Airbag system (SRS), seat belts, child seat anchors (LATCH).
Procedures Included
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, brake pad replacement.
Repair Procedures:
Engine component removal/installation (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), transmission service, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, HVAC system repairs, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilding (if applicable and covered by the FSM).
Special Tools Procedures:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs.
High-resolution, clear text and diagrams suitable for printing.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Searchability
Text Searchability:
Yes (Searchable PDF)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.4 L
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline-4 (I4)
Engine 1 Valvetrain:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5800 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 1 Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Optional Engine
Engine 2 Displacement:
3.3 L
Engine 2 Configuration:
V6 (90-degree)
Engine 2 Valvetrain:
OHV (Overhead Valve)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
180 hp @ 5000 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2 Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Most Powerful Engine
Engine 3 Displacement:
3.8 L
Engine 3 Configuration:
V6 (90-degree)
Engine 3 Valvetrain:
OHV (Overhead Valve)
Engine 3 Horsepower:
205 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
240 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 3 Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic (42RLE - typically with 3.8L engine)
Features
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, overdrive.
Fluid Specifications
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid +4)
Fluid Capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7-9 quarts (with filter change, model dependent)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
119.3 inches
Length:
189.8 inches
Width:
72.0 inches
Height:
65.1 inches (approx.)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 20-30 cubic feet (depending on configuration).
Cargo Volume Max:
Over 150 cubic feet (with rear seats removed).
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3800-4200 lbs (depending on engine and trim).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-star (2005 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-star (2005 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Driver:
4-star (2005 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
5-star (2005 model year)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (optional on some models).
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side airbags (optional), three-point seat belts, LATCH child seat anchors.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Base AM/FM/CD player. Optional premium audio systems, rear-seat entertainment screens (on some trims).
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control. ABS is standard on most models. Traction control was optional.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Limited connectivity for the era; typically only auxiliary input for audio on higher trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (using synthetic oil), or 3,000 miles (using conventional oil), refer to manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs: 100,000 miles (2.4L I4, 3.3L V6); 3.8L V6 may vary, consult manual.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles, or as specified by the manual; ATF+4 is typically considered a 'lifetime' fluid by some manufacturers, but regular changes are recommended for longevity.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification).
Coolant Specification:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Issues Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (3.3L/3.8L), oil filter housing leaks, potential timing chain issues on older engines (though less common on 2.4L DOHC).
Common Issues Transmission:
Torque converter shudder, transmission solenoid issues, planetary gear wear (less common with proper maintenance).
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn sway bar links, worn control arm bushings, premature tire wear due to alignment issues.
Common Issues Electrical:
Actuator failures (HVAC blend doors), instrument cluster failures, power window motor failures, PCM (Powertrain Control Module) issues.
Common Issues HVAC:
Blend door actuator failures, refrigerant leaks, blower motor resistor failure.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge has a long history in the American automotive market, known for its trucks, muscle cars, and later, minivans that competed directly with established players.
Model Evolution
Caravan Introduction:
The Dodge Caravan (and its Plymouth Voyager counterpart) pioneered the minivan segment in the early 1980s, revolutionizing family transportation.
Third Generation Debut:
The RS generation debuted for the 1996 model year, with significant updates in 2001. The 2005 model is part of the refreshed third generation.
Production
Assembly Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA (locations varied by year and specific plant operations).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Kbb Value:
Kelley Blue Book often recognized the Caravan for its value and practicality in the minivan segment, particularly its strong resale value.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports provided mixed reviews over the years; specific ratings for the 2005 model should be referenced for individual performance and reliability data.
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