2004 Dodge Caravan

Introduction

The 2004 Dodge Caravan is a versatile minivan with ample seating and cargo space. It offers various engine and transmission options, including:

• 3.3L V6 with 180 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque
• 3.8L V6 with 200 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque

While appreciated for its practicality, the Caravan has received mixed reviews regarding its reliability.

Engine

3.3L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold, rough idling, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replacement of intake manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring, lack of power, catastrophic engine damage
  • Solution: Replacement of timing belt and related components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Head Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant mixing with oil, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and resurfacing of cylinder heads
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Plenum Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leak, engine stalling, loss of power
  • Solution: Replacement of intake plenum gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

3-Speed Automatic (41TE)

• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission gears slipping out of engagement, delayed shifting, shuddering
  • Solution: Overhaul or replacement of transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, overheating, slipping, loss of power
  • Solution: Replacement of torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic (42LE)

• Solenoid Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed shifting, transmission slipping
  • Solution: Replacement of solenoid pack
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, loss of gears, no forward or reverse
  • Solution: Replacement of valve body
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise when turning, clunking or rattling over bumps
  • Solution: Replacement of strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Swaying or rocking, clunking noise over bumps
  • Solution: Replacement of sway bar links
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly, especially after sitting for an extended period
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of electrical draw, such as parasitic drain or faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working, intermittent headlight operation
  • Solution: Replacement of headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Plastic Trim Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Fading, cracking, or breaking of exterior plastic trim
  • Solution: Replacement of damaged trim
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per piece
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window switch inoperative, windows unable to be raised or lowered
  • Solution: Replacement of power window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No airflow from air conditioning or heating vents, excessive noise from blower motor
  • Solution: Replacement of blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Dodge Caravan has a mixed reputation. While some owners appreciate its spacious interior and practicality, there are several common issues that can affect the reliability and cost of ownership. Engine and transmission problems are the most severe and expensive, with head gasket failure on the 3.8L V6 potentially causing catastrophic damage. Electrical issues and interior component failures can also be costly. However, suspension and exterior issues are generally less severe and less expensive to repair.