2017 Dodge Grand Caravan

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is a spacious and versatile minivan that offers a variety of features and options. It comes equipped with a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Other engine and transmission options include a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Caravan is known for its comfortable interior, ample cargo space, and affordable price point. However, it has received criticism for its mediocre fuel economy and uninspired driving dynamics.

Engine

• 3.6-liter V6 Engine
  • Oil Leaks at Timing Chain Cover: The timing chain cover gasket may fail, causing oil to leak from the engine.
    • Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, visible oil leaks around the timing chain cover.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain cover gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Exhaust Manifold Gasket Failure: The exhaust manifold gaskets may fail, causing exhaust gases to leak into the engine bay.
    • Symptoms: Loud exhaust noise, poor engine performance, illuminated check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Transmission

• Six-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Hesitation and Shifting Issues: The transmission may hesitate or slip when shifting gears.
    • Symptoms: Difficulty accelerating, inconsistent shifting patterns, illuminated check engine light.
    • Solution: Re-flash the transmission control module (TCM) or rebuild the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+
  • Torque Converter Failure: The torque converter may fail, causing the transmission to overheat and lose power.
    • Symptoms: Loss of power, overheating transmission, illuminated check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000+

Suspension

• Front Sway Bar End Links: The front sway bar end links may fail, causing a clunking noise when driving over bumps.
  • Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, excessive body roll when cornering.
  • Solution: Replace the front sway bar end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery may drain prematurely due to a parasitic draw.
  • Symptoms: Dead battery after a few days of not driving, slow engine cranking.
  • Solution: Locate and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50+
• Alternator Failure: The alternator may fail, preventing the battery from charging.
  • Symptoms: Dim headlights, loss of electrical power, illuminated battery light.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Rear Bumper Cracking: The rear bumper may crack due to weak structural support.
  • Symptoms: Visible cracks in the rear bumper.
  • Solution: Replace the rear bumper.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Paint Peeling: The paint may peel on certain parts of the vehicle, especially on the roof and hood.
  • Symptoms: Visible peeling paint.
  • Solution: Repaint the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Interior

• Climate Control Issues: The climate control system may not work properly, resulting in poor heating or cooling.
  • Symptoms: Insufficient heating or cooling, fluctuating temperatures.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component in the climate control system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200+
• Power Window Failure: The power windows may fail to operate due to electrical or mechanical issues.
  • Symptoms: Windows not responding to controls, intermittent window operation.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the faulty electrical components or window motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+

Summary

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is a reliable and affordable minivan with a spacious interior and ample cargo space. However, it is not without its issues. Owners have reported engine oil leaks, transmission hesitations and shifting problems, suspension clunking, electrical problems such as battery drain and alternator failure, and exterior and interior issues. The severity and cost of the repairs for these issues vary, but some can be quite expensive. Overall, the Grand Caravan is a decent option for those looking for a practical and affordable family vehicle, but it is essential to be aware of the potential issues before making a purchase.