1991 Dodge Caravan Grand 3.3 from North America
Summary:
Just won't die!
Faults:
Fuel gage has broken around 190,000kms.
Transmission replaced twice in it's life, once around 20,000, and 100,000, because it towed a landscaping trailer (tandem axle trailer).
Driver sit electronics failed, got it replaced.
Brakes routers replaced.
Some rust near the back quarter panels.
General Comments:
One tough mini van.
Towed a landscaping trailer for a few years and still pulling strong.
The shocks are old and worn out, gives the van the capability to go over speed bumps at 80kms, and not notice it!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 15th May, 2004
8th Apr 2004, 10:18
Regarding the starting problem after it's been warmed up: My guess is its using its choke even though not necessary, as mine does that too.
I give it a "quick crank" and it comes to life, though sometimes a little slowly like its going to kill, but that lasts less than 2 seconds and the momentum wins the "choked" element 9 times out of ten. the tenth time is usually when I accidentally hit the gas pedal...
I've gotten 190,000 out of mine and the only thing I've done is replace the air conditioner clutch pulley, which froze up and almost started the thing on fire (the belt actually smoldered some nice, stinky smoke). That was cheaper than a new compressor and not too tough to take apart--very accessible.
The U-joints are a little loose, so it makes the transmission a bit noisy during shifts. But loaded down, it hauls as good as a small pickup with the seats out (well, ok, I added "helper" leafs to the rear springs for 1500 additional pounds). But the 3.3 engine accellerates when called upon for duty.