1996 Dodge Caravan review from North America
"Makes you want to buy a Honda"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Transmission had to be replace at 64,000 miles, over $1,000.
Clockspring in steering column was replaced 70,000 miles.
Windshield wipers have a mind of their own!
Car shimmies and shakes when traveling over 65 mph.
Air conditioner blows out more hot air than cold.
Heater takes 20 minutes to warm van.
Air conditioner compressor froze up at 84,000 miles.
Headlights are extremely dim.
General comments?
Although I would give it high ratings for its utility, I wouldn't suggest anyone buy one.
I payed $5,000 for the van just off of lease with only 54,000 miles on it, 10,000 miles later the transmission was completely gone and cost over $1,000 to fix (half of the price the Dodge dealership wanted!).
The air conditioner never worked and when I took it to get checked out the people told me not to bother because "Chrysler air conditioners never work". The heat takes forever to heat the van also.
The windshield wipers do whatever they want, turn on by themselves, off by themselves, and often times decide to stop right in the middle of the windshield.
Overall I have been thoroughly unhappy with this vehicle and the money it requires to keep going. And mine only has 84,000 miles on it!
I'm in the market for a Honda!
Recommended reviews
| A great car with some small irritations |
|
| Great Van with low maintenance costs |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 liter 6 cylinder Automatic |
| Performance marks | 4 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 1 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 54000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 84000 miles |
| Previous car | Pontiac Bonneville |
| Date of Entry | 16th March, 2004 |