1999 Dodge Caravan

Introduction

The 1999 Dodge Caravan is a versatile minivan offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. It’s renowned for its spacious cabin, practical features, and affordable price point. Despite its strengths, the Caravan has faced several issues over the years.

Engine

• 3.0L V6
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: Leaks coolant, causing overheating and engine damage. Replaced with improved gasket. $600 - $1,000+
  • Cylinder head cracking: Coolant leaks, causing engine overheating and failure. Requires cylinder head replacement. $1,500 - $3,000+
• 3.3L V6
  • No major issues reported
• 3.8L V6
  • Timing chain failure: Causes engine rattling, loss of power, and potential engine damage. Requires timing chain replacement. $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Intake manifold runner failure: Causes engine misfires and rough idling. Replace intake manifold. $500 - $1,000+

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic (41TE)
  • Torque converter failure: Causes shuddering, slipping, and transmission failure. Replaced with new torque converter. $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Solenoid failure: Causes transmission shifting problems and harsh shifting. Requires solenoid replacement. $300 - $600+
• 4-speed automatic (42LE)
  • No major issues reported

Suspension

• Strut failure: Leaks fluid, causing noise and poor ride quality. Replace struts. $500 - $1,000+
• Sway bar link failure: Causes clunking noises and poor handling. Replace sway bar links. $200 - $400+
• Ball joint failure: Affects steering and suspension, causing clunking noises and poor handling. Replace ball joint. $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Causes battery drain and electrical system malfunctions. Replace alternator. $400 - $800+
• Power window motor failure: Causes windows to fail to open or close properly. Replace window motor. $200 - $400+
• Central locking system failure: Doors fail to lock or unlock properly. Repair central locking system. $100 - $300+

Exterior

• Door handle failure: Includes handle breaking or not working properly. Replace door handle. $50 - $200+
• Tail light failure: Includes bulbs burning out or taillight damage. Replace bulbs or taillight. $50 - $200+

Interior

• HVAC blower motor failure: Causes blower to fail, affecting heating and cooling. Replace blower motor. $200 - $400+
• Dashboard cluster failure: Gauges fail to display properly or malfunction. Repair or replace dashboard cluster. $300 - $700+
• Cruise control failure: Causes cruise control system to fail. Repair or replace cruise control system. $200 - $500+

Summary

While the 1999 Dodge Caravan offers practicality and affordability, it has faced several issues over the years. The engine, transmission, and suspension components have reported significant problems. Electrical and interior issues are also common. The severity and cost of repairs vary depending on the issue, but many common problems can be resolved at moderate to high costs.