2016 Dodge Grand Caravan

The 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan is a popular minivan known for its affordability, spacious interior, and Stow ‘n Go seating. It comes standard with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine producing 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the vehicle’s practicality and family-friendly features, but some common complaints include issues with the vehicle’s electrical system and overall reliability.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Oil Filter Housing Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the oil filter housing. May notice oil spots under the vehicle or a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing. An updated housing design is available to prevent future leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rocker Arm Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, rough idling, and potential misfires. This issue is more common in earlier Pentastar engines but can still occur in 2016 models.
  • Solution: Replace the affected rocker arms and potentially the camshaft if it has been damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (62TE)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts between gears, especially 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd. The transmission may also slip or hesitate during acceleration.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue in some cases. In other cases, transmission replacement or a rebuild with updated valve body components may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at lower speeds. Can also result in stalling or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Coil Spring Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: A clunking or rattling noise from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps. Sagging rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the broken coil spring(s). It is recommended to replace both rear springs at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power sliding doors may not open or close properly, or they may make a grinding noise. This can be due to a faulty motor, cable, or latch mechanism.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific issue and replace the faulty component (motor, cable, latch).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the part.
  • Recalls: None Found
• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: A wide range of electrical issues, including stalling, failure to start, lights not working, wipers malfunctioning, and fuel pump issues.
  • Solution: Replace the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Stow ‘n Go Seat Latch Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty latching or unlatching the Stow ‘n Go seats. The latch mechanism may become stiff or broken.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the seat latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard surface, often near the windshield. This is more common in vehicles exposed to high heat and sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard is the only permanent solution, although dashboard covers can be used to conceal the cracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan, while practical and affordable, has some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine oil leaks and rocker arm failures can be costly to repair. Transmission problems, particularly harsh shifting or slipping, are also frequently reported. Electrical issues, especially related to the sliding doors and TIPM, can be frustrating and expensive. Interior issues with the Stow ‘n Go seats are also common, but generally less costly to address. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.