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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  Unreliability overshadows looks - 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By CR - October 28 - 2:20 pm

  I bought this minivan new because it was the best looking of all the minivans at the time. It had an unusually (for a minivan) sporty look plus it has a great ride, handled well, was very comfortable on long trips, a luxurious interior and quietness, and offers great peformance with plenty of torque from the 3.8 V6. However, it turned out to be more than a lemon, a real headache. It has had over $5,750 in repairs since 1 week of ownership until now. To list just a few problems: New rear hatch motor, sliding door motor,window motor,new transmission,3 AC,condensor, 2sets rotors, ignition barrel, pwr doorlock, pwr steering ,etc..all before 50,000 miles.

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  Long term Grand Caravan Sport - 1999 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Caravan - October 14 - 5:46 am

  Owned the car for 10 years now. Got us through 2 kids, friends, 20 Nascar events to Texas Motor Speedway. Car has been garage kept for 10 years, spent its whole life shuttling kids in a 10 mile radius. Just now starting to have oil leaks. Belt tensioner was fixed 2 years ago (loud-but did not effect performance or reliability) and is starting to make noise again. We have the sport, its comfortable as far as vans go. Went through 3 sets of tires in 10 years. Ignition cylinder locked out 2 times in 10 years, both times had to be dragged out of garage. Overall, a good local kid hauler for 10 years. Time for a sportier Volvo next week! Goodbye minivan!

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  My Grand Caravan - 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Handyman - October 11 - 4:53 am

  I bought my 2003 Sport Grand Caravan from an auto dealer on winter of 2006 with 139000km on it. Before I took it off from the dealer I put a new battery since its winter. After 3 years, I have now 189500km in my odometer. In this period the only parts Ive changed are the brake pads, the rotor disc, 1 headlamp bulb, wiper blades and a set of spark plugs. I could feel shudder in 1st & 2nd gear but not frequent. The signal light handle does not turn back. Though I dont consider this as a great minivan, but if youre a careful owner this car can last.

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  Crowd Mover - 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Houston - October 9 - 3:30 am

  Bought this vehicle used with 19000 miles, and found out right away how much utility it had. With in floor storage,7 passenger interior,and fold down rear seats it fits our familys needs well. As someone who has been a mechanic I can offer this advice for the transmission issues, change your fluid to synthetic. This should keep it working well for years as has been my experience. My only real complaint is the brakes, but if you buy lifetime warranty pads and change them yourself you can save hundreds over the life of the van. Change engine oil to synthetic at about 50000 miles, for long engine life,( this gives the piston rings time to seat.)Then enjoy years of reliable service.

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  Lots of Fun - 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By SXT4ME - October 7 - 2:00 am

  First Grand Caravan purchase was in 1996 new. Then Expedition EB SUV. Now back to Grand Caravan. 3 kids age 6, 8, 10 makes quick easy access. All Pwr. doors and liftgate easy to use and safe too. Can park in garage now without worry of 2nd car getting dinged up from kids opening doors to wide. Test drove the 04 Sienna but were sticker shocked at nearly $7,000 higher price. Bought the Grand Caravan and used the $7,000 savings on a 7 night family disney cruise to the Carribean. We got it all!

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  What I think - 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Robbie - October 4 - 6:40 am

  First off I love this vehicle! It feels much sturdier than the 2007 we had. Love the power tailgate too. The stow and go seating is great. Now for the bad. The seat belt seems shorter than the one on my old van. I can connect, but it is tight across me if I go to the 24 hr banker, etc. The passenger side is fine. I dont want an extender (never needed one before), just a longer seat belt!

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  Not a very good vehicle - 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Bill Field - October 2 - 9:00 am

  Ive not had good luck with this vehicle at all. Its been in for various repairs 5 times now. Electrical problems, fuel system problems and mechanical problems. Bushings in the front sway bar went bad at 24000 miles. I just took it in for my state inspection and it had a bad tie rod end at 33000 miles. And guess what? Dodge refuses to pay for the tie rod end under warranty. My wife drives this vehicle and she is not an aggressive driver at all. Ive maintained it properly and done everything I can to keep it running smoothly. I do like the removable seating on the interior. Lots of room, but not the most comfortable vehicle Ive driven. This was not cheap either. Thumbs down!

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  Better be a AAA member! - 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Lazurus - October 1 - 2:00 am

  We had several recalls which should have been warning enough. The dealership would not stand behind the warranties on the child integrated seating. Experienced electrical problems, belt tensioner issues, complete failure of brake system, and finally a catastrophic transmission failure. All before reaching 100,000 miles.

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  Excellent van - 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By David - September 30 - 10:23 pm

  We have a 96 Grand Caravan with 168,000 miles and it is still running strong, but figured the wife would be better with a newer model. The van gets 23-24 mpg, rides great, and everyone is comfortable. The power sliding door is a two edged sword, but the power liftgate is great, especially when it is raining. We have 65,000 on this van, and have never had a problem with it.

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  So Far So Fun! - 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Darrell - September 28 - 9:26 pm

  I have just purchased this vehicle, and recently hit the 100 km mark. This is the second Caravan I have owned and I am quite happy with it. It drives and handles great, cannot wait to go on holidays with this gem. price was right and so is the styling of this vehicle. If i could change anything it would be the almost white parts of the interior (very bad idea with those grubby little kids). All and all the is no other van like the Grand Caravan.