🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Caravan Year: 1996 Codes Platform Code: NS Generation Generation Designation: Second Generation (NS) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Minivan Target Audience: Families, businesses requiring versatile cargo and passenger transport. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Toyota Previa, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture. Key Features Vehicle Selling Points: Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, practicality, and affordability. Manual Value Proposition Manual Advantage: Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, crucial for accurate and efficient servicing, saving on dealership costs. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models & All Repairs A-Z Page Count Estimated Page Count: Over 1000 (typical for comprehensive factory manuals) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Service: Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all gasoline engines offered. Transmission Service: Coverage for automatic transmissions, including diagnostic charts, removal, installation, and internal component repair. Drivetrain Service: Front-wheel drive axle and differential service, including CV joints and boots. Suspension Service: Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement (struts, shocks, ball joints, control arms), and alignment specifications. Steering Service: Power steering system diagnosis, pump, rack and pinion repair, and steering column service. Brake Service: Front and rear disc brake systems, including caliper, rotor, pad replacement, parking brake, and ABS system diagnosis and repair. Electrical System Service: Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures for starting and charging systems, lighting, accessories, and power distribution. HVAC Service: Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core). Body And Interior Service: Door mechanisms, interior trim, seating systems, glass replacement, and exterior body panel repair and alignment. Fuel System Service: Fuel injection system diagnosis, fuel pump, injectors, and fuel tank service. Exhaust System Service: Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe replacement. Cooling System Service: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan diagnosis and replacement. Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and belt adjustments. Troubleshooting Guides: Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues. Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems. Diagnostic Information: Detailed diagnostic codes (DTCs), sensor readings, and electrical testing procedures. Technical Specifications: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and alignment settings. Wiring Diagrams: Complete and detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems. Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Diagnostic Capability: Advanced diagnostics for electronic control modules (ECMs), sensors, and actuators. Rebuild Procedures: Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format Quality: N/A (Printed Manual) Print Quality Print Clarity: High-quality printing with clear diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding: Durable binding (e.g., spiral-bound or sewn) suitable for workshop use. Paper Type Paper Quality: Durable, possibly laminated or heavyweight paper to withstand shop conditions. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.4L Inline-4 (2.4L Chrysler I4), 3.0L V6 (3.0L Mitsubishi 6G72 V6) Performance 2.4L Horsepower: Approx. 150 hp @ 5600 rpm 2.4L Torque: Approx. 167 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm 3.0L V6 Horsepower: Approx. 158 hp @ 5000 rpm 3.0L V6 Torque: Approx. 181 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine Codes 2.4L Engine Code: EDZ 3.0L V6 Engine Code: 6G72 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic Transaxle Optional Transmission Transmission Options: Manual transmission was available on some earlier models, but less common for 1996. Primarily automatic. Features Transmission Fluid Type: ATF+4 (or equivalent compatible fluid, refer to manual for exact spec) Transmission Details Transmission Model Automatic: A604 (4-speed electronically controlled automatic transaxle) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 112.1 inches Length: Approx. 177.6 inches Width: Approx. 72.1 inches Height: Approx. 67.6 inches Cargo Max Cargo Volume: Approx. 143.1 cubic feet (with rear seats removed) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3500 - 3800 lbs (depending on engine and configuration) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Varies by configuration, typically around 5000-5300 lbs 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Side Front Impact: 4/5 Stars (for 1996 models) NHTSA Passenger Side Front Impact: 4/5 Stars (for 1996 models) Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on certain trims/options. Passive Features Airbags: Driver's side airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional or standard on higher trims. Seat Belts: All seating positions equipped with three-point seat belts; front seat belts with pretensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM cassette stereo; optional CD player and premium sound systems available. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional depending on trim level. Anti Theft System: Factory immobilizer system optional on some models. Connectivity Connectivity Options: Limited by 1996 standards; no integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and...
Families, businesses requiring versatile cargo and passenger transport.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Toyota Previa, Honda Odyssey, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture.
Key Features
Vehicle Selling Points:
Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, practicality, and affordability.
Manual Value Proposition
Manual Advantage:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, crucial for accurate and efficient servicing, saving on dealership costs.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
All Models & All Repairs A-Z
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1000 (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Printed
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Service:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all gasoline engines offered.
Transmission Service:
Coverage for automatic transmissions, including diagnostic charts, removal, installation, and internal component repair.
Drivetrain Service:
Front-wheel drive axle and differential service, including CV joints and boots.
Suspension Service:
Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement (struts, shocks, ball joints, control arms), and alignment specifications.
Steering Service:
Power steering system diagnosis, pump, rack and pinion repair, and steering column service.
Brake Service:
Front and rear disc brake systems, including caliper, rotor, pad replacement, parking brake, and ABS system diagnosis and repair.
Electrical System Service:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures for starting and charging systems, lighting, accessories, and power distribution.
HVAC Service:
Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core).
Body And Interior Service:
Door mechanisms, interior trim, seating systems, glass replacement, and exterior body panel repair and alignment.
Fuel System Service:
Fuel injection system diagnosis, fuel pump, injectors, and fuel tank service.
Exhaust System Service:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe replacement.
Cooling System Service:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling fan diagnosis and replacement.
Procedures Included
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and belt adjustments.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Information:
Detailed diagnostic codes (DTCs), sensor readings, and electrical testing procedures.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and alignment settings.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics for electronic control modules (ECMs), sensors, and actuators.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format Quality:
N/A (Printed Manual)
Print Quality
Print Clarity:
High-quality printing with clear diagrams and text.
Binding Type
Binding:
Durable binding (e.g., spiral-bound or sewn) suitable for workshop use.
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
Durable, possibly laminated or heavyweight paper to withstand shop conditions.
Approx. 3500 - 3800 lbs (depending on engine and configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by configuration, typically around 5000-5300 lbs
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Side Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (for 1996 models)
NHTSA Passenger Side Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (for 1996 models)
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on certain trims/options.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional or standard on higher trims.
Seat Belts:
All seating positions equipped with three-point seat belts; front seat belts with pretensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM cassette stereo; optional CD player and premium sound systems available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim level.
Anti Theft System:
Factory immobilizer system optional on some models.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Limited by 1996 standards; no integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by plug type, generally 30,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type And Viscosity:
Refer to manual; typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline engines, API service SG or higher.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically Mopar HOAT or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Struts, ball joints, CV axles, brake components, and exhaust systems are common wear items.
Transmission Issues:
Early A604 transmissions can be prone to solenoid issues and torque converter shudder if not properly maintained.
Engine Issues:
Intake manifold gasket leaks on V6 engines, occasional head gasket issues, and oil leaks can occur.
Electrical Gremlins:
Faulty power window regulators, door lock actuators, and dashboard warning lights can be common.
Fluid Capacities
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter) for 2.4L I4; approx. 4.7 quarts (with filter) for 3.0L V6.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 11 quarts
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Minivan Legacy:
Dodge pioneered the modern minivan segment with the original Caravan/Voyager in 1984, establishing a strong market presence.
Model Evolution
Second Generation Ns:
The 1996 Caravan represents the second generation (NS), introduced for the 1996 model year, featuring a redesigned exterior and interior, and improved safety features.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada and St. Louis, Missouri, USA
Production Period:
Second generation (NS) ran from 1996 to 2000.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Dodge Caravan (and its Plymouth Voyager sibling) were frequent recipients of Car and Driver's '10Best' list in their earlier generations, setting benchmarks for the segment.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by model year and engine choice; specific details would be in contemporary consumer reports.
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