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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  So far, so good. - 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By joel770 - June 29 - 8:26 pm

  It may be a bit early to tell, but I just bought the 2007 Grand Caravan SXT and so far I really like it. You can feel how well she handles and the engine runs smooth and quiet. The stow and go feature has already paid off and my kids think the brilliant black pearl color I chose is "hot". So far the gas mileage is proving to be a thousand times better than my old 1996 Chrysler Town and Country. That van ate through gas like termites on a toothpick. I hope this van keeps up the performance because so far its been a good buy.

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  Use Common Sense! - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Drozs875 - June 6 - 9:06 am

  Bought it from dealer new with 839 miles on it. I researched minivans to no end before I bought this one, and one thing that bothers me about it is the people that whine about issues that are either routine maintenance or abuse! The brake problems are caused by heavy footed stooges riding the brakes and the sliding door problems are from lack of lubrication! Use some common sense and maintain your vehicle! The only issue Ive had is the A/C blows warm in the South Carolina heat until you get moving. Ive checked the system myself and guess what...thats normal for a vehicle with a cabin this big! Overall I like the vehicle, the kid loves the DVDs and the wife wont let me drive it!

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  Good (North)American Value - 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By R. E. Moore - June 3 - 1:16 pm

  Have owned since new, going on 7 years and have 135,000 miles. Overall 22-23 mpg. Out of warranty after 18 months (36,000 miles). Very comfortable ride, sits 6 adults or 7 if 3 kids. Seats come out in halves, easier than older Chryslers. Paid $21,500 new. Power doors expensive ($400)repair , paid for 3 now. Mostly highway miles, keep the oil changed, been very reliable. Goes through brakes. Automatic Transmission shifts rough, all my Chrysler minivans have. Anti-lock brakes awesome, thought Id nailed someone last week, stopped quickly with no loss of control.

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  hmm... - 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Ffridley - May 31 - 10:00 am

  I traded in a 97 (which I will NEVER recommend!)(had a 3.0 engine) to get this newer model in hopes that Dodge wouldve corrected most of the engine problems. It hasnt been bad but now my exhaust is starting to smell AGAIN. This disgusts me. Also the engine space is a little better but still hard to do self maintenance to the vehicle. I probably will not be purchasing another Gr. Caravan in the future and because of the smell look forward to trading it soon if the service department cant take care of the problem.

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  Bad doors & whine will drive you crazy! - 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By PML1950 - May 22 - 2:00 am

  Okay so the whine when Im driving is what drives me the most crazy and it never seems to stop. The fact that every dodge caravan Ive owned after about 80,000 miles the air conditioning stops working. The elec doors where to start, first one of the locks wont work with the key so you have to lock manually, then the other door the button on the inside wont open or close so if you remember which side works which way youre lucky. This is the second Dodge caravan and I wont purchase another. Id rather a Honda or Toyota van, they have better reports from owners.

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  A Keeper...For Now - 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Space Junkie - May 8 - 7:46 pm

  When I needed another vehicle I immediately looked for a good deal on a Caravan; I drive a 2003 model at work every day. For a large vehicle I like the way it handles similar to a smaller car and the smooth ride. I only drive seven miles round trip to work each day and I take very few long trips; so fuel economy wasnt a big concern. When I DO make an occasional extended trip from home Im glad to have the roominess and the AM/FM, cassette/CD combo--more options for entertainment. Also like it because it IS a nice looking vehicle. I feel good driving it. Gas mileage on an extended trip for me has been about 23 mpg. Around town, mpg is about 8-10 (estimated).

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  What is a lemon? - 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Jon - May 8 - 12:26 pm

  We bought this van with the stow-n-go seating and the next day went on a 3000 mile trip. Other than the A/C draining into the passenger compartment, we truly enjoyed our new van. By 6000 miles the belt had to be changed. By 9000 the rack and pinion had to be replaced. 10000 and part of the Emission system was replaced. Sounds as if a U-joint is clicking and a thump in the front end. When will it stop?? We no longer trust the van. Would you??

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  2008 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT/Crew - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By 69mustang69 - May 4 - 2:30 am

  We traded our 2004 Toyota Sienna XLE with 125,000 miles on it for the Dodge Grand Caravan. We chose the Caravan because we could either get a fully loaded 08-09 Caravan with all the bells and whisles or a 09 Sienna with hardly any thing on it. We live in Wisconsin, and my wife wanted a van with remote start and heated seats, and couldnt afford the Sienna with these options on it. We made a great decision and so far havent had any problems with it yet. It was certified through Dodge so still has the warrenty. We were told to get a Caravan that was certified with the remaining warrenty because there has been some problems with them. We are proud to be Dodge Grand Caravan owners!

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  Love that Dodge Van! - 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Badger Red Blood - May 2 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I are in our 50s, the kids are gone, and this is the 1st Caravan we have owned. We should have had one years ago! We replaced a Pontiac Bonneville with this van, and love the convienence, comfort and versatility of this vehicle. We will replace it with another Dodge Grand Caravan.

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  3.8L Grand Caravan - 1999 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By tschuman - April 24 - 10:00 am

  The van has been a good driving vehicle and handles much like a car. Earlier Dodge vans we drove had squishy brakes but this years model was improved and brakes well. The infinity sound system sounds muddy, not high fidelity. Our major complaint has been major mehanical quality, in our case at 55000 mi, requiring a new engine despite proper engine care. This alone might not be a concern except for other nagging problems: transmission control module, engine ducting, engine mount problems, water pump, idler pulley replacement. Mileage has averaged 23 Hwy, 18-19 Cty