“On aug. 19 my husband heard a very faint "ping" about a 2 miles from home. Nothing seemed to be wrong and he felt it must have been something moving around in the car. On aug. 20, after driving several miles, I heard what sounded like something under the hood self-destructing, the odometer and rpm gauge went wacky, and I had no power.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 21, 2012 at 155,000 miles
“Tl*the contact owns a 2000 dodge caravan. While driving approximately 2 MPH the contact suddenly noticed a loud noise coming from under the vehicle. Upon examining the vehicle the contact noticed that the transmission fluid was heavily leaking onto the ground underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealership where the contact was informed that the failure was due to the transmission pin.”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 15, 2010 at 92,000 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the transmissionRecall (red: the transmission)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2000 Caravan peaked in 2003, with 74 filed that year. No recall on file covers the transmission, the subject of 17% of the complaints. In 2024 owners filed 1 so far.
Defect. CURT MFG IS RECALLING CERTAIN CLASS 3 RECEIVER HITCHES, P/N 13347, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON 1997-2007 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY VANS, 1996-2007 DODGE CARAVANS, AND 1996-2004 PLYMOUTH VOYAGER VANS. WHEN THE HITCH IS LOADED TO THE MAXIMUM RATING, THE HITCH MAY FRACTURE OR BREAK AT THE BEND LOCATION WHERE THE MAIN BODY OF THE HITCH MEETS THE HITCH MUFFLER STRAP.
Risk. IF THE AREA IN QUESTION FRACTURES OR BREAKS, THIS COULD CAUSE AN UNSTABLE DRIVING CONDITION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
Remedy. CURT MFG WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE THE HITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING AUGUST 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CURT MFG AT 1-715-831-8713.
Defect. DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Filed Dec 11, 20071,657 vehiclesSafelite Fulfillment, Inc.
Defect. CERTAIN CURVED TEMPERED REPLACEMENT GLASS MANUFACTURED BY HANGZHOU SAFETY GLASS LTD AND SUPPLIED TO SAFELITE BY AUTO TEMP INC., IDENTIFIED AS DOT-430, AND SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN VEHICLES MAY NOT BREAK INTO SMALL PIECES AS EXPECTED OF TEMPERED GLASS AND FAILS TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 205, "GLAZING MATERIALS."
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT(S) MAY BE SERIOUSLY INJURED BY SHATTERED GLASS.
Remedy. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS RETAIL CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE GLASS FREE OF CHARGE. RETAIL CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE TOLL FREE AT 1-888-843-2906. SAFELITE WILL NOTIFY ITS WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS AND REIMBURSE WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS FOR CURRENT INVENTORY AND AT A SPECIFIED RATE FOR REPLACING THEIR CUSTOMER'S GLASS. WHOLESALE CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT SAFELITE'S WHOLESALE DIVISION, SERVICE AUTOGLASS TOLL FREE AT 1-888-246-6298. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 15, 2008.
Defect. CERTAIN AIRTEX FUEL PUMP MODULES, P/NOS. E7089M, E7094M, E7113M, AND E7129M, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JUNE 1 AND SEPTEMBER 24, 2006. THESE FUEL PUMP MODULES WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET FOR USE IN CERTAIN DAIMLERCHRYSLER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SILICONE MATERIAL USED IN MANUFACTURE OF THE FLAPPER VALVE WAS OUT-OF-SPECIFICATION, LEADING TO EXCESS SWELL OF THE FLAPPER VALVE RESTRICTING THE FLOW OF FUEL TO THE FUEL PUMP MODULE.
Risk. FUEL RESTRICTION COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF POWER AND/OR ENGINE STALL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. AIRTEX WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MODULES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AIRTEX TOLL-FREE AT 1-866-867-3759.
Defect. CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT BRAKE CYLINDERS FOR CERTAIN FORD, DAIMLERCHRYSLER, AND JEEP PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE BRAKE CYLINDERS WERE SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES OF NAPA, RAYBESTOS, AIMCO, AC DELCO, CARQUEST, BENDIX, AND WAGNER. ONLY PRODUCTS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 27, 2005 THROUGH JANUARY 17, 2006 (DATE CODES 0529 THROUGH 0602) ARE SUBJECT TO THIS RECALL. WHEN SUBJECT TO VERY COLD TEMPERATURES, AN INTERNAL SEAL IN THE MASTER CYLINDER COULD LOSE FLEXIBILITY AND MAY CAUSE BRAKE FLUID TO LEAK.
Risk. LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN LEAD TO A DECREASE IN BRAKE LINE PRESSURE AND AN INCREASE IN STOPPING DISTANCE, WHICH CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. AFFINIA (BRAKE PARTS, INC.) WILL REPLACE THE SUBJECT BRAKE HYDRAULIC MASTER CYLINDERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 20, 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AFFINA GROUP CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-323-0354.
Defect. CERTAIN ANZO COMBINATION HEADLAMP ASSEMBLIES SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS WHICH FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
Risk. WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. ANZO WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE HEADLAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN MAY 9, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ANZO USA AT 909-468-3688.
Filed Oct 6, 2004955,344 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation
Defect. ON CERTAIN MINIVANS, THE DRIVER'S AIR BAG MAY BECOME DISABLED DUE TO A FAILURE OF THE CLOCKSPRING, WHICH IS LOCATED IN THE HUB OF THE STEERING WHEEL.
Risk. THIS CONDITION WILL MANIFEST ITSELF THROUGH ILLUMINATION OF THE AIR BAG WARNING LAMP, AND COULD EVENTUALLY RESULT IN A DRIVER'S AIR BAG OPEN CIRCUIT, IF THE PART IS NOT REPLACED IN A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CLOCKSPRING ASSEMBLY ON ALL COVERED VEHICLES WITH 70,000 MILES OR LESS. FOR THOSE VEHICLES WITH MORE THAN 70,000 MILES, DAIMLERCHRYSLER WILL OFFER AN EXTENDED LIFETIME WARRANTY UNDER WHICH IT WILL REPLACE THE CLOCKSPRING AT NO CHARGE IF IT FAILS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER WILL ALSO REIMBURSE OWNERS WHO HAVE PAID TO HAVE THE CLOCKSPRING REPLACED ON THEIR VEHICLES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 12, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Filed Dec 10, 200335,692 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation
Defect. ON CERTAIN MINIVANS AND 4X2 PICKUP TRUCKS, THE VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL MAY HAVE GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATINGS (GAWR) THAT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM TIRE LOAD CAPACITY AS DEFINED IN FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS."
Risk. IMPROPERLY LOADING YOUR VEHICLE CAN CAUSE TIRE FAILURE AND RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy. OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL OVERLAYS CONTAINING CORRECTED INFORMATION RELATIVE TO VEHICLE GAWR AND TIRE SIZE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 1, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.
Filed Oct 24, 200368,563 vehiclesWix Filteration Products Division
Defect. CERTAIN AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, MODELS WIX FILTER PART NUMBERS 33576, 33577, 33734; NAPA FILTER PART NUMBERS 3576, 3577, 3734; AND CARQUEST FILTER PART NUMBERS 86576, 86577, 86734 USED ON 1996-2000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY, DODGE CARAVAN, AND PLYMOUTH VOYAGER VEHICLES, CAN CAUSE THE FUEL LINES TO LEAK.
Risk. A POSSIBLE FIRE CAN OCCUR IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE.
Remedy. WIX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. NOTE: THIS DOES NOT INVOLVE ANY PRODUCTS MANUFACTURED BY THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP. NOR ANY DAILMERCHRYSLER DEALERS. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING NOVEMBER 2003. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT WIX AT 704-864-6711.
Filed Sep 26, 200345,870 vehiclesIntercontinental Auto Parts
Defect. AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN SEPTEMBER 17, 2002, AND JANUARY 20, 2003, SOLD UNDER THE BRAND NAMES LISTED ABOVE. THE FILTER MAY EXPERIENCE MALFUNCTION OF THE QUICK CONNECTOR EITHER BLOCKING FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE OR CAUSING A FUEL LEAK. THIS DOES NOT INVOLVE ANY PRODUCTS MANUFACTURED BY THE DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP. NOR ANY DAILMERCHRYSLER DEALERS.
Risk. IF THIS CONDITION OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, THE ENGINE COULD STALL. ALSO, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, THE FUEL LEAK COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
Remedy. AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS FOR 1995-2000 SHORT WHEELBASE CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY, PLYMOUTH VOYAGER AND DODGE CARAVAN MINIVANS PART NO. 18232 AND DATE CODE 0237, 0249, OR 0252. REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS FOR 1995-2000 LONG WHEELBASE CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY, PLYMOUTH VOYAGER AND DODGE CARAVAN MINIVANS PART NO. 18230 AND DATE CODE 0237, 0249, 0251, OR 0304. REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS FOR 2001-2004 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY, PLYMOUTH VOYAGER AND DODGE CARAVAN MINIVANS PART NO. 28871 AND DATE CODE 0249. THESE PART NUMBERS AND DATE CODES APPEAR ON THE GOLD-TONE FILTER. DISTRIBUTORS AND RETAILERS WILL BE NOTIFIED TO ISOLATE AND RETURN AFFECTED INVENTORY. OWNERS WHO HAVE HAD THE FUEL FILTER SERVICED ON ONE OF THE APPLICABLE VEHICLES AFTER SEPTEMBER 17, 2002 SHOULD RETURN THEIR VEHICLE TO THE SERVICE FACILITY TO BE INSPECTED TO SEE IF THE FUEL FILTER THAT WAS INSTALLED IS ONE THAT IS INVOLVED IN THE RECALL. IF SO, THE OWNERS SHOULD HAVE THE FILTER REPLACED. TO RECEIVE A FULL REFUND PLUS THE COST OF POSTAGE, OWNERS SHOULD CUT THE CONNECTORS FROM THE HOSES, RINSE THE CONNECTORS AND RETURN THEM TOGETHER WITH PROOF OF THE AMOUNT PAID FOR THE REPLACEMENT PART AND LABOR, TO INTERCONTINENTAL AT INTERCONTINENTAL AUTO PARTS, INC., P.O. BOX 861, MAHWAH, NJ 07430, ATTN: FUEL FILTER RECALL. INTERCONTINENTAL WILL MAIL A FULL REFUND TO THE OWNER.
Filed Mar 7, 20033,674 vehiclesSouthern Comfort Conversions
Defect. CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCK, VAN, AND MINI VAN CONVERSIONS EQUIPPED WITH SOUTHERN COMFORT BUILT RUNNING BOARDS THAT CONTAIN CERTAIN COURTESY LIGHTS MANUFACTURED BY AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY COMPONENTS, INC. THESE UNITS CONTAIN A COURTESY LIGHT OR LIGHTS THAT MIGHT OVERHEAT WHEN THE WIRE HARNESS IS EXPOSED TO EXCESSIVE MOISTURE AND ROAD SALT.
Risk. THIS OVERHEATING CONDITION CAN CAUSE THE RUNNING BOARD TO MELT OR CAUSE A FIRE.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESS ON THESE RUNNING BOARDS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 7, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SOUTHERN COMFORT AT 1-800-745-6096.
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS BUILT WITH 3.3L AND 3.8L ENGINES HAVE FUEL RAILS WITH NITROLE RUBBER O-RING SEALS THAT CAN DEGRADE OVER TIME. FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE UNDERHOOD FUEL INJECTION FUEL RAIL COULD RESULT, INCREASING THE LIKELIHOOD OF A VEHICLE FIRE.
Risk. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SEAL ON THE VEHICLE FUEL RAILS TO PREVENT EXTERNAL LEAKAGE OF FUEL FROM THE FUEL RAIL CROSSOVER TUBE, SHOULD THE EXISTING O-RINGS CONTINUE TO DEGRADE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JANUARY 25, 2002. DUE TO THE LARGE QUANTITY OF VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THIS CAMPAIGN, THE OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BE PHASED OVER THE NEXT SEVERAL MONTHS. HOWEVER, IF A VEHICLE IS LEAKING FUEL FROM THE O-RINGS, THE VEHICLE SHOULD BE TAKEN INTO A DEALER TO HAVE THIS REPAIRED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
All 13 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 3 name the 2000 Caravan.
DRIVER AIR BAG CLOCKSPRING FAILUREEngineering analysis EA04013Closed
Opened Jun 4, 2004Closed May 25, 2005Led to recall 04V480000airbags
The driver air bag clockspring can develop an open-circuit condition resulting in nonfunctional driver-side frontal air bag, horn, cruise control (if equipped), and/or steering wheel radio control (if equipped).in its october 5, 2004 letter to NHTSA, daimlerchrysler stated that it will conduct a safety recall and replace the clockspring assembly on all my 1998.5-2000 daimlerchrysler minivans, built between march 1998 and august 2000, with 70,000 miles or less.it will also provide a lifetime warranty for this component on my 1998.5-2000 minivans, regardless of mileage.the details of the …
AIR BAG CLOCKSPRINGEngineering analysis EA01007Closed
Opened Feb 21, 2001Closed Nov 22, 2002Led to recall 02V293000electrical system
There is no summary currently available
DC MINIVAN FUEL INJECTOR RAIL LEAKRecall query RQ00008Closed
Opened Mar 9, 2000Closed Mar 18, 2002Led to recall 00V268000throttle and acceleration
There is no summary currently available
Technical service bulletins
71 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2000 Caravan. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
body and frame 11equipment 10engine 8electrical system 7brakes 7transmission 6steering 3airbags 3
THIS BULLETIN ANNOUNCES THE AVAILABILITY AND INSTALLATION OF A RESUABLE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OIL PAN GASKET. *TT
What owners reported
Newest filings
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 8, 2024MT
Twice over the winter my serpentine belt came off as I was driving through a puddle. Nothing deeper than a few inches. It also happened once last year.
Engine
Filed May 18, 2023NM
Belt under hood keeps falling off and or breaking car seizes up and locks up almost crashed a few times Also engine problems smokes a lot wipers don’t work windows won’t go down also transmission jerks when driving
Structure › BodyCrash1 injured
Filed Dec 1, 202065,000 milesCT
VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION- WHILE DRIVING ALONG I HEARD AND FELT A LOUD NOISE (BOOM) FROM REAR OF VEHICLE-VEHICLE THEN SWERVED WILDLY OUT OF CONTROL SPINNING AROUND AND TAKING DOWN SIGNS, MAILBOX-AFTER LOOKING AT VAN IT IS APPARENT THAT THE REAR AXLE SLID BACKWARDS IN WHEEL WELL. WHILE BODY IS RUST FREE, UNDERCARRIAGE HAS EXCESSIVE RUST IN SPRING HANGER AREA-VAN HAS BEEN PARKED ON PAVEMENT ITS ENTIRE LIFE.
Child Seat
Filed Aug 5, 2019DC
THE CONSUMER STATED THIS IS THE 2ND TIME THE CHILD SEAT BELT BECAME JAMMED AND WAS NOT ABLE TO GET HIS NEPHEW OUT OF THE SEAT. *TR
Steering
Filed Nov 26, 2018115,000 milesWA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE POWER STEERING SEIZED FOR THE THIRD TIME. AFTER THE PREVIOUS FAILURES, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DETERMINED THAT THE SERPENTINE BELT SLIPPED OFF AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. AFTER THE RECENT FAILURE, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.
Air Bags
Filed Aug 10, 2018166,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR FLASHED ON AND OFF INTERMITTENTLY, WHICH WAS A SAFETY CONCERN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 166,000.
Seat Belts
Filed Mar 9, 2018DC
2000 DODGE MINI VAN. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SEAT BELT MALFUNCTION. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE SEAT BELT BECAME TOO TIGHT AROUND A CHILD PASSENGER. THE SEAT BELT HAD TO BE CUT ON 2 SEPARATE OCCASIONS.*JS THE CONSUMER STATED THE POWER CONTROL MODULE BOX MALFUNCTIONED. THE VEHICLE WOULD CUT OFF AND THE ENGINE WOULD REV UP TO 3,000 RPMS. *JS
Engine
Filed Jul 12, 201711,444 milesNY
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V480000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED (EASTCHESTER CHRYSLER, JEEP, DODGE, 4007 BOSTON ROAD, BRONX, NY) AND A REPAIR APPOINTMENT WAS SCHEDULED. AFTER TWO HOURS OF WAITING AT THE DEALER'S, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE, BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. ALSO, WHENEVER THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, OIL FUMES WERE NOTICED AND THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 11,444. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.
Suspension
Filed Apr 23, 2017140,000 milesMI
STRUT TOWERS IN ENGINE COMPARTMENT RUSTED THROUGH ESPECIALLY ON THE RIGHT. I'VE BEEN TOLD BY A MECHANIC AND OTHERS THAT THE STRUT TOWER MAY FAIL COMPLETELY AND PUSH UP THROUGH THE HOOD, CAUSING ACCIDENT AND INJURY TO DRIVER (ME).
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Mar 31, 2017296,000 milesAZ
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE COLLIDED WITH THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE DID NOT HAVE AIR BAGS AND THE HORN MALFUNCTIONED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED INJURIES TO THE LEFT SHOULDER, NECK, BACK, AND HEAD THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTO MECHANIC FACILITY WITH PENDING DIAGNOSTIC RESULTS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 296,000.
Air Bags
Filed Oct 11, 2016120,194 milesTX
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN THE AIR BAG CLOCK SPRING RECALL, BUT NOT NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V480000 (AIR BAGS). THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER FOR THE CLOCK SPRING RECALL WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,194.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 19, 2016223,000 milesMS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT SMELLED AN ABNORMALLY STRONG FUEL ODOR INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 06VE091000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 223,000.
Exterior Lighting
Filed May 12, 201630,000 milesFL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSPARENCY OF THE FRONTAL HEADLIGHTS WAS FOGGING CAUSING IT TO BE VERY DIFFICULT TO VIEW THE ROAD AT NIGHT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000. UPDATED 07/13/16*LJ UPDATED 07/25/16.*JB
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Feb 25, 2016CA
EVERY TIME THIS VEHICLE IS TO BE SERVED FOR SMOG CHECK RENEWAL, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT BECOMES AN ISSUE. FOR 2014 I SPENT MONEY IN REPAIRS DEALING WITH A NEW EGR VALVE. THE PROBLEM STOPPED AND PASSED SMOG CHECK. THIS YEAR 2016 I AM HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. ALL AREAS OF SMOG HAVE PASSED IN THE SMOG TEST EXCEPT THAT RESULTS SHOW A "NOT READY " OBD II SYSTEM. DO THIS MEANS THAT EVERY YEAR THIS VAN IS DUE FOR SMOG CHECK I HAVE TO KEEP BUYING A NEW EGR VALVE OR SPEND MONEY IN THE EMISSION SYSTEM REPAIRS BECAUSE THE EMISSION SYSTEM IS FAULTY BY MAKING? AREAS SHOWING AS NOT READY ARE CATALYST, OXYGEN SENSOR, EGR AND OR VVTVSYSTEM. PLEASE ADVISE. MY NAME IS [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Electrical System › Horn
Filed Nov 23, 2015100,000 milesSC
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED, THE HORN FAILED, AND THE RADIO FAILED. THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR BAG CLOCK SPRING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT WAS MADE AWARE OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V480000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
Seat Belts
Filed Nov 13, 2015DC
CPSC: 200 DODGE CARAVAN: CONSUMER STATES SEAT BELT IS JAMMED. *SS UPDATED 05/25/16*LJ; UPDATED 04/27/18*JB *TR
Exterior Lighting
Filed Oct 17, 2015FL
OVER THE PAST SEVERAL YEARS I HAVE NOTICED MY HEADLIGHT LENS WERE FOGGING UP TO THE POINT WHERE THEY WERE NOT FUNCTIONING SAFELY. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE SHOP WHERE THEY USED AN EMULSIFIER LIQUID TO PARTIALLY RESTORE THE LENSES. THEN I NOTICED THAT OTHER CARS HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS WAS NOT A PROBLEM WHEN THE MANUFACTURERS USED GLASS LENSES. NOW THEY USE PLASTIC. WHAT CAN BE DONE TO ENCOURAGE AUTO MANUFACTURERS TO PLACE SAFE NO-FOG LENSES IN THEIR NEW VEHICLES?
Wheels
Filed Sep 25, 2015NC
WHEN I TRIED TO PULL MY DODGE CARAVAN (2000) OUT OF THE PARKING LOT AFTER A HEAVY RAINING DAY, I FOUND THE POWER STEERING DIDN'T WORK. I COULD GO FORWARD OR BACKWARD, BUT COULD NOT TURN, OR COULD TURN ONLY VERY SLOWLY (I COULD HEAR THE WHEEL KIND OF MAKING CLICKING SOUND WHEN I TRIED TO TURN). AFTER DRIVING VERY SLOWLY ON THE PARKING LOT AND TRIED TO TURN SLOWLY SEVERAL TIME, THE STEERING FINALLY GOT BACK. I GOOGLED ONLINE AND FOUND MANY PEOPLE HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM, MOSTLY WITH A DODGE, BUT ALSO SOME OTHER CARS. HTTP://WWW.TOPIX.COM/FORUM/AUTOS/DODGE-GRAND-CARAVAN/TC37VJLP6MD4POHVJ SINCE I DON'T DRIVE MUCH AND MOSTLY PARK MY VEHICLE IN THE GARAGE, I DON'T HAVE MUCH PROBLEM. IT HAS HAPPENED A COUPLE MORE TIMES AFTER THE FIRST INCIDENT, BUT IT USUALLY RETURNS NORMAL AFTER I MAKE SEVERAL SMALL TURNS IN THE PARKING LOT. BUT THIS MORNING, IT HAPPENED AGAIN, AFTER I PARKED MY CAR OUTSIDE WITH AN OVERNIGHT RAIN, AND THE WHEEL WAS STILL KIND OF STUCK AFTER I DROVE ABOUT 5 MILES, MAKING SEVERAL TURNS ON PURPOSE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD. IT'S STILL POURING OUTSIDE, I DON'T KNOW IF I CAN GET THE STEERING BACK TO NORMAL AFTER WORK. SINCE I AM NOT THE ONLY PEOPLE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM, I HOPE THE MANUFACTURER COULD HELP US SOLVE THE PROBLEM. THANKS!
Seats
Filed Jul 29, 2015110,000 milesWV
WHEN DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AT 25 MPH THE DRIVERS SEAT ALL OF SUDDEN FELL BACK (THE TOP SEAT) AND WONT STAY UP IN POSITION. IT SEEMS THAT IT IS FAULTY DUE TO A MECHANISM NOT BEING ATTACH CORRECTLY. I HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO GET THE SEAT FIXED DUE TO HIGH COSTS. ALSO THE REAR CHASSIS BRAKE TUBE SEEM TO RUST EXTREMELY AND CREATE ITSELF A HOLE.
Fuel/Propulsion SystemCrashFire2 injured2 killed
Filed Mar 16, 201597,000 milesCA
9/8/2008 I WAS TRAVELING ON IR80 & I MUST OF SWERVED A BIT & THE VAN STRUCK A DOT PADDLE MARKER @ HUMBOLDT MILE MARKER 45 IN NEVADA. THE VAN BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES & OVERTURNED SIDEWAYS AT LEAST 4 TIMES. MY MOTHER & FATHER PARRISHED AS A RESULT OF THIS ACCIDENT, BURNED SO MUCH THEY COULDN'T RECOGNIZE THEIR GENDER. MY WIFE & I ESCAPED WITH HER GETTING SEVERELY BURNED ABOUT 76% & I ABOUT 68%, WE WAS TRANSPORTED TO HUMBOLTD HOSPITAL THEN AIR TRANSPORTED TO U OF U BURN CENTER SALT LAKE CITY UTAH WHERE SHE SPENT ABOUT 7 MONTHS IN CCU BURN UNIT & I ABOUT 3 MONTHS. THE MARKER POST WAS UPROOTED & STRUCK THE UNDERCARRIAGE OF THE VAN & DETACHED THE FUEL LINE THEN PUNCTURED THE CROSS MEMBER & DEPOSITING THE FUEL LINE IN THE HOLE THE FIRE STARTED THEN WE OVERTURNED WITH A SERIES OF EXPLOSIONS. A MECHANIC EXPLAINED THE SEVERED FUEL LINE WAS A RETURN LINE FROM THE EVAP.CANISTER TO THE FUEL TANK & THAT THE FUEL SYSTEM STAYED AT 49 PSI BEING FED BY AN ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP I REMEMBER DRIVING SPEAKING WITH MY FATHER, MY WIFE & MOM WAS SLEEPING IN THE BACK SEAT THEN I WOKE UP ON FIRE TRYING TO ESCAPE THE WRECKAGE, I HOLLERED @ MY WIFE & I ROLLED OUT OF THE VAN. MY WIFE CHECKED MOM SHE WAS DEAD THEN ANOTHER EXPLOSION BLEW MY WIFE TO THE FRONT SEAT BETWEEN WHERE MY DAD & I SAT, SHE GRABBED DAD BUT HE WOULDN'T COME CAUSE OF MOM. TWO PEOPLE MOVED MY WIFE AFTER MY FATHER SHOVED HER OUT. I STARTED BACK TO THE VAN WHEN ANOTHER EXPLOSION ENGULFED MY FATHER. I DROPPED TO MY KNEES & TOLD A BYSTANDER I J
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Feb 1, 2015100 milesSC
***BLF NOTE CALL CONSUMER TO GET MORE INFO*** MY MOTHER BOUGHT BRAND NEW MIN VAN FROM DODGE, SHE HAS FOR 8 MONTHS. SHE DROVE IN COUNTY ROAD. SHE HIT POTHOLE IN 40 MPH THEN AIR BAG BLEW UP. SHE NOT ABLE TO SEE ROAD WHEN AIR BAD BLOW UP, THAT CAUSE VAN RUN OFF RIGHT SIDE SHOULDER. COUNTY ROAD HAVE A LOT CURE. VAN HAS NOT HIT TILL, SHE CAN NOT SEE ROAD AND WHEEL GO STAY STRAIGHT WHILE ROAD IS CURE. SHE HAVE CLAIM TO DODGE TWICE AND STILL DENY. SHE LOST EVERYTHING. I GAVE HER MY OLD TRUCK FOR HER TO DRIVE. I AND MY MOTHER HAVE TALK WITH INSURANCE TO FIND OUT WHAT GOING ON. HE SAY IT HAVE TO WAIT FOR RECALL. SO NOW THIS RECALL AIRBAG FINALLY COME OUT. SHE HAVE TO GO HOSPITAL BECAUSE HER HEAD HIT BY STEEL WHEEL. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Dec 23, 2014CA
2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE KEY IGNITION LOCK FREEZES UP AND (INTERMITTENTLY) WONT MOVE. *MW
Power Train
Filed Aug 2, 2014160,000 milesCO
DRIVING IN A RAINSTORM THE DRIVE BELT CAME OFF WHILE DRIVING ONTO THE ENTRANCE RAMP OF C270. THE POWER STEERING, WATER PUMP, GENERATOR FAILED. THE CAR WAS NOT ABLE TO DRIVE. *TR
Suspension
Filed May 19, 2014MN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SHOCKS WERE COVERED WITH RUST AND CAUSED THE SUSPENSION TO COLLAPSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Apr 24, 2014127,000 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CONTACT. UPON IMPACT, THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A CONTUSION ON THE SHOULDER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE AIR BAGS WERE FAULTY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 127,000.
Suspension
Filed Dec 28, 201375,000 milesOH
THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE SHOCK TOWER IS ALMOST COMPLETELY RUSTED THROUGH, CAUSING A SERIOUS DANGER TO ME AND MY FAMILY. THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN PROGRESSING RAPIDLY. *TR
Steering
Filed Nov 10, 2013140,000 milesRI
WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY IT STARTED TO RAIN AND THE POWER STEERING FAILED FOR UNKNOWN REASONS. THE HEATER FAN STOPPED WHICH MADE IT IMPOSSIBLE TO CLEAR THE WINDOWS, THE VEHICLE QUICKLY OVERHEATED, THE LOW BATTERY LIGHT CAME ON. WAS ABLE TO GET TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH MUCH DIFFICULTY AND DISCOVERED THE POWER STEERING BELT HAD DROPPED OFF. THIS HAS HAPPENED REPEATEDLY EVERY TIME IT RAINS EVEN A LITTLE BIT AND IS VERY MUCH A SAFETY HAZARD. IT HAS MADE THE VEHICLE VERY UNRELIABLE. MERELY RECONNECTING THE BELT IS NOT A SOLUTION TO THIS ISSUE. I WAS WONDERING IF THERE HAS BEEN A RECALL FOR THE PROBLEM. *TR
Electrical System
Filed Oct 25, 2013171,100 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 171,000. ..UPDATED 12/17/13 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE REPAIR WAS MADE. THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WAS REPLACED DUE TO POOR GROUND WIRING. UPDATED 12/18/13
Steering
Filed Aug 7, 201380,500 milesOH
TODAY I WAS ON AN URBAN FREEWAY IN HEAVY DOWNPOUR. THE DOWNPOUR WAS SO HEAVY RAIN COULD BE SEEN RUNNING OFF THE ROAD. TRAFFIC WAS WIDE SPREAD, BUT MOVING AT 45-50 MPH, DUE TO THE RAIN. MY WIPERS, AT THE HIGHEST SETTING, SLOW DOWN. CAR DINGS. BATTERY LIGHT COMES ON. I TURN OFF THE DEFROSTER (AC AND VENTILATION), REDUCE WIPER SPEED SETTING, SWITCH FROM HEADLIGHTS TO RUNNING LIGHTS, ALL TO REDUCE ELECTRICAL LOAD. I THEN NOTICE THAT THE POWER STEERING HAS FAILED. IT WAS REALLY SCARY. TRUE FEAR. THE FEAR WHICH WE DO NOT OFTEN ENCOUNTER. I SAFELY GOT THE VEHICLE OFF THE FREEWAY. NO FURTHER FAILURE OF SYSTEMS. I DROVE THE VEHICLE TO THE NEAREST SHOP I KNEW OF, WITH CAUTION LIGHTS ON. I THERE LEARNED THAT THE ACCESSORY BELT HAD COME OFF OF THE ENGINE, DUE TO THE RAIN. THE BELT WAS STILL IN GOOD CONDITION, SO THEY SLID THE SAME BELT BACK ON. I WILL HAVE MY PREFERRED MECHANIC INSTALL AN "ANTI SLIP" TENSIONER, BELT, AND PULLEY THIS WEEKEND. THIS ISSUE, THE SERPENTINE BELT SLIPPING OFF THE ENGINE IN RAIN AND SNOW, IS KNOWN TO CHRYSLER, AND KNOWN TO THE NHTSA. BUT IT WAS NOT KNOWN TO ME UNTIL IT THREATENED MY SAFETY, AND THE SAFETY OF THE MOTORISTS AROUND ME. IF I HAD BEGUN GOING AROUND A CURVE WHILE SWITCHING OFF ACCESSORIES, DRIVING ONE HANDED WITH A FAILED POWER STEERING SYSTEM BEFORE I KNEW IT HAD FAILED, I COULD HAVE WRECKED. WHY ONE HANDED? BECAUSE I WAS TURNING OFF ACCESSORIES BECAUSE I DIDN'T UNDERSTAND WHAT WAS WRONG, BECAUSE THE WARNING THE CAR PROVIDED SUGGESTED THAT WAS WHAT I
Air Bags
Filed Jul 2, 201383,000 milesNY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THERE WAS A LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE ENGINE OVERHEATED AND THE ENGINE TEMPERATURE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AS THE DRIVE BELT FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS ADVISED THAT THE IDLE PULLEY BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 83,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 115,000. *TR
Engine
Filed Jun 18, 2013110,000 milesPA
EVERY TIME I TURN ON MY HEATER AND DRIVE DOWN THE ROAD A ENGINE LIGHT WILL COME ON. IF I LEAVE THE HEATER OFF FOR A FEW DAYS IT EVENTUALLY GOES OFF. MY DRIVER SIDE WINDOW WILL ACT UP AS THE DOOR LOCK WHEN THE ENGINE LIGHT IS ON. ANOTHER PROBLEM IS THE GASKETS UNDERNEATH THE ENGINE LEAKS GOING DOWN THE ROAD. I KNOW THAT IT DOES HAVE MILES, BUT IT'S A WELL TAKEN CARE CAR AND I THINK YOU SHOULD FEEL SAFE GOING DOWN THE ROAD. I HAVE LOOKED UP THESE PROBLEMS AND THERE ARE MORE PEOPLE WITH THE SAME PROBLEMS. I WOULD NEVER BUY A DODGE. *TR
Steering
Filed Nov 30, 2012128,000 milesCA
AFTER DRIVING THROUGH A SMALL WATER PUDDLE I LOST POWER STEERING AND GENERATOR. IT WAGON A WINDY MOUNTAIN ROAD AND WAS VERY HAZARDOUS AS IT LEFT USONA BLIND CURVE IN THE RAIN. IT TURNED OUT THAT THE DRIVE BELT HAD COME OFF. IS APPEARS TO BE A COMMON AN KNOWN ISSUE WITH CHRYSLER. *TR
Engine
Filed Oct 4, 201278,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A LOUD EXPLOSION HEARD FROM THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE AS THE ENGINE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY THE CONTACT'S MECHANIC WHO LOCATED THE FAILURE AT THE ENGINE BELT TENSIONER BOLT. THE TENSIONER BOLT FAILED AND CAUSED THE ENGINE TO FAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 78,000.
Tires
Filed Sep 9, 2012NJ
TREAD SEPARATION FROM TIRE WHILE DRIVING ON PARKWAY AT ABOUT 58MPH. TIRE BRAND IS COOPER TIRE. LUCKILY THERE WAS NO CRASH OR INJURIES. *TR
Power Train
Filed Aug 21, 2012155,000 milesPA
ON AUG. 19 MY HUSBAND HEARD A VERY FAINT "PING" ABOUT A 2 MILES FROM HOME. NOTHING SEEMED TO BE WRONG AND HE FELT IT MUST HAVE BEEN SOMETHING MOVING AROUND IN THE CAR. ON AUG. 20, AFTER DRIVING SEVERAL MILES, I HEARD WHAT SOUNDED LIKE SOMETHING UNDER THE HOOD SELF-DESTRUCTING, THE ODOMETER AND RPM GAUGE WENT WACKY, AND I HAD NO POWER. I WAS FORTUNATE TO BE PERHAPS 50 YARDS FROM AN AUTO SERVICE CENTER AND COASTED INTO THE DRIVEWAY LEAKING FLUID AND FLINGING PARTS. THE TRANSMISSION HAD BLOWN APART. HAD I BEEN ON A FREEWAY I WOULD LIKELY HAVE BEEN KILLED OR KILLED SOMEONE ELSE. FROM TALKING TO MECHANICS IT SEEMS THAT THIS IS A WELL KNOWN DEFECT AND DODGE MANUFACTURED TRANSMISSIONS WERE NOT MODIFIED, BUT THERE HAS BEEN NO RECALL. WE WERE TOLD THAT AFTER MARKET PARTS FROM ANOTHER COMPANY HAD THE PROBLEM ADDRESSED. (WHAT RECOURSE DO WE HAVE. CAN WE EVER EXPECT DODGE TO PAY FOR A REMANUFACTURED TRANSMISSION?) NOTE: THE MILEAGE AND SPEED ARE APPROXIMATE. *TR
Equipment › Recreational Vehicle/TrailerCrash
Filed Aug 15, 2012TN
THE FOLLOWING REQUEST WAS RECEIVED FROM THE NTSB WEB SITE: MESSAGE: VAN ACCIDENT INCIDENT - 2000 DODGE VAN 2500 ON TUESDAY, MAY 22, 2012 AROUND 4PM, I WAS ON MY WAY TO MARYVILLE TO PICK UP A TV. TRAVELING SOUTH ON EBENEZER ROAD, I ENGAGED THE CRUISE CONTROL SETTING IT AT 45 MPH. APPROACHING NORTH SHORE IN THE RIGHT LANE, I SAW 4-6 CARS WAITING AT THE LIGHT. I TAP THE BRAKE TO DISENGAGE THE CRUISE CONTROL AND IMMEDIATELY FELT THE VAN ACCELERATION. I TURNED INTO THE LEFT LANE TO MISS THE CARS IN THE RIGHT LANE. I REPOSITION MY FOOT BY LIFTING IT UP THINKING THAT I HAD PRESS BOTH THE ACCELERATOR AND BRAKE, AND PRESS IT BACK ON THE BRAKE. THE VAN WAS STILL ACCELERATING AND I THOUGHT TO MYSELF WHY WAS IT STILL ACCELERATING? BY THAT TIME, I WAS IN THE INTERSECTION AND HAD NO CONTROL. I HIT A POLE AND GUARD RAIL ON THE FAR SIDE OF NORTH SHORE. I DID NOT HIT ANY OTHER VEHICLE. ALL OF THIS TOOK AROUND 10 SECONDS. THE VAN WAS TOTALED! ARE THERE OTHERS REPORTED WITH THIS PROBLEM WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL? *TR
Visibility/WiperCrash
Filed Jul 26, 2012100,000 milesMD
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE VISOR WAS LOOSE AND HUNG OVER THE STEERING WHEEL, BLOCKING THE CONTACT'S VISION OF THE ROADWAY AND CAUSING DIFFICULTY IN STEERING ATTEMPTS. THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A CURVE BECAUSE OF THE FAILURE. AS A RESULT, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE EXPLODED AND DAMAGE WAS CAUSED TO THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
Engine
Filed Jul 10, 20121,000 milesLA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH ON A RAINING DAY, SHE NOTICED THAT THE SERPENTINE BELT WAS DETACHED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE SERPENTINE BELT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 19,000.
Service Brakes
Filed Jul 2, 201283,000 milesIL
I WAS IN MY DRIVE WAY BACKING OUT TO GET ON THE THE ROAD. WHEN I DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL IT WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR AND I SAW A TRAIL OF FLUID ON THE DRIVEWAY. I WAS ABLE TO STOP AND PARK THE CAR. WHEN I TOOK A LOOK UNDER THE CAR I SAW A POOL OF WHAT APPEARS TO BE BREAK FLUID AND FLUID LEAKING FROM THE JUCTION TYPE BOX UNDER THE DRIVERS SIDE JUST BEHIND THE FRONT TIRE. UPON FURTHER INVETIGATION VIA THE INTERNET I FOUND THIS TO BE A COMMON PROBLEM IN THIS YEAR AND MODEL. LUCKY FOR ME IT HAPPENED BEFORE I LEFT THE DRIVEWAY OTHERWISE THIS COULD HAVE BEEN QUITE COSTLY OR EVEN FATAL. *JS
Tires
Filed Jun 1, 2012190,473 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN EQUIPPED WITH GOODYEAR WEATHER HANDLER LS TIRES, SIZE: 205/75R14. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ANOTHER DRIVER INFORMED HIM THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER TIRE WAS FLAT. THE CONTACT EXAMINED THE TIRE AND NOTICED THAT THE INNER SIDEWALL WAS PUNCTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND NEW TIRES WERE ORDERED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE SAME FAILURE OCCURRED ON TWO SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 16,813. THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 109,473. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
SteeringCrash
Filed May 29, 2012140,000 milesMN
SERPENTINE BELT SLIPS OFF IN THE RAIN CAUSING A LOSS IN POWER STEERING, AC (FOR WINDOW DEFOGGING), POWER (NO ALTERNATOR WHEN HEADLIGHTS ARE ON DURING RAIN). WHEN IT SLIPPED OFF, THE ABILITY TO CORRECT FOR LOSS OF TRACTION DUE TO WATER WAS REDUCED DUE TO LACK OF POWER STEERING AND THE WINDSHIELD FOGGED UP QUICKLY DUE TO THE LOSS OF THE AC COMPRESSOR. SLID OF THE INTERSTATE AND SLID DOWN THE MEDIAN. MULTIPLE OTHER INSTANCES OF BELT SLIPPING OFF (4 TIMES IN PAST 3 DAYS), THOUGH AT LOWER RATES OF SPEED. DODGE DENIES THERE IS AN ISSUE EVEN THOUGH THERE ARE MANY REPORTS ON THE INTERNET RELATING TO THIS PROBLEM. IT IS ALSO INTERESTING THAT THEY NOW SELL A UPGRADE KIT THAT CHANGES OUT THE TWO NON-GROOVED PULLEYS FOR GROOVED ONES AND ADD A BELT WITH GROOVES ON BOTH SIDES. THEY SAID THAT THEY WOULD ONLY FIX THIS PROBLEM WHEN ENOUGH PEOPLE REPORTED THE PROBLEM. *TR
Air Bags
Filed Apr 17, 2012153,694 milesKY
DRIVERS AIRBAG CAME OUT FOR NO REASON...ONLY DOING 10MILES A HOUR. *JS
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Apr 2, 2012KY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SERPENTINE BELT ON THE VEHICLE FELL OFF FIVE TIMES LAST MONTH. THE CONTACT STATED THE FAILURE OCCURRED WHENEVER SHE DROVE THROUGH A PUDDLE OF WATER. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE MECHANIC EACH TIME THE FAILURE OCCURRED AND WAS TOLD THE PULLEYS WORKED FINE, BUT THAT THE FAILURE WAS CAUSED BECAUSE THERE WAS NO SHIELD COVERING THE UNDER CARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT LOST THE ABILITY TO CONTROL THE STEERING WHEEL AND IT BEGAN TO OVERHEAT WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN, BUT THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 172,000.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Feb 29, 2012WI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THE SERPENTINE BELT FAILED TWICE IN TWO MONTHS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED WHEN THE WEATHER WAS COLD AND SNOWY. THE CONTACT SPOKE WITH THE DEALER AND WAS TOLD THAT THEY WERE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM, BUT THAT THERE WAS NO REMEDY AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 109,000.
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Nov 28, 2011130,000 milesTN
SERPENTINE BELT CAME OFF. I HAVE HAD THIS VEHICLE SINCE 2002, PROBLEM DIDN'T OCCUR TILL MID-2010. SINCE THEN THE BELT HAS CAME OFF AT LEAST 5 TIMES OR MORE. SEEMS EVERY TIME IT RAINS. I'VE HAD THE BELT REPLACED, AND EVERYTHING ELSE REPLACED THAT COULD POSSIBLY AFFECT IT. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME HE DOESN'T KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO. I HAD IT REPAIRED THIS PAST TUES. AND GUESS WHAT YESTERDAY IT CAME OFF AGAIN (ALL OF 5 DAYS). I LOVE MY VEHICLE BUT I'M AFRAID OF IT. WHEN THE BELT COMES OFF EVERYTHING GOES OFF. LUCKILY I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET OFF THE ROAD (SO FAR). LOOKED ON THE INTERNET AND THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM. WHAT DOES IT TAKE -SOMEONE TO DIE BEFORE A RECALL WILL HAPPEN AND A SOLUTION?? THIS IS VERY COSTLY IN REPAIR BILLS/TOW BILLS AND SO FORTH. PLEASE DO SOMETHING. *KB
Tires › Tread/Belt
Filed Nov 22, 2011122,000 milesMD
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN EQUIPPED WITH CORNELL CORNELL 1000 TIRES, SIZE 205/75/R14. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION. THE TIRE WAS REPLACED WITH THE SPARE TIRE. THE MANUFACTURER OF THE TIRE WAS CONTACTED AND THEY ADVISED THAT THEY WOULD NEED TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE AND THE TIRE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 122,000. UPDATED 02/03/12*LJ UPDATED 02/08/12
Air BagsCrash
Filed Nov 22, 2011196,000 milesWI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING 60 MPH WHEN THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO A DEER. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED OR INSPECTED FOR THE AIR BAG FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 196,000.
Suspension
Filed Jul 15, 2011141,000 milesMI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THE STRUT TOWER ON THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDES OF THE VEHICLE WERE COMPLETELY CORRODED AND RUSTED. THE CONTACT WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN FOR BODY WORK. THE CONTACT THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND WAS TOLD THAT THE FAILURE WAS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 141,000.
Suspension
Filed Jun 26, 2011175,000 milesMI
I TOOK THE CAR TO GET THE OIL CHANGE AND THE MECHANIC BROUGHT TO MY ATTENTION THAT THE STRUT MOUNTS WERE RUSTED AND THAT IT WAS DANGEROUS TO DRIVE WITH CAR IN THIS CONDITION. I THEN CHECKED ON THE COST OF GETTING THIS REPAIRED AND THE COST ARE HIGH FROM 500.00 TO 1000.00 DOLLARS I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW THE BODY OF THE CAR GIVES OUT BEFORE THE ENGINE OR TRANSMISSION. THE CAR HAS 175,00 MILES AND STILL RUNS GREAT BUT THE MAIN BODY COMPONENTS ARE FAILING. THE MECHANIC SUGGESTED GETTING ONLINE AND FILING COMPLAINT WITH THE GOVERNMENT. *TR
Air Bags
Filed Jun 23, 2011FL
2000 DODGE CARAVAN. CONSUMER STATES AIRBAG LIGHT INTERMITTENTLY STAYS ILLUMINATED *TGW THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED WHEN THE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED, THE HORN DID NOT WORK. THE CONSUMER COMPLIED WITH THE RECALL. HOWEVER, THE DEALER INFORMED HER THE CLOCKSPRING WAS NOT THE REASON THE AIR BAG LIGHT REMAINED ON AND THERE WAS NO PROBLEM WITH THE CLOCKSPRING. THE CONSUMER STATED SHE WAS NOT GIVEN ANY PAPERWORK ON THE VEHICLE STATING THE CLOCKSPRING WAS IN WORKING ORDER. WHEN THE CONSUMER WENT TO AN AUTO REPAIR SHOP SIX MONTHS LATER, IT WAS DETERMINED THE CLOCKSPRING WAS BAD. *JB
Complaints 1-50 of 470, newest first, reproduced as filed.
It is not among the Caravan years to avoid. Owners filed 470 complaints, against about 290 for a typical Caravan year. The most common complaint is about the transmission (17%).
What is the most common problem with the 2000 Dodge Caravan?
The transmission: 79 of the 470 complaints (17%) are about it. Owners most often say it leaks oil or fluid (18%), stalls (8%) and slips or will not engage a gear (5%). The typical report comes at 65,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2000 Dodge Caravan have?
13 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Aug 10, 2010. The largest, 00V268000, covered 1,163,000 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2000 Dodge Caravan problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 75,000 miles. For the transmission the midpoint is 65,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2000 Dodge Caravan?
Yes, 3 times. The latest, EA04013 ("DRIVER AIR BAG CLOCKSPRING FAILURE"), was opened Jun 4, 2004 and closed May 25, 2005.
Are there service bulletins for the 2000 Dodge Caravan?
The manufacturer filed 71 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the body and frame (11), the engine (8) and the electrical system (7). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
4 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Aug 10, 2010. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.