Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Twist Beam with Watt's Linkage), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio Systems, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), SRS (Airbag) System
Approx. 140 cu ft (short wheelbase), 163 cu ft (Grand Caravan)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 31 cu ft (short wheelbase), 37 cu ft (Grand Caravan)
Weights
Curb Weight Typical:
4300 - 4700 lbs (1950 - 2130 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 5700 - 6000 lbs (2585 - 2721 kg)
Wheel And Tire
Standard Wheel Size:
16 inches
Standard Tire Size:
P225/65R16
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (2008/2009 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (2008/2009 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
Good (2008/2009 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
Good (2008/2009 models)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (2008 models), Good (2009 models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2008/2009 models)
Active Features
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - Standard on most trims
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) - Standard
Anti Lock Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, available side curtain airbags for all rows.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts in all seating positions, pretensioners for front seats, LATCH child seat anchors.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio Systems:
Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and premium audio systems with amplifier and subwoofer.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system with touchscreen interface.
Rear Seat Entertainment:
Available rear-seat entertainment system with DVD player and screens.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assist:
Available ParkSense rear park assist system (ultrasonic sensors).
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Available auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.
Bluetooth:
Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (5,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 miles (16,000 - 24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
3.3L/3.8L: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Platinum or Iridium); 4.0L: 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) for normal service, sooner for severe service. ATF+4 recommended.
Coolant Flush And Replace:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with HOAT coolant.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (preferred for fuel economy and emissions), SAE 5W-30 also acceptable per manufacturer.
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.3L/3.8L: 5 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter; 4.0L: 6 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Orange) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant meeting Chrysler MS-9769.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Transmission solenoid pack failures (especially 41TE/AE), power door/liftgate actuator issues, EGR valve clogging (3.3L/3.8L), interior rattles and trim wear, potential water pump leaks.
Stow N Go Mechanism:
Occasional issues with the folding mechanism for Stow 'n Go seats, requiring lubrication or adjustment.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history in vehicle manufacturing, known for performance and utility vehicles. The Caravan nameplate is synonymous with the minivan segment, which Chrysler virtually invented.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Fourth Generation (2001-2007) / Fifth Generation (2008-2016) - The 2008-2009 models represent a significant refresh and transition period.
2008 Updates:
Major refresh for 2008. Introduction of the new 4.0L V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission option (62TE), updated interior and exterior styling, and enhancements to the Stow 'n Go seating system. Rebranded as the Grand Caravan for longer wheelbase models, while a shorter wheelbase Dodge Caravan remained.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Windsor Assembly Plant, Windsor, Ontario, Canada.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Kbb Best Family Car:
Often recognized by automotive publications like Kelley Blue Book for its family-friendly features and value.
Jd Power Initial Quality:
While specific model year awards vary, Dodge Caravans generally performed reasonably well in initial quality studies within their segment.