2017 Dodge Grand Caravan

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is a popular minivan known for its affordability and practicality. 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. Drivers often praise the Grand Caravan for its spacious interior, Stow ‘n Go seating, and value for the money. However, some common complaints include its somewhat dated design, lower fuel economy compared to newer minivans, and the reliability of certain components.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased acceleration, check engine light illuminated. Often caused by worn or faulty ignition coils.
  • Solution: Replace faulty ignition coil(s). Consider replacing spark plugs at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per coil replacement, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the top of the engine, often dripping down the back. Can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage. This issue is common with the earlier plastic oil filter housings.
  • Solution: Replace the entire oil filter housing with an updated aluminum version.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ including parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (62TE)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifts between gears, delayed engagement when shifting from park to drive or reverse. Can also include slipping during gear changes.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ for a software update. $800 - $1500+ for valve body replacement. $3000 - $5000+ for transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Cooler Line Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leak underneath the vehicle, often near the front. Low transmission fluid can cause shifting problems and eventual transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking transmission cooler lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ depending on the extent of the damage and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll in corners, nose diving during braking. Uneven tire wear may also be present.
  • Solution: Replace worn struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ per axle (front or rear) including parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace worn sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per pair including parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power sliding doors fail to open or close properly, sometimes getting stuck. Can be caused by faulty door latches, motors, or wiring.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific problem and replace the faulty component. This may involve replacing the door latch assembly, motor, or repairing damaged wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the component needing replacement and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues such as stalling, fuel pump failure, horn not working, or wipers malfunctioning. The TIPM controls many of the vehicle’s electrical systems.
  • Solution: Replace the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ including parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Roller Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding doors, grinding noise when operating them, doors feel loose or wobbly.
  • Solution: Replace worn or broken sliding door rollers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door, depending on the extent of the damage and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Stow ‘n Go Seating Latch Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty folding or unfolding the Stow ‘n Go seats. The latch mechanism may become stuck or broken.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the faulty latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on the complexity of the repair and parts needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio/Uconnect System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Touchscreen unresponsive, Bluetooth connectivity problems, system freezes or restarts, loss of audio.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, the entire radio unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 for software update (if available). $300 - $1000+ for radio replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan, while appreciated for its practicality and affordability, exhibits a range of common issues. Engine misfires and oil leaks can lead to costly repairs. Transmission problems, particularly rough shifting and cooler line leaks, are also a concern. Electrical issues, often stemming from the TIPM or power sliding doors, can be frustrating and expensive to fix. Suspension wear and tear is typical for a vehicle of this age. Stow ‘n Go Seating latch and infotainment system malfunctions are also common. The severity of these issues varies, with some being minor inconveniences and others potentially causing significant damage if left unaddressed. The estimated repair costs range from a few hundred dollars for simpler fixes to several thousand for major repairs such as transmission rebuilds or TIPM replacements. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed to identify any existing or potential problems.