What Is the Best Year for Dodge Grand Caravan?

Although Dodge Grand Caravans has had complaints about the transmission for many years, a few years were significantly worse than the others. 2008, 2012, and 2013 models had the highest number of complaints. However, the models of 2005 suffered the most severe and expensive transmission failures.

The main problem in the Caravan transmission has been related to the converter for torque. If this part begins to fail, a large amount of sludge and debris get into the transmission fluid. This can cause the transmission to start “slipping” or not changing gears.

Best Year for Dodge Grand Caravan

Model 2020 of the Dodge Caravan is the best year to buy. So far, there have been no recalls in the 2020 model. 

2019 model has also proved to be trustworthy. 2019 Grand Caravan has only two recall notices sent out to customers. Although they were a hassle, the recalls of 2019 dealt with minor problems. They addressed defective hood release cables that replacements for power door locks.

It is advised to stay clear of the other models for the Grand Caravan. The 2005 model year has received the most complaints from customers. However, most of them were related to minor malfunctions. 

The 2011 model year of Dodge Grand Caravan saw fewer complaints in general, but the problems were more serious. This model was plagued by complaints regarding issues with electrical components transmission and engine problems. In addition, this model encountered these issues with lower mileage. Also, the expenses associated with 2011 models were more costly.

How to Get the Most Value from the Dodge Grand Caravan?

The length of time to expect your Dodge Grand Caravan will last is mainly dependent on two aspects – 

1. The way you drive it 
2. How you take care of it. 

The expectation that any vehicle will last longer or even exceed its usual life span means that you must adhere to the maintenance schedule set by the manufacturer. As necessary is how you conduct yourself with your minivan when you are on the road.

Maintain Good Driving Habits

Avoid driving in stop-and-go traffic as much as you can. Taking a lot of abrupt brakes will put unnecessary stress on the transmission and tires. In the city, it will wear down the components of a car quicker than highway traffic. Therefore, if you are doing most of your driving around town, it is essential to have your brakes and tires regularly checked.

When driving, be aware of how you manage your minivan. Avoid jerking your steering wheel. Do not drive in the rain or in bad weather. We highly recommend trying smooth operating tactics as often as you can. This means you should not be pounding the brakes or accelerator unless the goal is to prevent the possibility of causing an accident. 

Follow Recommended Maintenance

Every vehicle you own must be maintained regularly. Check the manual offered by the vehicle manufacturer. Here is a complete checklist of maintenance recommendations for Dodge Grand Caravan.

• At every 12,000 miles, examine the air filter. Also, examine the brake linings and change with a new air conditioner.
• At every six months, the oil and the filter must be replaced, and tires rotated. The tires should also be inspected for wear.
• Every two years, inspect the joints on your CV, exhaust system, as well as front suspension.
• At every 102,000 miles, replace spark plugs.
• At every 60,000 miles, replace transmission fluid as well as the filter.

Any issues should be addressed promptly. By doing this, you can ensure that your Caravan is operating to the highest level of its capabilities and ensure that your safety and that of your family is secured.

Professionals must do all these listed maintenance tasks. Better to contact the local dealership or a reputable mechanic to get the most reliable and secure maintenance for your Dodge Caravan.

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Conclusion

For optimal results, be sure to avoid certain models from specific years. However, the 2020 model of the Dodge Caravan is the best year to buy. So far, there have been no recalls in this model. Always follow the maintenance schedule of the manufacturer.