Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2009
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with a strong consensus on poor long-term reliability and specific, recurrent mechanical failures.
7 problems reported (2 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTransmission failures
Described as "janky," prone to "clunking," and a "known" problem. Cited as a primary reason for the vehicle's poor reputation.
- Very frequentElectrical system/TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) failures
Fuse box issues causing a wide array of bizarre electrical problems (e.g., random horn activation, inoperable windows and gauges, wipers staying on). Described as an "incredibly common problem.".
- RecurrentEngine issues
Includes oil cooler/oil filter housing leaks (specifically on the 3.6L Pentastar V6), overheating problems potentially related to water pumps, and head gasket failures. The 3.6L Pentastar is also noted for potential lifter and camshaft problems.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentGeneral build quality and reliability
Described as having "over-engineered junk," "dumb issues," and being a "lesser build quality" vehicle that is often abused.
- IsolatedFuel economy
Cited as poor compared to segment leaders (e.g., ~20 MPG vs. 25 MPG for a Honda Odyssey).
- IsolatedDoor actuator failures
Mentioned as a known quirk.
- IsolatedMotor mount failures
Mentioned as a common repair item.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to specify a best model year or trim. Feedback is generalized across multiple generations (primarily 2000s and early 2010s). No specific trim level receives consistent praise.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Town & Country, Mazda5 and Chrysler Pacifica.
Is the Caravan right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with a strong consensus on poor long-term reliability and specific, recurrent mechanical failures. The vehicle is acknowledged for its extreme practicality, low initial purchase price, and versatility (notably the Stow-n-Go seating). Some long-term owners report achieving very high mileage (250,000+ miles / 400,000+ km) with diligent maintenance, citing it as a cost-effective "throwaway" vehicle. However, the dominant narrative centers on a pattern of significant and expensive failures, particularly with the transmission, engine, and electrical systems. The vehicle is widely characterized as having "lesser build quality," being prone to abuse by previous owners, and suffering from numerous "dumb issues." Satisfaction appears highly dependent on low acquisition cost, personal mechanical skill, and tolerance for frequent repairs.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a budget, no-frills minivan with significantly lower initial purchase price compared to Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. Frequently described as the "cheap" or "basic 'throwaway'" option in the segment. The Stow-n-Go seating is noted as a unique practical advantage. However, it is consistently criticized for inferior reliability, higher long-term repair costs, and poorer fuel economy (specifically cited as ~20 MPG vs. 25 MPG for a Honda Odyssey) compared to Japanese rivals. The Chrysler Town & Country is acknowledged as a near-identical sibling model. The Mazda5 is seen as a more reliable, better-handling, and more fuel-efficient but less spacious alternative.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available for specific recommended configurations. One mention suggests the 3.8L V6 engine (found in earlier models) is a "work horse" known for simplicity and high-mileage potential, though it may consume oil with age. Another mentions that models with the smallest available engine and zero fancy features are easier to work on.
General recommendations
Suitable only for buyers with very low budgets who prioritize maximum interior space and utility for the lowest possible upfront cost. Recommended for owners with strong DIY mechanical skills, as parts are described as "dirt cheap" and the vehicles are "super easy to work on." Not recommended for owners seeking reliability, low cost of ownership, or who lack the willingness to address frequent repairs. Essential to have any used example thoroughly inspected by a knowledgeable mechanic, with a specific focus on the transmission, TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module), and engine cooling system. A pre-purchase OBD-II scan is advised to check for cleared codes. Expect to budget for significant repairs. The value proposition is only justified by deep discounts versus competitors.
Remarks
Owner experiences are heavily bifurcated: a minority of diligent, hands-on owners report achieving exceptionally high mileage (300,000-400,000 miles / 480,000-640,000 km) by treating the vehicle as a simple, repairable appliance with cheap parts. The majority of feedback, however, paints a picture of predictable and costly failures that make it a poor choice for the average buyer. The TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) is singled out as a particularly notorious and expensive failure point that is a hallmark of Chrysler/Dodge vehicles of this era. Discussion often blends the Dodge Grand Caravan with its platform siblings, the Chrysler Town & Country and earlier Chrysler Voyager. Analysis based on approximately 35 substantive owner discussions and mechanical anecdotes.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Caravan V2008–2020661 complaints · 5 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (362) · service brakes (91) · engine (84)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for this generation is mixed and skews negative on the powertrain, with the transmission drawing by far the most criticism across many model years.
13 problems reported (1 very frequent, 6 recurrent, 6 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTransmission failure or harsh shifting
Including loss of gears and reported failures well under 100,000 miles.
- RecurrentElectrical faults traced to the TIPM (totally integrated power module)
Including intermittent total electrical failure resolved temporarily by disconnecting and reconnecting the battery.
- RecurrentDoor lock and power door lock faults, including intermittent lock and unlock failure
+ 10 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentRadio failure, including dead AM/FM reception and complete radio failure
- RecurrentSliding door problems, including latch, cable, and wiring-in-track faults
- RecurrentPower steering fluid leak causing whine or noise when turning
- RecurrentMisfire complaints
Including fouled plugs and coils and reported rocker arm and lifter issues on the 3.6L.
- IsolatedRear brake caliper slide pin seizure and corrosion
- IsolatedStarter or long-crank starting complaint addressed by a camshaft position sensor service bulletin
- IsolatedCracked engine block reported at a coolant sensor location
- IsolatedEngine rebuild reported under extended warranty
- IsolatedBattery drain traced to a door not latching properly
- IsolatedCatalytic converter replacement quoted after repeated misfires
Is a 2008–2020 Caravan right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Caravan IV LWB2000–20072,094 complaints · 69 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (263) · air bags (251) · latches/locks/linkages (219)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners describe this generation as cheap, spacious, and practical basic transportation that can rack up high miles with maintenance, but they repeatedly warn about rust, transmission weakness, and age-related failures.
12 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 7 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentRust, especially in the Midwest and salt-belt regions
- Very frequentTransmission weakness or failure
- RecurrentAge-related deterioration of gaskets, belts, hoses, and plastics on low-mileage or long-parked vans
+ 9 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentUnderpowered 2.4L four-cylinder, described as dangerously slow
- RecurrentCoolant leaks
- IsolatedPower steering leaks
- IsolatedMaster cylinder failure
- IsolatedBlower motor and resistor failure
- IsolatedHead gasket failure under heavy load
- IsolatedStalling or lurching after filling the gas tank to the brim
- IsolatedRandom honking, possibly from a weak battery or alarm short
- IsolatedDiscontinued parts requiring junkyard sourcing
Is a 2000–2007 Caravan right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2000. Years to avoid: 2008, 2006, 2005, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Dodge Caravan years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 1 | 1 | power train |
| 2016 | 2 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2015 | 23 | 0 | power train |
| 2014 | 20 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2013 | 30 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2012 | 87 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2011 | 78 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2009 | 118 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2008 | 302 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2007 | 82 | 4 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2006 | 173 | 6 | electrical system |
| 2005 | 537 | 9 | latches/locks/linkages |
| 2004 | 65 | 8 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2003 | 195 | 9 | steering |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices134 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2017 · exterior lighting:brake lights:switchcampaign 18V098000
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017 Dodge Caravan and Jeep Wrangler vehicles. The brake switches on these vehicles may malfunction, keeping the brake lights illuminated and/or allowing the vehicle to be shifted out of the PARK position without the brake pedal being pushed.
2009 · fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assembly:filler pipe and capcampaign 10V148000
THE BRAUN CORPORATION IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY AND DODGE CARAVAN COMMERCIAL ENTERVANS WHICH WERE ALTERED BY BRAUN BETWEEN JANUARY 21, 2009 AND MARCH 19, 2010. DURING CONVERSION, THE CHASSIS WAS RAISED AND THE FLOOR WAS LOWERED TO ACCOMMODATE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES. IN RAISING THE CHASSIS, THE FUEL FILL PIPE COMES INTO CLOSER PROXIMITY TO THE LEFT REAR TIRE. IN ROUGH OR AGGRESSIVE DRIVING SITUATIONS, THE TIRE MAY INTERMITTENTLY CONTACT THE FUEL FILL PIPE.
2009 · suspension:rearcampaign 10V164000
THE BRAUN CORPORATION IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY AND DODGE CARAVAN MOBILITY CONVERSIONS WHICH WERE ALTERED BY BRAUN BETWEEN JANUARY 21, 2009 AND MARCH 19, 2010. DURING CONVERSION, THE CHASSIS WAS RAISED AND THE FLOOR WAS LOWERED TO ACCOMMODATE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES. IN RAISING THE CHASSIS, THE REAR SPRING HATS COME INTO CLOSER PROXIMITY TO THE REAR TIRES. IN ROUGH OR AGGRESSIVE DRIVING SITUATIONS THE TIRES MAY INTERMITTENTLY CONTACT THE REAR SPRING HATS.
2008 · fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assembly:filler pipe and capcampaign 10V148000
THE BRAUN CORPORATION IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY AND DODGE CARAVAN COMMERCIAL ENTERVANS WHICH WERE ALTERED BY BRAUN BETWEEN JANUARY 21, 2009 AND MARCH 19, 2010. DURING CONVERSION, THE CHASSIS WAS RAISED AND THE FLOOR WAS LOWERED TO ACCOMMODATE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES. IN RAISING THE CHASSIS, THE FUEL FILL PIPE COMES INTO CLOSER PROXIMITY TO THE LEFT REAR TIRE. IN ROUGH OR AGGRESSIVE DRIVING SITUATIONS, THE TIRE MAY INTERMITTENTLY CONTACT THE FUEL FILL PIPE.
2008 · suspension:rearcampaign 10V164000
THE BRAUN CORPORATION IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 THROUGH 2010 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY AND DODGE CARAVAN MOBILITY CONVERSIONS WHICH WERE ALTERED BY BRAUN BETWEEN JANUARY 21, 2009 AND MARCH 19, 2010. DURING CONVERSION, THE CHASSIS WAS RAISED AND THE FLOOR WAS LOWERED TO ACCOMMODATE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES. IN RAISING THE CHASSIS, THE REAR SPRING HATS COME INTO CLOSER PROXIMITY TO THE REAR TIRES. IN ROUGH OR AGGRESSIVE DRIVING SITUATIONS THE TIRES MAY INTERMITTENTLY CONTACT THE REAR SPRING HATS.
2007 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 08E048000
EAGLE EYES IS RECALLING 11,534 HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS. CS090-B001L AND CS090-B001R, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE LOWER BEAM PHOTOMETRY REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
2007 · visibility:glass, side/rearcampaign 07E104000
CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
2007 · equipmentcampaign 10E034000
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.
2007 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 08E039000
MAXZONE IS RECALLING 2,520 HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 3341103L-AS AND 334-1103R-AS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR 2001-2007 DODGE CARAVAN PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
2006 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 08E048000
EAGLE EYES IS RECALLING 11,534 HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES, P/NOS. CS090-B001L AND CS090-B001R, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE LOWER BEAM PHOTOMETRY REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
2006 · visibility:glass, side/rearcampaign 07E104000
CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
2006 · equipmentcampaign 10E034000
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.
2006 · exterior lighting:headlightscampaign 08E039000
MAXZONE IS RECALLING 2,520 HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLIES, DEPO BRAND, P/NOS. 3341103L-AS AND 334-1103R-AS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR 2001-2007 DODGE CARAVAN PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
2006 · air bags:frontal:sensor/control module-inactivecampaign 10V008000
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2006 DODGE CARAVAN, GRAND CARAVAN AND CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, IOWA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEBRASKA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, NORTH DAKOTA, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, SOUTH DAKOTA, TENNESSEE, UTAH, VERMONT, VIRGINIA, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, ALASKA AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. THE FRONT CRASH SENSORS MAY CRACK UNDER CERTAIN ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS AND ALLOW WATER TO ENTER INTO THE SENSOR. THIS CAN CAUSE THE SENSOR TO BECOME INOPERATIVE AND ILLUMINATE THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT. THESE SENSORS WERE ADDED TO ENHANCE THE PERFORMANCE OF THE AIRBAG SYSTEM IN CERTAIN FRONTAL CRASHES.
2006 · visibility:windshield wiper/washer:motorcampaign 06V067000
ON CERTAIN VANS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR ARMATURE SHAFT MAY BREAK.
119 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
3.6 V6
3.6L 6-cylinder · 287 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2011–2020