🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Caravan Model Generation: NS Production Years Covered: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Class: Compact Minivan Target Audience: Families, small businesses requiring versatile passenger and cargo hauling. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture, Plymouth Voyager/Grand Voyager, Honda Odyssey. Key Features Vantages: Practicality, spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, often good value. Manual Value Proposition: Empowers owners and technicians to perform accurate diagnostics and repairs, reducing labor costs and extending vehicle life. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: Service and repair procedures for the entire vehicle. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Likely 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-style service manuals). Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (e.g., PDF) or Printed 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: All engine systems including diagnosis, repair, and specifications. Transmission: Automatic Transaxle (e.g., 41TE, 42LE) service and repair. Brakes: Hydraulic brake system, ABS (if equipped), parking brake. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications. Steering: Power steering system, steering column, linkage. Electrical: Full electrical system coverage including wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, starting, charging. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair. Body: Exterior and interior body panels, doors, glass, seats, trim, collision repair information. Chassis: Frame, underbody components, fuel system, exhaust system. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, symptom-based troubleshooting charts. Repair: Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems. Diagnosis: Detailed diagnostic procedures, including OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) codes and interpretations. Disassembly Assembly: Instructions for component removal, inspection, and reinstallation. Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Quality: High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear diagrams and text. Print Quality Print Version Quality: Professional printing with durable binding, clear illustrations, and quality paper. Binding Type Print Binding: Often a robust comb binding or sewn binding for durability. Paper Type Print Paper: Durable, semi-gloss paper suitable for workshop environments. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Common: 3.0L V6 (6G72) Mitsubishi-sourced Engine Displacement 1: 3.0 Liters (181.7 cubic inches) Engine Configuration 1: SOHC V6 Horsepower 1: Approx. 150-155 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm Torque 1: Approx. 170-180 lb-ft @ 3700-4000 rpm Optional Engine Engine Code Optional: 3.3L V6 (EGA) Chrysler Engine Displacement 2: 3.3 Liters (201.4 cubic inches) Engine Configuration 2: OHV V6 Horsepower 2: Approx. 158-170 hp @ 4800-5200 rpm Torque 2: Approx. 195-205 lb-ft @ 3300-4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Cooling System Coolant Capacity: Approx. 10.5 US quarts (9.9 liters) Ignition System Ignition Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or distributor-based (depending on engine/year). 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transaxle Common Codes: 41TE, 42LE Fluid Type Automatic Transmission Fluid: ATF+4 (Chrysler Spec MS-9224) or equivalent (check manual for specific recommendation). Transmission Capacity Fluid Capacity: Approx. 7.0 US quarts (6.6 liters) for a fluid change. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: Approx. 111.8 inches (2840 mm) Length: Approx. 175.4 inches (4455 mm) Width: Approx. 72.2 inches (1834 mm) Height: Approx. 68.8 inches (1748 mm) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row: Approx. 136.4 cubic feet (3863 liters) Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row: Approx. 78.1 cubic feet (2211 liters) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3800-4100 lbs (1724-1860 kg), varies by configuration. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (for 1996 model year typical, check specific year). Active Features ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard or optional. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags. Seatbelts: Front, second, and third-row seat belts; front seat belt pretensioners. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Basic speaker systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional cruise control. Rear Entertainment: Not typically available or aftermarket. Connectivity Aux Input: Not available from factory. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics). Transmission Fluid Change: Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km). Spark Plug Replacement: Around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 (check manual for viscosity by temperature range). Engine Oil Capacity: Approx. 4.0-4.5 US quarts (3.8-4.3 liters), depending on engine. Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water (often Mopar HOAT). Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 Known Issues Transmission Issues: Valve body issues, torque converter shudder, occasional solenoid failures in automatic transmissions. Engine Cooling: Water pump leaks, radiator leaks, thermostat failures. Electrical Issues: Power window regulators, door lock actuators, dashboard warning light issues. Suspension Components: Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Dodge...