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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  Better than the base model - 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By jkm - March 25 - 6:43 am

  I had a Caravan 98, destoyed in a crash. So i went shopping and ended up the 2005 Grand, when I compared the "new " base van to my old 98, the 98 was less tinny and a better drive. have had this three days, feels solid and strong, think I am going to miss my old van less. best new feature? The redesigned cup holder that does not drop coffee cup, and air vents in the back for the dogs.new sound system is also great. My old van purred, but this one is even quieter! I bougth it with 30,000 miles and only a few months left on the warrenty, $15000 plus fees. think i did good

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  Not too bad, but not too good either - 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By stekicar - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with 96164 miles on it. Except for intermitent wipers I didnt have a sinle problm until I reached around 120000 miles. First, my engine started to leak oil, every 300- 500 miles I have to add 1 quarter. My AC compressor died (dont know whats wrong with it, maybe its just bearing), power windows electric motor on passenger side burned out, . Dont have problem with transmission.

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  Not Bad! - 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By kekers - March 4 - 10:00 am

  The first year we had the van, we had to get work done on the electrical system (crossed wires). No other mechanical problems in 102000 miles. Quite difficult to change own spark plugs. We do have the phantom wipers, but that is not really a problem. I still get the same average gas mileage today as I did when I bought it almost 7 years ago (~20mpg). I have also used the back to haul drywall/couches,etc. Overall, not bad.

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  Happy so far - 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By ikarus - February 26 - 10:00 am

  Replaced my 1999 Montana ostensibly since I couldnt wait for GMs new model minivans. (always have been a GM family.) In addition, GMs minivans while adding a "nose" to their 2005 models did not offer anything new in the seat "stowage" area. The Grand Caravan SXT is undoubtedly a larger car in all respects than GM offerings. Only have had the car two weeks but satisfied with ride and engine (3.8)so far. It will take a little mileage under its belt to fairly evaluate the car but so far so good. Ill let you know later as we drive 4000K back and forth annually to AZ as to comfort and gas mileage. Happy so far.

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  Must be one of the few - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By MIchiganMiniVan - February 24 - 3:20 pm

  Wifes van w/ 3 kids. Power side and rear doors are great when they shut. Drivers side door will not shut all the time. Been into the dealership for this and for a broken latch on the lid for front stow n go seat. Original brakes (17,000+ miles), original tires. Have hauled 1000# of lumber, inside, and about 1000# of landscape edging bricks. No damage to inside seats when down. Handles great in the Michigan winters (above average last year). Van is driven mainly city driving, but weekend trips are over 50 miles, one way. Just got back from a 240 mile round tripper yesterday. Averaged 23-24 mpg on turnpike. Very pleased. Seats, at head rests, seem to be coming apart, though.

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  MINE WAS JUST TOTALED AND IM MISSING IT - 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Holly - February 24 - 3:36 am

  My Grand Caravan met an ungrand ending a few days ago (we were hit) and Im already searching the net for its twinkie. It was by far the best, most reliable "car" Ive driven. My only complaint would be that a sensor went out around 50,000 that would not allow one of the side doors to close with the click of the auto key. It was $350 to fix, so we made due and got used to it. I also had a problem with the turn signal that would not work, it was covered under warranty. We have five children and really liked the stowing capacity. It was also very comfortable for long trips. (I say that as a driver. 3rd seats not as comfy - but that is true with most vans.)

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  OK for a Minivan - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By familyguy69 - February 23 - 3:09 am

  I purchased this van used in 2010. I didnt know at the time, it was a previous Enterprise Rental. I got a good deal on it and has been mostly reliable. The van still has the original battery in it! It currently has 79,000 miles on it. THE BAD - My van needs front brakes every 8-10k miles. I only replaced rears once so far. Other than the A/C, Radiator Cap, and Sliding Door recall, Ive had no major problems. The right front caliper did freeze up on me once. Since the last time I did brakes, the right front has been making a screeching sound while driving. I hope it is not wheel bearings. The seats could be more comfortable. The newer vans have nicer interiors since Fiat took over.

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  Great van, great space, great power. - 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By tunnaman - February 13 - 11:00 am

  I really like this van after owning Astro, Lumina, Aerostar, Windstar, and short Caravan. The space is wonderful and the power is suprising for something so big. I really dislike the blindspots and the road/wind noise at 75mph. Ive averaged between 19.4 and 20.5 for my all purpose driving. I have a heavy foot, so I have been plesantly suprised with the mileage. Ive had a series of quality frustrations like the side door gasket became compressed and noisy. The dealer replaced it. The PS cooler mount has a broken weld so every time I close a door it sounds like a penny in soup can. The dealer is charging me $390 to get it fixed.

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  OK, but Issues - 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By nfonnesb - January 24 - 5:30 pm

  We didnt have any problems with this van for the first 45K miles, but then the transmission seized up and had to be replaced (70K mile warranty covered all but $100, but was gone for a week with no backup which was tough). Some of the electrical features work intermittently, windows stopped working, back lift gate latch doesnt work (have to use key to open each time), engine light is on and off. Even so, it gets good gas mileage and is comfortable and safe to ride in. The DVD is a life saver with 4 young kids and long trips. The stow and go seats are great and we have used this many times, all seats lie flat so it is a like a covered long bed truck if needed.

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  My Experience - 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By gorjul - January 18 - 10:00 am

  great vehicle, no problems out of ordinary