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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  Fantastic Family Vehicle - 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By J Max - September 20 - 2:46 pm

  Bought used at 41,000. Do about 20,000 a year. Currently at 121,000. Wow is all I can say. Except for a rusted through coolant pipe (damaged when hit by rock kicked up underneath) $0.00 in repairs. Maintenance so far; 1 tune-up at 100,000 brakes and tires at 25,000 and 60,000 intervals. Im not easy on this. Its my daily driver, 50 mile RT commute in bumper to bumper traffic, all types of weather with Snow & Ice. Never a problem. Great control, Comfortable seats, Fantastic stereo, As good as any import. Tranny shifts Perfect, engine still like new, no loss of oil or coolant. Runs quiet Starts quick every time. Lots of room for dad, mom, 4 teenagers and our stuff. Interior still like new

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  Reliable Van - 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Domestic Diva - September 20 - 2:10 am

  Had this van since 35k miles, now has 89k miles. It has been a very reliable van for our family. middle and 3rd row seats arent as comfortable as i would like (I think its b/c they have to fold flat into the floor). Love that they fold flat, makes it a very multipurpose vehicle (can hold lots of "stuff" or people or both). Brakes were replaced but they still squeak, more of a brake manuf. issue than a Dodge issue. Had a Chevrolet Uplander before this van and the Uplander was ALWAYS in the shop for something. Have been really pleased with the Dodge Grand Caravans reliability; plan to keep it for a long time.

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  dodge gc - 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By conniev - September 19 - 10:00 am

  major mechanical problems-all major components had to be replaced at @ 95,000 miles, transmission failed twice, in addition engine, ABS, front brakes problems

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  Dream Car - 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By D. A. Anderson - September 13 - 10:00 am

  Prior to this vehicle I had a 2001 Lincoln, Touring Sedan, Town Car. The Dodge Grand Carvan is far superior in all categories, leg room, passenger comfort, ride and driving. I now have two of these vehicles and love them. Over the years I have had numerous Lincolns and Cadillacs and with their downsizing since 1998 have made them unacceptable for my use. This Dodge fills the desires of a good size, comfortable, safe, fun to drive vehicle for me and my family.

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  Dodge always bad - 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By john - September 12 - 1:03 pm

  Bought 2003 new grand caravan sport had to replace transmission at 60,100 miles dealership did not make it easy to honor warranty at 100 miles over warranty had to install trans outside dealership was 100% cheaper, also computer had to be replaced, brake drums replaced twice, as you can see problems keep increasing, I do not recommend Dodge at all, right now as I write the starter needs to be replaced. Will never buy us make autos ever again. Previous to this I had a used 98 Plymouth Voyager and also had to replace transmission, I thought my buying new it would be better but totally disappointing.

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  Trip taker - 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By JLH - September 10 - 10:50 pm

  We bought our van with 35,000 miles on it. We bought an extended warranty from a company that went our of business, but did get some repairs done first. This van was great for our family when we took trips. Even though it didnt have the DVD/Tv system. We didnt have too many problems until around 100,000 miles. We now have 134,000. Motor still runs good. Changed oil every 3000 miles and had the tranny serviced several times. The lock broke in one of the sliding doors. Just had front end problems. Sway bar bushings and a cv shaft. $500 to fix. My last brake job lasted 3 years. Replaced EGR valve. Now engine light is on. Vacuum problems. Also belt, tensioner and water pump. $500.

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  2000 Powerwagon - 2000 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Pop - September 10 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle is superior to the Ford Windstars I have owned. It is more comfortable, pulls my boat easier, and is much roomier and more comfortable. The mileage is disappointing, as is the braking system. It has had to have a seat replaced because of wear, and stabilizers were added to the front to get rid of excessive noise.

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  Style, Storage and Squeal - 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Karen - September 5 - 12:55 pm

  We rented this model last year for a trip that required lots of storage room for the trip home. We were instantly converted to a minivan household! Due to an unfortunate accident (not our fault) in November, it did provide us with the opportunity to buy a new car. We didn’t even have to discuss it. We already knew what we wanted. I searched online for a 2017nmodel, and bought it over the phone in less than an hour. When my husband’s workday ended, he dropped off our other car to have the brakes relined, and got a lift from a friend straight to Landmark in Athens. He drove our new car home after signing the paperwork. Great financing, great customer service! I am handicapped which makes entering and exiting a car difficult. But because the Grand Caravan sits lower than our crossover, it’s much easier for me know. Plus there is room for my wheelchair if needed. And the power out;ets allow me to use my medical while in transit so I can withstand longer road trips. So much storage space with all seats in position. If we stow all the seats, we can slide a queen size mattress and box springs in the back with room left over! Love the separate temperatur controls in the front and rear. Rides like a car, storage room of a pickup and that v6 squeals the wheels when you have to go NOW. We weren’t picky...this was the last 2017 model left on the lot so we had no hcoice in color of van, carpet or rest of interior. Missing s power package we would like to have (seats, doors, tailgate), but otherwise it’s fabulous. And have you ever heard of getting 25mpg on surface streets? And we get 31mpg on the expressway. The economy fuel setting helps us achieve that. LOVE the Dodge Grand Caravan! And our rapidly growing teenager finally has room for his super long legs! Cant say enough nice things about the car or Landmark Dodge. Just a great experience all the way around.

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  Stow n Go Sold Me! - 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Kristen E. - August 23 - 10:00 am

  Having a DGC with the stow n go feature is like having two vehicles. In less than 30 seconds my 7-passenger kid-hauler turns into a very roomy and practical cargo-van. In fact, I can pack more in this van than I could in a un-covered pick-up truck! It is designed to fit a 4x8 sheets of material! Bravo, Chrysler. The fact that this van is stylish, very roomy, comfortable and competitively priced is just icing on the cake. There are so many seating/hauling possibilities! The fuel economy is not stellar, but its better than a truck, and I find it much more useful. The tranny in mine was jerky at first, but after 2500 miles it shifts smooth as silk. The under floor storage is impressive too!!

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  Decent van to haul kids and packages - 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan
  By Pete K. - August 23 - 10:00 am

  Overall, I am pleased with the vehicle. After putting 12k on it, here are my thoughts: all city driving mpg is overstated. I average 14 mpg (12 mpg with A/C on). This is total BS as Dodge claims the car should do much better. So far, the vehicle is fine, except for several well documented issues and I experienced both of them. After 7k, front rotors had to be machined and that was taken care quickly. At 11k, front wheel bearings were replaced. The car sounded like a jet at speeds above 30 mph. Also, the rear windshield wipers were making a screeching sound. The part was ordered and replaced. At stop and go, the tranny hunts for 2 and 3 gear, mostly guessing wrong but you can manually shift.