1996 Dodge Caravan review from North America
"Good, reliable transportation"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Front struts replaced at 90,000 miles under warranty.
Intermittent problem with wipers mysteriously activating.
Transmission started acting up at 167,000 miles and causing a "check engine" alert. The trouble, which according to the computer code is the Torque Clutch, sometimes prevents the transmission from downshifting into first when at a full stop. A quick manual shift into first corrects the problem.
General comments?
Overall, this is the second best car I've ever had. Although this Caravan has a small 6 (3.0 liter), it has more than enough power for normal driving, gets reasonable mileage (23 normally, 26-28 highway) and has been utterly reliable.
My version is the stripped, basic, no frills model, bought used. If I could do it over, I would have tried to exchange the awkward, uncomfortable middle bench seat for two captains chairs.
Other minor carps include overly large front pillars that cause blind spots, and front headlights that are too easily abraded.
Overall, I have been most happy with this model, and after having the transmission repaired, I intend to pass this on to my daughter.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 6 cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 33000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 170000 miles |
| Previous car | Plymouth Voyager |
| Date of Entry | 18th July, 2004 |