The Dodge Grand Caravan is one of the country’s most well-known minivans. From 2005 until 2020, Dodge sold more than two million Grand Caravans, proving it was a hit model with busy families. Despite its successful run, there are several model years that one might say “didn’t turn out too grand”.
After looking through all of the data, we’ve narrowed down the best and worst years of the Dodge Grand Caravan. Whether you plan to shop for a used minivan or you currently own a Grand Caravan and are wondering if you should keep it, this data is invaluable to you. We’ve sourced information from thousands of FIXD car scanners installed in Dodge Grand Caravan models. This information is used in conjunction with owner surveys, as well as published sources showing safety ratings, recalls, fuel economy, and other imperative factors.
| Best Years | Why? | Worst Years | Why? |
| 2019-2020 | Highest reliability ratings, low cost of ownership, good safety scores | 2013-2014 | High cost of ownership, lower reliability rating, more likely to need engine repair |
| 2015-2018 | Great reliability scores, Minimal mechanical issues, decent fuel economy numbers | 2010-2011 | Higher cost of ownership, Prone to engine, transmission, and brake repairs |
| 2012 | Good reliability ratings, low chance of transmission repair, efficient fuel economy | 2004-2005 | Lower safety scores, higher chance of engine repairs costing more than $500 |
| 2006-2009 | Highest safety scores, low cost of ownership, good fuel economy rating | 2001-2003 | Average reliability ratings, predictable cost of ownership |
Dodge Grand Caravan MPG, Engine Reliability Score, & Safety Ratings Year by Year
If you want to find the best Dodge Grand Caravan for your needs, it’s best to compare all of the recent models. To help you, we show you the engine reliability scores, safety data, and fuel economy specs to give you the bigger picture.
If you’re in the market for a car, take a look at our article on the USAs’ most reliable and cheapest to repair cars in the U.S. Don’t get stuck with a lemon, use our data to help you shop.
Engine Reliability Score – Over The Years
To figure out how reliable the Dodge Grand Caravan is, we’ll examine 2 different ratings.
- The FIXD Reliability score (Green line) – based on how many check engine lights are thrown by Grand Caravans every 12,000 miles of driving (1 year’s worth of driving).
- The Owner Reliability score (Gray line) from the surveyed Grand Caravan owners.
As the models become newer, reliability also seems to do better. The newer models also run closer in line between the two rankings, while older Grand Caravans see a stark contrast between the two.
The first model of the 4th generation (2001) has some reliability issues, which is typical as the bugs get worked out after a redesign. Yet, the same can’t be said about the first model of the 5th generation (2008).
We break these reliability scores down in the best and worst years list. Feel free to skip down to the year range you are curious about if you have one in mind.
NHTSA Safety Score – Over The Years
The safety score is provided by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and it shows ratings based on how well the vehicle withstands a crash.
If you are traveling in the Grand Caravan with your family, you want to know it’s a safe vehicle. With most of the model years, the Dodge Grand Caravan gets good safety ratings. The lowest ratings for this Dodge occur with the 2011 model, but they also dip a little with the 2001-2003 and 2005 Grand Caravans.
Keep in mind, with a higher safety rating, it’s easier to find cheap car insurance for your used minivan.
If you live in one of the states listed below, we can show you the cheapest vehicles to insure in yours.
| What Used Cars Are the Cheapest To Insure In: |
| Ohio |
| North Carolina |
| Michigan |
| Georgia |
| Texas |
| New York |
| Illinois |
| Pennsylvania |
| California |
MPG – Over The Years
Minivans normally have decent fuel economy numbers, which is helpful for families on a tight budget. The average minivan balances a fuel-efficient powertrain with plenty of performance, and the Dodge Grand Caravan is no different. The graph illustrated above shows the average mpg by model year, based on information from Fueleconomy.gov.
The efficiency of the Grand Caravan starts out a little bit lower and only gets better as time goes on. There are no dips downward as it progresses, which is good news. The most efficient models are 2011 and newer, so these are the ones you want to focus on if you are looking to save money at the pump.
Current Market Value of All Dodge Grand Caravan Years & Cost Per Year to Repair and Maintain Each
While you can look at the average maintenance and repair cost of the Dodge Grand Caravan models, you want to weigh it against the reliability scores. If the minivan suffers from expensive engine or transmission issues, you are going to spend more overall. Additionally, your Dodge is going to spend more time in the shop.
It’s also notable that maintenance and repair costs will affect the overall resale value of the Grand Caravan. As models get newer, you can see from the chart that the resale value also goes up. Most of these models also have fewer expensive problems to deal with. On this chart, the Gray line shows the Average Cost of Repairs and the Green line represents the average KBB market value.
When resale values are similar between models, such as what we see with the 2013-2015 Dodge Grand Caravan, it may be smarter to go with a newer model. You can get upgraded technology and better options without spending a lot more money. Just be sure to reference the other information from our charts to guarantee you are getting a good deal on a reliable minivan.
When shopping for a used Dodge Grand Caravan, it’s important to keep in mind that not all vehicles are cared for equally. To protect yourself from lemons, take along a FIXD Sensor on your test drive. FIXD connects to a free app on your smartphone to tell you more about the vehicle you’re checking out, including check engine lights and other hidden issues that the owner or dealership may be attempting to hide. Click here to learn more and get FIXD for only $19.99 (regular price $59)!
Important Features Timeline
1996: Start of 3rd generation with optional driver-side passenger door, discontinued all-wheel drive
1997: All-wheel drive and traction control become available options
1998: Newly available 180-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine, standard rear-seat mounted grocery bag hooks, and driver-side entry Quad seating
1999: Revised front fascia, Grand Caravan ES receives AutoStick transmission, steering wheel-mounted radio controls, along with 17-inch wheels and tires
2000: New colors added for the final model of the 3rd generation
2001: Start of 4th generation includes a power rear tailgate, a power sliding door with obstacle detection, a removable and powered center console, and a pop-up rear cargo organizer
2002: Caravan eL introduced, newly available power adjustable pedals, rear-seat audio and wireless headsets, and a DVD video system
2003: Newly available power sunroof and a factory-installed DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones, CD changer upgrade from a four-disc capacity to six
2004: Anniversary Edition package available with two-tone leather, chrome wheels, an in-dash CD/DVD changer, rear entertainment system and embroidered floor mats, trim levels simplified
2005: Refresh includes Stow ‘n Go seating with fold-flat second- and third-row seats
2006: Newly strengthened roof and side structure with updated side curtain airbags
2007: Remains unchanged as the final model in the 4th generation
2008: First model of the 5th generation receives an available 4.0-liter V6, “Swivel ‘n Go” seats debut, along with a power fold-flat third-row seat and added standard safety equipment.
2009: Base SE trim earns upgraded standard equipment, including the Stow ‘n Go seating, SXT trim earns optional iPod interface, blind-spot monitoring, rain-sensing wipers and Rear Cross Path
2010: Newly standard active front-seat headrests, SE models earn standard tri-zone manual climate control
2011: Extensive styling, suspension, powertrain, and interior upgrades
2012: Revised trim levels including the American Value Package
2013: Second-row bench seat substituted for Stow ‘n Go captain’s chairs, optional Blu-ray-compatible DVD entertainment system now offers an HDMI input and dual USB ports
2014: Crew trim level discontinued
2015: SE Plus and SXT Plus trim levels added, 17” wheels replace the 16” as standard equipment, power-adjustable pedals discontinued
2016: Minor equipment shuffling among trims
2017: Trim levels simplified, newly standard touchscreen and a rearview camera
2018: Remains unchanged
2019: Standard auto-dimming rearview camera added
2020: Final model offers new Blacktop package
The Best Years of the Dodge Grand Caravan
To find the best model years of the Dodge Grand Caravan, more than one factor must be evaluated. The safety test scores, fuel economy ratings, owner feedback and FIXD app engine reliability data are all considered as part of the bigger picture. With this review, you get a clear picture of the year-by-year reliability. We also share the most common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) from each year, based on user feedback and the open recalls collected from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
2019-2020 Dodge Grand Caravan
FIXD Reliability Score: 10/10
Owner Reliability Score: 7-9/10
KBB Value: $16,368-$21,744
Fuel Economy: 20 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $375-$477
Safety Rating: 4.4/5
The last two Grand Caravan models produced by Dodge are the best of all. The reliability scores are near perfect and the cost of ownership is low.
The FIXD Reliability scores for the 2019 to 2020 model years are a perfect 10 out of 10. Even the Owners Reliability scores ranks the two Grand Caravan models with a 7 (2020) and a 9 (2019) out of 10.
The NHTSA crash testing scores show that these Dodge minivans are safe for a family. Both earn a score of 4.4 (out of 5), so there’s little to worry about.
The repair and maintenance bills with these Dodge models are also low. Among the two Grand Caravan years, the 2019 has the highest cost averaging $477 a year. Our data also reveals below-average engine and transmission bills that cost more than $500.
One of the larger problems possible with the 2019 Grand Caravan is the Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch “G” Circuit Range/Performance (P083B) fault. Sadly, this would require a new automatic transmission, which could cost $2,528 to $3,045, but based on our data, this hasn’t happened frequently. Additionally, both models indicate the presence of the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System Leak Detected (P0457) code, which could be something as simple as replacing the loose gas cap. This repair should only cost $58 to $165. Either way, these models may still be covered by the 3-year/36,000-mile limited and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranties.
The 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan has three recalls, while there are none with the 2020 Dodge Grand Caravan. Based on the minimal cost difference between the two, it might be better to opt for the newer model.
2015-2018 Dodge Grand Caravan
FIXD Reliability Score: 8-10/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8-9/10
KBB Value: $5,948-$11,323
Fuel Economy: 20 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $389-$738
Safety Rating: 4.4/5
The next batch faring well is also part of the newer models. Reliability scores continue to excel, with good fuel economy numbers and safety scores. The cost of ownership remains low with some models, but does jump slightly.
The FIXD Reliability scores for the 2017 and 2018 with a perfect 10 out of 10, while the 2015 and 2016 earn 8 and 9 out of 10, respectively. Following right in suit are the Owners Reliability scores, ranking the four Grand Caravan models with an 8 out of 10 on the 2015, 2017 and 2018 models, plus a 9 out of 10 with 2016 vans.
The NHTSA crash testing scores continue in line with our top choices. The safety rating score of 4.4 (out of 5) proves you can still trust this van with your family.
The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan has the lowest annual repair and maintenance estimate of $389. From there, we have the 2018 at $442 a year, the 2015 at $579 a year, and the 2016 topping these charts at $738 a year. However, the 2016 model shows the lowest of the four when it comes to expensive engine repairs, so that’s a plus.
With these minivans, we’ve seen an increase in the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System Leak Detected (P0457) code. If it only requires you to replace the loose gas cap, you may spend $58 to $165. There’s also a higher instance of HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2 (P0038), which could indicate the need for a new oxygen sensor.
Moving through open recalls, the 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan is subject to three recalls, while the 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan has eight. The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan has 2 open recalls, but the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan shows 3 total.
2012 Dodge Grand Caravan
FIXD Reliability Score: 7/10
Owner Reliability Score: 9/10
KBB Value: $4,644
Fuel Economy: 20 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $800
Safety Rating: 4.4/5
In the midst of a few models that we can’t recommend, the 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan appears to stand out. It has good reliability ratings and a reduced chance of major transmission issues, despite other models of the same timeframe suffering.
The 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan earns a 7 out of 10 FIXD Reliability score, while the Owners Reliability score is a near-perfect 9 out of 10. These numbers fall in line with some of our top picks.
The average of the NHTSA crash testing scores is a 4.4 (out of 5), this model has the same average safety rating as the previous 2 year ranges.
The 2012 Grand Caravan doesn’t have the lowest annual repair and maintenance estimate, with an average of $800. Based on the data it looks like the people who do need to repair their Caravan are likely to be paying for larger, more expensive repairs at one time. Out of all $500+ repairs the two largest categories were Engine repairs (25%) and Brakes (26.32%). Remaining Causes of $500+ repairs: AC/Heat (11.11%), Transmission (6.25%), and Fuel System (5.26%).
This model seems to deal with the HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2 (P0038), which could indicate the need for a new oxygen sensor. It can also deal with the Exhaust Gas Recirculation Circuit Malfunction (P0403) trouble code. In some cases, this may require an EGR vacuum solenoid, although our data is spotty.
For now, the 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is subject to five open recalls, but these are all repairable through a dealership at no charge to you.
2006-2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
FIXD Reliability Score: 5-7/10
Owner Reliability Score: 7-8/10
KBB Value: $2,634-$3,297
Fuel Economy: 19 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $350-650
Safety Rating: 4.8/5
Rounding out our top choices are the 2006 to 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan models. These are among the safest minivans ever ranked and the cost of ownership is low.
2006 to 2009 models earn a 5 to 7 out of 10 with the FIXD Reliability score. In comparison, the Owners Reliability score provides a ranking of 7 to 8 out of 10. These are not numbers to be upset about.
What’s most impressive are the NHTSA crash testing scores. With a 4.8 out of 5 with all four models, these are minivans worth trusting in.
The 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan has the lowest annual repair and maintenance average of $350 a year, while the 2009 model sits at the top, with an average of $650. None of these are too high to be worried about. However, the 2007 Grand Caravan does show a higher instance of expensive engine and AC/heat repairs, while the 2009 seems to struggle with the brakes.
2007 to 2009 models are susceptible to the O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage Bank 1, Sensor 2 (P0138) code. This code is often fixed with an oxygen sensor that may cost $153 to $306. Additionally, all four models may show the Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio (P0732) DTC, which could require a new automatic transmission. This repair cost tops the charts at $2,528 to $3,045, so it’s something to be aware of.
Working through the open recalls, the 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan has 4, while the 2007 Dodge Grand Caravan is subject to 4 also. Additionally, the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan shows 8 recalls, but the 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan has 7.
The Worst Years of the Dodge Grand Caravan
If you hope to buy a used Dodge Grand Caravan, we recommend avoiding some models. If you already own one of these, you are probably spending too much on your repairs and maintenance each year. Your minivan may not last as long as you hoped and you may have trouble selling it.
We use the same data as we did for the best years to find the worst years of the Grand Caravan model years.
2013-2014 Dodge Grand Caravan
FIXD Reliability Score: 7-8/10
Owner Reliability Score: 6-8/10
KBB Value: $5,002-$5,662
Fuel Economy: 20 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $948-$1,021
Safety Rating: 4.4/5
Topping the list of the worst Dodge Grand Caravan models is the 2013 and 2014. While the reliability scores don’t drop too much, the main concern is here the cost of maintenance and repairs. Add that together with the high probability of engine, transmission, and brake failure and you have a disaster waiting to happen.
2013 and 2014 models earn a 7 to 8 out of 10 with the FIXD Reliability score. In comparison, the Owners Reliability score provides a ranking of 6 to 8 out of 10, so these two rankings are similar.
The one good thing to say about these models is that they still achieve good safety scores. The NHTSA gives both models 4.4 out of 5, so there’s nothing lacking in the safety department.
The 2013 and 2014 Dodge Grand Caravans have some of the highest annual repair and maintenance averages. Our studies indicate a $948 yearly cost for the 2014 and a whopping $1,021 yearly expense for the 2013 minivans. These numbers are a big jump from previous estimates. On top of that, both models rank high for engine, transmission, brake, AC/heat, and fuel system repairs that can cost more than $500.
These two models deal with the HO2S Heater Control Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 2 (P0038), which could indicate the need for a new oxygen sensor. There’s also a high instance of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation Circuit Malfunction (P0403) trouble code. In some cases, this may require an EGR vacuum solenoid, although our data is spotty. What we do know is that the Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System Leak Detected (P0457) code happens often, but the fix can be different. If your van needs a Evaporative System Integrity Monitor (ESIM) Assembly, it could cost $200 to $560, while a fuel filler cap may only cost $58 to $165.
There are 3 open recalls for the 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan. In comparison, the 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan has 4.
2010-2011 Dodge Grand Caravan
FIXD Reliability Score: 7-8/10
Owner Reliability Score: 5-8/10
KBB Value: $3,609-$4,105
Fuel Economy: 19-20 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $607-$1,111
Safety Rating: 4-4.8/5
There’s a significant drop in the reliability score with the 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan, while the 2011 model suffers from a massive number of repairs. Part of these mechanical malfunctions may have to do with the large number of upgrades performed for the model year, even though it wasn’t part of a new generation.
2010 to 2011 models earn a 5 to 8 out of 10 with the FIXD Reliability score. In comparison, the Owners Reliability score provides a ranking of 7 to 8 out of 10, with the 2010 Grand Caravan taking the lower score in both rankings.
Most likely, the FIXD Reliability is higher than the Owner Reliability score for the 2010 due to an increased percentage of transmission and brake repairs, making this car unreliable in the owner’s eyes. On the other hand, the FIXD Reliability score doesn’t take into account all transmission issues, and it detects no brake issues so it was unaffected by these.
While the cost of repairs isn’t off-the-chart with the 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan at only $607, there have been higher-than-average reports of mechanical failure. However, the big news here is the 2011 Grand Caravan models with an average repair and maintenance cost of $1,111 annually. This is the highest in our study. It also shows a huge increase in engine, transmission, and brake repairs exceeding $500.
There’s a small difference in the safety scores between the two models. The NHTSA gives the 2010 4.8 out of 5, but the 2011 only earns a 4 out of 5.
2010 Grand Caravan models seem to deal with DTCs that aren’t expensive to fix. For example, our data shows a higher chance of the Cylinder 2 misfire detected (P0302) code, probably requiring spark plugs costing $58 to $167. Both Grand Caravans also show a higher chance of the O2 Sensor Circuit High Voltage Bank 1, Sensor 2 (P0138) code that may require an oxygen sensor, costing $153 to $306. However, 2011 models also show the prevalence of the same Cylinder 2 misfire detected (P0302) code, but the most common fix is a cylinder head costing anywhere from $2,501 to $7,453. That fix exceeds the value of the minivan at this point.
The 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan has 7 recalls to look into, while the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan has 3 open recalls.
2004-2005 Dodge Grand Caravan
FIXD Reliability Score: 5-6/10
Owner Reliability Score: 8/10
KBB Value: $2,293-$2,557
Fuel Economy: 19 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $500-$750
Safety Rating: 4.2-4.5/5
From a birds-eye view of these two models, the rankings don’t look that terrible. However, the FIXD reliability score does drop and there’s a huge chance of engine repairs exceeding $500.
The 2004 Grand Caravan earns 6 out of 10 with the FIXD Reliability score, while the 2005 minivan only gets a 5. In comparison, the Owners Reliability score ranks both 8 out of 10.
There’s a small difference in the safety scores between the two models, as well. The NHTSA gives the 2004 4.5 out of 5, but the 2005 drops to 4.2 out of 5.
The annual maintenance and repair costs are reasonable for both models, but the chances of an expensive engine repair are high. We are also concerned with the fuel system on the 2004 model, as well as the brakes and AC/heat on the 2005 van.
Both models show the Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio (P0732) DTC, which could require a new automatic transmission. This repair cost isn’t cheap, averaging $2,528 to $3,045, so it’s something to take note of. Additionally, the 2005 Grand Caravan shows a higher chance of the Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Intermittent (P0344) code, which could cost $56 to $159 to replace the camshaft position sensor.
The 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan is subject to 3 recalls, while the 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan has 6 open at this time.
2001-2003 Dodge Grand Caravan
FIXD Reliability Score: 1/10
Owner Reliability Score: 7/10
KBB Value: $1,683-$2,937
Fuel Economy: 18-19 mpg
Annual Maintenance/Repair: $500-$750
Safety Rating: 4.2/5
The start of the 4th generation doesn’t have favorable rankings. While we are missing some data on the 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan, we can assume it wouldn’t be too much different from the model before and after it.
These Grand Caravans earn 1 out of 10 with the FIXD Reliability score (lack of data on 2002), while the minivans only get 7 out of 10 in the Owners Reliability score.
The NHTSA safety scores remain the same across all three models. These Grand Caravans are ranked at 4.2 out of 5.
Additionally, the annual maintenance and repair costs seem to be reasonable. While there have been some instances of expensive transmission and AC/heat repair bills, it’s quite possible that our lack of data isn’t revealing just how much is going on. When you factor in the resale value of these vans, they aren’t worth putting a lot of money into.
Our biggest concern is the Gear 2 Incorrect Ratio (P0732) DTC, which would send these models to the junkyard because it requires a new automatic transmission. This repair cost isn’t cheap, averaging $2,528 to $3,045. There’s also a higher chance of the Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Intermittent (P0344) code on the 2003 models, which could cost $56 to $159 to replace the camshaft position sensor.
Looking at recalls, the 2001 Dodge Grand Caravan is subject to 5 recalls, while the 2002 Dodge Grand Caravan has 6. Plus, the 2003 Dodge Grand Caravan shows 3 at this time.
FAQs
What years of the Dodge Grand Caravan have engine and/or transmission problems?
The highest instance of engine problems occurs with the 2004-2005, 2007, and 2009-2014 Dodge Grand Caravan models. There’s also a higher-than-average chance of expensive engine repairs with the 2016 and 2018 Grand Caravans. Expensive transmission repairs don’t seem to be as prevalent but still occur at higher rates with the 2001, 2009-2011, and 2013 Dodge Grand Caravans.
What is considered high mileage for a Dodge Grand Caravan?
Minivans are sure to get used heavily, with running to soccer practices and picking kids up from school. Because every family is different, it’s tough to determine the average mileage for the Dodge Grand Caravan. With proper maintenance and sensible driving practices, you could see more than 200,000 miles. On the other hand, Grand Caravan models may fail early depending on how hard they get used and how regularly they are receiving maintenance.
Based on our data, high mileage would be anything over 175,000 miles.
The older years in our evaluation (2001-2010) have a range of mileage between 100,000 and 208,333. Based on this information, there aren’t many Grand Caravan models exceeding 200,000 miles. Once the vans get high mileage, any expensive repair is going to send it to the junkyard.
Newer models may last longer, but it’s too early to tell. Our initial reliability studies suggest that newer Grand Caravan models could easily exceed those of the older minivans.
What Other Vehicles Should I Consider?
Dodge doesn’t have any other minivans to choose from. Yet, there are some SUVs from the automaker. You may consider the Durango or Hornet. If you want a truck, we suggest looking at what the RAM 1500 and RAM 2500 have to offer.
If you would rather stick to a minivan, you would need to move on to another brand. Some of the top options include the Chrysler Pacifica, Kia Carnival, or the Honda Odyssey. We also suggest the Toyota Sienna. For something older, you could choose a used Chrysler Town & Country, Chevrolet Uplander, Nissan Quest, or the Mazda MPV.
What owners of the Dodge Grand Caravan like to use their car for:
Percent based x/5-star: 0-10% = 1, 11-20% = 2, 21-30% = 3, 31-40% = 4, 41%+ = 5
| Frequent Use Categories: | How Useful? (Out of 5 Stars) |
| Family Vehicle | ***** |
| Lots of Driving (travel/long commute) | *** |
| Hauling/Towing | ** |
| Office on Wheels | * |
| Sport/Fast Driving | * |
| Luxurious Driving | * |
| Outdoor/Off-Road | * |
A Note About Data and Information Sources
This article has many details about Dodge Grand Caravan reliability; here’s what we used for our assumptions and recommendations.
- FIXD Reliability Score & Data: Engine reliability information is captured via the FIXD App.
The FIXD Reliability Score is calculated using the number of DTCs per year, weighted by mileage. This is then turned into a scale of 1-10 for easy graphing.
This is an objective score.
- Owner Reliability Score & Data: This data is the result of surveying Dodge Grand Caravan owners who use FIXD.
The Owner Reliability Score comes straight from owners of the Dodge Grand Caravan.
This is a subjective score.
To determine the Owner Reliability Score we ask each car owner:
How reliable would you say your Dodge Grand Caravan is?
a. Just point A to point B driving
a. A Daily Commuter
b. Good for a 100 mile road trip
c. Good for a 500 mile road trip
d. I could take a cross-country road trip, no problem
From here we translate their answers into the Owner Reliability Score:
a. = 2
a. = 4
b. = 6
c. = 8
d. = 10
Keep in mind, owners may think their car is more or less reliable than it actually is.
One potential problem is that people often buy the same make or model they are used to when they go car shopping, just a newer year.
Ford, for instance, has a number of consumer loyalty awards for the Ford F-Series, Ford Mustang, and Ford Expedition.
Car owners may be so loyal to the make or model they currently own that they would have trouble accurately comparing their cars’ reliability to others.
It’s for this reason that we ask car owners a question that is relative to mileage rather than relative to other cars.
Still, be mindful of the accuracy of these Owner Reliability Scores, people’s perceptions and unconscious blindspots can skew data.
We suggest looking at both the FIXD Reliability Score and the Owner Reliability Score for this reason.
- KBB Value: Average private-seller valuations as supplied by Kelley Blue Book (KBB), based on a Dodge Grand Caravan with typical mileage for that respective model year.
- Fuel Economy: Mileage-per-gallon estimates according to the EPA MPG on Fueleconomy.gov
- Annual Maintenance/Repair: Upkeep expenses as reported by surveyed Dodge Grand Caravan owners
- Safety Rating: Crash test data collected and reported by NHTSA. We average all ratings for each year to come up with a simplified, average safety score. This makes it easier to look at on a graph.
References
- Dodge Grand Caravan Sales Figures, goodcarbadcar.com. Retrieved April 23, 2023, from https://www.goodcarbadcar.net/dodge-grand-caravan-sales-figures/
- Dodge Grand Caravan Review, edmunds.com. Retrieved April 24, 2023, from https://www.edmunds.com/dodge/grand-caravan/2020/review/
- Dodge Warranty Information, mopar.com. Retrieved April 24, 2023, from https://www.mopar.com/en-us/my-vehicle/current-model-year-coverage.html
Brian Jones owns a used car dealership outside of Dallas, Texas. He has also worked for decades as an ASE Certified Master Technician for a variety of new car dealerships. Now he spends his time consulting dealerships and writing for some renowned publications, such as Motor1 (https://www.motor1.com/info/team/brian-jones/). When he’s not working, he’s tinkering around with pickup trucks and traveling with his family.
