The Truth About Dodge Grand Caravans
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- čas přidán 6. 03. 2023
- Dodge Grand Caravan review. Here's Why Vehicles Made Outside of America are Better Built, DIY car repair and car review with auto mechanic Scotty Kilmer. Worst American Dodge cars. The worst van to buy. Buying a Dodge. Is Dodge worth it? Buying a new Dodge. Buying a used Dodge. Should I buy a Dodge. Are Dodge cars and trucks reliable? Car advice. DIY car repair with Scotty Kilmer, an auto mechanic for the last 55 years.
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Scotty Kilmer ? on the ford econoline 350 van heater core quick disconnect. When removing the heater core hose from the quick connect can we replace those quick disconnects with hose clamps instead ?
Scan tool is now $2900 March 2023
👍🌞
Hello
Much Love Scotty ... synlube website ...been in business since 1969 100% pure synthetic 150 THOUSAND MILE OIL CHANGE GUARANTEE !!!!!!!
DO YOU HEAR WHAT I'M SAYING .... real synthetic ...almost never needs changing....and it gets sent back and refined and never goes bad....
Much love Jay aka CarsRcool channel
I own this van, and I never intended to have a video made on it. I merely stopped by to meet Scotty in person. Totally Scotty's idea. That said, I want to say that Scotty is the real deal. We were there for about 2 hours talking with him about many topics, not just cars. He is extremely friendly and has a true interest in people. While we were there his wife drove up and she chatted with us as well. They are the nicest people you would ever want to meet. I am grateful that he takes the time to help us with free car advice and shares his personal space with absolute strangers. That says a lot. Our nation needs more people like this.
There's no way you drive that van faster than 35 mph.
@@kylee315 Only when going to church on Sunday!
Look forward to the plastic oil cooler, crossover, thermostat housing cracking. I’ve fixed the oil cooler and thermostat housing in mine. Currently at 118,000 miles.
Can you really just suck a gallon of fluid out of the transmission and put another one in? Is that exactly what the dealer does when they do a transmission flush? I was thinking of buying one of those before and then didn't bc everyone always said that they are such bad quality. But other vans just cost way too much.
@@luperamos7307 When you get a transmission flush at a dealer they would connect the cooler lines to a machine that forces new fluid into the transmission while removing the same amount done while the car is running. This may force small amounts of contaminants into the small passage ways in the solenoid pack which could plug the passages and cause shift problems. I would never consider doing this IMO. The suck / replace method here is done through the transmission fill hole. It doesn't force fluid through the solenoid pack. It is just fluid replacement. As for quality, I will freely admit Dodges are not as good as a Toyota and they will not withstand any abuse. But with strict maintenance and reasonable care in driving they can last to 200000 miles and beyond. But as Scotty said, most are unwilling to do the maintaining. For them a Toyota with the additional cost makes more sense.
Don’t retire Scotty. My grandfather retired from the Royal Air Force in 1983 and carried on working on steam locomotives as a hobby until 2020. He is 101 now, keep active, keep going!
He’s built different is what i hear
God bless that man!!
God bless
Would that be the Canadian Royal Air force 🤔 😉 lol 😆
Damn that means he was a few years older than the average WW2 guy now. Amazing.
"Maintenance is key!" Its like not feeding your horse due to negligence
Toyota ruined my work ethic. (I actually can avoid doing a lot of maintenance, and get away with it). My classic era cars & motorcycles no longer receive the maintenance they require & deserve.
I have a 13. With 560k highway miles original engine. 5k oil changes. Regular maintenance.
I had to replace the tyranny at 470k , had good maintenance too.
Great vehicle
What??! You only got 470k miles from the transmission? The equivalent of driving round the planet more than 18 times! Wow!
That right there.
Miles or kilometers ?
Miles
I have seen 3 other vans with 500k miles with original engine and transmission. Great vehicles.
I am on my 3rd Caravan. 2002, 2004 and 2006. 2004 was totalled in a T Bone. They are very simple and easy to work on. I drive like a grandma. I bought my 2006 with 120k for $2000. Been on many cross country trips. Replaced the front suspension and rear shocks. Change the oil every 3k. Have not touched the trans yet. Treat a vehicle good and it will treat you good.
Hi Scotty. I am on my fourth Dodge minivan. So sad that they have been discontinued. I only had one serious problem and that occurred while it was under warranty. My first one drove the family around for 17 years. The only problem I had at the end was that the siding doors started to break down. My dad always said “Take care of your car and it will take car of you!” He was spot on. 👍🙂
I own a 2019 Grand Caravan, and my parents own a 2015 Town and Country (basically the same van with a different badge). They are very good vehicles. I am sad that they discontinued the line, almost as heartbreaking as the time Ford stopped making the original Ranger line.
Funny you said that. I have both a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan and a 2003 Ford Ranger. I will never get rid of either one. Both have been great vehicles and still are.
@@gelnat7100 Yup, I got the van once my old Ranger's frame snapped. The truck market in the US is pretty ridiculous, so I didn't go for another truck.
@@Michael-zf1kothe
My parents have a 2015 Chrysler Town and Country as well, honestly hoping they pass it down to me someday because it’s been in my life for so long.
We also had a 2011 before we got the 2015 but it got too expensive because at the time we weren’t doing great financially, so we had to get rid of them.
I’m pretty sure we both got them new.
Scotty what year is this model???
Scotty, I've had 4 dodge Caravans 2011, 2014, 15, 17. All have been problem free (prior Hertz rentals). I use them for work all San Francisco city and bay area driving. They are outstanding. I did have to put brakes on 2 of them. Yes I do change oil every 3k miles on ALL my cars. And trans fluid every 35-40k.
ha ha lucky cheap guy
How long do brakes last in San Francisco?? Like 600 miles?!?😅
Thanks Scotty, You are always fun. Yes, these vans, have been among the best vehicles we've ever had. We had one go up in flames when a frozen battery exploded, and also in one we went to the top of Pikes Peak. I find they're easier to work on then some other rigs. But thanks for being square and fair about my favorite rig. All the Best from Minnesota,,,....✨😉
I worked at the same company for forty years and we always had dodge and Chrysler minivans for our company car. Never had an issue with any of them. The marketing secretary put 275,000 miles on hers and it still looked new.
Did any of yours during the 40 years resemble this Fiat-Chrysler minivan? Probably not.
@@brianvogt8125 yes actually.
@@treeandaturd dreams
@@treeandaturd Considering that Fiat Chrysler was formed on 12 October 2014, your 40 years experience with them would be a conversion of "dog years" to "human years." 😂
I’ve had three Dodge Caravans … First traded it in at about 120k … my second van had the trans go at 80k . Had it rebuilt and drove it another 120k and sold it to a taxi company .. that drove it for about three more years . My third Caravan has 185k on it presently . My only complaint has been the front rotors and brake pads are not H/D enough for this size vehicle . I have the 3.3 engine that is a very good … Maybe I’m lucky but got good service out of them … Oh I have five kids so the Caravan was a must .
I bought a 2006 Chrysler Town and Country minivan in 2007 it had 12k miles. I changed the oil every 5k miles. A lot of urban driving in NYC and long drives on vacation. The engine finally failed 13 years later in 2020 at 140 k miles. I was impressed with the Chrysler, it took a lot of abuse. In 2020, I bought a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. So far it has been great!
I’m on my third Dodge Caravan. The 2001 went 398,000 with no major issues. Never touched any of the drivetrain except for a right front outer tie rod. Awesome reliable vehicle. My 2014 has158,000 and has had zero problems. Tires and a new battery, that’s it!
I've own My 2004 for 7 years and is going on 260k and counting no major issues other than regular maintenance that's it
You are fortunate
The torque converter was coming part in my 2018 caravan at 56k miles. Just had rebuilt.
My parents used to have a 4th gen Dodge caravan
They said it was very bad
My 2015 Grand Caravan is still going strong with no issues problems.
Have a 2010 3.3v6 still going.
I use Castrol oil and I change the transmission fluid every 40,000km.
Great as a work van.
A taxi company here in Maine was getting over 300,000 miles on Dodge minivans with different people driving them all the time. The rust got them before the mileage did
That's Right Scotty, If you change your Automatic Transmission Fluid and filter every 30,000 miles and you do not "thrash" on your vehicle, even less durable brands of automatic transmissions, can last 300,000 miles or more. Case in point is our little gas saver 2007 Nissan Versa Hatchback S, with the JATCO 4 speed automatic transmission, made in Mexico, which we bought a couple of years ago it had over 160,000 miles when we bought it. I had tried to find a Versa with a manual transmission here in Northern California with no luck. When I saw this one and drove it the transmission shifted like new so we bought it. First thing I did was change the engine oil, oil filter, automatic transmission fluid & filter. I also did my checklist for all used cars we buy, replace all marginal parts, plugs, coils, MAS sensor, single VVT valve, motor mounts, all 4 brakes, rotors, drums, tires, rear shocks and motor mounts at surprisingly cheap prices. Now at 185,000 miles our little Versa runs and drives like a new car, no oil or ATF loss between changes, engine oil still looks new on the dipstick when I change it every 5,000 miles. Not bad for $1,800 plus $450 in parts.
Don't put too much money on an old car, for that you could've spent little more and bought a better condition car
@@RohanSanjith Versa's have timing chains instead of timing belts. The only thing your going to get for $2,200 is a Kia or a Hyundai which have timing belts. So I disagree with you because I know what I have and our Nissan will go 300,000 miles without huge "timing belt" types of repairs.
The 4 speed Nissan autos are quite good for reliability compared to the CVTs.
I had a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan w/essentially the same set up and in 110,000 miles replaced a wheel sensor, replaced the brakes, and basically that was it,. I did, however, keep the oil changed and listened to it, so I could take care of things before they became a problem.. I currently have a 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan that I bought with 11,000 miles on it, I'm now at 37600 and so far so good! Thanks for the video.
I just crashed my 2014 dodge caravan and I can tell you with confidence that I want another one. I had all 5 of my children in the vehicle and no one was seriously hurt. I was bruised up and 2 of my children had minor scratches but everyone was buckled in and barely moved. Although I am traumatized, that van held up well in the accident. I'm getting another one here shortly. I was trying to wait on my lawyer since the insuramce company tried to play me on a payout, but I just found a great deal with one so I'm going to the car lot this Saturday to purchase a 2016.
What would be your checklist on getting one
I had a Toyota Tacoma rear end me at at 60+ mph. I drove away, the Toyota needed a flatbed.
Fiction. Drop that mph number to 20 and it might be believable. @@DropDMurphy
I had a Dodge Caravan 05, it lasted over 200k miles.. Original engine and transmission.. The body rusted up in north east PA.. Besides regular ware& tear I replaced the power steering rack and alternator.. It worked very good!
Just purchased our 4th Grand Caravan ('96,'05,'18 and finally a '20) Always maintained them & never abused them. Got 237,000 miles out of the the '05 (bought it new) and it was still going strong when we sold it in 2022. I agree, change the oil regularly and keep up with the normal maintenance and they will serve you well, at least they have for us. Thanks for your great videos. Been a fan for a long time.
We’ve had 4 Chrysler vans between my wife and I and they are super reliable…very few issues. The only reason we’re on our second set of vans is because one succumbed to rust and the other was totaled.
You're an American classic. We need you. Your knowledge and humor makes my day
Best of luck Scott! Appreciate all the content you’ve given us over the years!
Thanks Scott for sharing your wisdom, experience, and humor. I learned to do oil change on my car.
I've had 2 (1999 and 2007). Engines ran great. Transmission issues on 2007. Both vehicles made it over 200k. My main complaints would be rust, door and suspension issues. High body care maintenance in snowy areas of country is recommended.
I have a 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan and I LOVE IT! Best car I’ve ever had. I have never had a single issue with it. I went to CZcams to search the new Pacifica because I’m thinking of upgrading. My 4 kids have given my Caravan and nice beating over the years. I saw this video as a suggestion. I just want to tell everyone, the Grand Caravan is amazing!
Thanks for your comment it's definitely on my short list to making a Dodge Grand caravan as a camper
Just purchased one today. For camping!
Wise words from Scotty and that Caravan owner.
I got one in 2019. The most critical part is to get a TIPM bypass relay system so it doesn't shut off on you in the middle of the road. It's about $50 and van has never died on me since. Love the van for Home Depot runs. Cargo is secured so I can make other stops. Stow and Go is the best thing ever. Very easy car to maintain. Plenty of YT videos to help you out.
What's a shame is they never fixed it or recalled it . Mine is a 2013 and to see that 6 years later you have the same issue as the other 5th generations
I guess I got lucky many times; I've had 4 Dodge Caravans which I maintained well and I sold ALL of them with well over 250,000 miles on them and all were still running well.
mine is 2008 made in Canada. All original, no big issues. 194.000km motor is like new!
I have a (bought used at 180000) 06 Grand caravan 238000 miles on her. Same trans and engine 3.8. I've replaced a lot but those two the same. Still doing ok. A couple of trips to Tennessee and back to Colorado but mostly city driving. Fingers crossed 🤞 she stays healthy. Thanks for all the videos you've bailed me out many times on repair diagnosing or repair jobs. ✌️
My mom drives one of these since new. Nearing 200k miles… a 2013. She drives the heck out of it, unintentionally floors it, throws it into drive while still rolling fast in reverse, takes corners so fast, she goes through brake pads every year because of her bad braking habits 😂 But the only thing that’s ever needed fixing was the oil filter housing after Mr. Lube broke it lol. We also had to cap off the rear AC because it stopped working (we still get it in the front). It has 100 noises from the suspension, but the thing is a tank. Starts up every time, drives pretty smooth despite dying suspension system. All regular wear and tear, it’s a super reliable vehicle. Built (and bought) in Canada as well so maybe there’s a difference…
Our shop recently had one in with 380,000 miles on it. Always serviced as you indicated. The 3.6L Pentastar is a good engine if oil is changed every 5K. This h=guy had the VW Routan version which is essentially the Dodge with hevier suspension components
I had 2011 3.6l caravan and got 250 thousand miles put of it. The only problem I ever had was the plastic oil filter housing started leaking under the intake manifold.
What did you do to fix the oil leak? Or did you trade it off? I have the same engine and am wondering how to avoid this.
@@dw89b better get rid
@@dw89bjust fix it. Watch a CZcams video and go ahead
@dw89b
I fixed it myself.
I couldn't order the 2011 one but if I remember right the 2014 works but I remember having to use a 2014 filter when I changed the oil.
There are rubber O rings that leak under the plastic housing. To avoid the problem just be easy when putting the cap on and don't stress the plastic.
@@funnyman1972 You are exactly right. One has to be very gentle with the cap and only torque it to spec. I would never trust a quick change oil shop with oil changes on this vehicle...DIY only being very careful. I do like the convenience of cartridge filters as they are much less messy.
Bought one from an auction with 83k miles. 400 miles later tap tap tap in the engine. Ended of being 2 bad rockers and that gouged the cam.
Changed the intake cam bank 1 all rockers and lifters on intake bank 1. Runs brand new now.
The best of these I got to drive was while I was working in southern Germany. My Cherokee was being worked on so they loaned me an early 90s Chrysler Turbo Mini Van. It was made it Austria(they did not export it out of Europe). Drove it on the Autobahn at ridiculous speeds for a mini van. Really smooth and stable.
I bought a used Dodge Caravan with 120K miles on it and drove it another 80K with no issues, the thing was one of the best vehicles that I ever owned and it actually rode really great. It was the extended version. These mini vans is what Lee Iacocca pushed Chrysler to build and got them out of their near demise.
Why did you stop driving it at 200k miles?
@@DD_LetTheDogsOut I had a chance to get a better car, then got a 2000 Taurus with 120K, salesman fleet car and all highway miles, drove that one another 100K and at 220, sold it the first day at 1500.00 I had paid 2200, 18 years before. I buy used vehicles and try to find fleet cars, they most times are taken care of way better than rentals and taken care of by the salesperson that has to use it everyday. So, far, last 30 or so years, I have had good luck but since being a professional mechanic, I can know what to look for in a good used car. While these last 2 cars I paid less than 3K for each, I'll probably have to up that amount to maybe 5-7 K to get a decent used car due to how much new cars have gone up in price.
How much did you pay for it?
I have a 2009 Grand Caravan with 170,000 miles.....orig engine and transmission. When I did a filter replacement on the transmission I replaced the pan with a dorman oil pan....this allowed me to drain the transmission oil without dropping the pan. I also installed an inline transmission filter on the return line and transmission oil cooler....I live in Canada and on really cold days it would take a while for the torque converter to lock up in 4th gear but that didn't happen too often. I've attached an ODBII monitor and gone on long trips in hot weather and the ATF fluid never exceeded 150F. I was also sure to use ATF+4 fluid only, not universal. I see people go crazy about using a specific brand of engine oil, spend more for synthetic but ignore transmission fluid.....even if ATF fluid is $20 a quart and you need 5 quarts, its cheaper than replacing a transmission where it can cost $3-4-$5,000.....I replaced my ATF every 30,000 miles (yes I know it's over kill) but it shifts gears like a swiss watch. It is now 15 yrs old and the Canadian salt has attacked the metal.....especially where Chrysler mated steel and aluminum...most post 2011 GC have paint bubbles on the hood. Mechanically I've had few problems....but having front and rear A/C was costly.....first front evaporator went under the dash.....when that was fixed the rear evaporator went. I had the rear plugged off and have since not had any issue with it. I also found the 3.3 L engine easy to work on. I can replace the plugs in 20 mins.....air filter is easy to get at...common issues I had repaired a few times were sway bar links and wheel bearings....other than no major issues.....I'd buy another one if I could but the new Chrysler GC and Town and Country use the 9 speed transmission have had problems with them. The 2011-2020 6 speed transmission is a derivative of the 4 speed transmission which was perfected over time....but all transmissions hate 2 things....heat and dirty fluid.....if you tow, install an oil cooler....and ignore the life time fluid guidelines....change it every 40-50k miles. I'm afraid to buy the crap they make today....everything is going turbo and AWD and I don't need either. Even in Canadian winters......just go slower.
We've had 12 of these in the fleet since 1987. Four speed appeared in 1989. Chrysler replaced every 89-93 transmission at least once under warranty, no charge. Honda had similar failures at the time, charged owners $2000*, but no blow back on the because "Japanese cars last forever." The only problem we've had was 09 T&C Limited 4.0. Lifetime limited powertrain warranty was standard that year. At 180K started going into limp home mode, setting gear ratio error codes. Local dealer had reman in stock, two day job. Zone rep refused to allow reman, insisted on dealer rebuild. Took 5 MONTHS with car shuffled to two dealers twice each and then to a third one before there was a tech authorized to do rebuild. Zone rep would not speak to any customer, no phone, no email. CEO would not speak to any customer, no phone, no email. Three snail mails to CEO (the chairwoman is a recycled mid level drone from Ford) went unanswered, no response. I've been a Chrysler only customer since 1970, currently have 5 minivans and 5 RAM diesels in my fleet. I've suggested that they fire the zone rep (and the CEO), but that they give the rep two sales awards before they fire him. One for selling an Odyssey and one for selling an F-250. I will not purchase or recommend another Chrysler product as long as Stellantis owns the company. I still think they have the best minivans and best trucks on the market, but their failure to support customers is unacceptable. They seem to think they can treat us like Peugeot customers get treated in France apparently.
O
I drive a 1996 Dodge Intrepid with just under 308,000 miles on it. I don't ever plan on getting rid of it. The car it replaced was a 1989 Dodge Dynasty (had 313,000 miles on it when I lost it in a divorce). The only major problem I ever had with the Dynasty was that the valve seats worked loose and it started burning oil. Had it repaired (along with some other maintenance items) for under $600. It never burned any oil between changes after the repairs. My Intrepid, outside of routine maintenance, has needed only camshaft seals, replacement of part of the engine wiring harness, rear brake lines, and head gaskets.
I, personally, believe that maintaining a vehicle (especially oil/filter changes and transmission fluid/filter replacement) has a huge impact on the lifespan of a vehicle. I'm amazed at the number of people who don't complete routine maintenance (or who are even unaware of its need) and expect their vehicles to last forever.
I have a 2017 caravan. I rebuilt the transmission for $4,500 at 120,000, replaced both a/c condensors for $2,500, replaced the oil cooler with a metal one for $150 myself, and a few other minor things. Its been good. The transmission was a dissapointment since I think it should have lasted to 200,000.
What kills those transmissions is not coming to a full stop before shifting from D to R or R to D. There is a pressure switch that blows through the transmission case when it gets over-pressured from shifting while still rolling. I bought a Chrysler van for my wife and the transmission was completely rebuilt 4 times in 8 months. In addition to that a sensor on the transmission failed twice. Transmissions housings were unavailable from junkyards because of the high demand to replace damaged housings. Many had to be sent out to be welded. I got rid of both, the wife, and then the van after only 9 months of owning it. I don't miss either...the van did ride nice when it worked though.
How did the wife ride until she was dispatched? Just asking,🤣🤣🤣
Good one 😂😂
If your transmission was rebuilt 4 times in 8 months you need a new wife!!
I frequently repeat the Scotty "oil is cheap,engines are expensive. Change your oil". My 2014 Ram c/v( Dodge caravan, Chrysler town and country) has 191,000 miles and eight years (made in Canada). Never stranded, oil and filters, tires and brakes, one battery , thermostat and just because transmission fluid and filter twice. Also plugs and coils . I did have the air conditioning recharged. It's paid for, it's a minivan for work. Other people say it's in great shape.
Try driving in snow condition then goodluck transmission
Thanks Scotty. We had 5 or 6 over the years when the kids were small. Great family vehicle. I preferred the 3.0L motor for fuel economy and we didn't need to put a lot of miles on them. They are cheap large vehicles better than a pickup when raining and you have 10' trim from the lumberyard !
12' up to the windshield
My coworker has a 06 Caravan with 600,000km. It’s been painted and every bolt has been touched but it’s still going. The 01 to 07 generation seemed to pretty good.
I have a 2019 Grand Caravan. I've only had to replace the thermostat and a battery so far. I spent a weekend putting ceramic brakes and cross drilled rotors on it because i heard that those wear out frequently. That has proven to be a great idea as I've had negligible wear since then. It's been a great vehicle. Sad they stopped making them.
I have a 2003 Dodge Caravan SE, bough it 7 years ago with 166.000 km, now it has 280.000 km. Waiting to last for another year or so to take it to the salvage yard. Needs some work now (rack and pineon, burns oil, locks on doors and tailgate does not open) but I am happy with the performance. During these years I have not spent much on parts (brakes, radiator and 2 water pumps, and other few parts) Change oil every 5k. I am looking for another one. Thanks Scotty for your videos. Regards from Ottawa Canadá.
I had 3 Canadian built Chrysler sedans from 1967 and 2 from 1968. Best cars ever. Quiet and dependable. I recently have had 4 Chrysler minivans from 2007 and 2006 and only one was junk. I buy them old and cheap and drive them until I tow them to the salvage yard. My main van now is a Honda Odyssey , 2007. Thank you Scotty for tipping me off about the water pump and timing belt...I have 200,500 miles and the van has had 2 belt and water pump changes. The transmission is OK for now anyway.
What’s the most you pay for them when you buy them? Did you have to put a lot of work into the ones you bought? Trying to find a minivan used and I thought only Sienna and Odyssey were reliable until seeing this video.
In Canada, the Caravan for many years owned 75 to 90% of the market. They sold just a ton of them - they were inexpensive and not badly contented - collapsible, into the floor seats (or HUGE storage bins). They were not what I would called "highly refined" but the people who bought them were families desperate for an affordable, durable in our environment "do it all" van. Until the Pacifica came out - shoot they were often under half the money of other brands, so well "those ones better be better I guess".
AWD sienna is a much better option for canada
@@chrishayes5755 yeah but those are more expensive and chrysler will finance literally anyone or anything that wants a car.
@@BigWheel. Preach it. I was waiting for, "but the Sienna and/or Odyssey are so much nicer". Yeah, for an additional $6 to $10k dollars depending. We've owned two Grand Caravans for wheelchair conversion. The motors are solid, both have made it over 120k miles and (to this point) we've avoided any catastrophic repairs/rebuilds.
@@chrishayes5755toyota doesnt have a Stow&go system
My daughter and son-in-law recently bought a new Pacifica, and they’ve already had repeat problems with it and can’t wait to get rid of it.
I've just purchased my second caravan. Due to the used car market prices, i found one that needed a new transmission. Its in the shop now, once done ill take good care of it and expect a long happy life with the most functional vehicle ibe ever owned. Im 36, with no kids. But me and my partner have a dog, and she walks others dogs. So we have a dog mobile in the week and can sleep in it when we want. Carry sofas if needed or 7 people! The stow and go seating is an amazing bonus to these vehicles. Truly are the most functional vehicle.
Great videos BTW Scotty. I appreciate your down to earth videos. Very entertaining at the same time. Keep up the good work!
I drive one of these Grand Caravans. I also know many many people who have been driving them for decades. They are one solid vehicle and I’ve yet to know anyone with serious issues.
My wife wrecked her 2003 Chrysler town and country a few years ago and I just dumped a buncha money in it fixing it up it had 189,000 mi😪 smoothest riding vehicle
Thank you for the video. Blessings to you.
Always such great tips. Thanks.
I bought a 06 Chrysler a year ago 3.8 with 300000 miles for $500. Now has 317000 miles with nothing but oil changes so far😃😃😃
You should probably change the tranny fluid of its not too late...
I got over 400 000 on mine ,3.8 ,runs like new ,3.3 3.8 are bulletproof, this Scotty guy is nuts.
That's the same way that I maintain my 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan. After 10 years I have not had one problem with it. It's all about proper maintenance. I love my van.
Stow and Go was the best thing they ever did!
@@northdakotaham1752 Exactly. I am the owner of this van and is probably the main reason why I am not driving a Toyota. Our kids are gone so the seats are in the floor most of the time, but they are there when we need them for the grandkids. I am mechanical enough to make this one last a very long time. My biggest enemy is road salt in winter. There is a larger chance of rust being the demise of this van than the engine or transmission. But so far, so good.
@@troemhildt9034 You're van is beautiful. I purchased a Dorman transmission pan with a drain plug built into it to make it easier for me to change the fluid. I will change it every time I do my engine oil changes and will take it down to do the trans filter every twenty thousand miles or so. They will probably bury me in my van when I die. Edit: Oh, and I'm an old fart too. On fixed income, can't be spending 30,000-40,000 on cars anymore. Need to make them last.
@@eddiea3782 great tip! I did not know Dorman sold a pan with a drain plug for the 62te trans. I need to look into that.
My first DGC was a 1996 that I bought used. I loved that old bus. In fact, after my wife's sedan got t-boned, we bought a used '03, which I still liked, but it wasn't as tight a vehicle as the '96. A couple years later, we got the wife an '11 with about 19K miles on it. It just topped 91K, and the wife still loves it, but compared to the '96 and the '03, I've never cared for it. That is, except for the Stow n' Go seating in the 2nd and 3rd row. That is something sweet, I must admit. The floor bays in the 2nd row are perfect for storing items on a trip - out of sight, out of the way. But again, since the wife likes that van, I'll keep it going for as long as she wants to drive it. It hasn't had many problems, the only significant one being the TIPM, but that's easy to replace.
I had 275000 miles on my 2011 Caravan. Original engine and transmission. Never changed the transmission fluid. I did change the oil as recommended. Sold it. I don't know how long it lived. Mostly expressway miles
Got a 2014 identical to this other than color myself a few months back from carvona (yes I know) it's got good service history on Carfax 100k miles, took it in for a second transmission fluid change, and did all proper maintenance been a good van so far, still drive my 99 more with 264k mi on the original engine, doesn't smoke or use anything and that was not maintained by the previous owner too well! That's the 3.3L though so in a completely different class, see a lot of these pop-up around here with over 200k on them, there are a lot of complaints of them "failing" but also a lot of people don't look at the mass amount that were sold of these vans! Consider the failure rate vs. the rate that was sold may not be all that bad at the end. Obviously have to do preventive maintenance and most people don't get that and wonder why their transmission or engine went 🙄
You always make me smile, Scotty. Thanks!
AMEN! Taking care of your vehicle is KEY!
Just drove my 2012 Grand Caravan with 157k from Charlotte to Nashville and back. Runs great. I have changed the oil every 5k and do a gallon tranny fluid swap every 20kish. Van is still in terrific shape and runs strong. No complaints.
My wife and I own a 2012 VW Routan (as I always tell people, it's a Dodge Caravan with a German suit on it), and it's had the engine replaced on it once (dealership technician broke the original engine while servicing it for rough idling, which I knew to be faulty timing). Ever since the "new" engine's been put in, the only major problems it's had were the TIPM failing, a transmission line failing, brakes, battery, and shocks. After all of that had been addressed, we've driven the van literally EVERYWHERE with a full family of 6 with hardly any faults. Check Engine light would come on when it gets bad gas, and it usually works itself out after a few cycles. I've done most of the routine maintenance on it (oil changes, lights and tires, when needed), and it runs like a scalded dog. The only thing it does not like is hills. Personally, I do think the Caravan group gets a bad rap because of shoddy maintenance, and as Scotty said, if you maintain your vehicle, it will last a long time. Right now, that VW's pushing over 160,000 miles and still ticking like new.
Yes TIPM
My grandpas caravan had a mile long record with the mechanic, Im talking redone suspension, rebuilt lower engine, and so many automatic door repairs. He drove the poor thing like a maniac and it took an old lady tripping on her meds hitting while it was street parked to put it out of its misery. His maniacal driving is why my grandma didnt let him get a durango rt before moving to the mountians.
We’re on our 2nd Caravan. We had a 2010 we bought new and drove it until 2021 and had few issues. We bought a used 2019 in 2021 and while it works great, the transmission makes some little noises, so it’s the spot I’d be watching. We change oil every 5000km/3000miles and the tranny fluid every two years. We live outside of town, so all our mileage is highway mileage, so that may be why we don’t have transmission issues. Thanks for the video, Scotty!
I can confirm these comments. My parents bought a 2005 caravan (3.3L V6), and my dad is a mechanical engineer. Has deeply ingrained routine car maintenance into my soul. They gave my wife and I the minivan before we had our first kid, and we sold it a little over a year ago. had over 240,000 miles on it, no major issues just little things I could fix here and there. I recently bought a 2015 grand caravan with 94,000 miles on it, and I'm pretty confident that I can get the same longevity with the same basic attention to detail. Take care of your stuff and it will last.
Scotty,i have a 2010 grand caravan bought it with 83,000 on i got 163,OOO on it know its a runs great no problems i payed 2500 for it.
I've owned 4 of these vans now. We used to get them for work new and drive them up to 100k miles or 3 years whatever came first. These vans are reliable, they are workhorses and they do have some power. The only issue these cars ever had is for some reason the low tire sensor always comes on even when the tire pressure is fine on the front driver side tire. I've had that sensor replaced in 3 of the 4 vehicles. Dodge Grand Caravan is an excellent vehicle and I have no idea how it has a negative reputation.
They look pretty Cool especially the ones with the updated front face
Toyota siennas are way more better
I have a 2012 Crew trim with 125k miles. I bought it at 80k miles in 2018. The transmission started slipping every now and then. Seems to happen more in the cold. Hope it keeps going!
An old sludge trick in this part of the country was to warm up the motor, and put in a quart of kerosene, then run the engine for 20 minutes or so at idle... then change the oil again after a few miles... wasn't something to do to a late model car .... but for an older car it would clear out a LOT o' gunk
That's an old trick for old oil. I remember changing oil in my first vehicle, a 70 Pontiac Catalina. You could see the crud buildup whenever you took off the fill cap to change oil. Don't see that now with modern motor oil, unless you don't ever change it.
i remember doing that with kerosene, we would drive the cars for about 100 miles with the kerosene in and then changed the oil, seemed to work ok at the time
@@dw89b i had a 1970 Catalina, my second car as a teenager, got a great deal too because it had been side swiped by a bus, pretty good and durable car for the time
Yes it's very well taken care of. And it's not beaten on. It's still very nice condition. This person gets a big👍
Thank you! Been watching Scotty for years and he is very motivational in getting people to do their own maintaining. I will freely admit that Toyota is a better quality product. But anyone can make this type of van last by driving responsibly and staying on top of engine and transmission maintenance. Like I told Scotty, I drive it like it doesn't have brakes, because I don't like replacing brakes every year.
Long live to you man, thanks for all your advices, really, Thank you.
I bought one of these (2014 model) for my wife about 3 1/2 years ago. She has put about 45,000 miles on the van -- it now has 182,000 miles. The automatic transmission was repaced aftter 6 months. The engine runs great and the electrical has not had any problems. It drives great for a van and is nice on long trips. There are some blind spots when lane changing and backing up.I don't like that it does not have a dip stick for checking transmission fluid. Overall I would give the Grand Caravan a grade of B. My wife liked her Chevy Tahoe that she had before the van more though.
I have a 2003 3.3 L built in the same Canadian factory, which I purchased new 20 years ago. Odo reads 152k KM and its still running perfectly well. The only ugly thing is the roof upholstery which started hanging unglued here and there. Paint and interior otherwise still look quite fresh. Goes on its second set of front discs, third set of tires, about 3rd or 4th set of front brake pads, original transmission -never touched. Only things that have had or preferred to replace are pumps: fuel pump (only time ever that got starnded a few bloks from home was for this one failing), water pump with worn bearings, and power steering pump wihich became a little noisy. Other than that, regularly well maintained, service intervals respectetd, and I don´t plan letting it go, ever. Will remain daily driver.
It is good to replace power steering fluid periodically as well to make the pump last longer. The power steering uses the same fluid as the transmission in the 2015 Caravan. Harbor freight suction device for 7 bucks will suck out the transmission as well as the power steering . Have done both and they are easy jobs.
@@troemhildt9034 How did you get the fluid in the lines out?
I remember my late dad was stuck in the snow revving it like crazy and the transmission exploded like a grenade lol
Must be why he’s late
@@prueensgloria4743 Not very nice to joke about someones deceased like that.
What a cool memory to share. Poor ol dad.
I'm on my 3rd caravan, all 3 basically only did tires and brakes, no mechanical issues at all. 1st one 385km, sold no issues. Second one 248km written off in accident, but no issues. 3rd one currently @ 268km. No issues other than replacing the roller rockers myself. Had a toyota 4runner for 10 yeara prior to these, and was in the dealershio shop every year or two. The 3 dodge vans have been basically zero problems.
I am just a shade tree mechanic. Doing what I need to do. To keep my vehicle running properly. I do my best to make sure it's right. And strive for excellence at it. And learn from your channel daily.
Me too!
Legend says that Scotty has a Toyota branded heart
My 2003 Honda Odyssey is on the original factory transmission with 179k miles. All I did was an ATF fluid flush every other year (a whole case of 12 quarts of the Honda fluid so that's about 4 drain and fills) and I changed the ATF canister filter behind the battery one time. That was it, still shifts pretty good.
You REALLY are the best Scotty!! God bless🙏
Great video idea. Ordinary vehicle, not Toyota, that is maintained well returning good utility. This owner also went extra mile to have van check by Scotty ! Glad real Scotty is down to earth, enjoys meeting fans. He belongs to American people, people's mechanic ! !
My 2011 Chrysler 300 V6 is a prime example of doing preventative maintenance and not letting things fall apart. 182k, original engine and tranny. The thermostat had to be replaced, did tune up, replaced suspension, and did 2 rocker arms (pentastar tick). Apart from that, problem free vehicle.
The 3.6L Pentastar engine is superb. I drive a 2018 Dodge Challenger with the same engine. Rides smooth and no engine issues… 👍
My last and only 3 vehicles in the last 21 years have been used caravans. I take care with maintenance and swear it is the best all round vehicle on the road. Still cruising around on my 2006 now and keep the 2009 on the road for dump runs and heavy hauling. I love their versatility and reliability you are right possibly about made in Canada. All of mine were and I drive them up here as well.
I had a 2016 Durango with the some powertrain never had an issue with it. Just changed the oil. Drove it 140k and traded it in for 20k. Still had the original brake pads as well
I just checked out the price for Dodge Caravans. They are insanely high (47k starting price for SXT). Even the used ones cost a fortune. They were literally selling for 15k (20-30k miles) just three years ago at dealers.
Why
That’s not true. A fully loaded 2020 (last year they were made) with low miles shouldn’t cost any more than $30k. If you look at one with a wheelchair conversion, then yes, it’s possible that you’ll pay over $47k.
He’s right the prices have definitely gone up
I can't stand that so many cars are removing the dipsticks from the transmission. I even heard of a car the other day that didn't have a dipstick to check your oil.
And you would think the tone deaf auto industry would listen to this complaint and act, but no
Thanks for the info
Really great advice Scotty...
My sister in law had a 2013 Caravan, it lasted pretty good, transmission lasted all the way up to 90k miles, she had that replaced, and the 3.6 didn't give out til 132k, her mom's 2009 Saturn outlooks transmission gave out at 70k
Lol, 90k miles from a tranny isn't good.but, she probably never changed the fluid, asfar as the saturn, that probaly never got the tranny fluid changed either. Im not a big dodge fan,I've seen th problems they can have, but my wife and i did have an 02 caravan with like 220k on it when we sold it, still ran and shifted perfect. And we had a Chrysler cirrus, with about 230k on it when we sold it, also ran and drove perfect
@@richsweeney1115 your probably right, i don't know if she ever had the tranny fluid changed, and i don't know what the issue was with the 3.6, or if the garage (dealer?) just said that the whole engine was no good trying to get her to spend the 6 grand they wanted, so she sold it real cheap to someone she knew and bought a Sante Fe with an extended warranty, 100k bumper to bumper, 200k powertrain
@@robertsyre230 it could have been either. They can have motor problems, but the dealers like to lie and say younger things you don't. But, it sounds like th van wasn't the care of, so it.mau have needed a motor
The Saturn Outlooks were pretty crappy cars. My parents owned one was super nice when it was running but definitely not problem free.
@Tool Time lol, maybe.. but my mother in law drives like an old grandma and always brings her vehicle in to the dealer (ughh.. $..) for regular maintenance, she actually still has that Saturn, it has about 175k, still runs good and she keeps it garaged and clean
They are great vans and very versatile family haulers long trippers. If people took care of them and not beat them to the ground they last a long time. I have owned a 1995 Chrysler town and country 316,000 miles , 1999 Plymouth voyager 285,000 miles and now a 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan 215,000 miles always well maintained and driven normal no drag racing. Me living in Pennsylvania and the heavy use of Road Salt and Brines during the winter months tend to rust these cars to death. That is the only reason why I get rid of them. RUST IS THE WORSE CAR KILLER!!! Bodywork/Repairs is not cheap nowadays unless you do it yourself.
Very true. I had brand new 2001 Chrysler Grand Voyager, assembled in Austria (It's almost the same car like) and it was still running very well even after 226k miles. The engine was 2.5L CRD 105kW and 5 speed manual transmission and it did not have to be replaced at all, all original, but I had to get rid of it 1 year ago because of rust...
I'm on my 4th grand caravan, a 2006 with 293,000 miles, original engine (uses a qt of oil between changes every 5,000 miles) and transmission, wouldn't hesitate to drive across the country tomorrow. I do my own maintenance and minor repairs. Very reliable minivan.
Great video Scotty and thanks for saying good things about Canada eh!
Hey Scotty, I'm in new England and need AWD to get to my job at a hospital. I'm thinking of getting the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. Do you recommend the 2.0 liter version made in Japan, or the 2.5l made in the US? Love your vids, thanks!
Raise your hand if you've been watching Scotty Kilmer for a long time🤚
🖐️
about 3years for me
That I have. He showed me how to change the rear set of spark plugs on a 1995, 3.3 Dodge Caravan on 'Shade Tree Mechanics' on PBS My go-to guy when I was a lot younger.
Its not like you would know if I did.
🤚🏾
My mom has a 2012 crew. Hers was also made in Canada. She’s had it since new. She’s not the best at maintaining her vehicles but she’s gotten better. That being said. She has had to replace parts especially the dreaded oil filter housing and window regulators. Not to mention the engine has overheated 2 times due to a plastic y pipe in the cooling system and that oil filter housing. Still idled smoothly. She really only drives less than 10 miles to an from work in traffic Monday through Friday. When I drive it I drive it quite hard. Still going strong throughout all these years. Crazy upgrade from her previous van, a ford Windstar limited. Never drove that as I was in 5th grade at the time
Awesome. Thank you. Very insightful. Never thought that even a dodge caravan would be reliable if you are strict on maintenance. I guess it shows how maintenance is so important.
I actually see some old ones around on the street. Overall I don't think they are really any worse than Ford. Most people buy those things for the space, so if you change some more things over time than on a Toyota you have that space.
I often wonder how user demographics affect reliability ratings. I bet the least expensive brands get used the hardest and maintained the least. This just reinforces the idea that the premium priced brands are more durable.
That’s so true. These things usually do take quite a beating, but the fact that you still see dodge caravans 10+ years old and super beat up is just a testament to it’s reliability
7:39 “Mario Andretti corners”. Absolutely awesome, Scotty.
Scotty could be talking about me & my 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan with about the same mileage on the clock. Besides batteries, tires, brakes & struts, ONLY the (starter & power mirror switch) have been replaced. Jeny`s oil gets changed every 3000 miles, coolant at 25k, & transmission fluid gets changed every 30k. She`s been a 'work mule' & has a comfortable ride.....BEST vehicle(s) made since Henry`s Model T !
I have a 2006 Grand Caravan and a 2016 Town and Country. The caravan lost its water pump at 212,000 and steering rack at 229,000. It is on its third high school driver after my wife drove the wheels off it, I left her in charge of maintenance for the 9-years she had it. Her Town and Country lost the reverse gear at 86,000 miles and had to put a reman transmission in it. What sucks is that it was a known design flaw and the replacement has the upgraded part that Chrysler refused to fix under warranty or recall. Other than that, my two data points are that this is a solid, practical vehicle.