Used 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan Consumer Reviews
Used Grand Caravan for sale
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Loved it and miss it alot!
bmccune, 11/15/2011
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
This was my first car and I paid $200 for it in 2009. During the time I owned this vehicle the only things that I had to replace were the fuel pump and the water pump. It had just about 200k miles on it and I trusted it to take me anywhere. It never died on me and always started right up. Went to trade it in at a dealership and the guy told me he wouldnt do it because the tranny was gonna go out of it because they are known for it. He got mad when I laughed in his face. The tranny had never been replaced and never gave me any issues at all. Would love to own another one. I had a 1999 Plymouth grand voyager and that thing was very solid aswell. Took a bad beating from the previous owner.
Whats wrong with american cars?
Warren, 08/12/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car has major reliability problems, I have replaced the battery, the altenator, the water pump, the device that raises and lowers the driverside window, a starter, and now I need to fix head and valve gaskets, a 600.00 repair. we bought the vehicle new and I haven't driven it for more then 6 months without having to do some sort of repair. A 7 year old vehicle with 65,000 miles on it shouldn't be costing me an average of 1,000 a year to maintain. American car companies better wake up or companies like honda, toyota, and new arrivals like kia, and hyundai are going to put them out of business.
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan for sale near you
Showing 0 of 0 listings
Sorry, there are no 1997 Dodge Grand Caravan vehicles for sale in our network.
See all 0 listingsGood People Carrying Van
David, 10/13/2005
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We've just traded in our 97 Caravan for a smaller car, since gas prices has gone up the roof ! But it was a blast to drive. Power was not a problem on city or highway, and quite comfortable for all three rows of seats. Wished the headlights were brighter at night, but they've already addressed this issue on later models. I liked the removable seats instead of fold-down ones, it helps with gas mileage if you're not using the 3rd row often, and the 3rd row bench can be slided to the middle, making it a 5-seater van with plenty of cargo space.
Long time fan
urbanrob, 05/09/2010
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my third Dodge Caravan and the best of them. I've been driving this 1997 for 80k+ miles and I keep it in good condition with regular maintenance. The steering rack is the only major part that needed replacing. With 4 kids and a lot of very local driving, this is perfect for mom. The car is spacious, comfortable and easy to drive. Mine is AWD, which brings additional comfort in traction during wet or snowy weather. Very happy with it.
Still Going After 209K Miles!
Ron Irwin, 05/11/2006
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Well, I finally had to put some significant dollars into my van, but much less than any new car I might purchase. Runs like a new one with a factory rebuilt tranny (old transmission had trouble with low gear, but otherwise ran great). Have run Mobile One synthetic oil in the van since it was new, and the oil added 10% to my gas mileage (20-24 MPG with the 3.8L V6). Change oil and filter once a year (20-25K miles). Will keep this van until the wheels fall off! Very happy with the purchase and performance of this vehicle.
10 Year Old Crossover Vehicle?
Ron Irwin, 12/06/2007
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Well, sometimes when you wait long enough, things come back into style. All wheel drive, seats seven, lots of storage. Crossover vehicle? No. My 10 year old AWD minivan? Yes. I've been salivating over the new crossovers, but my van fills the same function, so guess I'll just keep it. 244000 miles and runs like a new one. Original engine with just normal maitenance. Tranny replaced after 200000 miles. I may never need to buy another car!
I'd buy another one!
Ron Irwin, 01/02/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my Grand Caravan ES AWD by ordering it from the factory. It's really cool seeing the "This car built especially for ..." on the sticker. After 131,000 mostly repair-free miles, I'm sold on this car's extremely comfortable long-haul ride. I was going to buy an Explorer, but am very satisfied with the van's much better ride and handling. The all-wheel drive is a must for high country driving on ice and snow, as long as you've got the studded snow tire traction. I'll buy another one, but not until I hit 200,000 miles with this one, hopefully!
great vehicle
jomare, 11/02/2004
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This vehicle now has 330000km and is still going strong (original engine, original transmission
Worst Car On The Market?
BillBittman, 05/06/2004
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Chrysler should be ashamed for marketing this vehicle. Athough it has an attractive exterior (for a van), it is a mechanical nightmare. We have been through several recalls. The transmission problems are infamous. This is the worst car I've ever owned-- even worse than my 1991 Ford Taurus wagon (which dropped a transmission at 50,000 miles). If you are looking for a used van, do yourself a favor and buy a late-model Honda or Toyota. You will pay a little more, but you will spend at lot less on repairs. I will never buy another Chrylser product.
Good Van
John Lau, 04/27/2004
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We had a choice of buying a new, bare- bones van, or a used one with options. We saw this and decided that we wanted the nicer things that it had. It never left us stranded, and it was dependable. It handled well for a van, it looked good, and it was loaded. There were never any rattles or squeaks, and except for the CD player (which stopped working two years ago), everything held up just fine.
Serpentine Belt is a real snake
Pathy, 07/23/2010
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought used vehicle at 100K miles. Now it is at 150K miles. Drove across Texas several times with family, it never let us down. Recently while driving in town in rain, the serpentine belt came off. A month earlier I had replace the rack. Still I feel uncomfortable of its steering. It is loosing power steering intermittently in slow driving. Trying get rid of it soon
My Experience
gorjul, 09/19/2002
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great vehicle, no problems out of ordinary
Not Bad!
kekers, 05/21/2004
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The first year we had the van, we had to get work done on the electrical system (crossed wires). No other mechanical problems in 102000 miles. Quite difficult to change own spark plugs. We do have the 'phantom wipers', but that is not really a problem. I still get the same average gas mileage today as I did when I bought it almost 7 years ago (~20mpg). I have also used the back to haul drywall/couches,etc. Overall, not bad.
97 Dodge Caravan Sport--Great Van
dthueson, 07/15/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had excellent service with this car. Have only had a few minor problems. Mechanically has been sound.
LOTS of Problems
AEJ070897, 08/03/2004
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
New trans at 50,139--broke without any warning (just over the warranty)but Chrysler did split half the cost. Now we have problem with the AC compressor, wiper going on for no reason at all, engine light comes on for no reason. Not very reliablemechanically but nice vehicle to look at. I would only purchase if you plan on keeping it less than 3 yrs. or if you like to look at in your drive.
Very Reliable, Great Mileage
Very Pleased, 07/08/2007
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned this van for about a year, and it has always been very reliable. I bought it used with about 90,000 miles on it, and it runs like it is still new. My average miles per gallon is between 22-26. What more can you ask for from a minivan? It has never let me down and I have only had to do routine matinence (brakes, tires, oil changes, etc.). I would purchace another one in the future.
Never Again
StevenD, 10/01/2002
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'll never buy another Dodge/Chrysler product again. Too many problems (trans, starter, belt tensioner, AC, etc., etc.) Seems like everytime I get something fixed, something else breaks! Also poor service from the dealer.
1997 Dodge Gr. Caravan
thehurd, 09/04/2004
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We have driven Dodge/Plymouth vans like this for years, and this was our third, used with 78,000 mi when we got it. Though older models had transmission troubles, we had none. Now I am selling as family is downsizing with 2 college students. Carried cargo, kids and mixes of both.
90k and out for me, thanks.
hokietxn, 08/15/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought new 1997 Grand Caravan SE with 5-year, 100k service. Great ride, good mileage, modest power, seats easy to remove/install, huge cargo capacity. Changed oil every 3k and followed service schedule at dealers for the first five years. Headaches (all after warranty): A/C compressor and dryer died, front rotors replaced, still act "warped". (Dealer) Battery recently shorted and damaged the starter. Phantom wipers, console rattle, "heavy" sliding door. Planning to sell before I loose my first transmission.
mine
bry521125, 08/31/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
new tranny @50k much too soon! Rides very nice on highway and in city. Plenty of room for our family and for weekend trips.
Trading Down?
Sheryl, 01/02/2005
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my 97 Dodge Grand Caravan in November of 03. I was driving a 01 GMC Yukon, and I needed to cut my expenses. Having four kids with friends eliminated a 5 passenger sedan and the only thing left that would fit my needs and my budget was this Grand Caravan. It was in immaculate condition but it had 109k miles on it. After signing the papers, I got in my "new" van and started it. The digital read out reminded me again of the high miles and at that moment, I closed my eyes and said "God, This is my new van with only 9k miles on it, a program vehicle, right??" One year and 30K miles later I can say kuddos to Dodge. Great ride and gas mileage.
Good to us.
KarenP, 03/04/2005
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I noticed that other reviewers had transmission problems. We had NO problems with anything on this van during the time we owned it. At 103,000 miles, our mechanic suggested trading in as he could tell it would need a valve job and possible motor overhaul in the next 6 months or so. Since the blue book was not worth a $3000 motor job, we traded for a 2005 GC SXT. If it had not been for a major overhaul pending I would have kept it much longer. We were extremely pleased with our overall experience with this van. Loved it.
Good family vehicle
bubjack, 04/17/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought the Grand Caravan Sport model new and have been fairly satisfied. It has been reasonably reliable(knock on wood). It now has 70000+ miles and still runs and drives good. Issues we have experienced: replaced MOPAR battery twice within first three years (warranty repair), replaced CD player (warranty repair),broken driver side mirror, phantom wipers, water pump replaced recently (not unusual for 70,000 mile car). Amazingly, the exhaust still works good (I usually have to replace a muffler or pipes by now). Car has the 3.3 liter engine and seems a bit weak going up long inclines or passing. Not enough HP and torque for this heavy vehicle.
Buyer beware!
LemonGirl, 10/02/2002
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had troubles with this van from day one. First, air conditioning wouldn't work. Even vent would blow HOT air. Cost to fix (after 3 mechanics to find the problem) $1500. Then there was the fuel line problem ($500). Now the service engine light is constantly on (transmission?). Have I mentioned the problems with the computer system? (Phantom wiper, other air conditioning problems, Cruise control, horn). Oh, and to top it off, the CD player won't work half the time. I have heard that Dodge has improved their minivans...let's hope so. DO NOT BUY A 1997...unless you like living on the edge of insanity as I have for the last two years!
Great Van
JEM, 10/02/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has been one great van. It's starting to get up in age now but every time I look at replacing it I change my mind. I've driven the new vans from Nissan, Toyota and Honda, and they still don't come close to the ride, handling, and confort of my G.C. I Love my G.C.
This is America's Best?
Diller, 11/23/2005
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Sold our 1988 Grand Caravan & bought this despite a miserable reputation. Overall pretty good, but lots of "little" problems. Grab handles fall off, fuel gauge swings erraticly and "dings" randomly. Check engine light goes on but mechanic cannot locate problem. Wipers don't always work.Rubber door gaskets have long since disappeared. Still have it after 8 years because: it has more passenger room than Suburbans, the cloth seats look almost new (raised 3 boys & more dogs) The ride is fairly smooth. (the standard suspension is WAY too soft.) Infinity stereo is greatand van still looks good. Wife wants a big SUV. Kids grown, getting a Ducati & a Mini instead!
Love my Caravan
Andra, 10/26/2006
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the 2nd Caravan that we have had. The first left us for a new home with 215K. This one has 181K and is still trucking. It has a new transmission. The only thing that I don't care for with in comparing the '97 with the '89 was that you lost head room when they rounded it. I liked it better squared off. We get good gas mileage, about 26 highway, 22 around town. It has been a good, reliable car.
LOOK OUT!!!!
i hate this car, 01/27/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is a disaster on wheels! I've had the transmission re-done twice, the air-conditioning unit re- charged countless times (I gave up trying to fix it), of course the phantom wiper issue, the rear power windows broke, speakers blown, and this vehicle was not abused. Consider anything else before looking at a Dodge. I also had a 1999 Chrysler Sebring which was also a mechanical nightmare. Steer clear of Daimler- Chrysler products!
1997 dodge Grand Caravan
CJPorter, 05/25/2004
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For a family with lots of kids and prjects, the dodge grand caravan cannot be beat. I've even hauled a washer and dryer in together with the back seats removed. I love my caravan
No Major Complaints
RRJ, 04/20/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought the van with 68k mi about 16 mos ago (now has 82K). Transmission oil looked a little dark at the time--had it flushed before I would purchase van. Since then, had small problems, but overall, have been happy with the van. Problems include a starter that went out at 79k miles, CD player plays sporadically, and broken connector in cable running from antenna to radio. It also burns more oil than I prefer (one qt per 2000 mi +/-). So far, have experienced none of the major problems listed in other reviews. Is very comfortable, starts/runs well and has served well during my ownership.
So-so Van
CAS, 07/20/2004
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought a 97 Es extended and for the first 4-5 years the car had so many problems. The worst was the CD Player. Also, right before a stoplight the brakes blew out!! Chrysler needs to work on reliabilty.
Caravan1
johnm, 07/12/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great vehicle for around town, on the highway, and for carrying large loads. Comfortably carries 6-7 people.
The Best Vehicle for Families
iamheumann, 05/27/2005
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A great buy for families. Our children have grown up and we no longer would need a van, but it was the best when we purchased it in 1997. Interior room and features were great. I still like its exterior style and shape. Engine quality could have been better...too many repairs and problems over the years. "Old Blue" is almost retired, but we now rent newer model Grand Caravans when we take long trips and still enjoy the experience.
Worst experience
findlj, 04/07/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Worst car I've ever owned. Dealer would not back the warrenty. Contacted Chrylser customer support and they ended up backing the dealer. I ended up with a new van with a "bumper to bumper" warrenty that the company would not back up. I found it easier to sell the van, rather than fight with Chrysler and the dealer. Thank you Chrysler, I took your advice and bought a different van and was treated very nicely by the GM corporation and dealerships. American Honda has been very good to me, as well. You're right, there are other cars out there.
Bought Used I doubt I'll buy another
YesAwaken, 10/30/2004
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Good looking van. Dodge will probably never make anything close to this style.
Solid Experience
MJ, 02/21/2010
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just traded in this van as a single owner after 165k miles. All in all a very solid van. We've taken it on many long distance trips and have never been left stranded. Major issues we dealt with over the years included a failing battery (very early on and covered by warranty), two replaced water pumps, and a failed radiator fan relay. I wouldn't say brakes were an "issue", but they (fronts) did need to be replaced about every 30k miles. I did some of the work myself and found the vehicle highly serviceable. Honda and the other imports may be considered more reliable, but replacement parts much more expensive. We promptly addressed any suspected issues and never had a major breakdown.
Practical Vehicle
rau1997, 12/06/2004
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We bought our 1997 Grand Caravan used with 26500 miles on it from a dealership. We also bought an extended warranty taking it to 6yrs/75k (only used it once for the starter but it was nice to have peace of mind). Overall it's been a pretty good car with only three problems; starter went out at 50k; brakes; wiper goes on for no reason (not covered on extended warranty).
1997 Dodge Caravan is #1
Scott Lawson, 10/11/2002
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A very Trust Worthy Automobile.
Best used car ever
Ronj, 12/04/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car gives a great ride and is great on gas I have the tow package and it pulles my trailer very well, I have the big V6. It is a fun car to drive and I look forward to shopping for a new one.
do not buy
bayof3, 08/26/2002
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
bought brand new in 1997 just sold it for 6000k. this car is junk. you name it is was replaced. the trannsmission, rotars, brakes, waterpump,radiator...etc the seats are uncomfortable, the body gets dings very easily. they recalled this year of the van for the o-rings igniting a fire in the engine!!
Worst Vehicle
GPTX, 12/26/2002
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The worst car I ever bought. Within a year , I have spent more on repair of electronic and mechanical problems. I can't imagine this being a best selling minivan with all these defects and poor quality. It may look good externally but the interior (engines and electronics) are, by far, the worst design in the history of the automotive industry. VERY POOR QUALITY!!!
Satisfied Customer
Rob Melhorn, 06/15/2005
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Our van was a solid performer and had great flexibility. Hauled a family of six and luggage on vacation and was able to carry lumber and sheets of plywood after removing the seats. We had fun with our van and are getting a new replacement.
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan Sport
Shoe, 09/10/2007
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall great vehicle. Maintainance has been normal and the Dodge dealers I've had to deal with have been great too (I'm military, so have moved around a bit). The engine has held up well and the only real disapointment I've had is that the a/c went bad and had to be replaced. I've been coast to coast and from Florida to New Hampshire with no major probems. Will likely consider a Grand Caravan again.
500 $ every 6months in repair is routine
fannaba, 05/15/2006
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Performance is as expected from a minivan. frequent annoying problems are the major drawback. Breaks are soft, with below average stopping power. I love the space, the captain seats, and the dual air conditioning, with front, and back ducts.
good car
Kingfisher57, 11/08/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Dodge has been an excellent vehicle. I have 132000 on the car now and have had only 1 scary experience with itas the fuel rail broke with 5000 miles on the vehicle. Other wise there has been no problems with it.The car is still all original except for brakes and 1 battery
Found a Great One
weasal, 12/31/2002
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan LE 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
3.8 dual heat/air, Calif. vehicle. Traction Control, bought it private party, excellent condition, it was very well maintained. Had tranny flushed just because of the horror stories and will be bypassing radiator by adding separate tranny cooler. When they flushed it, the dealership said it was pretty clogged and had to remove lines to unclog them. Great vehicle. 20 mpg
Think before you buy
FSS, 05/16/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan SE 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was my first American made vehicle and I will not buy one again. The electronic equipment has many defects like faulty interior lights, wipers go on and off for no reason, engine light goes on and off and it is today and the dealer don't know why. The biggest issue is the transmissiom. The dealer has replaced 2 so far. If you are thinking about buying one, please get an extended warranty because you will need it.
2nd Grand Caravan and Even Better
gianca, 04/27/2003
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is our 2nd Grand Caravan. It has been virtually maintenance free the 50,000 miles we have had it (48,000 - 100,000). The leather cleans easy. Even the AC ducting is wide enough to easily clean. The sliding back rear bench is great. Both side sliding doors are great and operate flawlessly. Drink holders for everyone, and well incorporated or hidden into the trim. Never had a vehicle this reliable before.
Nice van - looking for a new one!
Steel, 01/05/2009
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan ES 4dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We had an older boxy-style (1994) Caravan, and when we bought the new model, my wife said it was the best "car" she ever owned. Smoother body panels are very appealing. Seats remove easily (although are heavy to lift). You can lay a 4x8 sheet of plywood flat inside when seats are out (very handy). Mileage was about 18 city/ 25 highway - great for a van. Body lean on curves is a little annoying, but expected for a tall vehicle. Well designed layout. Tall seats are very comfortable. Visibility is great.
Trannie problems
Dan , 08/30/2002
1997 Dodge Grand Caravan 3dr Minivan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drives nice and very comfortable ride but loaded with lots of nasty surprises. Gone thru 3 serpentine belts and tentensioners. Wipers will turn on for no reason and the trannie is jerking a lot now....ready to replace the trannie very soon. A common known problem for these vehicles....Will never buy chrysler products again!!!! DG