2002 Dodge Grand Caravan SE review from North America

AC compressor blown.

Engine mounts cracked.

Check engine light - fuel evaporstor system leaks.

Air bag light on randomly.

My wife and I would have preferred a Honda, but a used Honda Odyssey was more expensive than a new Caravan, and it's easier to trust the previous owner if there never was one. But, you get what you pay for.

A $1,000 bill because the AC compressor blew, ruining all the components in the system makes me reflect on the purchase. Thankfully we heard it making a noise and were able to turn it off before it caused other problems - it's one belt that drives all the disconnected parts - water pump, alternator, AC compressor, and power steering pump. I then pulled the AC clutch fuse to use the window defrost.

A myriad of other small annoying problems are there, but considering I saved about $10,000 purchasing this over a Honda means I still have about $9,000 to go in major repairs to catch up to a Honda, assuming the Honda never needs repairs. Of course, there's the unexpected cost for repairs, and how much are you willing to pay for peace of mind? So, if you purchase one of these, make sure you are budgeting money monthly so the large repairs don't bite you; consider it a small addendum to your monthly payments.