Overview & Reviews

The Dodge Grand Caravan traces its roots back to 1984, when Chrysler introduced American families to a new, extremely space-efficient vehicle: the minivan. The larger, "Grand" version of the Caravan debuted a few years later. It was a huge hit that has remained a strong seller through the years, even as newer rivals outdid it in various ways. Despite innovations like driver-side sliding doors and Stow 'n Go seats, a poor reputation for reliability, a lack of refinement and disappointing execution made it difficult to recommend.

In recent years, however, the Dodge Grand Caravan has been improved significantly. With a strong engine and improved cabin quality highlighting this renaissance, the Grand Caravan is the most competitive that it's been in years. While Toyota and Honda still offer more well-rounded minivans, this Dodge provides several attributes that could make it a good pick for consumers.

Current Dodge Grand Caravan
The Dodge Caravan minivan can seat up to seven passengers and is offered in four trim levels: American Value Package (AVP), SE, SXT and R/T. All of them are powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that produces a very strong 283 horsepower. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. Despite the horsepower advantage, the Dodge Grand Caravan is still a half-second slower to 60 mph than the top-ranked Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna.

The AVP represents the entry-level model and feature highlights include full power accessories, dual-zone climate control and an auxiliary audio jack. However, it's the only trim that features a two-person second-row bench seat -- a minivan rarity nowadays -- in place of the upper trims' excellent Stow 'n Go seats that fold into the floor with one tug of a lever.

As you move up through the trim levels, you'll find more standard features like rear air-conditioning, a power-operated liftgate, power sliding doors, leather upholstery, a rearview camera and a blind-spot warning system. Electronic features are plentiful as well, including a navigation system, Bluetooth and a rear seat entertainment system that includes rare features like a Blu-Ray player, an HDMI port and two screens. Like other loaded minivans these days, a fully equipped Grand Caravan can seem like a full-fledged luxury car in terms of features.

As far as passenger comfort, the Grand Caravan comes up a bit short relative to its rivals. Taller drivers may run out of legroom, the second-row Stow 'n Go passenger seats are a little less comfortable than the fixed captain's chairs of other vans and the third row's seat cushion is tilted down in an effort to increase rear legroom. There also isn't an option for an eighth passenger. On the plus side, though, those Stow 'n' Go seats are a cinch to transform the Grand Caravan from people carrier to cargo hauler. The second-row seats of most other vans must be physically removed or you end up with less maximum cargo capacity. In this way, at least, the Grand Caravan is hard to beat.

Used Dodge Grand Caravan Models
The current van represents the fifth-generation Dodge Grand Caravan that debuted for 2008. However, it was substantially upgraded for 2011. Originally, there were two main trim levels available (SE and SXT) and three V6 engine choices. A 3.3-liter produced 175 hp, a midrange 3.8-liter made 197 hp and a 4.0-liter unit topped out at 251 hp. None were particularly appealing. The Grand Caravan from 2008-'10 was very disappointing for other reasons as well. The cabin featured subpar materials, uninspired design and haphazard construction. Handling was worse, especially in the first model year, and the ride was generally unsophisticated. Even the styling was less appealing.

Though we don't recommend the Grand Caravan from 2008-'10, potential buyers should nevertheless note that it featured different second-row seating configurations. The second-row bench was standard on the SE for '08, but it gave way to standard Stow 'n Go the following year. There was, however, an optional Swivel 'n Go system that included more comfortable second-row captain's chairs that rotated 180 degrees to face the third row. A removable table essentially created a tiny living room on wheels.

Since it was overhauled and much improved for 2011, changes to the Grand Caravan since have been minimal and mostly limited to trim level and equipment shuffling. Still, 2013 brought easier operation of the Stow 'n Go second-row seating system, as well as the Blu-Ray and HDMI port features for the DVD entertainment system.

Prior to all of this were four older generations of the Dodge Grand Caravan. The first spans 1987-'90; the second, 1991-'95; the third, 1996-2000; and the fourth, 2001-'07.

The fourth-generation Grand Caravan's engine lineup included a 180-hp 3.3-liter V6 and a more powerful 215-hp 3.8-liter V6. The top-of-the-line trim level offered Stow 'n Go fold-flat seating, dual power-sliding doors, a separate rear heating and air-conditioning system, a power driver seat, 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and powered accessories. As you consider trim levels, keep in mind that the naming system for the van's trims changed a few times during this generation.

A variety of stand-alone options were available, including automatic climate control, leather trim, an Infinity sound system, rear DVD entertainment and a navigation system. Early fourth-gen Grand Caravans were available with all-wheel drive, but AWD capability was discontinued in 2005 to make room for the versatile, under-floor Stow 'n Go fold-flat seating system in premium models.

In reviews, we noted that alongside top import-brand competitors, the fourth-gen Dodge Grand Caravan came up lacking. Its engines weren't as powerful or refined, its ride wasn't as smooth or quiet and its handling wasn't as tidy or sure-footed. Inside, the van's controls and displays were dated, and features like stability control, built-in sunshades or a back-up camera simply weren't available. Still, for used-car shoppers who demand maximum flexibility from their minivans, Stow 'n Go might be reason enough to consider a Grand Caravan from this era.

The third-generation Grand Caravan featured a then-rare driver-side sliding door and unique "Easy Out" rollers on the center and rear seats to aid removal. Dodge offered several Grand Caravan trim levels to suit different budgets and desires, and dual front airbags and antilock brakes were standard. For power, the van had a 3.0-liter 150-hp V6 as standard, with a 180-hp 3.8-liter V6 engine available -- the larger V6 now coupled with a more efficient and recommended four-speed automatic transmission. After a one-year hiatus, all-wheel-drive availability returned to the lineup in 1997 on certain models, and in 1999, top-level Grand Caravans received a more driver-oriented Autostick transmission, 17-inch wheels and steering-wheel-mounted radio controls.

Introduced in 1987 as a long-wheelbase complement to the original Caravan, the Dodge Grand Caravan received its first major overhaul in 1991. The second generation (which ran through 1995) included a restyled exterior, freshened interior and the addition of optional all-wheel-drive (AWD) capability. Its dimensions were unchanged, but the corners were rounded off on its breadbox-like silhouette and more glass was added. Safety was enhanced with the availability of antilock brakes and a driver-side airbag in 1991 and integrated child safety seats in 1992. The Grand Caravan's four earliest generations have all exhibited reliability problems, but the first and second generations were especially troublesome, due to issues related to the automatic transmission. For this reason, we'd advise used-car buyers to steer clear of these oldest Dodge minivans.

User Reviews:

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  2019 Dodge Grand Caravan - 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Debora Kelly - November 12 - 7:43 am

  I had a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan and the automatic doors would keep shutting with an object in them like a body. I was bruised pretty good once because the door shut on me took it in to a dodge dealer multiple times could not find the problem. Now the 2019 is having the same issue it closed on someone the other day but she was able to get out of it without injury. This problem could severely injure or kill a child. I even called dodge corporate office and am being told they will check it 1 more time and file a "star" and then close my case. I lost $5000 on the 2016 because of the door problems and fear of injury and pain from having to pull on the automatic doors that were not working properly now the 2019 is doing the same thing and again Dodge is not going to fix the issue. This is dangerous but they have my money and I have the van so it is not their problem it is mine.

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  FAIR - 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By sc4880 - December 24 - 10:00 am

  After I purchased, I was disappointed in the van proformance.

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  2/24/2011 - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By bs2257 - November 28 - 1:34 pm

  I wanted to buy American. Have always had a Toyota. Bought this van from the Dodge Dealership used with 58k miles. Since Ive had it, (1 1/2 yrs) new brakes, AC hose leaked. Recalls: AC, radiator cap leak, front wheel bearings, door latch could cause fire, Air bags could disengage. Now the transmission needs to be replaced with 64K miles. Cost 4,500-5,500 to replace. Was told by the dealership the transmission has not been a problem on other 2008 vans. Really! No Thanks! Trading it in on a Toyota as soon as possible! I really expected more from Dodge.

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  Disgusted - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Madison - November 28 - 9:06 am

  I have been driving Caravans since 1989 and this had got to be the worst one. The key doesnt always work and although the van is running, the signal lights, radio do not which is dangerous when you think your signal is working and you try to use it. The brakes wore prematurely and the plastic in the hatch cracked in two. The tires wore prematurely as well.

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  Junk - 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By lmollstl - November 13 - 7:53 am

  I bought this van new and have had nothing but problems with it. It has 170,000 miles on it and the things I have had to replace would take up this entire column. The major replacements are; the transmission twice,water pump, power steering pump, gas tank, radio, wiper motor, power windows, door locks, door hinges, etc. The only thing still working is the engine. No wonder the company is going out of business. I will never buy another Dodge

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  I would not take it even if it were free - 1999 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Sandy McGhee - October 30 - 10:33 pm

  I bought this van new and cheap. Thought I was getting a deal. I should have checked this web site first. This van had transmission and engine problems and the back door latch was broken. I owned the vehicle three months and it started to act up. The worst vehicle Ive ever owned. I will never buy another Dodge/Chrysler product ever again. Honda Odyssey, Nissan Quest or Mazda MPV is my next choice. We have a transmission place in our area where the owner got rich from repairing Dodge/Chrysler transmissions. This vehicle is dangerous and I feel Chryslers repeated production of this vehicle exploits women and children.

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  Nice Early On, Then Fell Apart - 2000 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Robert - October 3 - 9:50 am

  The first 60,000 miles were trouble-free. Then we needed a new transmission ($1900). At 96,000 miles, we needed a new Transmission Control Module ($500). Now, at 98,000 miles, we apparently need a new Body Control Module (the dash is completely dead). We had the dealer trace the wiring, and try a new wiring harness. The only thing left is the BCM. However, theres no going back with this -- its programmed with our VIN, and theres no guarantee that it will fix anything. Weve decided to sell it and buy a new one. Given their long-standing problems with transmission and electrical, Id avoid the Caravan.

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  hate it!!!! - 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Brittany - July 30 - 1:42 pm

  I bought this van 6 months ago and its horrible. I had so many problems and they just keep coming. My ac compressor went out so that cost me $400. It always needs breaks. My left tire sensor is going out and now my computer is going out. Its $4000 just for the computer. One of the power sliding doors broke so I cant use it. The wiring to my signal lights are messed up. When I first got it, I had no problems until 2 days after my warrenty was up. Dodge wont work with me on trying to fix it. To them, nothing major is wrong and told me not to worry so much about it. With 4 kids I need a reliable car and this is NOT it. I regret buying this van.

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  Never again will I buy a Dodge - 1998 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By jleh - July 23 - 10:00 am

  At 5 years and 60,174 miles the van broke down. After two weeks and $2200 to repair the cam shaft, valves, head gasket, etc. I drove the van three more weeks before it broke down again with the exact same problem. It appears now that there is something wrong behind the engine block and it will require a new motor. I thought vehicles are suppose to last more than sixty thousand miles and five years. I will never buy another product from Dodge/Chrysler product.

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  This is the worst vehicle i have ever owned. - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By scoobong - June 29 - 9:02 pm

  I would NOT recommened the Dodge Grand Caravan to anyone... I Bought a Brand New dodge Caravan and it has been in the shop for 4-5 recalls Plus i had put new brakes, calipers, and rotors after 8 months of driving it. Plus it just randomly shuts off, after you start it. The keys seldom unlock the doors, you have to manually, and its been to the shop for that twice already. I put less time and money into my old 1970 Ford Maverick. Just over 100,000 and my transmision is starting to go. I brought it in for warranty work once then they tried to tell me my muffler needed to be replaced and they would do it for$ 900.00 i said no then got a second opion and they said the muffler was fine.