🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Caravan Years Covered: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999 Vehicle Type: Minivan Generation Generation Name: Second Generation (RS) Generation Years: 1996-2000 Codes Chassis Code: RS 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Mid-size Minivan Original Target Audience: Families, individuals seeking versatile cargo and passenger transport Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Lumina APV, Pontiac Trans Sport, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna Key Features Unique Selling Points: Practicality, spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, powerful engine options for its class. Manual Value Proposition: Provides essential information for DIY mechanics and professional technicians to maintain, diagnose, and repair the vehicle effectively. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: All Models and Engines for the specified years Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, Transmission (Automatic and Manual), Drivetrain, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System Chassis: Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS and Standard), Wheels and Tires Electrical: Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, HVAC Controls, Audio System Body And Interior: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Restraint Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), HVAC System Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Troubleshooting: Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Component Testing Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Replacement, Body Panel Repair, Suspension Component Replacement Installation: Component Installation and Removal (e.g., engine, transmission, suspension parts) Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete overhaul and diagnostics) Diagnostic Level: Advanced (includes diagnostic trouble codes, component testing, and wiring diagrams) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable Text (if original PDF is text-based) Print Quality Print Readability: High (designed for clarity of diagrams and text) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Base: 3.0L V6 (EGA) Engine Description Base: 24-valve SOHC V6 Horsepower Base: 150 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque Base: 180 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code Optional: 3.3L V6 (EHD) Engine Description Optional: 12-valve OHV V6 Horsepower Optional: 158 hp @ 4800 rpm Torque Optional: 195 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Optional Engine 2 Engine Code Optional 2: 3.8L V6 (EWE/430) Engine Description Optional 2: 12-valve OHV V6 Horsepower Optional 2: 170 hp @ 4400 rpm Torque Optional 2: 215 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Recommended Octane: 87 Octane 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 4-speed Automatic Optional Transmission Type Optional: None (Manual transmission was discontinued in this generation for the US market) Features Transmission Control: Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Transmission Fluid Type: ATF+4 (or equivalent specification like Chrysler 7176E) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase Standard: 112.1 inches Length Standard: 186.1 inches Width Standard: 73.5 inches Height Standard: 68.8 inches Weights Curb Weight Base: Approx. 3,900 lbs Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Base: Approx. 5,200 lbs Cargo Cargo Volume Behind First Row: Approx. 145.4 cu ft Cargo Volume Behind Second Row: Approx. 77.5 cu ft Cargo Volume Behind Third Row: Approx. 20.9 cu ft 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver: 4 out of 5 stars (1996-1997 models) NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger: 4 out of 5 stars (1996-1997 models) IIHS Frontal Offset Rating: Good (for 1996 models) Active Features ABS: Standard or Optional depending on trim and model year Passive Features Airbags: Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags (Standard) Seatbelts: Front and Rear Seatbelts, Front Shoulder Belt Height Adjusters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System Options: AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, optional premium sound systems. Climate Control: Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC). Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most models. Parking Assistance: Rear parking assist sensors were an option on some later models, but not common. Connectivity Phone Integration: No factory integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity in this era. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000 miles (severe) or 7,500 miles (normal) with synthetic oil, or as per owner's manual recommendations based on driving conditions. Tire Rotation Interval: Every 5,000-7,500 miles Transmission Fluid Change Interval: Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and service history. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API Service SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (for most conditions) Coolant Type: Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mixture with distilled water) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Common Problems Powertrain: Head gasket leaks on some V6 engines, transmission solenoid issues, potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets. Common Problems Chassis: Worn suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), front brake wear, potential for power steering leaks. Common Problems Electrical: Faulty power window regulators, HVAC blower motor failures, dashboard instrument cluster issues, door lock actuator failures. Common Problems Body: Rust around wheel wells and rocker panels,...