AFTER THE GAUGE CLUSTER STOPPED FUNCTIONING WHILE I WAS DRIVING. CHECK ENGINE AND ABS LIGHTS CAME ON WHICH ON CHECKING WITH MY MECHANIC SAID MY ABS SYSTEM IS NON-FUNCTIONAL AS IS ALL OTHER INSTRUMENT RELATED READINGS. A SHORT TIME LATER, THE PANEL CAME BACK ON AND WORKED FOR AWHILE THAN SHUT OFF AGAIN. SOMEONE SAID HIT THE PANEL FACE AND THE GAUGES SHOULD COME BACK ON. I DID AND IT DID. FOR AWHILE. OVER TIME THE GAUGE FAILURE INTERVAL GREW SHORTER AND SHORTER, AND HITTING THE PANEL FINALLY FAILED TO RETURN THE USE OF THE GAUGES. TO REPLACE THIS GAUGE CLUSTER IS AN $800.00 PLUS REPAIR IN A SHOP WITH A REBUILD PANEL COSTING OVER $200.00 BY ITSELF. I DON'T WANT TO KNOW WHAT A DEALER WILL CHARGE. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION, I HAVE LEARNED THE GAUGE FAILURE CULPRIT IS COLD SOLDER JOINTS ON THE BACK SIDE OF THE CIRCUIT BOARD OF THE GAUGE CLUSTER AND IS AN ALL TOO COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS CLASS OF VEHICLE. THIS DEFICIENCY CAN EASILY BE AVOIDED BY BETTER QUALITY CONTROL FROM THE MANUFACTURER. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-28
- VIN: 2B4GP44R8VR
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR HAS FAULTY GAS GAUGE AND DESPITE HOW MUCH GAS I PUT IN, WILL TOGGLE BETWEEN HAVING GAS TO EMPTY AND SITS ON EMPTY, HAS RUN OUT OF GAS AS A RESULT, HARD TO START AND NOW WILL NOT START. ALSO HAS MANY ELECTRICAL QUIRKS, TURN HEADLIGHTS ON INBOARD DASH LIGHT GOES OFF AND VICE VERSA. HAD SOMEONE FIX FAN TO GO ON WHEN PLUGGED INTO BATTERY SINCE CANNOT GET INTO COMPUTER DASHBOARD AND INTERNAL HEAT FAN STOPPED WORKING, ALSO INDICATORS WORK SPORADICALLY (SO EVIDENTLY AN ELECTRICAL COMMUNICATIONS ISSUE). I'VE READ THAT THIS YEAR HAS HAD RECALLS DUE TO FAULTY FUEL HOSES/LINES AND WHEN USING AFTER MARKET FUEL FILTERS EVEN FROM NAPA WHICH WILL CAUSE FUEL LINES TO BECOME FAULTY. MY VAN FALLS WITHIN THIS YEAR, BUT I WAS TOLD MY SPECIFIC VIN # DIDN'T APPLY. VAN IS 3.3 LITER ENGINE, V6. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-01
- VIN: 1B4GP54R0VB
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE ENGINE WARNING LAMP ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 107,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 114,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-16
- VIN: 1B4GP44R8VB
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WAS DRIVING THE VAN ABOUT APPROX 35 MPH IN A SNOW STORM WHEN IT STARTED TO SLIDE, I ACCELERATED TO KEEP FROM SPINNING OUT AND THE TRANSMISSION LET GO..TOOK IT TO THE TRANSMISSION SHOP THAT PUT IT IN AND THEY SAID THE SPIDER GEARS WERE "WELDED" TO THE SHAFT AND IT CAUSED THE SHAFT TO BREAK..THIS IS THE SECOND TRANNY WE PUT IN THIS VAN FOR THE SAME THING. MANUFACTURE DEFECT..THEY SHOULD PAY FOR THE NEW TRANNY.. IT COST ME OVER $1950 TO PUT THIS TRANNY IN AND IT IS A REBUILD FROM ADVANCED AUTO..THEY SAID ITS A MANUFACTURE REBUILD..ALSO, THE SWITCH FOR THE HEADLIGHTS IS VERY LOOSE AND YOU HAVE TO PLAY WITH IT AND GET IT IN A CERTAIN POSITION TO GET THE LIGHTS TO STAY ON. YOU HAVE TO TURN THEM ALL THE WAY TO THE RIGHT THEN PULL IT OUT A LITTLE THEN IT WILL STAY ON.. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-25
- VIN: 2B4GP44R5VR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING RUSTED BRAKELINE RUPTURED AND LOST FLUID. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-01
- VIN: 1B4GP44R0VB
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE HIT A SMALL POTHOLE AND THE CONTACT LOST POWER STEERING. ALSO, THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED AND THE ALTERNATOR WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSED THE FAILURE BUT DECIDED TO REPLACED THE SERPENTINE BELT AS A SAFETY PRECAUTION. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES MOSTLY WHEN IT RAINED OR HIT A POTHOLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SERPENTINE BELT CAME OFF SEVERAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 143,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-20
- VIN: 1B4GP54L3VB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED A FUEL SMELL. THE CONTACT PARKED THE VEHICLE AND AFTER INSPECTING IT, HE NOTICED FUEL LEAKING FROM THE FUEL RAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN THE RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 00V268000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM) AND WAS PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED A SECOND TIME. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 145,000. UPDATED 7/11/12 *CN UPDATED 07/17/12
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-17
- VIN: 1B4GP54RXVB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT THE SPEEDS OF 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL AUTOMOTIVE STORE, WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE COIL PACK MALFUNCTIONED. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED AND THEY COULD NOT ASSIST THE CONTACT WITH THE FAILURE OF THE COIL PACK. THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED THIS FAILURE A TOTAL OF SIX TIMES AND IT WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 122,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 130,000. UPDATED 03/05/12*LJ UPDATED 03/08/12
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-19
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKE LINE FAILURE - BRAKE FLUID LEAKED OUT DUE TO CORROSION. *TT
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-03
- VIN: 1B4GP54R0VB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING OUR 97 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN LE TO DROP OFF A VISITOR, HALFWAY THROUGH THE TRIP, I HAD TO STOP AT A LIGHT AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE BRAKE PEDAL JUST WENT ALL THE WAY TO FIREWALL. SINCE CARAVAN HAS A FOOT BRAKE, I MANAGED TO DRIVE VEHICLE WITH HAZARD LIGHTS ON USING THE FOOT BRAKE. THERE WAS A SMELL OF BRAKE FLUID THAT INSTANT SO I FIGURED A LEAK HAD OCCURRED SOMEWHERE. AFTER GETTING HOME, I CHECKED AREA WHERE LEAK WAS COMING FROM AND SAW IT ON THE STAINLESS STEEL BRAID CONNECTION UNDERNEATH DRIVER SEAT NEAR THE ABS MODULE. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-05
- VIN: 1B4GP44R7VB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES BUT THE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED TO THE FLOORBOARD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT SOME OF THE BRAKE LINES WERE SEVERELY CORRODED AND FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 126,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 128,000. UPDATED 06/16/11*LJ UPDATED 06/23/11
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-24
- VIN: 1B4GP44R1VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING IN THE RAIN WE HIT WATER ON THE ROAD AND THE SERPENTINE BELT COMES OFF, YOU LOSE POWER STEERING AT THE TIME IF IT HAPPENS IN HEAVY TRAFFIC YOU COULD HAVE A CRASH. WHEN LOOKING FOR A SOLUTION FOR THE PROBLEM I FOUND IT HAPPENS TO A LOT OF PEOPLE. GATES MAKES AN AFTER MARKET FIX PART# 38379K. DODGE WILL NOT FIX IT.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-27
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2B4GP4439ER
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. WHILE STOPPED AND PREPARING TO PULL INTO A DRIVEWAY, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE, DESTROYING THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY, HOWEVER THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DID DEPLOY. THE DRIVER OF THE VEHICLE WAS KILLED. THE VEHICLE WAS DECLARED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 220,000. UPDATED 03/23/11 *BF
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-16
- VIN: 1B4GP54R9VB
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. THE CONTACT WAS CHANGING THE TIRE WHEN HE NOTICED THAT THE REAR AXLE WAS FRACTURED AND EXHIBITED SIGNS OF RUST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REPLACEMENT PARTS WERE UNATTAINABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT SPOKEN WITH THE MANUFACTURER AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 107,000. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 104,000.
1997 Dodge Grand caravan recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1997 Dodge Grand caravan.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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 Grand caravan car reviews
Positive 1997 Dodge Grand caravan car reviews
-
Overall, I'm glad to say that this is a great vehicle. Maintenance has been normal and the Dodge dealers I've had to deal with have been fantastic too. As a military member who has moved around a bit, it's been a relief to have such great service. The engine has held up well and the only real disappointment I've had is that the A/C went bad and had to be replaced. However, I've been coast to coast and from Florida to New Hampshire with no major problems. Based on my experience, I will definitely consider a Grand Caravan again.
-
Nice looking van! It's unlikely that Dodge will produce anything similar to this design.
-
I purchased my 97 Dodge Grand Caravan back in November of 2003. At the time, I was driving a 01 GMC Yukon and needed to cut down on expenses. With four kids and their friends, a 5 passenger sedan was out of the question. The only option that fit my needs and budget was this Grand Caravan. Despite having 109k miles on it, it was in immaculate condition. After signing the papers, I got into my 'new' van and started it up. The digital readout reminded me of the high mileage, but I closed my eyes and said, 'God, this is my new van with only 9k miles on it, a program vehicle, right??' One year and 30k miles later, I can confidently say kudos to Dodge. It's been a great ride with excellent gas mileage.
-
This van is a great buy for families. Although our family has outgrown it, it was the best purchase we made in 1997. The interior room and features were excellent, and I still appreciate its exterior style and shape. However, the engine quality could have been better, as we experienced too many repairs and problems over the years. Despite this, we still enjoy renting newer model Grand Caravans for long trips and appreciate the experience.
-
Hi there! Thank you for sharing your experience with your 1997 Grand Caravan. It's great to hear that you were able to purchase it with low mileage and an extended warranty for added peace of mind. While you did encounter a few issues with the starter, brakes, and wiper, it sounds like overall it has been a reliable car for you. Thanks again for sharing!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Dodge Grand caravan problems:
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan Problems and Complaints - 39 Issues
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 ...
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan has electrical problems - Maintenance ...
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 ...
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan - Dieing while driving
May 9, 2018 ... I will be driving down the road and iy just shuts off i drive a 1997 dodge caravan abd also my back windshield wiper had ti be un plugged bc ...
Common Caravan Door Lock Problems: Troubleshooting Electric ...
Dec 8, 2009 ... What causes intermittent locking and unlocking of electric door in Dodge grand caravan? - Answered by a verified Dodge Mechanic.
1999 Grand Caravan Transmission Problems? | DodgeTalk Forum
Jan 8, 2007 ... Someone mentioned to me that the following sensor are a common problem with these vans also. IT could be them? Transmission Turbine Speed Sensor ...
Other years of Dodge Grand caravan
Are you having problems with your 1997 Dodge Grand caravan?
Royal Graham 2024-10-03
The car has a nice driving experience and a very comfortable ride. However, it has had some unexpected issues such as going through three serpentine belts and tensioners. Additionally, the wipers have turned on for no reason and the transmission is currently jerking a lot, which may require a replacement soon. Unfortunately, these are common problems for this type of vehicle. Based on my experience, I will not be purchasing Chrysler products again. DG
Ashton Dach 2024-09-21
Hi there! I recently sold my car that I bought brand new in 1997 for 6000k. While it served me well, it was time to move on. I did have to replace a lot of parts over the years, including the transmission, rotors, brakes, water pump, and radiator. The seats weren't the most comfortable, and the body was prone to dings, but overall it was a reliable car. It's worth noting that there was a recall for this year of the van due to some issues with the o-rings potentially causing fires in the engine, but thankfully I never experienced that. Thanks for reading!
Dane Boehm 2024-07-26
Although this was my first American made vehicle and I had a few issues with the electronic equipment, I am confident in saying that I would consider buying one again. The dealer has been helpful in addressing the issues with the interior lights, wipers, and engine light. Additionally, the transmission has been replaced twice, but I am confident that the vehicle is now in good condition. I would recommend getting an extended warranty for added peace of mind.
Olaf Watsica 2024-06-05
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 97 Es extended. Unfortunately, I had some issues with it during the first 4-5 years of ownership. The CD player was particularly problematic, and I also experienced a scary brake failure right before a stoplight. I think there's room for improvement in terms of reliability from Chrysler. Thanks for listening!
Oscar Dare 2024-05-05
We sold our 1988 Grand Caravan and bought this van despite its less than stellar reputation. Overall, it has been pretty good, but we have encountered some 'little' problems such as grab handles falling off, the fuel gauge swinging erratically and 'dings' randomly, and the check engine light going on without the mechanic being able to locate the problem. Additionally, the wipers don't always work and the rubber door gaskets have long since disappeared. However, we have kept it for 8 years because it has more passenger room than Suburbans, the cloth seats still look almost new despite raising 3 boys and more dogs, and the ride is fairly smooth (although the standard suspension is WAY too soft). The Infinity stereo is great and the van still looks good. Although my wife wants a big SUV, we have decided to get a Ducati and a Mini instead now that the kids have grown up.