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2004 Dodge Grand Caravan

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is a popular minivan known for its versatility and affordability. It offered several engine options including a 2.4L inline-4 (150 hp, 165 lb-ft torque), a 3.3L V6 (180 hp, 210 lb-ft torque), and a 3.8L V6 (215 hp, 245 lb-ft torque). All engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praised the Grand Caravan for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and Stow ‘n Go seating (available on some models). Common complaints included reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and electrical systems, as well as a perceived lack of refinement compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.4L I4 Engine

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from various engine seals, often noticed as oil spots under the vehicle or a burning oil smell. Can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking seals (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, crankshaft seal).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.3L V6 Engine

  • EGR Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine Light illuminated with EGR related codes. Rough idling, stalling, or poor acceleration.
    • Solution: Replacing the EGR valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Plenum Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Check Engine Light illuminated, lean fuel trim codes, rough idling, and potential vacuum leak sound.
    • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold plenum gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6 Engine

  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, often from the water pump or intake manifold gasket. Can lead to overheating and engine damage.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking component (water pump or intake manifold gasket).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (All Engine Options)

  • Transmission Slipping/Hard Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, resulting in delayed acceleration or failure to engage properly. Hard or erratic shifting.
    • Solution: In some cases, a fluid change and filter replacement can temporarily alleviate the issue. More severe cases require transmission rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid/filter) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or shaking at highway speeds, especially under light acceleration. Possible torque converter lockup clutch failure.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Struts/Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll during turns, and poor handling.
    • Solution: Replacing worn struts and shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (for all four)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacing worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Door Lock Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to operate correctly, sometimes intermittently. Can affect individual doors or all doors.
    • Solution: Replacing faulty door lock actuators or repairing wiring issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, often making a grinding noise or stopping entirely.
    • Solution: Replacing the power window motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Cluster Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning or displaying incorrect readings, backlighting failing, or the entire cluster going blank.
    • Solution: Replacing or repairing the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sliding Door Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the power sliding doors, including not opening or closing, or making strange noises.
    • Solution: Replacing the sliding door actuator motor or repairing the wiring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sliding Door Cable Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Manual sliding door cables breaking, preventing the door from opening or closing smoothly.
    • Solution: Replacing the sliding door cable.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Stow ‘n Go Seating Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulties operating the Stow ‘n Go seating mechanism, including seats getting stuck or failing to latch properly.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the Stow ‘n Go seat latching mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per seat
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Climate Control Problems
    • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor failing, mode selector not working, or inconsistent temperature control.
    • Solution: Replacing the blower motor, mode selector switch, or repairing vacuum lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is prone to several issues, particularly with its transmission, electrical systems, and suspension. Engine-related problems vary depending on the specific engine. Many of the repairs can be moderately expensive, especially transmission rebuilds or replacements. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used Grand Caravan before purchase.

Dodge, Grand Caravan
Dodge Grand Caravan 2004
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