Dodge Caravan 3.3 Engine Problems – 4 Main Reasons You Need To Know

Dodge Caravan 3.3 Engine Problems - 4 Main Reasons You Need To Know

Dodge Caravan is surely popular amongst car enthusiasts due to its versatility in passenger and cargo hauling. Yet, there are issues that you might face while driving this car. If you are planning to get this vehicle, do not skip this blog! 

We will list down all common Dodge Caravan 3.3 engine problems, their causes, as well as the solutions. Read on!

What Are Dodge Caravan 3.3 Engine Problems?

What Are Dodge Caravan 3.3 Engine Problems?

Oil leak from oil filter adapter

The most often reported problem is a leak in the engine revealed due to a failed oil filter adapter. When the oil filter adapter fails, oil leaks from the housing. 

Dodge did not estimate the cost of this repair, although they’ve responded by making more new replacement parts available.

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From 1996 to 2003, and again from 2006 to 2007, nine model years faced this problem. The average speed for this occurrence was 179,000 miles, but in some cases happened at 124 miles or as late as 960,000. It impacted 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines, 3.0, 3.3, and 3.8-liter V6 engines in the Caravan.

On the other hand, some car owners tried to replace the oil filter adapter gasket themselves but to no avail.

Broken power windows

According to 98 mechanics, the second common issue with the Dodge Caravan is that power windows stop working because of a faulty regulator and motor.

Power windows failed in 10 model years from 1997 to 2003 and 2005 to 2007. This problem occurred at a distance of 130,696 miles on average. With occurrences as early as 19,000 miles and as late as 276,000 miles. 

Owners noted that the power windows were slow to go up and down or didn’t go up and down at all. In addition, some people said that their windows would shut off by themselves after being turned on.

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According to another owner, it took five days to be able to power the windows back up after they were rolled down.

The crankshaft seals on the front popped out.

Fifty-four owners report the third most prevalent issue with Caravan crankshafts. It tends to exceed the factory specification. 

The vertical crankshaft surface located in the primary throw-bearing thrust plate provides clearance to allow for smooth operation and reduced friction. However, severe issues like oil leaks or excess wear on components might occur if this clearance is too big or small.

Six minivan model years encountered this issue: 2002 to 2007. The issue occurred at an average of 75,422 miles or earlier and as late as 168,000 miles. This is also similar to 2.4-liter and 3.3-liter V6 Dodge Caravan engines.

Some people attempted to solve the problem by replacing the seal, which did not always yield desired results. As a result, several mechanics recommended that the owners change their engines entirely, as these same mechanics believed that the seals had been improperly repaired. Unfortunately, after replacing the seal, it also popped out in some cases.

A worn sway bar bushing makes a lot of noise in the front suspension

Many owners have complained about noises emanating from the front suspension area. For example, hearing rattling, buzzing, or clunking sounds from the front suspensions when traveling at low speeds.

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This issue stems from deteriorated rubber bushings on the vehicle’s rear sway bar, preventing it from rolling over corners too quickly.

The recalls in model years 1998 to 2006 impacted nearly 900,000 vehicles. The problem surfaced as early as 25,000 miles, but the average mileage was 122,526.

In most cases, front struts are typically identified as the root cause of suspension noise. So users just change their bushings themselves or have their dealership or garage do it.

FAQs

How can you linger the life of your Dodge Caravan?

How can you linger the life of your Dodge Caravan?

  • Drive your vehicle carefully and softly
  • Have a good maintenance strategy
  • Clean the vehicle regularly
  • Inspect your vehicle parts frequently
  • Rotate and inflate the tires once the tire pressure falls below a certain level.

Are Dodge Caravans expensive to maintain?

The Grand Caravan’s average yearly maintenance cost is $673. It costs more than the Toyota Sienna ($554), Honda Odyssey ($547), and Kia Sedona ($495). Considering these figures, it seems as though the Dodge Grand Caravan’s maintenance price is high. 

Besides, repair and maintenance costs will rise soon as time passes and problems arise. In this regard, Car Edge anticipates that the average maintenance will be $10,332 in a decade.

Final Thoughts

After reading this blog, you surely learned all common Dodge Caravan 3.3 engine problems and their causes. With this knowledge, we hope your Dodge Caravan will avoid these problems in the future. Remember to take note of these causes and other important facts we’ve listed above!

Bryan Mark is the founder of Bryan’s Garage. He owns a small garage in IOWA town and spends a lot of time on study all techniques both the hardware and software of the car. His mission is to contribute the best car knowledge and experience to the automotive community. It is the most meaningful way to express his passion.

Dylan Miller

I am a Chicago native and regular contributor to "Locar Deals". I have a master's degree in English, am an automobile content creation specialist, and have written professionally for a variety of automotive companies over the past few years. I write on a variety of vehicles, from high-end luxury cars to ten-year-old gas guzzlers and everything in between. And I love sharing valuable car buying tips with consumers from all walks of life.

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