Dodge
Caravan
Ford
Aerostar
Dodge Caravan vs Ford Aerostar: 2011 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Dodge Caravan comes out ahead of the Ford Aerostar on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Caravan
Overall
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.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to specify a best model year or trim. Feedback is generalized across multiple generations (primarily 2000s and early 2010s).
Known issues
- ⚠Transmission failures: described as "janky," prone to "clunking," and a "known" problem. Cited as a primary reason for the vehicle's poor reputation. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Electrical 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).
- ⚠Engine 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.
Aerostar
Overall
Sentiment is highly polarized, with a clear generational divide. Long-term owner reports from the late 1990s models (1995-1997) are overwhelmingly positive, describing them as "bulletproof," "solid," and capable of achieving very high mileage (250,000-300,000 miles) with basic maintenance. These later models are praised for their sorted mechanicals, durable V6 engines, and practicality as work or family vehicles.
Best version to buy
1995-1997 models with the 3.0L V6 engine. Community feedback strongly indicates that by the final years of production, Ford had resolved many of the early issues, particularly with the fuel injection system and automatic transmissions.
Known issues
- ⚠Automatic transmission failures: concerns about reliability, particularly in models before the mid-1990s; later models (post-1995) noted as improved. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Electrical problems and general unreliability (early models: 1986-1990): frequent breakdowns, problematic electronic feedback carburetors, faulty TFI ignition modules, dashboard failures. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Engine overheating with A/C on: noted in one instance during summer driving in southern climates. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Dodge Caravan is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Ford Aerostar, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Ford Aerostar is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Dodge Caravan or the Ford Aerostar?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Dodge Caravan and the Ford Aerostar. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Dodge Caravan or the Ford Aerostar?
The Dodge Caravan seats more passengers than the Ford Aerostar on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Dodge Caravan is classed as a Minivan, the Ford Aerostar as a Minivan.
Which has better fuel economy, the Dodge Caravan or the Ford Aerostar?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Dodge Caravan or the Ford Aerostar?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Dodge Caravan than the Ford Aerostar. See the known issues comparison above.