🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Dodge Model: Caravan Model Generation: Third Generation (RS) Model Years Covered: 1996-2005 Codes Platform Code: RS 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Minivan Market Niche: Family hauling, versatile cargo transport. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Ford Windstar, Chevrolet Venture/Silhouette/Trans Sport. Key Features Vehicle Attributes: Spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, comfortable ride, relatively affordable pricing. Manual Value Proposition: Provides authoritative, dealer-level technical information for maintenance, diagnosis, and repair, crucial for owners looking to maintain or repair their vehicle effectively. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Vehicle Years: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Region Focus: North America (USA, Canada, Mexico) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Varies by specific model year and engine; typically over 1000 pages for comprehensive coverage. Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF likely) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical (all variants), fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic and manual if applicable), drivetrain components (axles, CV joints). Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS included), wheels and tires. Electrical: Complete wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, locks, seats), climate control electronics, body control modules, diagnostic connectors. Body: Body construction, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, windows, glass, bumpers, seals, body repair procedures. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, chassis lubrication. Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, and electrical component diagnosis. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, wiring harness testing, component testing procedures. Specifications And Tolerances: Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine component clearances, suspension alignment specifications, brake pad/rotor measurements, electrical resistance values. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to advanced engine and transmission diagnostics and rebuilds. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format Details: Likely PDF; searchability and printability are key features. Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding: Not applicable for digital download. Paper Type Paper: Not applicable for digital download. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.4L 4-Cylinder (2AZ-FSE), 3.0L V6 (106), 3.3L V6 (EGA), 3.8L V6 (L32) Dominant Engine Early Generation: 3.0L V6 Dominant Engine Later Generation: 3.3L V6 and 3.8L V6 Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 150 hp (2.4L) to 215 hp (3.8L V6) Torque Range: Approximately 165 lb-ft (2.4L) to 240 lb-ft (3.8L V6) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across all engine variants. Recommended Fuel: Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 87). 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 4-speed Automatic Transmission (41TE/42LE) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 5-speed Manual Transmission (rare, primarily on earlier 4-cylinder models). Features Transmission Features: Overdrive, Electronic Controls (for automatic transmissions). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 113.1 inches (for standard wheelbase versions) Length: Approximately 175-180 inches (standard), 190-195 inches (long wheelbase Grand Caravan) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind First Row: Highly configurable; significant volume, exceeding 100 cubic feet. Weights Curb Weight Range: Approximately 3,700 - 4,200 lbs, depending on engine and equipment. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: Good (for models tested) NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: Good (for models tested) Active Features Braking System: Front disc, rear drum (standard); optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Traction Control: Optional on higher trim levels and later model years. Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags (standard on most models from mid-generation onwards). Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, with shoulder belts in the front and rear seating positions. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player. Amplified systems available. Rear Seat Entertainment: Optional rear entertainment screens and VHS players available on higher trims, particularly on Grand Caravan models. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most models. Keyless Entry: Optional, typically with remote key fob. Connectivity Diagnostic Port: OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant from 1996 onwards, located under the dashboard. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000 to 7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions (consult manual for specific recommendations). Transmission Fluid Change: Recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or as per severe service schedule. Spark Plug Replacement: Typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles for modern platinum or iridium plugs. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature range and engine). Engine Coolant: Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) antifreeze, typically Mopar OAT coolant (pink). Transmission Fluid: ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) or equivalent. Brake Fluid: DOT 3. Known Issues Engine Common Problems: Head gasket...