The Dodge Caravan is the best friend families families. This minivan is known for its spacious interior, comfort and value for money. Produced from 1983 to 2021 by Chryslerbrand, it has lived through five generations and remains popular on the used market.
Its longevity testifies to its reliabilityyet the risk of breakdown remains. The transmissiona key element in its operation, requires particular attention. EDEN BOITES Here you'll find our Dodge Caravan gearbox maintenance guide.
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What advances have marked the evolution of Dodge Caravan transmissions?
Right from the start, the Dodge Caravan was an immediate success thanks to its spacious and innovative features. It was one of the first modern minivans to feature a low floor, unibody monocoque design design and front-wheel drive front-wheel drive. The first four-cylinder engines soon evolved into more powerful ones, with the introduction of a 150hp 3.3L V6, followed by a 180hp 3.8L.
The transmissions also progressed, moving from a manual gearbox from a 5-speed manual gearbox in the first generations to an automatic system with 3 or 4 speeds. Over time, Dodge gradually introduced more modern powertrains, accompanied by more economical engines. The latest versions offer a 197 hp 2.8 L or 248 hp 3.6 L V6, and the automatic gearboxis now standard, with 6 or 9 speeds.
What problems do Dodge Caravan gearboxes encounter?
The Dodge Caravan and the first TorqueFlite gearboxes made this car model extremely greedy gas-guzzling. At the end of the 1980s, Chrysler's fuel-saving policy led to the development of the Ultradrive.
This innovative system contains technologies similar to today's gearboxes:
- Electronic control module ;
- Torque converter ;
- Planetary gears ;
- Steering column gearshift.
It seems that these technical progressparticularly on the old automatic transmissions coupled to the 3.3 L V6, have been a recurring weakness of the Dodge Caravan.
Reliability problems stem mainly from a defect in the gears causing overheating and clutch wear. clutches clutches.
What are the essential steps for correctly maintaining the Dodge Caravan gearbox?
If you are the proud owner of a Caravan model, please note that maintenance maintenance Dodge gearbox involves a few essential steps.
Gearbox oil change
Depending on the type of vehicle instructions manufacturer's instructions, oil change oil change may vary. It's vital to check the fluid level regularly, and top it up if necessary.
Specific lubricant
Standard oil, type MOPARis recommended. There is an unlimited choice of equivalent products, but make sure they carry the label ATF+4. Unsuitable oil may cause the automatic transmission to malfunction.
Various filters
The type of filter changeor to checkwhen servicing your Dodge Caravan transmission depends on the type of transmission. It may be located inside or outside the housing. Identify and replace the gearbox filter at every oil change.
Housing gasket
As with many BVAs, especially Dodge-Chrysler gearboxes, the crankcase contains a large quantity of oil. If you notice a leakor simply as a preventive measure, check the seal.
How do I repair a Dodge Caravan gearbox?
Despite all the care you take with your Dodge Caravan, no car mechanism is infallible. In the event of change in navigation behavioror, if you smell a smell the gearshift lever of your automatic transmission, have your vehicle checked by a specialist specialized technician. The technician will draw up a diagnosis and an estimate according to the severity of the damage.
Depending on the age of your minivan, you may be able to find low-cost parts in certain car boot sales. But you'll find it hard to make a precise choice, as these wrecking centers don't necessarily have compatible products. compatible products with your model. The safest thing to do, especially if the breakdown involves a complete exchange, is to turn to a recognized professional.
EDEN BOITES brings you the solution! We have one of the largest stocks of gearboxesand automatic gearboxes, available at the best prices. Whether your delivery address is in France or in Europeno problem for shipping! And if your part number doesn't appear in the catalog, the best option is complete reconditioning with our quality parts.
Take advantage of our one-year warranty for a risk-free purchase! Contact us now for a quick, no-obligation quote.