1996 Dodge Caravan Review

Worst Trade Ever

Written by: rgb on 10/13/2009

Vehicle

1996 Dodge Caravan 2 Dr STD Passenger Van

Review

My brother, mother and I have all driven this thing at one point and we all hate it. The repairs done to this thing are too numerous to post. The transmission went out on it for a second time and I resolved never to buy another Dodge. I won't even look at things made by or associated with that company. When I see anything made by them no matter how cool,new and shiny I think about how this van was a leper in disguise. Everything thing on this van broke: gauges, hub assembly, wiper motor, electronics. Even the paint job was toast. There is truth behind all of those Dodge jokes on Married with Children. My Dad's a mechanic and even with free labor this rust bucket wasn't worth it.

Favorite Features

Due to its size it will be fun to beat mercilessly with a sledge hammer. My entire family and my boyfriend hate this van.

Suggested Improvements

This van should have included a time machine to allow owners to go back in time and not purchase this vehicle. They would literally have to set all of the plans on fire and start over. Blind monkeys could have designed a better car.

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Caravan 3.8L LE/ES 4-dr has been great

Written by: michaelrh on 06/27/2009

Vehicle

1996 Dodge Caravan 2 Dr ES Passenger Van

Review

Original owner, second mini-van. Short wheelbase w/3.8L engine can be a hot rod (at the expense of gas mileage.) Very comfortable for long drives, excellent visibility. Exterior styling is timeless -- I still think it is an attractive design 13 years later! One $200 transmission problem at 70,000 miles, but the car has not been particularly expensive to maintain.

Favorite Features

Can move second seat back 6" when don't need legroom in 3rd seat. Can put 3rd row seat in place of second for a wider seat.

Suggested Improvements

Move front driver's seat back 4-6 inches--not enough leg room. Seats are heavy to remove. Better transmission gearing for 3.8: engine - too low, not good enough gad mileage.

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Keeps on going by Dadman

Written by: B Clark on 02/04/2007

Vehicle

1996 Dodge Caravan 2 Dr STD Passenger Van

Review

I bought this van used in 1999 with 108,000 miles on it. It now has 210,000 miles on the same 3.0 V6 engine. It now smoke some at startup (worn valve guide seals) but Maxlife Valvoline oil has stopped that. The engine is from Mistubishi and it is as strong as when I got it. No electrical problems, great exhaust system, suspension is wearing, durable interior and great to drive. Now for the trans and a/c. Tranny was rebuilt at 120,000 miles for $1800. Ask for a upgraded rebuild kit not a factory kit. Worth the money. Torque converter started acting up at 190,000.A/C new compressor installed at purchase. The system needs recharging every year. Invest in own recharge kit (cheap).

Favorite Features

Best mini on the market for american company. Love to drive. Love tinted glass. I wish I had dual siders and power rear vents.

Suggested Improvements

Plan on rebuilding a transmission and A/C service. Buy cheap and rebuild your transmission then you know what you've got.

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Grand Caravan- Good design, poor quality

Written by: stofman on 04/16/2006

Vehicle

1996 Dodge Caravan 2 Dr ES Passenger Van

Review

Bought this van new. Pretty much one problem every time we drive it! Great design, but very very poor build quality! So far, the tranny went out at 60,000, A/C at 62,000, coolant multiple times, etc etc. It's been in the shop more than it has been on the road. Would NOT recommend anyone buy this van!!

Favorite Features

Drives nice, high seating position.

Suggested Improvements

Build it better! Good design, but terrible build quality. My first (and last) Chrysler product!

6 out 6 people found this review helpful

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Not so bad

Written by: M Gulley on 09/21/2005

Vehicle

1996 Dodge Caravan 2 Dr STD Passenger Van

Review

I bought this vehicle used 2 yrs. ago at 68,000 miles. Living in Michigan, I have driven my van to Florida and California and back. It has been very reliable I would say. I am currently at 117,000+.I have had a problem things breaking in the inside of vehicle, like cupholder cover and other little plastic parts. Also recently the A/C went out. I also just replaced the radiator. Otherwise I've been o.k with the Caravan.

Favorite Features

Comfortable, drives nice, and it's roomy

Suggested Improvements

The A/C leaves much to be desired. Inside parts could be a little bit sturdier.

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