1998 Dodge Grand Caravan 3.3L
Summary:
1998 Grand Caravan has been a reliable, comfortable family vehicle for 8 1/2 years
Faults:
Almost no problems until after 100K miles (5 yrs).
Repaired 1 power window under warranty. Passenger power window quit working 2 years ago - did not repair.
Normal maintenance (oil, fluids, wipers, serpentine belt, transmission service, etc.)
Front brakes replaced at 110K miles, rear brakes at 140K miles.
It's on its 2nd battery (4.5 yrs, 4 yrs so far).
Driver door gasket tends to separate from frame.
Radiator overheated a few years ago, but don't remember what the repair was.
We've been leaking a small amount of coolant for a couple of months; Recently diagnosed as a head leak (not sure if it's the gasket or a crack). We haven't been forced to repair this yet and are delaying the decision since it could be very expensive ($4000).
Transmission began acting up at 169K+ miles and is now being rebuilt.
General Comments:
We've really enjoyed having this vehicle. It's comfortable and roomy for our family. It's not as quiet as I would like, but I don't think many vans are.
We get relatively good gas mileage (22-23 mpg).
We didn't start having expensive repairs until it was 8 years old and over 150K miles, so that's reasonable.
My kids wish it also had reading lights on the rear bench like it does in the four bucket seats in front and middle.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 13th November, 2006
12th Oct 2007, 02:48
Good review. So good that I don't even have to make a review myself, except to say "Ditto!"
I own the Grand Caravan SE with the Mitsubishi 3.0 litre engine. Fuel economy has been wonderful, for a minivan, at an average of about 22-23 mpg. For some reason, I like the high-revving capability of this small V6. With its 6000 rpm redline, it has a very sporty sound/feel to it. I think it's a shame that the 3.0 was discontinued.
Mechanically, the van has been sound. The one problem is the air conditioner pulley which apparently gets out of alignment and throws off belts. Does anyone have any idea of what might be wrong and how fixable this is?