2004 Dodge Grand Caravan

2004 Dodge Grand Caravan

Overview

The 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan, a popular choice for families and cargo transport, presented a mixed bag of reliability. While generally praised for its practicality and spacious interior, certain model years and specific component groups experienced notable issues. Owners often reported concerns related to the powertrain, particularly with specific engine and transmission configurations. Electrical systems also showed some vulnerabilities, leading to intermittent problems. However, the exterior and interior components, barring typical wear and tear, were generally considered robust. This analysis focuses on documented widespread mechanical and electrical failures, excluding routine maintenance items.

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Engine

3.3L V6

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, rough idle, sweet smell from engine bay.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure

• Symptoms: Engine stalling, no-start condition, check engine light illumination.
• Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
• Cost: $150 - $300

3.8L V6

Head Gasket Failure

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil.
• Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and associated components.
• Cost: $1200 - $2500

Oil Filter Adapter Leaks

• Symptoms: Oil leaks from the front of the engine, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of the oil filter adapter seal or housing.
• Cost: $200 - $400

2.4L I4

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)

Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, slipping, delayed engagement, P0740 code.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the torque converter and potentially transmission overhaul.
• Cost: $800 - $1800

Solenoid Pack Failure

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Replacement of the transmission solenoid pack.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Strut Mount Bearing Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noises when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of the strut mount bearings.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

BCM Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Intermittent power to various accessories (windows, locks, lights), erratic gauge behavior, security system issues.
• Solution: Reprogramming or replacement of the Body Control Module.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Power Window Motors

Window Motor Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow operation, grinding noises.
• Solution: Replacement of the power window motor and regulator assembly.
• Cost: $250 - $500 per window

Alternator

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, dead battery, electrical system malfunctions.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Exterior

Body Panels and Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Headlights and Taillights

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Seating and Upholstery

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

HVAC System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or direct airflow, clicking noises from dashboard.
• Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blend door actuator.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Infotainment System

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

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Summary Verdict

The 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan offers a practical and spacious solution for family transportation, but potential buyers should be aware of its reliability quirks. The V6 engines, particularly the 3.8L, are prone to more significant issues like head gasket failures, while the 3.3L can suffer from intake manifold leaks. Transmission problems, especially with the torque converter clutch and solenoid packs, are also a concern. Electrical gremlins, such as BCM malfunctions and power window failures, can add to ownership costs. While suspension components can wear, they are generally manageable. The exterior is typically robust, and interior components, apart from the HVAC blend door actuator, tend to hold up well. Careful inspection and maintenance are key to mitigating potential issues.