1994 Dodge Caravan LE review from North America

We bought it used from a private owner, so we weren't expecting it to be perfect.

Transmission started slipping shortly after we bought it. Knew a mechanic that knew a guy that had a caravan with a blown motor, but a good rebuilt tranny, so we had the tranny swapped for under $1000.

Heat never really worked right. If you where in the way back, in the winter, you would freeze.

Serpentine belt comes completely off if you drive through a large puddle, or take it through the car wash. We were told that the belt was stretched out, and replaced it, but still have this problem.

Side door won't unlock (power locks) using the switch on either front door. You either need to use the key from the outside or reach through the passenger side to unlock it.

Center seat will not come out easily. Need to kind of pry on it with a screw driver to get it to release.

Had to replace the power seat (drivers) with a standard non-power one after a short in the wiring caused the motor to burn up.

Clutch plate on the a/c went out, causing the a/c pump to smoke. Scared the heck out of me because at first I thought the darn van was on fire.

Rear windows rattle.

Had to replace the latch and window on sliding door. The latch would pop open every time the door was closed, and we could not get the latch off of the window to just replace the latch.

Plastic door panel on the tail gate rattles.

Rear passenger quarter panel is rusting out - again.

Paint is starting to flake on the hood and fenders.

Not too bad as far as caravans go.

Would consider getting another in a few years, unless I find something I like better.

Pretty comfortable. Rear seat could use some work, but good for the kids and dogs.