A highly popular and versatile family vehicle known for its practicality, spacious interior, and adaptable seating configurations. Competed directly with vehicles like the Chevrolet Venture/Luminary, Ford Windstar, and the Japanese offerings such as the Toyota Previa and Honda Odyssey.
Competitive Analysis
Strengths:
Excellent interior packaging, accessible pricing, a wide range of engine options, and readily available parts support. The 'Caravan' nameplate had strong brand recognition in the minivan segment.
Key Features
Versatility:
Configurable seating (Stow 'n Go was introduced later, but early models offered removable rear seats), ample cargo space, sliding rear doors for easy access.
Powertrain Options:
Multiple engine choices catering to different performance and economy needs.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
North America
Secondary Coverage:
International markets utilizing North American specifications
Comprehensive, covering basic DIY maintenance to complex internal component rebuilds and advanced diagnostic procedures. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format) with searchable text and high-resolution diagrams.
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-quality scans or original print reproductions with clear text and legible diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding:
Professional binding (e.g., comb, spiral, or perfect bound) suitable for workshop use.
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock to withstand workshop environments.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
EDZ
Engine Type:
2.4L DOHC Inline-4 (16-valve)
Displacement:
2429 cc (148 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
87.5 mm x 101.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.4:1
Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Optional Engine 1
Engine Code:
3.0L SOHC V6 (24-valve)
Engine Type:
Mitsubishi 6G72
Displacement:
2972 cc (181 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
91.1 mm x 76.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.9:1
Horsepower:
180 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Optional Engine 2
Engine Code:
3.3L SOHC V6 (12-valve) - *Later models might have this, but 3.0L was prevalent*
Engine Type:
Chrysler EDB
Displacement:
3301 cc (201 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Octane Rating:
87 octane minimum recommended
Cooling System
Coolant Type:
Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0-10.5 quarts (7.6-9.9 liters) depending on engine
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Code:
A604 / 41TE (for V6 engines)
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
Optional
Transmission Type:
3-speed Automatic Transaxle (for base 2.4L engine in some configurations)
Transmission Code:
A670 / 31TH
Features
Electronic Control:
Electronically controlled with overdrive (4-speed models)
Torque Converter Clutch:
Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) for improved fuel efficiency
Fluid Capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.0-8.0 quarts (6.6-7.6 liters) for 4-speed, 5.5-6.5 quarts (5.2-6.2 liters) for 3-speed (dry fill)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 177.1 inches (4498 mm)
Width:
Approx. 71.9 inches (1826 mm)
Height:
Approx. 68.4 inches (1737 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 112.1 inches (2847 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 61.5 inches (1562 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 61.8 inches (1570 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500-3800 lbs (1588-1724 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4850-5000 lbs (2199-2268 kg)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Front Seats:
Approx. 146 cubic feet (4134 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:
Approx. 85 cubic feet (2407 liters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (1998 Model Year Assessment)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (1998 Model Year Assessment)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts for all seating positions
Child Safety:
Rear door child safety locks, LATCH child seat anchor points (introduced on some later models, check specific VIN)
Active Features
ABS:
Optional Antilock Braking System (ABS) available on select trims and drivetrains.
Traction Control:
Not commonly available or standard on 1998 models.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player or premium sound systems were available.
Climate Control:
Manual climate control with standard A/C. Optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Rear Defroster:
Standard feature.
Connectivity
OBD Standard:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant for emissions and engine diagnostics.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles (5,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 to 100,000 miles (48,000 to 160,000 km) depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium plugs offer longer life).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) or as recommended based on driving habits.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles (48,000 to 96,000 km) or 2-4 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30 for most conditions. Check manual for specific engine recommendations.
Engine Oil API Service Category:
API SG, SH, or SJ
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or ATF+4 (check specific recommendations).
Known Issues
Engine Misfires:
Common with ignition system components like spark plugs, wires, and coil packs, especially on the V6 engines. The 2.4L can experience issues with the exhaust manifold cracking.
Transmission Slipping:
The A604/41TE transmission can develop issues with solenoids, torque converter clutch, or internal seals, leading to slipping or harsh shifts. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
HVAC System:
Blend door actuator failures, blower motor resistor issues, and refrigerant leaks are not uncommon.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can wear out, leading to steering looseness and premature tire wear.
Body Rust:
Rust can affect wheel wells, rocker panels, and the underside of the vehicle, especially in areas with road salt.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand History:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation (later DaimlerChrysler, FCA, and now Stellantis), has a long history of producing reliable and practical vehicles, with the minivan segment being a significant area of success.
Model Evolution
Generation:
This 1998 model falls into the second generation (NS) of the Dodge Caravan, which ran from 1996 to 2000. This generation saw significant styling updates and improvements over its predecessor.
Key Changes For 98:
Minor updates to features and packaging. The 3.3L V6 became more widely available. Front end redesign and interior refinements were part of the NS generation's introduction in 1996.
Production
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured at the Windsor Assembly Plant in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and the Fenton Automotive Plant in Fenton, Missouri, USA.
Production Years
Model Year Production:
1998 model year typically ran from late 1997 through most of 1998.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Launch Reception:
The NS platform (including the 1998 Caravan) was generally well-received for its updated styling and improved packaging, continuing the Caravan's dominance in the minivan segment.
Industry Perception:
Consistently ranked among the best-selling minivans and lauded for its practicality and family-friendly features.