Used 1993 Dodge Grand Caravan Consumer Reviews
Mixed Bag
Bought in '93 w/42,500 miles; now 187,600 miles (3/25/04). Goes through front brake pads/rotors quite frequently; usual trans. failure at 132,000 mi. and again at 148,500 mi. (this time covered under warranty). Both drive axles replaced at 152,000 and again at 166,000; right hub assembly replaced at 176,000. Other items that failed were the water pump, fuel pump and A/C unit. The 3.3L motor has been outstanding; doesn't burn oil; doesn't leak oil. Engine runs like it did the day we bought the van. We think we have gotten our money's worth from it in service and relative comfort.
Very Reliable
I put 105,000 miles on it in 11 years, all locale driving. Didn't begin to have any major problems until around 100,000 when the tranny began to act up. A very comfortable ride. Plenty of power with the 3.3 and 20 miles to the gallon wasn't bad. Just traded it in.
3 door Grand Caravan
I bought this car for $2000 when it was 11 years old. I needed a vehicle to transport 7 people and this caught my eye at a local dealer. I should have done an extensive check on this one first. Within 6 months I put $400 into brakes,rotors,bearings,exhaust,tranny seals and the still needed to replace the radiator,thermostat,tires and the paint is peeling off in chunks. I have had it just stop running for no reason at least twice. The A/C quit on the day I bought it. The fan stopped running after replacing radiator. I've had the reserve on radiator actually boil. The only thing that has saved me is the warning alarm that van is overheating.
The grand caravan
Father was first owner of vehicle. Very reliable and comfortable on trips and daily driving. Minor problems with paint peeling in large sheets. Needed exhaust recently, but nothing bad. No major problems until the transmission had to be replaced THREE times (first covered by warrenty, second half covered and third was paid in full by my father). I inherited this van 2 years ago and now after about 40,000 miles it needs another transmission (not shifting gears). Sadly, I will let it go. Otherwise I do really like it.
I love my minibus
I bought my mini-bus with a 3.3 6L. with 93000 miles on it just over 3 yrs ago for only $5000. I now have 214000 on it. It uses oil, which a valve gasket job would fix. Replaced the tranny twice, but my choice of mechanics the 1st time was largely to blame for the 2nd time. Up until 200000 miles my van ran excellent. About that time the water pump,& fuel pump went. who could blame it? It has been used as a truck for hauling lumber, a camper on trips, a taxi etc.. I abuse the vehicle but it just keeps running. I will keep it til it dies. Then I will go buy another! I most definately got my money's worth out of this one.