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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  not too shabby - 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Robert H - September 27 - 2:00 am

  The only van you can compare the Anniversary Edition to is the Toyota XLE Limited, which actually cost a few bucks more. Have had the car for 3 months, it has been perfect so far. I already have 7000 miles and is still running strong.Havent had any tranny or engine probs. Would recommend to anyone who wants a van.

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  Must have got a good one.Very reliable! - 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By llonman - September 16 - 10:00 am

  We purchased our Caravan when our third child was born. Van had 82K on the odometer and was on the second owner. The van now has 156K and still runs okay. The 3.0 engine has burned oil since day one due to the leaking seals. But it is managable. Idler pully is worn out but is cheaper to just replace belt with the next smaller belt to fend off squeeking. One of the resistors in the fan switch also went south at 130K, so we just choose the other 4 speeds. Tranny is the 3 speed model which is rock solid. Overall good van for the daily abuse it takes.

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  Junk - 2000 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By bernickfamily - September 16 - 10:00 am

  This is the worst car we have ever owned. Transmission went out and electrical problems. All after warranty. This is our last Dodge. Do yourself a favor and never buy one. You may not want to accept one as a gift. I am not alone with these problems. Nearly all owners suffer the problems of this product.

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  THE RIGHT MINIVAN - 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By GRYMDSNPPR - September 16 - 10:00 am

  I WAS VERY HAPPY WITH MY 2004 GRAND CARAVAN SE. REMOVING THE SEATS WAS THE ONLY REAL INCONVIENCE. WHEN I SAW THE ON LINE ADDS FOR 2005 WITH STOW & GO SEATING I HAD TO SEE IT. i BOUGHT ONE VERY SOON AFTER SEEING ONE FOR THE FIRST TIME. MY OLD VAN ONLY HAD 58,000 MILES. A BABY BY MY STANDARDS. I USUALLY RUN MY VEHICLES 150,000 TOO 200,000+ MILES BEFORE CHANGING. THE STOW AND GO SEATS HAVE BEEN JUST WHAT I NEEDED. THE VAN HAS BEEN TROUBLE FREE SO FAR. MY FORTH CHRYSLER BRAND MINIVAN AND THE BEST SO FAR. THE LAST ONE WAS VERTUALLY TROUBLE FREE.

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  Reliability Issues - 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Sani - September 7 - 2:00 am

  My dad bought a new Honda Odyssey this year and sold me this car, since I couldnt fit a car seat for my new baby into my 1992 Toyota Celica. He had the transmission rebuilt and then drove it up from Florida to Missouri with a trailer of furniture - well under the 3,000 pound limit. Now, the car needs a $3,000 ABS part, and the transmission needs to be rebuilt again, after less than 5,000 miles. The wipers operate randomly, which others in the reviews have noted, and the Infinity radio/CD/tape doesnt work - the buttons have to be pushed very hard, and then they sometimes operate other functions. Im fixing it and selling it - and buying a nice, reliable used Camry.

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  Bad Fuel Economy - 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By DK - September 6 - 1:06 am

  Overall the van is pretty nice. An issue with two kids in car seats in the middle row is, they dont have any place to put their things, like toys or such. they are in the bucket seats. I suppose the back row might be more feasible but then you can reach them from the front (hand them something). Handling, acceleration, etc, driving experience is great. First time owning/driving a caravan and this 2010 is nice; almost like a SUV. My biggest complaint thus far, after 1800miles, is the fuel mileage. 14 MPG in the city, driving ultra conservative w/ A/C (of course now it is showing 12 mpg). On long trip (300 miles) about 19-20. Im thinking something is amiss here. This BLOWS.

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  Brakes - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By rick - August 20 - 7:03 am

  I had a Dodge Grand Caravan that I purchased there less than a year before with brake noise. My wife complained on previous occasions but was told nothing was wrong. When they finally looked at it vehicle was out of warranty period and they said the repair would not be covered. It cost us $471.98 to replace front and back pads and resurface rotors. Was not informed that a TSB #05-006-08 had been issued. Part number recommended in TSB does not match part number on my invoice. Now they need replaced again a year later because they were making a squealing noise and overheating. When I took it in to a local mechanic, he said my left rear caliper is leaking and needs to be replaced. No calipers

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  Great Deals To Be found On this Vehicle! - 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By dlake - August 13 - 4:16 pm

  I cannot believe I got over 10K off on an SXT- loaded! I paid 19,095 for an MSRP of 29145. 5K below Edmunds Rx TMV! Saved enough to purchase an extended warranty to 5/100K. Also-48 months @ 0%. Edmunds is giving this vehicle a bad rap especially given the unbelievable deals out there.

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  BEST OF 25 YEARS OF VANS/4.0 6 speed - 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By ETP - August 12 - 9:23 pm

  This is the best Caravan yet and we have 7 in the extended family. The only thing that would be nice is if the drivers seat would lower all the way to the floor. very nice workmanship and a very tight vehicle. I am a mechanic and drove several of these before buying the 4.0. My daughter did too so get one while you can folks.

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  Major parts good. Minor parts bad. - 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Matt - August 11 - 10:03 pm

  We got this car used at 26k, and had no real issues with it for about 12 months. Since then, it has been in the shop several times for minor issues. Windshield washer pump broke. Power locks on rear doors broke. Rear washer broke. A/C leaked on the floorboards. Brake system is junk. Despite oil changes every 3,000 miles, I end up having to do an engine system flush due to sludge build-up every other time. Power steering binds. Bottom line is, that despite no real major problems with the engine, etc, it is extremely irritating to have to bring the van in for work all the time.