1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE review from North America
"This is a fine people mover when taken care of"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced three batteries over 100000 miles.
Wipers operate at various times when the switch is in the off position.
Front wheel bearing replaced at 90000.
Indicator lights on the center console flash for approx 10 min after start-up then operate normally.
Rear air-conditioner/heater unit has a slight leak.
Axle bearing in the rear differential is in need of replacement as is the rear drive line.
General comments?
Unlike many other Caravan owners we have been very satisfied with ours. We got the big engine and base transmission in the AWD version. In 100000 we have had the transmission serviced twice which may be the reason that it has yet to be a problem.
Replaced the factory rear shocks with light truck shocks to reduce the body roll however this made the rear more bouncy.
Bridgstone Blizzacks make this a fine ski car for the family. The 3.8 provides enough power for mountain driving here in Colorado.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 110000 miles |
| Previous car | Mercury Sable |
| Date of Entry | 4th October, 2007 |