2002 Dodge Grand Caravan

The 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan is a popular minivan known for its spacious interior and versatility. Engine options for this year included a 2.4L inline-4 producing approximately 150 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, a 3.3L V6 producing approximately 180 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.8L V6 producing approximately 215 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4L engine was typically paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 engines also used a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praised the Grand Caravan for its comfortable ride, ample storage, and Stow ‘n Go seating (if equipped). However, common complaints included issues with reliability, particularly concerning the transmission and electrical systems, and relatively poor fuel economy.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

No Issues Found

3.3L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks may occur from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, low oil level, and potential engine damage if left unaddressed.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 3.3L, oil leaks are common from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Visible oil puddles under the vehicle and decreasing oil levels between changes.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Slipping and Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifting, or failure to shift properly. This can stem from worn clutch packs, valve body issues, or solenoid failures.
  • Solution: A transmission rebuild or replacement is typically required to address significant slipping. Valve body repairs or solenoid replacements may be possible for less severe issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for solenoids/sensors, $500 - $1500+ for rebuild, $1500-$3000+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, vibrations, or stalling can occur due to torque converter failure.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and noise from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per axle (pair of struts/shocks).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Sway Bar Links and Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replace worn sway bar links and bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per corner.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power sliding doors may fail to open or close reliably, or at all. This can be due to faulty door motors, damaged wiring harnesses, or issues with the door control module.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue and replace the faulty component. This may involve replacing the door motor, repairing wiring, or replacing the control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the specific issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may stop working, or only work intermittently. This can be due to a faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor, regulator, or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic gauge readings, dim or non-functional displays, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on body panels, especially around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels. Apply rust preventative measures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Stow ‘n Go Seating Problems (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult or impossible to fold or unfold the Stow ‘n Go seats.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the damaged components of the Stow ‘n Go system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material can detach from the backing and sag down.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner or re-glue the existing material.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan, while offering practicality and space, is known for a number of potential issues. Transmission problems, electrical glitches, and suspension wear are relatively common. Engine oil leaks are also a frequent concern across the V6 engine options. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission rebuilds or replacements, can be costly. Owners should be aware of these potential issues when considering purchasing or maintaining a 2002 Grand Caravan.