2012 Dodge Grand Caravan

The 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is a popular minivan known for its Stow ‘n Go seating, spacious interior, and affordability. Engine options included a 3.6L Pentastar V6, producing 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It was the only powertrain option available. Owners generally appreciated the van’s practicality and ability to haul passengers and cargo, while common dislikes included perceived cheap interior materials and some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Oil Filter Housing Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the oil filter housing, often due to cracks in the plastic housing. Low oil levels and possible engine damage can result.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing assembly, often with an updated aluminum version to prevent future cracking.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rocker Arm/Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds. Can lead to misfires and reduced performance.
  • Solution: Replace the failed rocker arm and/or lifter, often requires removing the cylinder head.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks around the water pump or thermostat housing.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump or thermostat housing and gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (62TE)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts between gears, especially during acceleration. Can be accompanied by the transmission slipping out of gear.
  • Solution: Could require anything from a software update or fluid change to valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at highway speeds. May also stall at stops or low speeds.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag/Weakness
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo. Can result in poor handling and ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear coil springs or installation of aftermarket load-leveling shocks or air springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises coming from the front suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power sliding doors failing to open or close properly, often accompanied by error messages or beeping sounds. This can stem from faulty actuators, wiring harnesses, or door latches.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair/replacement of the faulty component (actuator, wiring, latch, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: A wide range of electrical issues, including fuel pump relay failure (leading to stalling), horn not working, wipers malfunctioning, or windows not operating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Windshield Wiper Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windshield wipers not working or working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the windshield wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Liftgate Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate failing to open or close properly, often due to a faulty latch mechanism.
  • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate latch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Stow ‘n Go Seat Latch Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty folding or unfolding the Stow ‘n Go seats, often due to broken or sticking latches.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• UConnect Radio Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Radio not powering on, freezing, or displaying error messages.
  • Solution: Software update or radio replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is a versatile minivan, but owners should be aware of potential issues. The most common problems relate to the engine (oil leaks, rocker arm failure), transmission (harsh shifting), electrical systems (sliding doors, TIPM), and suspension (rear sag). While some issues, like Stow ‘n Go seat latch problems, are relatively minor, others, such as TIPM failure or transmission problems, can be expensive to repair. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to maintaining the vehicle’s reliability and safety.