20th Jul 2003, 23:09
My sister has a 1996 Grand Caravan that she bought last September. At that time it was good except needing the clock spring and an idler arm for the steering. So she bought it even though I was a little apprehensive being a Chevy man I was afraid of some of the quality things with these vans. Little did I know how right I would be. This year within the last 2 months the starter has needed to be replaced, the A/C didn't work on the hottest day and just last week the left axle shaft literally broke in half. The back hatch leaks water in the rain and the side door rattles in its track. We can only hope now that the tranny doesn't go. The Venture would have been a way better choice as far as reliabilty, but she couldn't find one in her price range. Good luck to all of you.
24th Jul 2003, 09:46
I have a 97 Caravan and whenever I use my left turn signal it turns both rear flashers on, and when I turn the headlights on the front light turn signal won't work. I see that someone else had I similar and was wondering if they had solved the problem. Dodge wants $70/hr to trace the wire. Please help me.
Thanks.
Wade.
6th Dec 2003, 21:31
I have been driving Chrysler products exclusively now for fifteen years. I have owned many vans, mini vans, LH platform cars, etc. Not only have I found all of these vehicles to be very easy to maintain, but the parts are plentiful and inexpensive. It amazes me to read stories about people who are eagerly awaiting to invest thousands of dollars more on a non-domestic because of a perceived superior product quality. Save your money, research how most of "drastic" problems can be repaired easily, and invest in your country. Buy American before it's too late.
14th Jun 2003, 05:45
I have a 1996 Dodge Caravan LE and it is very expensive to maintain. The wipers still go on when I use the turn signal and dealer wouldn't replace it free because the VIN # wasn't on the recall list. I paid about $200 to get the clock spring replaced, but have since sent a copy of the work to the recall center. They are supposed to reimburse me, but I may have to send another follow up letter. I had the brakes done and the next day, I smelled something burning and eventually figured out that the brakes were improperly adjusted which heated the rotor and wheel to the point where the rubber tires were beginning to melt. Also, the parking brake wasn't attached to the rear drum after the work was completed.