The Dodge Grand Caravan was first introduced way back in 1984. The brand hasn’t done much to improve the model over its five generations. Recently FCA confirmed we would not see any further updates to the Dodge Grand Caravan, and production would end soon.

Minivan choices may be dwindling, but they still fill a significant need for families. Minivans are always a popular choice. The Dodge Grand Caravan can’t keep up with options like the Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, or Kia Sedona. 

The Dodge Grand Caravan Is the Worst Minivan You Should Never Buy

The most recent generation updates to the Grand Caravan debuted in 2008. Drivers have voiced several complaints. Some of the most common complaints are brake wear, engine stalling, transmission failure, faulting air conditioning, and hard gear changes. 

Shifting issues

The shifting quality of the Grand Caravan has been addressed by numerous technical service bulletins and recalls. Explicitly addressing the 2011 through 2014 Grand Caravan models, software updates are available to correct. If you are looking into another model year, do check to see if this remains an issue for that model. According to Dodge,” reprogramming the powertrain control module (PCM) can improve shift quality”. 

A full recall for 2015 and 2016 has been issued for a transmission oil pump that results in loss of power. Owners should contact their dealership and get it replaced at the expense of Dodge under the recall terms.

Air conditioning issues 

Faulty air conditioning remains a known problem for many generations of Grand Caravans. There is a software fix from Dodge that may remedy the issue for some. Owners of Grand Caravan 2011-2014 who are experiencing issues with cold air blowing from the HVAC system on any temperature setting should seek out the software fix. 

Engine stalling issues

Engine stalling issues are pretty significant in the life of a vehicle. Two things seem to be the biggest reported causes for the engine stalling in the Dodge Grand Caravan. A faulty ignition switch issue can cause the vehicle key to turn off while the vehicle is driving. When this happens, the engine experiences loss of power, loss of power steering, and loss of power brake assistance. In some cases, airbags were prevented from deploying. Owners of 2008- 2010 models should contact their Dodge dealer about the safety issue recall. 

Another reason the Grand Caravan experiences engine stalling seems to be the failure of the fuse box. This can cause the vehicle to stall while in motion. It can also cause it not to start at all. This was a known problem in the Durango and Grand Cherokee vehicles as well, although no recalls have been issued for this in the Dodge Grand Caravan Models.

Recently FCA confirmed we would not see any further updates to the Dodge Grand Caravan, and it will soon be discontinued entirely. RIP Dodge Caravan. This doesn’t mean that hope is lost for those in the market for a minivan. Minivan choices are dwindling, but you’ve got still got options.