Part of the highly successful Chrysler minivan lineage, known for practicality and family transport.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chevrolet Venture/Vans (Montana/Venture/Trans Sport).
Key Features
Distinctive Features:
Spacious interior, flexible seating configurations, Stow 'n Go (introduced later in this generation, but core practicality is key), user-friendly design.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners and technicians to perform accurate diagnostics and repairs, extending vehicle life and maintaining optimal performance.
Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Covered Years:
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Over 2000 pages (typical for full service manuals of this era)
Approx. 3800 - 4200 lbs (1724 - 1905 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 5400 - 5800 lbs (2449 - 2631 kg)
Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Driver:
4-star (for models tested)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Test Passenger:
4-star (for models tested)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most trims.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models/trims.
Passive Features
Airbags Standard:
Driver and front passenger airbags.
Airbags Optional:
Available side curtain airbags for first and second rows (late in generation).
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all outboard seating positions, center lap belt for rear middle seat, pretensioners for front seats.
Child Safety Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette player, and premium speaker systems available on higher trims.
Rear Seat Entertainment:
Optional factory-installed rear-seat entertainment system with video screen and wireless headphones.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear park assist sensors available on some models.
Connectivity
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available remote keyless entry system.
Power Windows Locks Mirrors:
Available power windows, power door locks, and power adjustable mirrors.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (4,800-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as recommended by the manual, especially for severe service.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic is generally recommended (verify with manual for specific viscosity and API rating).
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or equivalent extended-life coolant. Typically orange or pink.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine and transmission mounts can lead to vibrations and noise.
Transmission Solenoids:
Internal transmission solenoid issues can cause shifting problems or a 'limp home' mode.
Power Sliding Doors:
Malfunctions in the power sliding door motors, mechanisms, or sensors are common.
Interior Rattles And Squeaks:
Common in high-mileage minivans, often related to interior trim panels and seating mechanisms.
Rear Suspension Noise:
Worn bushings or shocks in the rear suspension can cause clunking or rattling noises.
Climate Control Blend Doors:
Actuator failure for interior air blend doors can result in incorrect temperature or air direction.
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chrysler Minivan Legacy:
Chrysler invented the minivan segment with the original Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager in 1983, setting the standard for family vehicles.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Third Generation (NS) platform
Year Range Covered:
2003-2007 (facelift of the NS platform).
Key Updates 2003-2007:
Front and rear styling updates, revised interior materials, introduction of optional power sliding doors and liftgate, improved powertrain options, introduction of Stow 'n Go seating in later years of this generation (though primarily for the next generation, the foundation was set).
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Windsor, Ontario, Canada; St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Market Introduction:
The Caravan nameplate has been a staple in Chrysler's lineup since its inception.