1996 Dodge Grand Caravan ES review from North America
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Front wheel bearing and idler tensioner replaced at 91,000.
Transmission has now failed at 116,100.
General comments?
I give the car good marks for its roominess, handling and overall fuel economy and power. I have been very disappointed to learn of the continuing difficulties with the Caravan's transmission. Chrysler had difficulties with this transmission in the late 80's and early 90's so I thought that the problem had been fixed. An independent transmission mechanic had advised me the the A604 (later called 41TE) transmission is just not designed to provide more than 100,000 miles of reliable service regardless of year model. He described the interior parts and design of the transmission as "cheap" although it represented an innovative design at the time of its introduction.
It is a shame that Chrysler has let this problem persist for nearly 15 years with only marginal improvement in expected service life. There is no reason that a tranmission should not last for 175,000 to 200,000 miles with normal care and maintenace.
Recommended reviews
| 1996 - Grand Caravan LE 3.3 V6 Bad year for an OK mini van |
|
| A high maintanance headache |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 4 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 38 miles |
| Most recent distance | 116100 miles |
| Previous car | Dodge Grand Caravan |
| Date of Entry | 17th June, 2004 |