2001 Dodge Caravan 3.0L review from North America

Transmission shredded at 66000KM (6K over warranty) $4500 for replacement! Very common fault on these vehicles. Make sure the ONLY trans fluid used is Chrysler 7176 (pink in colour) change this every 25000KM MINIMUM to prevent, no generic substitutes!

Engine speed sensor. When this fails it causes "limp mode" - stuck in 2nd gear. To clear the limp mode so you can go to repair shop, disconnect and reconnect battery.

Back door struts, sticking (~50000KM)

Rust on door slide tracks for back doors. Caused by door wheels grinding road grit & dirt into the paint. Make sure you flush the slide recess with hose and grease the tracks well to prevent.

Front indicator bulbs - These are almost impossible to change through the stupid hatch in the wheel well. We have 3 lost bulbs which are rattling around in the light lenses from trying to change these stupid things. Squirrel sized hands help here!

Seats make my rear and back sweat - itch like mad on a long trip. I have a towel on the seat of our vehicle to stop this. Higher than base model seat material may be better here.

A/C belt squeal. This belt is horribly difficult to change & adjust correctly. Canadian Tire changed this belt and put one on which was 1/2" too big on because it is such a swine to change (cramped engine compartment). By the time I had finally figured out why I could not adjust this belt properly I had "consumed" three belts. Chrysler dealer told us there was no problem they could find!

Arm rests make my elbow ache because they are too close to the seat occupant.

Seat removal and re-installation to allow cargo is a real muscle job! Once removed the cargo space is impressive.

Cramped engine compartment. Changing spark plugs is a real feel around challenge.

Front valence very low. Car park stone stops will tear this unit apart causing it to progressively collapse over the next year or so.