1997 Dodge Grand Caravan 6 cylinder from North America

Summary:

Love the style and convenience, but it seems to be falling apart

Faults:

Thump in the back with a full tank of gas.

Windshield wipers went on for no reason.

Air conditioning failed just after the 36,000 mile warranty.

Front end rattles like a covered wagon. Dealer cannot find the trouble.

General Comments:

Dealer assured us that the gas tank thump would not cause a problem.

Wipers were fixed by the dealer.

Daimler Chrysler agreed to pay for 75% of the $900.00 AC repair after warranty.

Front end still rattles continually over small bumps in the road. It is not getting better & we feel that something will fall apart someday.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 14th December, 2000

8th Feb 2001, 13:21

Check the sway bar links for your rattle.

7th Nov 2003, 23:36

I had something similar on our 94 Grand Caravan. Described it to the dealer as a rock rattling in the hubcap. I was prepared for a big repair, but it turned out to be... a loose center cap.

1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3.3 V6 from North America

Summary:

An extremely comfortable, versatile vehicle

Faults:

Nothing has broken, but the serpentine belt had to be changed at 45,000 miles, instead of the 60,000 mentioned in the maintenance book.

General Comments:

Quite, very comfortable, huge space when the seats are removed.

Very versatile, can carry 4x8 sheets of wood, doors, sofa's, etc., then can carry 6-7 people in very a comfortable setting.

Good visibility, handling and road feel. Excellent crusier.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 28th August, 2000

1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3.8 liter from North America

Faults:

Battery failed within 2 months.

"Phantom" intermittent wipers fixed under warranty at 7500 mile service.

CD player quit working. Replaced under warranty at 7500 mile service.

General Comments:

The Grand Caravan is very roomy and comfortable for driver and passengers. The 3.8 liter engine provides adequate acceleration, but does suck down the gas (19 MPG average). Handling is better than I expected.

About my only gripe is the brakes. It has the heavy duty brakes option but it does not stop very well in panic stop situations.

I never wanted to own a mini-van but with the nice styling, good performance, great sound system and great utility for hauling people and equipment, I'm kinda starting to like it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st June, 1998