Avoid: 2008, 2006, 2005, 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2014 · Best recent: 2017
16 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 20 model years, the Dodge Caravan has 6,432 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 135 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and air bags. 1996 drew the most complaints (1,647), 2017 the fewest (1).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Dodge Caravan vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $2,999–$8,933.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 1 |
| 2015 | 23 |
| 2014 | 20 |
| 2013 | 30 |
| 2012 | 87 |
| 2011 | 78 |
| 2009 | 118 |
| 2008 | 302 |
| 2007 | 82 |
| 2006 | 173 |
| 2005 | 537 |
| 2004 | 65 |
| 2003 | 195 |
| 2002 | 256 |
| 2001 | 260 |
| 2000 | 526 |
| 1999 | 574 |
| 1998 | 671 |
| 1997 | 787 |
| 1996 | 1,647 |
Highest: 1996 (1,647 complaints). Lowest: 2017 (1).
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with a strong consensus on poor long-term reliability and specific, recurrent mechanical failures.
Described as "janky," prone to "clunking," and a "known" problem. Cited as a primary reason for the vehicle's poor reputation.
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.".
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.
Described as having "over-engineered junk," "dumb issues," and being a "lesser build quality" vehicle that is often abused.
Cited as poor compared to segment leaders (e.g., ~20 MPG vs. 25 MPG for a Honda Odyssey).
Owner insights cover all generations of the Caravan. Individual model years are broken down above.
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