2002 Dodge Grand Caravan Review

Actually like it

Written by: d. mierau on 08/12/2009

Vehicle

2002 Dodge Grand Caravan ES Fwd 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 4A)

Review

We traded a 2002 model with a 3.3 in it.Used ES model came to dealer with 10,000 km on it Old guy owned it, to big for him to park. He had put a gold warranty plan on it. Even paid all oil changes. I really like the power and good in ice and slush with ice radials. Have just had very miner problems, all fixed on warranty.Don't use it enough, should sell it, but like to drive it. Only has 60,000 kms. on it(37,000)miles. I suppose I'll have nothing but trouble now that I brag about it.

Favorite Features

Power everything. Found radio controls on steering wheel months after we bought it.

Suggested Improvements

Make a dash board that doesn't reflect onto the windshield.

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poor quality

Written by: Maz on 03/16/2009

Vehicle

2002 Dodge Grand Caravan Sport Fwd 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 4A)

Review

Very comfortable and versatile. Served us well with two teens through college, however constant maintenance was costly and inconvenient. Another example of good basic design but poor materials and engineering of components, especially persistent problems with A/C, Transmission, Alternator, Belts, Wipers, Brakes, Spare Tire, Liftback and Radiator. Other than those things, it ran fine ; )

Favorite Features

Ride, Interior space, Luggage capacity.

Suggested Improvements

Drive Train and components that would last more than 36K. Give me the 150 hours of my life that I spent waiting on repairs back.

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Love to Hate

Written by: John on 11/16/2008

Vehicle

2002 Dodge Grand Caravan ES Fwd 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 4A)

Review

We bought this off the showroom floor with 10 miles on it. It drove very well, but on the drive home we noticed a problem with the back taillight wirering.Fixed. Then, noisy side doors. Road noise is not fun to listen to. After 7 years and 80000 miles not unsatisfied, just a little unhappy what we have to live with. We had a flat and the aluminum rim isn't straight anymore, mileage and a wobble is still a bummer. New waterpump, tuneup, but no major costs. I am noticing a slower startup and going down road the tack jumps, maybe fuel fiter. The plastic is wearing but the seats are still well made, leather. I will look at this each time I buy from now on. Outside paint is still looking good.

Favorite Features

Two power side doors, duel temp control.

Suggested Improvements

Stow and go seats. Blue carpet fades.

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Cruising in a Caravan

Written by: J.D. on 12/18/2007

Vehicle

2002 Dodge Grand Caravan ES Fwd 4dr Minivan (3.8L 6cyl 4A)

Review

Ample features like heated seats, CD/cassette options w/steering wheel controls and power tailgate boost its appeal. The 17" shiny chrome wheels add a sporty flair. Transmission is a little jerky at times from 1st to 2nd gear. Fuel evaporator hoses have been causing check engine light to come on. Replaced 2 hoses in less than a year. Comfortable ride and plenty of power.

Favorite Features

Steering wheel controls and power tailgate and power side doors.

Suggested Improvements

Improve fuel hose system and tire sensors. Getting message to get tire sensor serviced but tires are fairly new and maintained.

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Wish I never bought this car

Written by: Jen on 12/14/2007

Vehicle

2002 Dodge Grand Caravan eL Fwd 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 4A)

Review

I've spent over $8,000 in engine repairs & maintenance the 5+ years that I've owned this car. Unfortunately, I've had endless mechanical problems and the car has litterally spent weeks in the shop over the 5+ years, meaning that I had to pay for a rental car out of pocket, while van was being repaired. I wish I never bought this car. I wish I would have gone for the Honda Odessey or the Toyota Sierra instead for a van. It frustrating dealing with the local Dodge Dealer for repairs, as they don't seem to value the customer's time enough. On the positive side, the interior of the Caravan is nice enough and comfortable for my family of 4--but my mechanical problems outweighed this.

Favorite Features

Dual sliding rear passenger doors are a must with little kids (with hindsight wish I had paid extra to get the automatic/remote door & hatch opening & closing feature.) Front & rear air conditioning controls. I like the Distance to Empty feature on the gas gauge. Lots of adjustable cupholde

Suggested Improvements

Don't put the exhaust pipe right below the bumper, as it always makes black exhaust dust all over the exterior of the back of the van. Rear seats that fold into the floor would be a definite improvement. Car is very noisy due to engine noise & road noise. Make it all quieter.

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