1998 Chrysler Grand Caravan SE review from North America
"Nice drive, but mechanically unreliable"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Dealer replaced seals between transmission and engine just prior to 3-year warranty expiration.
Replaced starter at 42,000 miles.
Dealer replaced serpentine belt and tensioner at 53,700 miles in May 2003.
Local garage replaced belt and tensioner again at 59,700 miles in February 2004.
General comments?
The car has a very smooth quiet ride and I have been pleased in general with its performance.
However, the serpentine belt has slipped off twice in the past 8 months after having driven through standing water (deep the first time, not deep the second time). The loss of power steering control is very scary and I no longer can trust driving the car in wet weather, especially with kids in the car. Apparently, this is not an unusual occurrence with this model/year. This problem should be corrected via recall, as it is a very serious safety issue.
Recommended reviews
 | Excelent |
  | 1997 - Grand Caravan LE 6 cylinder The van is pleasing to the eye and a pleasure to drive |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.3L V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | |
| Reliability marks | |
| Comfort marks | |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 20 miles |
| Most recent distance | 59700 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Taurus |
| Date of Entry | 5th February, 2004 |