1998 DODGE Caravan Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
671
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
111 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE POWER STEERING SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE WAS PERSISTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SERPENTINE BELT FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED SEVERAL TIMES, BUT THE FAILURE WAS PERSISTENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Oct 18, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH OVER A PUDDLE, THE SERPENTINE TIME BELT DETACHED FROM THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED AND REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 119,000.
Jan 05, 2015
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH THE SERPENTINE BELT BROKE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED AND COULD HAVE CAUSED A CRASH TO OCCUR DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER AFTER THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE SERPENTINE BELT WAS REPLACED THREE TIMES. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WERE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS REGARDING THE SERPENTINE BELT AND THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD ISSUE A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 470,000.
Feb 10, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING IN WET CONDITIONS, THE SERPENTINE BELT WOULD DETACH ITSELF FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE. ONCE THE FAILURE OCCURRED, THE POWER STEERING WOULD FAIL AND BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED AND REPAIRED BY THE CONTACT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED HIM OF THE REMEDY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Jan 24, 2011
DEFECTIVE ENGINE INTAKE MANIFOLD BOLT BROKEN INSIDE HOUSING. 1998 DODGE CARAVAN SE, 121000 MILES. *TR
Feb 02, 2010
+ 106 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
85 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND BECAME INOPERABLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE A FAILURE. THE FAILURE RECURRED FREQUENTLY HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY AND OFFERED NO ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 155,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 157,000.
Sep 17, 2012
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40MPH, THE TRANSMISSION BEGAN LEAKING FLUID. THE DEALER DETERMINED THE TRANSMISSION FAILED DUE TO A PIN LOST INSIDE THE TRANSMISSION. THE DEALER RECOMMENDED REPLACING THE TRANSMISSION.
Apr 11, 2006
WE WERE JUST DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN THE TRANSMISSION GAVE OUT (A COUPLE OF JERKS AND THEN NO ACCELERATION ABILITY). WE WERE ALMOST KILLED BY A SEMI WHO ALMOST RAN INTO US WHEN WE SUDDENLY AND DRASTICALLY SLOWED AND HADN'T BRAKED AND HE COULDN'T MOVE TO ANOTHER LANE BECAUSE OF OTHER TRUCKS IN THAT LANE. OUR 98 GRAND CARAVAN HAS ONLY 79K MILES ON IT AND THIS IS THE SECOND TRANSMISSION PROBLEM, (THOUGH I THINK THE FIRST TIME IT WAS REPAIRED RATHER THAN REPLACED TO THE TUNE OF $1000 AND JUST A COUPLE OF MONTHS PAST THE YEAR WARRANTY). NOW WE FIND THAT IT WILL BE $3000 TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION. WE HAVE IT SERVICED REGULARLY AT THE DODGE DEALER. WE HAVE ALSO HAD THE BATTERY REPLACED TWICE (ONCE WHEN THE FIRST TRANSMISSION PROBLEM WAS MIS-DIAGNOSED AS A FAULTY BATTERY). ALL WORK HAS BEEN OR IS BEING DONE BY THE DODGE DEALER. NOW I SEE ON THE INTERNET THAT THIS TRANSMISSION PROBLEM IS VERY COMMON WITH THIS MODEL. WHY ISN'T DODGE DOING SOMETHING ABOUT THIS INSTEAD OF GOUGING THE PUBLIC (NOT TO MENTION PUTTING US IN DANGER)?*JB
Dec 05, 2005
DT: CONTACT STATES THERE IS A PIN LOCATED IN THE HUB THAT SEPARATES THE DRIVESHAFT FROM THE AXLE. THIS PIN CAUSED THE HUB TO BUST THE CASING ON THE TRANSMISSION. *AK THE CONSUME BELIEVES THE SMALL PIN IS NOT LARGE/STRONG ENOUGH FOR ALL THE PRESSURE. *NM
Jul 15, 2005
TRANSMISSION FAILED AT 86000 MILES. THE TRANSAXLE WAS PERFORATED BY BROKEN PIN. THE 2ND TRANSMISSION AT THE TRANSMISSION SHOP COULD NOT BE INSTALLED BECAUSE OF A CRACK IN HOUSING DUE TO SAME PROBLEM. TRANSMISSION #3 THAT WAS INSTALLED LASTED ABOUT 3 MONTHS AND FAILED IN THE SAME MANNER. #4 COULD NOT BE INSTALLED BECAUSE IT ARRIVED WITH A CRACK IN HOUSING DUE TO SAME PROBLEM. I NOW HAVE TRANSMISSION #5 INSTALLED IN THIS VEHICLE. THE FAILURE IS A PIN IN THE TRANSAXLE BECOMING LOOSE AND FLYING OUT AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED.THE PIN THEN CREATES A HOLE IN THE TRANSMISSION CASE AND ALLOWS FLUID TO ESCAPE CAUSING TRANSMISSION FAILURE. THE PIN IS USUALLY STOPPED BY THE TRANSMISSION CASE BUT IT IS ONLY A MATTER OF TIME BEFORE ONE FLIES OUT AND INJURES SOMEBODY. ROLL PIN THAT SECURES GEAR PIN IS BREAKING. THIS IS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT. TOTAL COST OF REPAIRS WAS $1950.00. *JB
Feb 12, 2005
+ 80 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
63 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A SECOND VEHICLE. THE FRONT END WAS SEVERELY DAMAGED. THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED ALTHOUGH NO PASSENGER WAS PRESENT IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A HEAD LACERATION ABOVE THE RIGHT EYE, A CONCUSSION, A BRUISED HEART AND LUNG, LEFT KNEE LACERATION, AND CHEST BRUISES FROM THE SEAT BELTS. ALSO, BOTH WRISTS AND ELBOWS WERE INJURED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000.
Dec 10, 2018
THE INDICATOR LAMP AIR BAG IS ON CONTINUOUSLY. I DRIVE A VEHICLE ALL THE TIME, AND MY TRIP 50% HIGHWAY AND 50% CITY.
Dec 03, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.
Jan 21, 2015
CLOCK SPRING WENT OUT WITH 113,000 ON VEHICLE. WAS REPLACED BY DEALER AT NO CHARGE IN ABOUT AN HOURS TIME. *JB
Mar 15, 2007
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED A NHTSA RECALL LETTER #02V293000, PERTAINING TO THE AIRBAG:FRONTAL, WAS RECEIVED AFTER HAVING THE PART REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED ABOUT REIMBURSEMENT FOR PARTS AND LABOR. THE MANUFACTURER ONLY AGREED TO REIMBURSE FOR PARTS NOT LABOR. THE CONTACT WOULD LIKE TO BE REIMBURSED FOR ALL AS PROMISED IN THE RECALL LETTER RECEIVED. UPDATED 11/30/06. *JB
Oct 31, 2006
+ 58 more complaints for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
34 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A FIRE BEGAN ON TOP OF THE FUEL TANK AFTER REFUELING AND THE VEHICLE EXPLODED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE PRIOR TO THE EXPLOSION AND STATED THAT THERE WERE NO FUEL SYSTEM FAILURES PRIOR TO THE EXPLOSION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
Jul 26, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, IT SUDDENLY CAUGHT FIRE. THE FIRE BEGAN UNDER THE HOOD. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED. ONLY THE ENGINE WAS DESTROYED BUT THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY THE DEALER THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL 00V268000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM). THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE WHEN THE COMPLAINT WAS FILED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 80,000.
Jun 02, 2010
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED AFTER REFUELING, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THE FUEL PUMP DETACHED, FELL INTO THE TANK ASSEMBLY AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED.
May 24, 2006
GAS LEAK AT THE TOP, BEFORE THE OVERFLOW WHEN FILLING. HAVE A SHOP CHECKED, THINKING THERE WAS A LEAK IN THE GAS TANK. THE SHOP FOUND NO LEAK. BROUGHT TO LOCAL DEALER TO FIND IF THERE IS OR WAS ANY RECALL THAT I MISSED. DEALER SAID THAT THRE IS NONE AND IF I WANT IT FIX I HAVE TO PAY FOR IT. I STRONGLY RECOMMEND A RECALL.*AK
Mar 17, 2005
A MECHANIC INFORMED THE CONSUMER THAT THEY SHOULD NOT PUT A FULL TANK OF GAS IN THE CAR AND SHOULD ONLY FILL HALF A TANK. WHEN THE TANK WAS FULL THIS WOULD CAUSE A LEAK/RUST. THE DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION. *NM
Jan 21, 2005
+ 29 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
31 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V139000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. ..UPDATED 05/20/15 *BF UPDATED 11/19/15*JS
Apr 02, 2015
THE LOS ANGELES CBS AFFILIATE STATION AIRED A STORY ABOUT CHRYSLER VEHICLES YEAR 2007 TO 2012 THAT WERE BEING INVESTIGATED FOR A POTENTIAL RECALL. THE PROBLEM IS A FAULTY TIPM, ALSO KNOWN AS A POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE. VEHICLE OWNERS REPORT INSTRUMENT PANEL PROBLEMS, GAUGES NOT WORKING, AIRBAG NOT WORKING, WINDSHIELD WIPERS OPERATING WITHOUT BEING TURNED ON, PROBLEMS STARTING THE VEHICLE, AND SO ON. I HAVE A 1998 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN WITH MANY OF THESE SAME PROBLEMS/SYMPTOMS. I SPENT $212 ON INSPECTION AND DIAGNOSIS FEES. PEP BOYS TOLD ME THAT THE PROBLEM WAS THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE AND IT WOULD TAKE A PROHIBITIVELY HIGH PRICE TO REPLACE. MY VEHICLE HAS RECENTLY EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS SIMILAR TO THE ONES DESCRIBED ABOVE: FUEL GAUGE NOT CONSISTENTLY SHOWING THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF FUEL IN THE TANK; THE AIRBAG AND HORN NOT WORKING; THE WIPERS OCCASIONALLY OPERATE WITHOUT BEING TURNED ON; THE POWER DOOR LOCKS DO NOT WORK PROPERLY WHEN VEHICLE IS BEING LOCKED & UNLOCKED WITH THE KEY; THE HEATER OPERATES WITHOUT BEING TURNED ON, AND SO ON. I WAS WONDERING IF THIS INFORMATION CAN BE USED SENT TO THE MANUFACTURER OR COMPARED IN INFORMATION SUBMITTED BY OTHER CHRYSLER OWNERS. THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE IS A DURABLE PART, IT SHOULD OPERATE WELL FOR THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE. I'M WONDERING IF THERE IS ANY INVESTIGATION GOING ON WHICH MAY LEAD TO A RECALL. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION. *TR
Aug 28, 2014
I HAVE A 98 DODGE CARAVAN IT HAS NO DASH LIGHTS PARKING LIGHTS OR HORN. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT COULD BE. *TR
Mar 26, 2014
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE SPEEDOMETER WAS READING A SPEED OF 0 MPH. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE EXAMINED FOR THE CAUSE OF FAILURE AND WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 47,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 48,000.
Oct 04, 2010
THE INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENTS BEGAN TO TURN ON AND OFF QUICKLY LIKE A FLICKER. THE FIRST INSTANCE WAS IN AUG AND SINCE THEN IT HAS HAPPENED ABOUT FIVE TIMES. TWO TIMES THE CAR STOPPED AND WOULD NOT START FOR A FEW MINUTES. *TR
Oct 18, 2009
+ 26 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION
31 complaints
MAJOR CONCERN IS ABOUT THE STRUT HOUSING ROUGHING OUT BEEN LOOKING THIS UP AND FROM 97 TO 2000 MAYBE A BIT LONGER THIS HAS BEEN A MAJOR ISSUE THAT CHRYSLER NEED TO ADDRESS. I KNOW THEY DON'T WANT THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE MATTER ,BUT SOME ONE COULD GET HURT FROM THIS.I JUST FOUND OUT ABOUT THIS AND HAVE BEEN SEARCHING ALL THE INFORMATION I CAN FIND ON THIS ISSUE.THIS IS FAULTY DESIGN OF CHRYSLER,THEY MADE TONS OF MONEY SELLING THE VANS,EVEN AFTER THIS STARTED TO HAPPEN THEY STILL DIDNT CHANGE THE DESIGN.WELL I HAVE TO HAVE MINE DONE BUT IN THE MEAN TIME I BETTER NOT GET HURT FROM ONE LETTING LOOSE. I SURVIVED CANCER NOT TO DIE FROM A AUTO ACCIDENT DO TO A SO SO GOOD DESIGN. *TR
Apr 11, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING INSPECTED AT AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A BRAKE REPAIR, THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE STRUT TOWER WAS CORRODED AND THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.
Jul 06, 2011
1998 DODGE CARAVAN STRUT TOWERS RUSTING THROUGH. DODGE SAID ITS A COSMETIC REPAIR. I BOUGHT THIS VAN USED AND THE DRIVERS SIDE STRUT IS NOW MADE MY VAN DANGEROUS TO DRIVE BECAUSE THE DRIVERS SIDE IS NOW RESTING ON STRUT. THE SELLER WILL NOT LET ME RETURN IT. *TR
Jun 13, 2011
1998 DODGE CARAVAN SE FRONT STRUT COVERS ARE COMPLETELY ROTTED THROUGH AND I CAN VIEW THE GROUND BENEATH. NOT ONLY IS THIS A SAFETY ISSUE, BUT AN OBVIOUS MANUFACTURER DEFECT IN THE MATERIAL USED IN SUCH A CRITICAL LOCATION TO THE VEHICLE'S STRUCTURE. I AM CONCERNED THE VEHICLE WILL BECOME UNCONTROLLABLE IN THE EVENT OF FAILURE AND SERIOUS INJURY COULD RESULT TO THE DRIVER AND OTHER VEHICLES. *TR
Oct 21, 2010
1998 DODGE CARAVAN SE FRONT STRUT COVERS ARE COMPLETELY ROTTED THROUGH AND I CAN VIEW THE GROUND BENEATH. NOT ONLY IS THIS A SAFETY ISSUE, BUT AN OBVIOUS MANUFACTURER DEFECT IN THE MATERIAL USED IN SUCH A CRITICAL LOCATION TO THE VEHICLE'S STRUCTURE. I AM CONCERNED THE VEHICLE WILL BECOME UNCONTROLLABLE IN THE EVENT OF FAILURE AND SERIOUS INJURY COULD RESULT TO THE DRIVER AND OTHER VEHICLES. *TR
Mar 29, 2008
+ 26 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
30 complaints
TL*- THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN WITH 130,000 FAILURE MILEAGE. WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH AND ATTEMPTING MAKE A STOP THE CONTACT PUT HIS FOOT ON THE BRAKE, BUT NOTHING HAPPENED. THE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE FLOOR. THE CONTACT STARTED PUMPING THE BRAKE AND THE VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN, BUT IT DID NOT STOP. THE CONTACT LET THE VEHICLE ROLL TO A STOP. THE DEALER HAD NOT BEEN CALLED. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE INTERRUPTER VALVE ON THE VEHICLE.
Apr 12, 2007
TL*- CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN AND SAID THAT THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE LINE WAS RUSTED TO THE POINT WHERE IT LEAKED AND IT CAUSED BRAKE FAILURES. THE CONTACT BELIEVED THAT IT WAS A SAFETY ISSUE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THE BRAKES DID NOT WORK PROPERLY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 56400, AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 56500.*AK
Mar 29, 2007
TL*- THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN AND WANTED TO FILE A COMPLAINT BECAUSE THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE LINES WERE RUSTED AND APPEARED READY TO FAIL. THE CONTACT DIDN'T PROVIDE ANY MORE INFORMATION. FAILURE MILEAGE WAS AT 56,234.*AK
Mar 28, 2007
CONSUMER'S VEHICLE BRAKE PEDAL WILL NOT REACH THE FLOOR, AND THE BRAKES HAVE JUST FAILED. THE CONSUMER BACKED OUT OF THE GARAGE, AND BRAKES FAILED , RESULTING IN A CRASH.*AK...HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALER, WHO STATED THAT FRONT DISC BRAKES FAILED. CONSUMER PAID $160.OO TO REPLACE BRAKES. *AK *SB
Jun 08, 2005
WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKE PEDAL ABS LIGHT COMMENCED TO ILLUMINATE. BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR, AND THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE BEFORE STOPPING. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER FOR REPAIRS.*AK
Oct 26, 2004
+ 25 more complaints for this component
STEERING
25 complaints
I AM THE SECOND OWNER OF A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN AND BOUGHT A CARFAX REPORT WHEN PURCHASING WHICH WAS CLEAN SHOWING NO ACCIDENTS, NO PROBLEMS. THE ONE RECALL ALERT ON THIS YEAR AND MODEL WAS TAKEN CARE OF PREVIOUSLY. THE CAR HAS GENERALLY BEEN DEPENDABLE, OTHER THAN ONGOING PROBLEMS WITH THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WHICH FAILS INTERMITTENTLY AND ALL THE PANEL LIGHTS GO OFF. ON JANUARY 6TH, 2015 I WAS SHOPPING NOT FAR FROM HOME AND UPON EXITING THE STORE PARKING LOT TO LEAVE (2-3 MPH) TURNING THE WHEEL NORMALLY WHILE BACKING UP FROM MY SPACE, THE ENTIRE STEERING WHEEL JUST FELL INTO MY HANDS LEAVING IT ATTACHED BY ONLY A FEW WIRES. THERE WAS NO PRIOR WARNING OF THE UPCOMING FAILURE, NO SHAKING, NO WOBBLE, NOTHING.I AM A SENIOR AND WAS IN THE CAR ALONE. LUCKILY, SOME STRANGERS HELPED PUSH ME BACK INTO PARKING SPACE BY HOLDING AND TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL IN PLACE, AS IT WOULD NOT SNAP BACK IN. THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER STATED THAT IN HIS CAREER HE HAD NEVER SEEN THIS, MY EXPERIENCED MECHANIC SAID THE SAME. THE CAR IS CURRENTLY IN THE SHOP. THE ENTIRE COLUMN HAS TO BE REPLACED, THE CLOCK SPRING, ETC. AND EVEN WITH USED PARTS IT WILL BE COSTLY. I LIVE IN THE LA AREA WITH A LOT OF TRAFFIC ON EVERY STREET. WHAT FRIGHTENS ME IS THAT I WOULD LIKELY HAVE BEEN KILLED HAD THIS HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING, AND ESPECIALLY SINCE I HAD FIRST PLANNED ON GOING TO A MALL VIA FREEWAY. THIS WAS A TRAGIC ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. HOW MANY MORE OF THESE STEERING WHEELS HAVE FALLEN OFF UNREPORTED? HOW MANY MORE ARE READY TO OCCUR TO SOME UNLUCKY DRIVER? *TR
Jan 08, 2015
THE BELT KEEPS SLIPPING OFF ON MY DODGE CARAVAN. THIS HAS BEEN CONTINUAL. THE FORUMS ARE FULL OF THESE COMPLAINTS. IT IS THE SERPENTINE BELT. I HAVE BEEN BACK AND FORTH TO THE MECHANIC. THEY TRY EVERYTHING, BUT WHEN IT IS WET, IT COMES OFF. I EVEN TRY NOT TO DRIVE IN RAIN, BUT AFTER THE RAINS, I DRIVE A SHORT DISTANCE AND ITS OFF AGAIN., I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP THAT SEEMS TO TAKE NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS. THIS IS REALLY DANGEROUS, AS IT IS VERY HARD TO TURN THE WHEEL. FORTUNATELY SO FAR, I HAVE NOT BEEN GOING AT SPEED DURING THESE INCIDENTS. I HAD THE TENSIONERS TIGHTENED AGAIN LAST MONTH, AND ITS OFF AGAIN. *TR
Mar 02, 2014
NO ACCIDENT. *TR
Jul 11, 2008
CONSUMER HAD THE POWER STEERING BELT REPLACED FOUR TIMES. EVERY TIME IT RAINED THE BELT FELL OFF. CHRYSLER REPAIRED FOUR TIMES AT NO COST TO CONSUMER. THE BELT FELL OFF AGAIN YESTERDAY WHEN IT RAINED. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, AND WASS AWAITING REPAIR.*AK
Jul 14, 2004
WHILE DRIVING THE CONSUMER HEARD A GROANING NOISE.. THE DRIVER STARTED TO PULL OF F TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WHEN SHE EXPERIENCED A MOMENTARY LOSS OF CONTROL. WHEN THE CONSUMER'S HUSBAND CHECKED THE POWER STEERING RESERVOIR HE NOTICED IT WAS DRY. UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION THE CONSUMER FOUND OUT THAT THE BOTTOM OF THE POWER STEERING PUMP HAD CORRODED THROUGH AND THE FLUID LEAKED OUT THROUGH THE HOUSING. *AK *NM
Jul 06, 2004
+ 20 more complaints for this component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
24 complaints
THE AMOUNT OF LIGHT THAT OUR HEADLIGHTS EMIT IS VERY LOW AND CREATES SIGNIFICANT DIFFICULTY WITH VISIBILITY AT NIGHT. *TR
Jul 31, 2009
LENS ON HEADLIGHTS FOG UP WITH TEXTURED SURFACE ON OUTSIDE. UNABLE TO GET LIGHT THROUGH. *JB
Oct 09, 2007
TL*- THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. SHE NOTICED THE HEADLIGHTS WERE DIM DUE TO THE PLASTIC COVERING OF THE HEADLIGHTS TURNED YELLOW. SHE STATED THAT EVEN WITH THE HIGH BEAMS ON IT IS HARD FOR HER TO SEE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 150,000. THE CONTACT DID NOT WANT TO ESTIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE.
May 14, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHT COVERS WERE TARNISHED AND DECREASED VISIBILITY WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONTACT TO PURCHASE A NEW HEADLIGHT ASSEMBLY. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 96,000, AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000.*AK
Apr 03, 2007
MATERIAL ON HEADLAMPS OF 1998 DODGE CARAVAN IS FOGGING OVER AND IS OBSTRUCTING THE HEADLIGHTS. CONDITION HAS BEEN GETTING PROGRESSIVLY WORSE OVER TIME.*AK
Mar 20, 2007
+ 19 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
22 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE SWERVED TO THE RIGHT LANE INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND DISCOVERED CORROSION THROUGHOUT THE FRAME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 117,000. *TR
May 29, 2013
MY 1998 DODGE VAN WAS IN TO MY LOCAL DEALER FOR SOME GENERAL SERVICE. I ASKED THE MECHANIC ABOUT THE CONSIDERABLE RUST AROUND THE TOP OF THE DRIVER SIDE STRUT. HE SAID THAT IT HAD BEEN A PROBLEM WITH SOME VANS AND THAT A SERVICE BULLETIN HAD BEEN ISSUED REGARDING. IF THE STRUT WERE TO GO BREAK THROUGH THE RUSTED CAP IT COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT IF NOT LEAST MAJOR DAMAGE AT HIGHWAY SPEED. HE PRINTED ME A COPY OF THE CHRYSLER SERVICE BULLETIN NO. 23-044-02. A WEB SEARCH SHOULD CONSIDERABLE RESULTS ON THE BULLETIN NUMBER. I CALLED CHRYSLER CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SPOKE WITH REP# HM494. I FIRST TOLD THE BULLETIN DIDN'T EXIST, THEN WHEN I DEMANDED SHE SEARCH UNDER THE BULLETIN NUMBER SHE TOLD ME IT DIDN'T APPLY TO MY VEHICLE. THE BULLETINS CLEARLY STATES 1996-2000 NS TOWN&COUNTRY/VOYGER/CARAVAN. HM494 THEN STATED THAT SERVICE BULLETINS WERE ONLY FOR TECHNICIANS AND MECHANICS. I EXPLAINED THAT THIS WAS THE PROBLEM. THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION DIRECTLY RELATED TO DRIVER & PASSENGER SAFETY THAT WAS ISSUED IN 2002 APPARENTLY WAS NOT INTENDED TO BE GIVEN TO THE CUSTOMER. PERSONALLY I DO NOT THINK HM494 WAS QUALIFIED TO MAKE THE STATEMENTS THAT REPRESENT CHRYSLERS CUSTOMER SERVICE. I WAS ALSO TOLD BECAUSE MY CARAVAN HAS 126,000 MILES I SHOULD NOT EXPECT ANYTHING FROM CHRYSLER. MY CARAVAN WOULD HAVE ONLY BEEN 4YEARS OLD AT THE TIME OF THE SERVICE BULLETIN. *TR
Jun 16, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STRUT THAT SECURED THE WIRE TO THE WHEELS AND OTHER STRUCTURES HAD RUSTED UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT HAD NOT CALLED THE DEALERSHIP OR THE MANUFACTURER AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 200,000.
Jun 09, 2010
1998 DODGE CARAVAN STRUT TOWER IS RUSTING THROUGH ON PASSENGER SIDE. WE HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE IN FOR FRONT BRAKE SERVICING AND THE MECHANIC INFORMED US OF THE STRUT ISSUE. HE SAID THIS COULD CAUSE STEERING AND BRAKE FAILURE. IF THE PROBLEM IS NOT CORRECTED AND THE TOWER COLLAPSES WHILE DRIVING WE WILL LOOSE CONTROL OF THE STEERING AND POSSIBLE BRAKES. *TR
Oct 31, 2009
1998 DODGE CARAVAN FRONT STRUT TOWER FAILURE. THE TOWER IS COLLAPSING ON BOTH SIDES OF VAN. *TR
Jan 24, 2009
+ 17 more complaints for this component
SEAT BELTS
20 complaints
OUR MIDDLE ROW SEAT BELTS STOP WORKING. THEY DON'T RETRACK ON THEIR OWN. THIS IS ABOUT THE 4TH WE HAVE TO REPLACE THEM BOTH. WE JUST REPLACED THEM IN JANUARY OF 07 AND THEY DON'T RETRACK AGAIN. ACCORDING TO THE DEALER THE PIN OR I FORGET WHAT THEY CALLED IT SNAPPED AGAIN. WE HAVE NOT BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT SINCE THEY WERE REPLACED IN JANUARY. WE ARE AFRAID THAT EVEN AFTER REPLACING THEM THAT THEY WILL NOT PROTECT OR KIDS IF GOD FORBID WE ARE IN AN ACCIDENT. THEY KEEP BREAKING WITH JUST EVERYDAY USE. EACH SEAT BELT COST AROUND $200.00 JUST FOR THE PARTS AND THEY ARE CURRENTLY ON BACKORDER FOR A MONTH AND NOW MY KIDS CAN'T SIT IN THE MIDDLE ROWS. *TR
Apr 22, 2008
I WAS FORCED TO BRAKE SUDDENLY AND THE CAR SEAT MY 4 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER WAS BUCKELED INTO WENT FLYING INTO THE BACK OF THE PASSENGER SEAT. THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE SEAT BELTS IN THE 1998 DODGE CARAVAN ARE EASILY DEPRESSED BY A GAME BOY, DOLLS OR MY OLDER DAUGHTER EITHER BUCKELING OR UNBUCKELING HER BOOSTER SEAT. I'VE FOUND MY 4 YEAR OLDS STRAP IN CAR SEAT UNBUCKELED AT LEAST 6 TIMES IN THE PAST 4 YEARS. HAD WE BEEN IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT RATHER THAN JUST A SUDDEN BRAKING MY DAUGHTER WOULD HAVE BEEN SEVERLY INJURED.*AK
Jun 09, 2004
THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH GEN3 SEAT BELTS WHICH HAS A RELEASE BUTTON WHICH PROTRUDES FROM THE REST OF THE BUCKLE. THE BUTTON CAN BE ACCIDENTALLY Y BUMPED WHICH CAUSES THE BUCKLE TO RELEASE. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER ABOUT THE BUCKLE BUT THEY REFUSED TO REPLACE THE SEAT BELTS. *AK *NM
Jun 04, 2004
ALL SEAT BELTS IN 1998 DODGE CARAVAN POPPED OUT WHEN LATCHED.*AK
Mar 31, 2004
CONSUMER PAID FOR A REPAIR ON THE SEAT BELT AND LATER FOUND THAT THERE IS A REPAIR AND REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT FOR SEAT BELT REPAIR. DRIVER SIDE REAR SEAT BELT LOCKED. MR *TS
Apr 24, 2003
+ 15 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY
17 complaints
WINDSHIELD WIPERS HAVE BECOME INTERMITTENT AND GETTING WORSE TO THE POINT OF NOT COMING ON UNTIL THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN ON FOR A HALF HOUR. THIS HAPPENED AFTER THE PANEL LIGHTS SUCH AS FOR THE AC UNIT ETC BEGAN TO BLINK AT A CONSTANT RATE AND THEN THEY STEADY OUT AFTER 20 MINUTES. HAVE GONE TO TWO DODGE DEALERSHIPS. FIRST ONE HAD ME PAY FOR AND REPLACE MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH AND IT DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. SECOND DEALER SAID I HAVE TO ORDER A $500 BODY CONTROL MODULE COMPUTER PLUS LABOR AND IT MAY NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM AND THEY SAID IT IS A NON-REFUNDABLE EXPENSE EVEN IF THEY CANNOT FIX THE WIPERS. IT IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS TO NOT HAVE WIPERS WORKING AND I FEEL IRRESPONSIBLE THAT A COMPUTER IS NECESSARY FOR THE WIPERS TO WORK. THE NTSB SHOULD HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO ORDER DODGE TO FIX THIS SITUATION AT DODGE'S EXPENSE SINCE IT IS AN OBVIOUS SERIOUS DESIGN FLAW. *JB
Dec 20, 2005
MY WINDSHIELD WIPERS TURN ON EVEN IN THE OFF POSITION AND I HAVE HAD TO REMOVE THE FUSE SO THAT THEY WON'T RUN CONTINUOUSLY. I HAVE A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE DEALER CAN'T SEEM TO FIND THE PROBLEM. I NOW HAVE TO DRIVE WITHOUT ANY WINDSHIELD WIPERS OR IF IT IS RAINING I HAVE TO STOP AND OPEN THE HOOD AND PUT THE FUSE BACK IN...THEN THEY RUN CONTINUOUSLY. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS AND I HAVE NOTICED ON THE INTERNET THAT I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE WITH THIS PROBLEM. THE DEALER IS NOW ORDERING A PART CALLED A BCM WHICH COSTS $500 IN HOPES THAT IT WILL FIX THE PROBLEM BUT THEY ARE NOT SURE. *JB
Nov 14, 2004
WHILE DRIVING IN A HEAVY A RAINSTORM, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAILED. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK *TS THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR WAS REPLACED. *JB
Jul 10, 2003
THE WINDSHIELD WIPER WILL COME ON AND OFF INTERMITTENTLY WHILE TRAVELING IN INCLEMENT WEATHER. *AK
Jun 11, 2003
BROUGHT VEHICLE NEW IN AUG 98 AND THE HEATER CORE WOULD CONTINUOUSLY TO BLOW OUT. WOULD BE REPLACED HEATER CORE PART EVERY YEAR. MECHANIC CAN NOT LOCATE CAUSE OF THE DEFECTIVE HEATER CORE PROBLEM. TS
Dec 06, 2002
+ 12 more complaints for this component
EQUIPMENT
15 complaints
A/C FAN BELT. I HAVE WENT THROUGH 3 FAN BELTS FOR THIS VAN AND MY PARTS DEALER TOLD ME TO FIND OUT IF ANY RECALLS FOR THE PULLEY WAS OUT THERE. *TR
Jun 25, 2008
AT APPROXIMATELY 50,000 MILES, THE AC UNIT NEEDED TO BE RECHARGED. THIS WOULD BE AROUND AUGUST OF 2001. WHILE OUT OF THE NORM WITH A RELATIVELY NEW VEHICLE, I CHALKED IT UP TO ROUTINE MAINTENANCE HAD COOLANT ADDED AND WENT ON MY WAY. IN JULY OF 2002, THE AC AGAIN WAS NOT COOLING THE VEHICLE. MILEAGE ON THE VEHICLE WAS AROUND 60,000 AT THIS POINT. I SPOKE WITH AN EMPLOYEE OF THE THEN DAIMLER CHRYSLER (I BELIEVE THAT UNIT HAS BEEN SOLD TO BEHR CORPORATION) HVAC UNIT IN DAYTON, OH. HE ASKED ME TO HAVE THE EVAPORATOR UNIT CHECKED. A CLOSE FRIEND OF MINE IS A MECHANIC; I HAD HIM DO THE WORK. HE PLACED DYE IN THE SYSTEM TO CHECK FOR LEAKS AND DYE WAS FOUND TO BE LEAKING FROM THE AC DRAIN, POINTING TO THE IMPENDING FAILURE OF THE EVAPORATOR. I RELAYED THIS INFORMATION TO THE CHRYSLER EMPLOYEE AND HE CONFIRMED THAT IT WAS INDEED THE EVAPORATOR THAT WAS CAUSING A COOLANT LEAK. AT THAT TIME HE ASKED ME TO CONTACT MY DEALER TO SEE IF ANY SERVICE BULLETINS OR RECALL NOTICES HAD BEEN ISSUED FOR THIS PROBLEM. I ALSO CALLED TO VERIFY MY WARRANTY, ETC., TO COVER MY BASES. I WAS TOLD THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS AND THAT I WAS INDEED OUT OF WARRANTY. I ALSO ASKED FOR AN APPROXIMATE PRICE TO REPLACE AN EVAPORATOR AND WAS QUOTED A PRICE THAT WAS APPROACHING $1000.00 I DID NOT REALLY GET AGITATED OVER THIS UNTIL THIS PAST JULY. FIGURING THAT THE ROUTINE OF RECHARGING THE UNIT FOR THE WARM MONTHS WAS A PRUDENT WAY TO DEAL WITH THIS PROBLEM, I WAS PREPARED TO SPEND ABOUT $25.00 FOR COOLANT AND GO ON MY MERRY WAY FOR THIS SUMMER. ONE SLIGHT PROBLEM. THE COMPRESSOR FAILED AT 66,000 MILES. AS I STATED BEFORE, I UNDERSTAND WARRANTIES AND I GET THE PROCESS. BUT FOR A TOTAL SYSTEM FAILURE, RELATED ONLY TO NORMAL OPERATION, IN MY OPINION IS UNACCEPTABLE. ESPECIALLY SINCE THE CHRYSLER EMPLOYEE TOLD ME THAT THE EVAPORATOR ISSUE WAS A KNOWN PROBLEM IN BOTH MY 1994 VEHICLE AND MY 1998. *JB
Sep 20, 2003
WHILE DRIVING SMOKE STARTED TO APPEAR IN VEHCLE AND ALL AROUND THE OUTSIDE OF VEHICLE. CONSUMER THOUGHT VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER, AND THEY REPLACED EVAPARATOR SWITHCH. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
Jul 01, 2002
AIR CONDITIONING CONDENSOR FROZEN. *AK
Jan 09, 2002
THE EVAPORATOR COIL HAD TO BE REPLACED IN THE A/C.*JB
Oct 20, 2001
+ 10 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
15 complaints
SRS LIGHT APPEARED ON THE DASHBOARD AND REMAINED ON. HORN AND CRUISE CONTROL FAILED TO OPERATE. CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT CLOCK SPRING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
Sep 21, 2004
AIR BAG LIGHT WAS ON, THE HORN DID NOT WORK, AND CRUISE CONTROL MALFUNCTIONED. RECALL 02V950000 CONCERNING CLOCK SPRING FAILURE WAS ISSUED. *AK
Aug 09, 2004
WHILE DRIVING AIR BAG LIGHT SUDDENLY ILLUMINATED ON THE DASHBOARD. WHEN THIS OCCURRED IT RENDERED THE HORN AND CRUISE CONTROL INOPERATIVE. RECALL 02V290000 WAS ISSUED FOR THE AIR BAG, BUT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK
Apr 15, 2004
WHILE DRIVING CONSUMER LOST THE HORN, CRUISE CONTROL, AND AIR BAG LIGHT APPEARED ON THE DASHBOARD. DEALER DETERMINED CLOCK SPRING FAILURE. *AK
Mar 05, 2004
AT ANY SPEED AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS ON. ALSO, HORN IS INOPERABLE, AND CRUISE CONTROL DOES NOT WORK. THERE IS RECALL 02V293000 CONCERNING CLOCK SPRING FAILURE. HOWEVER, THIS VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK
Jan 30, 2004
+ 10 more complaints for this component
TIRES
14 complaints
FOUR COOPER FUTURA 2000 LTE P205/70R14 TIRES (DOT U9KE XAD3906) WERE REPLACED ONTO MY MINIVAN WHEELS ON 4/4/2011 AFTER SITTING FOR 16 MONTHS IN PROTECTIVE BAGS IN MY GARAGE. THEY ARE TOURING TIRES AND WERE SWAPPED OUT FOR THE COLD WEATHER TIRES THAT HAD BEEN ON THE VAN FOR THE PREVIOUS 16 MONTHS. ON 4/5/2001 THE TWO REAR TIRES LOST THEIR BEAD WITHIN 50 MILES OF BEING REINSTALLED. THIS IS PERHAPS ONLY THE THIRD TIME BEING PUT ON THEIR WHEELS. UPON INSPECTION BY A QUALIFIED TIRE INSTALLER IT WAS DETERMINED THAT BOTH BEADS HAD FAILED. THE FIRST FAILURE OCCURRED AFTER DRIVING 25 HIGHWAY MILES. AT WHICH TIME THE TIRES WAS REPLACED WITH A NEW TIRE. THE SECOND FAILURE OCCURRED AFTER THE 25 MILE RETURN TRIP DURING A TURN FROM THE EXPRESSWAY EXIT. BOTH TIRES WERE DETERMINED TO HAVE FAILED FOR THE SAME REASON BY THE AFOREMENTIONED INSTALLER. THE TIRES WERE PURCHASED ON 5/24/2007 AT PEPBOYS AUTO STORE 0289 5630 S. WESTNEDGE AVE., PORTANGE , MI 49002. *TR
Apr 06, 2011
WE HAD A EURO TOUR TIRE FROM BIG O (SERIAL #U9YTT2N3903 PRODUCED BY COOPER TIRES SIZE 205/70R15 [THIS SIZE IS NOT LISTED ON THE TIRE SECTION]) ON THE FRONT OF OUR DODGE CARAVAN. MY SON WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY THAT HAD BEEN COMPLETED APPROXIMATELY A YEAR BEFORE SO THE FREEWAY WAS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION. MY SON SAID THAT WHILE THEY HAD OUR VAN THEY HAD NOT HIT ANYTHING NOR WAS THERE ANYTHING IN THE ROAD. THE COP WHO HELPED MY SON CHANGE THE TIRE SAID MY SON HAD NOT HIT ANYTHING. BOTH STEEL BELTS BLEW OUT. MY SON SAID THE TIRE EXPLODED! IT BLEW OUT THE WHEEL WELL, BLEW OFF THE BUMPER,BLEW OUT THE HEADLIGHT, BLEW OUT SOME OF THE WIRING AND BROKE THE BOTTLE FOR THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS & GAVE THE FENDER A FAT LIP. MY DAUGHTER-IN-LAW WAS THE VEHICLE AHEAD & LOOKED BACK JUST IN TIME TO SEE PIECES OF TIRE & VAN FLYING EVERYWHERE. LUCKILY THE VAN DID NOT ROLL. THERE WAS $1800-$1900 WORTH OF DAMAGE TO OUR VAN. BIG O REPLACED THE TIRE BUT WHEN WE SENT IT COOPER, THEY SAID THEY BELIEVED THE TIRE FAILED BECAUSE OF A PROBABLE IMPACT. A COOPER TIRE DEALER & THE BIG O DEALER IN POCATELLO BOTH TOLD ME THEY FELT THE TIRE WAS FAULTY. THEY DID NOT BELIEVE THE DAMAGE TO THE TIRE COULD POSSIBLY HAVE RESULTED FROM IMPACT. EVERYONE EXCEPT COOPER THINKS DAMAGE TO THE TIRE INDICATES IT ACTUALLY EXPLODED. *JB
Mar 12, 2007
DRIVING 20 MPH ON LOCAL ROAD, HAD FRONT AND REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRES INCUR BLOWOUTS WITHOUT ANY APPARENT CAUSE. TIRES WERE ROTATED EVERY 6,000 MILES AND INFLATION CHECKED AT LEAST MONTHLY. TIRES WERE 3 YEARS OLD AND HAD APPROXIMATELY 22,000 MILES OR WEAR.*JB
Jan 19, 2007
WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONSUMER SAW THAT ALL FOUR TIRES WERE CRACKED. PLEASE PROVIDE TIRE INFORMATION. *JB
May 18, 2004
TIRE BLEW OUT AT FREEWAY SPEED, TREAD WAS IN GOOD CONDITION, CAUSE UNCLEAR (POSSIBLY PUNCTURE). *AK (TIRESIZE: P215/65R15)
Nov 21, 2001
+ 9 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
11 complaints
WHEN DRIVING VEHICLE WILL HAVE TROUBLE ACCELERATEING, AND THEN WILL SHUT OFF. CONTACTED DEALER, AND THE DEALER CANNOT FIND THE CAUSE. *AK
Apr 15, 2002
MY ACCELERATOR STUCK IN MY 98 DODGE CARAVAN. THE THROTTLE CABLE WAS FRAYED BADLY. THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER MENTIONED HE TOWED ABOUT 50 DODGE CARAVANS IN THE LAST YEAR WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. THE DEALER WHERE WE GOT THE PART HAD "HEARD COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE ACCELERATOR." SINCE THIS VEHICLE IS THE BEST SELLING MINI VAN AND MOMS, DADS AND USUALLY A LOAD OF KIDS ARE IN THE BACK, THIS PROBLEM NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED AND DETERMINE WHETHER A RECALL IS WARRENTED.
Oct 04, 2001
UNCONTROL RANDOM RAPID ACCELERATION WHILE STOPPING. WAS ABLE TO STOP VEHICLE IF TURNED OFF THE ENGINE WITH IGNITION. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
Dec 19, 2000
WHILE DRIVING ON INTERSTATE AT 55 MPH VEHCILE WOULD NOT STOP ACCELERATING, EVEN WITH FOOT OFF GAS PEDAL, VEHCILE KEPT ACCELERATING. TOOK VEHICLE TO MECHANIC, AND HE SAID THAT OPEN PORTION ON ACCELERATOR CABLE WAS EXPOSED. ONE OF THEM WERE IN A BIND WHICH CAUSED IT TO WEAR, AND WORN ACCELERATOR WON'T GO BACK DOWN, ONLY WAY TO STOP WAS TO UNHOOK EVERYTHING. THEN THERE WAS NO ACCELERATION.*AK THE ONLY WAY TO STOP THE ACCELERATING VEHEICLE WAS TO TURN OFF THE ENGINE. *YH
Nov 24, 2000
WHEN PUT IN PARK VEHICLE ACCELERATED FORWARD SUDDENLY AND UNEXPECTEDLY, RESULTING IN A COLLISION . DEALER INSPECTED VEHICLE, AND WAS NOT ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK
Oct 05, 2000
+ 6 more complaints for this component
SEATS
10 complaints
ONLY A BLOCK OR 2 FROM HOME, DOING 20 MPH THERE WAS THE SMELL OF SMOKE THEN FLAMES SHOT OUT FROM UNDER THE DRIVERS SEAT. WE BAILED FROM THE VAN AND BEFORE 911 COULD BE CALLED THE VAN WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. A TOTAL LOSS. *TR
Jul 30, 2014
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS REAR ENDED BY AN AMBULANCE. THE CRASH CAUSED HIM TO LIE FLAT ON HIS BACK AND THE SEAT TO BEND BACKWARDS. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. HE ATTEMPTED TO PULL THE SEAT UPRIGHT, BUT COULD NOT BECAUSE THE SEAT FAILED IN THE DOWNWARD POSITION. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A CONCUSSION, NERVE DAMAGE TO THE LOWER BACK, WALKING IMMOBILITY, AND SHOOTING PAINS UP AND DOWN HIS LEFT SIDE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT UNLESS HE HAS THE DAMAGED SEAT TO BE REPAIRED, THEY HAVE NO WORDS OR ASSISTANCE FOR HIM. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 165,000.
Jul 20, 2007
WHILE DRIVING FRONT DRIVER'S SEAT COLLAPSED FORWARD. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND DROVE IT TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE SEAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. BUT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT AN RECALL, AND WARRANTY EXPIRED. *AK
Sep 13, 2004
CONSUMER CALLED COMPLAINING ABOUT HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE SEAT BELTS ON THE BACK. ALSO STATED THAT THEY ARE RIPPEN FROM THE FABRIC AND IS NOW ALSO HAPPENING WITH THE ONES ON FRONT TOO. MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED AT THIS TIME. MR
Nov 12, 2002
WHILE SITTING AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT VEHICLE WAS REAR-ENDED CAUSING DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEATS TO SNAP BACKWARDS. VEHICLE SUSTAINED BODY DAMAGES AS WELL. MANUFACTURER NOT YET NOTIFIED. *TT *TS
Sep 10, 2002
+ 5 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
8 complaints
LTR ON BEHALF OF (IN) RE 2 KNOWN DEFECTS (SEAT BELT LATCHES & GEAR SHIFT INTERLOCK) IN DODGE CARAVANS REQUESTING AN INVESTIGATION INTO POSSIBLE SAFETY RECALL FM OWNER OF A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. *KB THE CONSUMER FOUND THE GENERATION 3 SEAT BELT LATCHES HAVE BEEN KNOWN TO UNBUCKLE, ON SOME VEHICLES, WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION. THE CONSUMER STATED HE DIDN'T EXPERIENCE THE INCIDENT WITH HIS VEHICLE, BUT IT WAS SCARY TO THINK THAT IT HAS BEEN KNOWN TO HAPPEN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT BUILT WITH A GEAR SHIFT INTERLOCK. THE CONSUMER STATED SOMEONE INCLUDING A CHILD COULD MOVE THE GEAR SHIFT INTO DRIVE OR REVERSE WITHOUT THE IGNITION BEING ON, OR WITHOUT STEPPING ON THE BRAKE. *JB
Mar 18, 2010
CONSUMER FENDER/BUMPER HANGS PULLING IT LOWER TO THE GROUND. *TS THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED WHEN BEING TOWED BY A TOW TRUCK. *JB
Nov 29, 2005
BELTS IN THE TIRE SLIPPED RESULTING IN TIRE FAILURE (DOT NUMBER: M6VFHKOR12 TIRESIZE: 215/65R15)
Nov 15, 2000
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Jun 14, 2000
WHILE DRIVING ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, INDICATING THERE IS A PROBLEM. BUT DEALER CANNOT DETERMINE THE PROBLEM. VEHICLE REPAIRED AND 45 DAYS AT REPAIR SHOP DUE TO BAD WIRE TO SENSOR. *AK
Sep 29, 1999
+ 3 more complaints for this component
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
7 complaints
THE SERPENTINE BELT ON MY 98 DODGE CARAVAN KEEPS BREAKING. WHEN IT DOES, I LOSE CONTROL OF THE CAR. I BOUGHT THE CAR DECEMBER 17, 2009 AND HAVE HAD THE BELT BREAK 4 TIMES SINCE THEN, CAUSING ME NEAR MISS ACCIDENTS AND HAS LEFT ME STRANDED ALONG THE HIGHWAY WITH MY YOUNG CHILDREN. *TR
Apr 28, 2010
THE SERPENTINE BELT ON MY 98 DODGE CARAVAN KEEPS BREAKING. WHEN IT DOES, I LOSE CONTROL OF THE CAR. I BOUGHT THE CAR DECEMBER 17, 2009 AND HAVE HAD THE BELT BREAK 4 TIMES SINCE THEN, CAUSING ME NEAR MISS ACCIDENTS AND HAS LEFT ME STRANDED ALONG THE HIGHWAY WITH MY YOUNG CHILDREN. *TR
Apr 28, 2010
THE SERPENTINE BELT POPPED OFF MY 1998 DODGE CARAVAN, IT IS 02/10/10 -- THE DAY OF THE BLIZZARD. THIS HAPPENED BEFORE ON THE DAY OF THE BLIZZARD IN DECEMBER. THIS LEADS TO AN IMMEDIATE LOSS OF POWER STEERING DURING THE WORST POSSIBLE DRIVING CONDITIONS. WHEN I TRIED TO FIND OUT WHAT HAD HAPPENED IN DECEMBER, TWO MECHANICS AT THE DODGE DEALERSHIP BOTH IMMEDIATELY KNEW WHAT HAD HAPPENED. THEY SAID IT HAPPENS ALL THE TIME WHEN ICE OR SNOW GETS UP UNDER THE CAR. I BELIEVE THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS MANUFACTURER'S DEFECT. LOSS OF CRITICAL STEERING CAPABILITY DURING THE WORST POSSIBLE DRIVING CONDITIONS. *TR
Feb 10, 2010
SUBJECT: DEFECTIVE SERPENTINE BELT DESIGN I HAVE A CONCERN ABOUT A RECENT MALFUNCTIONING SERPENTINE BELT IN MY 1998 CARAVAN. THE BELT HAS SLIPPED OFF TWICE LAST MONTH WHILE DRIVING IN THE RAIN. THE FIRST INCIDENT LEFT ME STRANDED OFF THE SIDE OF THE FREEWAY WAITING FOR A TOW TRUCK. THE SECOND INCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN BACKING OUT OF A PARKING SPOT ON DAMP PAYMENT (NO STANDING WATER) WHILE AT A REST STOP MANY MILES FROM HOME. BOTH INCIDENTS OCCURRED ON NORMAL PAVEMENT AND DRIVING DURING RAINY DAYS, AND WITHOUT ANY WARNING. THE VAN HAS THE STANDARD 3.0 LITER V6 ENGINE WITH 88K MILES, BUT THE SERPENTINE BELT INSTALLED WAS LESS THAN 1 YEAR OLD. TWO SETS OF PROFESSIONAL MECHANICS FOUND THE BELT, THE BELT TENSIONER, AND ALL RELATED PARTS OF THE SYSTEM IN GOOD WORKING ORDER (INCLUDING THE ENGINE MOUNTS). IN SUMMARY, THE SYSTEM WAS WELL MAINTAINED AND WORKING AS DESIGNED. THE CONCERN WE HAVE IS THE DESIGN OF THIS SYSTEM. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN VERY RELIABLE DURING THE LAST EIGHT YEARS. BUT THIS PARTICULAR PROBLEM IS GREATLY DISTRESSING. NOT ONLY IS THE RANGE OF THE VEHICLE LIMITED TO A COUPLE OF MILES WITH A STRONG BATTERY, THE LOSS OF POWER ASSISTED STEERING MAKES THIS BOTH A SAFETY AND RELIABILITY ISSUE. *NM
Jan 29, 2007
CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING ALL THE VEHICLES DASH LIGHTS SUDDENLY ILLUMINATED. CONSUMER STATES THE STEERING WHEEL GOT REALLY HARD TO TURN. TOOK TO DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE SERPENTINE BELT HAD FALLEN OFF. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. *MR
Oct 07, 2002
+ 2 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
6 complaints
HORN STOPPED WORKING. HORN FUSE IS GOOD. AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND HAS STAYED ON. *TR
Sep 22, 2011
AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED, AND THE HORN BECAME DISABLED. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK
May 17, 2004
AIR BAG LIGHT WILL NOT GO OFF. LOST USE OF HORN. REPLACED TRANSMISSION IN FEBRUARY 2003, THIS CAR IS TERRIBLE. MECHANIC ADVISED ME THAT THE CLOCK SPRING IS OFF, SUGGESTED I TAKE IT TO THE DEALER. I WILL DO SO AND AM PURCHASING A NEW CAR. DO NOT FEEL SAFE RIDING WITH KIDS IN CAR.
Mar 09, 2004
AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON AND HORN IS NOT WORKING, LEADING CONSUMER TO BELIEVE THAT CLOCK SPRING MATERIAL WAS DEFECTIVE WHEN CONTACTING DEALER. DEALER NOTED THE SAME PROBLEM.*AK
Jun 26, 2002
CLOCKSPRING HAS FAILED RENDERING THE AIRBAGS AND HORN UNUSABLE. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD AND OTHER YEAR DODGE CARAVAN MINIVANS HAVE BEEN RECALLED. MY DEALER SAID THAT MY YEAR MINIVAN IS NOT PART OF THOSE RECALLED. I BELIEVE THIS SAFETY COMPONENT FAILURE NEEDS TO BE RECALLED BY THE MANUFACTURER AND REPLACED. *AK
Apr 24, 2002
+ 1 more complaint for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
6 complaints
TRANSMISSION FAILED AT 80,000 MILES. ALSO, ENGINE HEAD GASKET WAS REPLACED TWO MONTHS AGO.*AK
Feb 25, 2004
SIX DIFFERENT CASES OF MECHANICAL PROBLEMS THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCED. PROBLEMS WITH HEAD GASKET, THE TRANSMISSION TWICE AND THREE TIMES ON THE FLYWHEEL. *LA THE MECHANIC FOUND THAT THE BOLTS ON THE FLYWHEEL AND THE TORQUE CONVERTER WERE LOOSE. *SC THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS KNOWN TO HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THE CRANKSHAFT, WHICH CAUSES THE FLYWHEEL TO BREAK OFF, THE CONSUMER WAS TOLD THE CRANKSHAFT WAS OUT OF ROUND, WHICH CAUSED THE PROBLEM. *JB
Jan 06, 2004
I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE IN 2000. TWO MONTHS LATER MY TRANSMISSION WENT. 16 MONTHS AFTER THAT MY MOTOR WENT. I HAD TO LET MY VEHICLE SIT FOR NINE MONTHS NOT BEING ABLE TO DRIVE IT AND YET STILL MAKING PAYMENTS ON IT BEFORE I COULD AFFORD TO REPLACE TO THE MOTOR. SO 3 WEEKS AGO I HAD THE MOTOR REPLACED AND NOW MY TRANSMISSION HAS GONE AGAIN. SUPPOSEDLY IT WAS REPLACED WITH A FACTORY REBUILT TRANSMISSION THE FIRST TIME AROUND. THIS SERIOUSLY UPSETS ME THAT THE TRANSMISSION HAS GONE AGAIN. I STILL OWE 2 AND 1/2 YEARS OF PAYMENTS ON THIS VEHICLE AND I AM BACK TO I CANNOT DRIVE IT AGAIN BECAUSE I CANNOT AFFORD TO GET IT FIXED. I WAS TOLD OF SOME FACTORY PROBLEM WITH THE TRANSMISSIONS AND I WONDERED IF THIS COULD BE THE REASON THAT MY VEHICLE IS OUT OF COMMISSION AGAIN. FOR THE AMOUNT OF MONEY THIS USED VEHICLE IS COSTING ME I WOULD HAVE BEEN BETTER OFF TO BUY A NEW ONE. THE VEHICLE IS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. *NLM
Mar 16, 2003
I AM HAVING ALOT OF PROBLEMS WITH MY VAN OVER THE PAST YEAR I HAVE PUT OVER 1500 WORTH OF WORK INTO THIS VAN THEY MADE THE ENGINE TOO SMALL FOR THIS SIZE OF A VAN. I CONTINUE TO HAVE PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINE AND NOW THE TRANSMISSION IS ACTING UP. I HAVE ALREADY REPLACED HEAD GASKET ALL THE MOTOR MOUNTS TIMING BELT IT HAS BEEN ONE THING AFTER ANOTHER AND NOW MY ENGINE IS MAKING A RATTLING SOUND EVERYTIME I PUSH THE GAS PETAL I DON'T KNOW WHERE ELSE TO COMPLAIN.
Mar 27, 2001
ON OCTOBER 6, 2000 I WAS TAKING MY SON TO SCHOOL WHEN I LOST ALL ABILITY TO ACCELERATE. I WAS GOING FAST ENOUGH I WAS ABLE TO COAST INTO THE PARKING LOT. MY VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE WE PURCHASED IT. THEY WERE NOT COOPERATIVE OR FRIENDLY AND WERE UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE MY VEHICLE WITHIN THE 3 DAY TIME FRAME THEY HAD PROMISED. SO ON 10-09-2000 WE HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT GARAGE TO BE DIAGNOSED AND FIXED. THE DIAGNOSIS WAS TOTAL TRANSMISSION FAILURE. WE HAD TO HAVE THEM FIX IT B/C OUR DEALER WAS GOING TO BE 3-5 WEEKS TO FIX IT, AND WE HAD A RENTAL CAR DURING THIS TIME. THE COST WAS $1455.00, THAT WE PAID OUT OF OUR POCKET. DURING THEIR INVESTIGATION OF OUR PROBLEMS THEY ALSO FOUND AN OIL LEAK. MY HUSBAND IS VERY GOOD WITH CARS AND HAS MADE SEVERAL ATTEMPTS TO FIX THE PROBLEM, TO NO AVAIL. ON 3-9-2001 I HAD THE CAR OIL LEAK DIAGNOSED BY AN INDEPENDENT GARAGE. THEY SAID THE HEAD GASKET WAS LEAKING OIL AND WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. A COST OF APPROXIMATELY $600.00 AND DOWN TIME OF THE VEHICLE BEING 2-3 DAYS. AS THIS IS OUR MAIN VEHICLE THIS PRESENTS A PROBLEM. WE HAVE BEEN TOLD BY MANY PEOPLE AND GARAGES THAT THESE 4 CYLINDER ENGINES ARE WIDELY KNOWN TO HAVE TRANSMISSION AND HEAD GASKET PROBLEMS. ONE GARAGE WENT SO FAR AS TO TELL US THAT CHRYSLER KNEW THEY HAD THESE PROBLEMS BUT JUST WOULD NOT PUT OUT A RECALL. WE HAVE HAD THE VAN FOR 23 MONTHS. NOTHING WENT WRONG DURING THE VALID WARRANTY TIME. WHEN THE TRANSMISSION WENT OUT THE VEHICLE WAS ONLY OVER WARRANTY BY APPROXIMATELY 5000 MILES. OUR DEALER WAS NOT WILLING TO WORK WITH US WITHIN THE TIME FRAME THEY HAD ORIGINALLY GIVEN US, SO WE WERE FORCED TO GO SOMEWHERE ELSE AND PAY OUT OF OUR POCKET FOR THE REPAIRS, AS WE COULD NOT AFFORD A RENTAL CAR FOR THE 3-5 WEEKS THE DEALER WAS GOING TO TAKE TO DIAGNOSE AND REPAIR THE PROBLEM. WE WOULD LIKE TO SEE CHRYSLER BE FORCED TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THESE PROBLEMS.*AK
Mar 11, 2001
+ 1 more complaint for this component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
4 complaints
I HAVE A 1998 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN WITH JUST UNDER 71,000 MILES ON IT. WE FIRST NOTICED SOME ANTI FREEZE ON THE GROUND AND COULD SEE IT LEAKING THINKING IT WAS A HOSE OR SOMETHING. I WENT UNDER TO TAKE A LOOK AND IT WAS LEAKING FROM THE ENGINE BLOCK. I BROUGHT IT IN TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT AND IT TURNS OUT THE HEADGASKET SPRUNG A LEAK. I GAVE THEM THE GO AHEAD TO FIX IT. HE TOOK IT APART AND SAID THEIR WAS A 2 INCH PIECE MISSING FROM THE GASKET. I COULDN'T BELIEVE IT. IT COST ME $1000+ TO HAVE IT REPAIRED .WHAT A PIECE OF CRAP.*AK
Jan 21, 2004
AIR CONDITIONER EVAPORATOR FAILED TWICE WITHIN A TWO YEAR PERIOD. ALSO, SERPENTINE BELT WAS REPLACED 6 TIMES. WHEN THE SERPENTINE BELT FAILED VEHICLE HAD NO POWER STEERING OR POWER BRAKES. *AK
Nov 05, 2003
I'VE GONE THROUGH 5 BELTS IN THE PAST YEAR. MY A/C JUST WENT OUT AGAIN. I HAD THE EVAPORATER COIL REPLACED JUST AFTER MY 3 YEAR WARRANTY GAVE OUT 2 YEARS AGO. MY VAN ONLY HAS 58,000 MILES ON IT AND I BOUGHT IT NEW IN OCT.97. I WILL NEVER BUY A DODGE AGAIN. I'VE NEVER FELT SO UNSAFE IN A VEHICLE AS I DO IN MY VAN. *LA
Nov 02, 2003
THE AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR WHICH WAS BROKE AND RUBBED AGAINST THE SERPENTINE BELT CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CATCH ON FIRE, ALSO THE HEAD GASKETS FAILED. *TS *JB
Apr 04, 2003
CHILD SEAT
4 complaints
WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, UPON FRONTAL COLLISION THE INTEGRATED CHILD SAFETY SEAT HARNESS CLIP UNSNAPPED FAILING TO RESTRAIN CHILD IN CRASH. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *PH
Nov 12, 2003
THE SHOULDER BELT CLIP FOR CHILD SAFETY SEAT WHICH IS BUILT IN CAR IS DEFECTIVE. YH
Jun 12, 2000
PLASTIC WHICH IS AROUND THE BUCKLE ON THE INTEGRATED CHILD SAFETY SEAT BROKE INTO TWENTY PIECES. *AK
Sep 08, 1999
WE OWN A CENTURY MODEL 100297 CARSEAT. THE SHOULDER HARNESS LATCHES IN THE BACK ON A METAL CLIP. I HAVE ON ONE OCCASSION ACTUALLY PULLED THE SHOULDER HARNESS TO ADJUST AND HAD THE HARNESS COME RIGHT THROUGH THE SEAT. IT CAME OFF OF THE METAL LATCH BEHIND THE SEAT. UPON CLOSER INSPECTION OF THIS LATCH, I DO NOT SEE WHAT IS PREVENTING THE SHOULD HARNESS STRAPS FROM COMING OFF THE METAL CLIP AT ANY GIVEN TIME..ESPECIALLY IN AN ACCIDENT. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF THERE IS A WAY TO ENSURE THAT THEY WON'T. THANK YOU.
Mar 10, 1999
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
3 complaints
I TOOK MY VEHICLE IN FOR AN INSPECTION AND THE MECHANIC INFORMED ME THAT THE UPPER STRUT TOWERS ON MY 19998 DODGE CARAVAN ARE RUSTING THROUGH CAUSING POSSIBLE STEERING AND BRAKE FAILURE. I WAS TOLD IF THE PROBLEM IS NOT CORRECTED AND THE TOWER COLLAPSES WHILE DRIVE I WILL LOOSE TOTAL CONTROL OF STEERING AND POSSIBLE BRAKES. *TR
Mar 04, 2009
BOTH STRUT TOWERS ON MY 1998 CARAVAN HAVE RUSTED OUT TO THE POINT OF FAILURE. SPEAKING TO MANY CARAVAN OWNERS AND GOING TO MANY SITES THIS PROBLEM SEEMS TO BE VERY COMMON ON THESE VEHICLES. WHY DOES CHRYSLER NOT HAVE TO BE RESPONSIBLE TO ALL THESE VEHICLE OWNERS OR THE ONES THAT MIGHT BE INVOLVED IN A COLLISION DUE TO THIS BUILT IN DEFECT? *TR
Aug 17, 2008
DT: FRONT SUSPENSION: STRUT RUSTED. THERE IS NOISE IN THE FRONT SUSPENSION, BUT THE CONSUMER IS NOT SURE IF THIS WAS RELATED TO THE CORRODED STRUTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY SAID THAT THE STRUTS SHOULD BE REPLACED WITHIN A COUPLE OF MONTHS. THE DEALER WAS GOING TO CHARGE THE CONSUMER TO FIX THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER TALKED TO OTHER PEOPLE WITH SIMILAR PROBLEMS. *AK THE RUST WAS ON TOP OF THE STRUT TOWER WHICH WAS WEAKENING THE STRUCTURE SO THAT THE STRUT SPRING BEGAN TO PROTRUDE THROUGH THE SUPPORT. *SC *JB
Jul 15, 2005
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
3 complaints
THE HOOD LATCH BROKE WITHOUT EXCESSIVE FORCE BEING APPLIED. AS A RESULT, THE HOOD FAILED TO OPEN EVEN WHEN IT WAS UNLOCKED. DEALERSHIP INDICATED THAT THEY REPAIRED THE HOOD LATCH THE FIRST TIME IT FAILED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. CONSUMER FELT THE PROBLEM WAS NEVER CORRECTED, BUT WENT UNNOTICED BECAUSE THE HOOD WAS RARELY USED.*AK
Nov 09, 2004
AKIF AN ACCIDENT OCCURS WHERE YOU NEED TO EXIT THE MINIVAN FOR SAFETY REASONS (IE FIRE OR WATER) YOU WOULD BE UNABLE TO GET OUT OF THE VAN. *AK
Sep 24, 2001
THE CONSUMER STATE'S THE REAR DOOR LOCK IS BROKEN AND LOOSE. MJS.
Sep 24, 1999
PARKING BRAKE
3 complaints
THREE MONTHS AFTER INSTALLATION OF A NEW EMERGENCY BRAKE CABLE, THE CABLE BROKE AND VEHICLE HAD A RUNAWAY. *LA TWO CABLES ON THE SAME SIDE BROKE IN THREE MONTHS. TWO DEALERS SUGGESTED THAT THE PROBLEM WILL CONTINUE TO RECUR. (DODGE DUALLY) *SC
Feb 12, 2004
THE EMERGENCY BRAKE DOES NOT CATCH. IT HAS NEVER WORKED PROPERLY. DEALER SAYS IT NEEDS A NEW FOOT PEDAL.
Aug 07, 2002
EMERGENCY PARKING BRAKE WOULD NOT STAY ENGAGED, INTERMITTENTLY WHEN ENGAGED IT WOULD BACK ITSELF OFF OR DISENGAGE COMPLETELY. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE ORIGINAL PARKING BRAKE ASSEMBLY BROKE AND WAS REPLACED. *YH
Nov 21, 2001
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
3 complaints
WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH CRUISE CONTROL SENSOR LIGHT BLINKED, THEN ENGINE STALLED. *AK
Sep 04, 2003
WHILE PASSING A TRACTOR TRAILER ON RT 422 WEST OF POTTSTOWN WITHOUT WARNING MY RMP'S SHOT UP AND I LOST POWER. MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. I PULLED OFF THE SHOULDER OF THE HIGHWAY. THE TRANSMISSION WAS SLIPPING AND NOT SHIFTING CORRECTLY. I WAS ABLE TO GET MY CARAVAN TO QUIGLEY MOTORS WHICH IS THE LOCAL DODGE DEALERSHIP. THE DIAGNOSIS WAS 3RD GEAR WAS TOTALLY DESTROYED AND THEY FOUND ALOT OF METAL FRAGMENTS IN THE PAN. IT'S GOING TO COST ME $2500. TO FIX IT. THE CHRYSLER CORPORATION NEEDS TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THERE IS A WELL DOCUMENTED PROBLEM WITH THIS TRANSMISSION AND SHOULD RECTIFY THE SITUATION. IT IS MY FIRST CHRYSLER VEHICLE AND IT WILL PROBABLY WILL BE MY LAST. THE SERVICE THAT I RECEIVED AT QUIGLEY MOTORS WAS HORRENDOUS. MY VAN WAS THERE AN ENTIRE WEEK BEFORE THEY COULD GET IT IN TO GIVE ME A REPAIR ESTIMATE. 5 STAR SERVICE??? I DON'T THINK SO!*AK
Jun 10, 2003
A CRACK IN EXHAUST MANIFOLD CAUSED FUMES TO COME INTO VEHICLE.*AK DEALER COULD NOT DUPLICATE CONCERN. CUSTOMER STATES VEHICLE JERKS WHEN IN CRUISE. DEALER FOUND NO PROBLEM. *TT
Apr 10, 2002
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
DT: THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONTAL ACCIDENT AT 55 MPH. UPON IMPACT, THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY, AND THE SEAT BELT DID NOT RESTRAIN. THE CONTACT'S HUSBAND WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND HE HIT THE STEERING WHEEL, AND HIS COWORKER WAS THE PASSENGER, AND HE WENT INTO THE WINDSHIELD. BOTH OCCUPANTS WHERE WEARING THEIR SEAT BELTS AND WHERE PROPERLY RESTRAINED. THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WAS ON BEFORE RECALL REPAIRS HAD BEEN DONE IN JULY 2005, AND HORN WOULD NOT WORK. AFTER THE RECALL REPAIRS WERE COMPLETED THE LIGHT DID NOT COME BACK ON. THERE WAS PRE-IMPACT BRAKING TO BOTH OCCUPANTS. THIS CAUSED INJURIES TO BOTH OCCUPANTS. THE DEALERSHIP AND THE MANUFACTURER HAVE BEEN CONTACTED, AND THEY TOLD HER THEY WOULD SEND HER FILE OFF TO SPECIAL INVESTIGATIONS, AND SHE MAY HEAR FROM BACK FROM THEM, AND SHE MAY NOT. THIS ACCIDENT OCCURRED ON OCTOBER 11, 2005. T A POLICE REPORT WAS TAKEN. THE ACCIDENT CAUSED PROPERTY DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. *AK
Oct 12, 2005
WHILE DRIVING BETWEEN 35-45 MPH, GOING AROUND A CURB, THE BACK OF THE VAN SKIDDED. THIS RESULTED IN THE VEHICLE GOING OVER A HILL, AND IMPACTING A TREE HEAD ON. UPON IMPACT, ONLY PASSENGER'S AIR BAG DEPLOYED. ALSO, THE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT. DRIVER SUSTAINED I FACIAL INJURIES. VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK
Feb 04, 2005
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS
2 complaints
WHEN THE CONSUMER APPLIED BRAKES, THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. THE CONSUMER WAS UNABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND SKIDDED INTO EMBANKMENT AND FLIPPED TWICE. THE DRIVER 'S SIDE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY, BUT THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR DID DEPLOY. THE DRIVER WAS DEAD ON ARRIVAL. THE INSURANCE COMPANY TOWED TOTALED THE VEHICLE. PLEASE FILL IN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *JB
Oct 12, 2004
I WAS SLOWING DOWN TOWARD A TRAFFIC LIGHT AND ABOUT 35-MPH THE ABS LIGHT CAME ON. THE CAR BRAKES WENT ALMOST TO THE FLOOR COULD NOT STOP. CONSEQUENTLY I COULD NOT AVOID A COLLISION. THE DEALER SAID THAT THE AIR BAG DID NOT OPEN BECAUSE THE VEHICLE IMPACT WAS INCHES JUST ABOVE THE LEFT SIDE OF THE BUMPER, TO MY SURPRISE. I THOUGHT I WAS BUYING A SAFE VEHICLE FOR MY FAMILY. SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NEW THE LIGHT CAME ON ONE TIME OR ANOTHER, THE DELER COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM BUT IT WAS THERE AND NOTHING WAS FIX. *AK
Jun 09, 1999
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL 02V293000 CONCERNING AIR BAG CLOCK SPRING FAILURE. AIR BAG LIGHT AND THE LEFT SIGNAL LIGHT ILLUMINATED WHILE IN MOTION, ALSO, HORN WAS INOPERATIVE AND THE LEFT TURN SIGNAL GAVE OFF AN CONSENT ALARM SOUND WHEN ENGAGED. *AK
Jun 24, 2004
AIR BAG SENSOR LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON, CAUSING HORN AND FLASHERS NOT TO WORK.*AK
Jul 01, 2002
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
TRANSMISSION NOT PROPERLY SHIFTING IN 2 ND GEARS. AIR CONDITIONING STILLS BLOWS SEMI-WARM AIR. SWAY BARS REPLACED.
Jan 15, 2004
ON MY WAY HOME FROM THE DEALERSHIP I HEARD A NOISE IN THE FRONT END WHEN I ARRIVED HOME I CALLED A MECHANIC THE NEXT DAY. HE LOOKED AT MY VAN ON THAT MONDAY TO FIND THE STABILIZER BAR BROKE AND ZIPPITY STRIP TO THE STRUT WHICH WAS ALSO BAD. THE DEALER LET ME DRIVE 180 MILES WITH MY SON IN THE VEHICLE, AND THE FRONT END WAS LIKE THIS. THE FOLLOWING WEEK I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND WHITE SMOKE STARTED TO COME FROM THE VENTS SO I RETURNED TO THE MECHANIC AND PAID $105.00 TO HAVE FREON WITH DYE RAN THROUGH MY SYSTEM TO FIND THE EVAPORATOR WAS BAD AND NEEDED REPLACED, WHICH WOULD COST AT LEAST $860.00. THEN AT 36 DAYS OF OWNERSHIP AND ONLY 64000 MILES THE CONSTANT VELOCITY JOINT IS BAD AND A NEW TRANSAXLE IS GOING TO HAVE TO BE PUT IN THIS WEEK. I HAVE CALLED THE DEALERSHIP WHERE IT WAS PURCHASED AND ALL THEY CAN SAY IS WERE SORRY WE GOT THE VEHICLE IN 2 DAYS PRIOR TO MY PURCHASE AND WAS NEVER INSPECTED, THERE MONEY WAS MORE IMPORTANT THAN ME AND MY SON. I THEN CALLED THE DAIMLER CHRYSLER CORPORATION WHERE THEY WERE RUDE AND SAID THERE IS NO RECALLS ON YOUR VEHICLE THERES NOTHING WE CAN DO FOR YOU. I KNOW FROM SOME RESEARCH THERE HAS BEEN A BIG PROBLEM WITH THE EVAPORATORS ON CHRYSLER PRODUCTS. PLEASE HELP ME I DO NOT KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO. THIS IS THE VAN I WILL BE DRIVING MY TWO SONS TO SCHOOL IN, I STARTING TO WONDER HOW SAFE WE WILL BE. *AK
Aug 17, 2003
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS
2 complaints
THE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED, WHICH CAUSED THE HORN AND CRUISE CONTROL TO BE INOPERATIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THE DRIVERS SIDE FRONTAL AIR BAG HAD TO BE REPAIRED. *NLM. ALSO THE TRANSMISSION DOWN SHIFTED HARD *TS *JB
Jun 27, 2003
PRIOR TO RECALL THE CLOCKSPRING WAS REPLACED, HOWEVER DEALER REFUSED TO REFUND CONSUMER, ALSO THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED.*JB
Jan 30, 2003
WHEELS
2 complaints
WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING THERE WAS A KNOCKING NOISE COMING FROM THE DRIVER SIDE REAR WHEEL. THE DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM.*JB
Jul 03, 2002
WHEN TAKING OFF FROM A COMPLETE STOP OR TURNING A CURVE WHEN THE ROAD IS WET, THE WHEELS WILL SPIN AND VEHICLE WILL HAVE NO TRACTION. TOOK VEHICLE TO REPAIR SHOP AND WAS TOLD THAT IT'S NORMAL FOR THE WHEELS TO SPIN WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE. *AK
Aug 06, 1998
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
ENGINE ASERVICE AND AIR BAG WARNING LIGHTS INDICATE A POTENTIAL SAFETY PROBLEM. DEALERSHIP /MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN UNABLE OR UNWILLING TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM.*AK
Feb 25, 2002
12/15/1999 ACCIDENT AT @ NOON, I STRUCK THE REAR OF A LEAF COLLECTION VEHICLE, RESULTING IN @ $7000 WORTH OF DAMAGE TO MY CAR MAJORITY OF DAMAGE IN FRONT, AIR BAG NEVER DEPLOYED, AFTER CAR WAS REPAIRED I AIR BAG LIGHT REMAINED CONTINUOUSLY ON WHEN CAR WAS ON. *AK
Feb 07, 2000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
AIRBAG LIGHT ON NO TURN SIGNALS AND NO REVERSE LIGHTS DUE TO FAILED AIRBAG CLOCKSPRING
Apr 13, 2019
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING ON WET ROADS, THE POWER BRAKES AND STEERING FAILED. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE PULLEY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
Jan 12, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I WAS BACKING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE IN 2012, WHEN THE BRAKES COMPLETELY FAILED, I HAD TO PUT MY VEHICLE INTO GEAR IN ORDER FOR IT TO STOP. EVEN THOUGH I WAS ONLY GOING 5 MPH OR LESS, I WAS ON A DOWNHILL SLOPE. THERE WASN'T AN ACCIDENT NOR ANY DAMAGE, SO I DON'T HAVE THAT TO REPORT. THE VAN WAS TAKEN TO TOWBIN DODGE IN HENDERSON, NV THAT WEEKEND I BELIEVE AND I WAS TOLD THAT THE RECALL DEFECT HAD BEEN FIXED. HOWEVER, THE HORN, AIRBAG LIGHT AND ABS STILL DO NOT WORK. MY VIN #[XXX], MY QUESTION IS THIS. IF THE RECALL PROBLEM IS STILL DEFECTIVE EVEN THOUGH IT'S BEEN REPAIRED, WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO DO? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Jan 15, 2015
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 20 MPH THE ENGINE STALLED. THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WAS INOPERABLE THE FUEL GAUGE WAS INACCURATE. THE CONTACT COULD NOT RESTART THE VEHICLE AND THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS WERE BLINKING ON AND OFF. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED FOUR TIMES TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE WAS 99,000. UPDATED 09/15/14*LJ
Aug 06, 2014
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING 5 MPH WHEN THE SERPENTINE BELT BECAME DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC, WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SERPENTINE BELT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 119,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 120,000.
May 12, 2014
ENGINE
1 complaint
DRIVING DURING HEAVY RAIN/SNOW OR GOING THROUGH STANDING WATER, THE SERPENTINE BELT SLIPS OFF OF THE PULLEYS. THIS LEADS TO A LOSS OF POWER STEERING, POWER BRAKES AND ENGINE COOLING. MILEAGE AND DATE ARE APPROXIMATE. MULTIPLE OCCURRENCES. *TR
Oct 01, 2013
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,TIRES,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I BOUGHT A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN FROM FALLS CHURCH MOTORS FALLS CHURCH VA AFTER A COUPLE OF MONTHS OF DRIVING I STARTED TO NOTICE AND FEEL A WOBBLE IN THE FRONT LEFT DRIVERS FRONT TIRE A FEW MONTHS LATER I HAD A FLAT WHILE THE VAN WAS PARKED IT TOOK ME AND TWO OTHER MEN TO LOOSEN THE LUGS ON THE TIRE TO GET OF THE TIRE THE JACK WHILE THE VAN IN THE AIR BENT AND THE VAN FELL TO THE SIDE I PULLED ONE OF THE MEN AWAY FROM THE VAN AS I SAW IT FALLING TOWARD US WE GOT ANOTHER JACK AND GOT THE VAN BACK UP IN THE AIR AND PUT THE DONUT ON I THAN A SHORT TIME LATER GOT ON THE HIGHWAY AND THE DONUT FLEW OFF THE VAN IF IT WERE IN TRAFFIC IT COULD HAVE KILLED ME AND OTHER ON THE HIGHWAY A COUPLE OF MONTH LATER THE TIMING BELT BROKE AND THE WATER PUMP I THOUGHT THE VAN WAS STILL UNDER WARRANT OF THE EXTENDED WARRANTY FROM FALLS CHURCH MOTORS I LATER FOUND OUT IT WAS NOT THEY I THOUGHT FIXED THE TIMING BELT IT HAS BEEN RUNNING ROUGH EVER SINCE THE VAN NOW WHILE RUNNING THE MOTOR TURNS OFF WHILE ANY SHARP TURN TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT THEY SAID TO ME IN THE RECENT PAST AFTER I THOUGHT THEY FIXED IT . IT'S NOT GOING TO RUN LIKE NEW I FEEL THIS DEALER SHIP DID SELL ME A DEFECTIVE VAN AND UNSAFE PARTS ON THE VEHICLES AND SOME OTHER VEHICLES THEY ARE SELLING MAYBE ENDANGERING OTHER PEOPLES LIFE I MET ONE MAN AT A GAS STATION HE SAID HE HAD A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM RIGHT AWAY AND IT SLIPPING AFTER HE BOUGHT IT. *TR
Mar 09, 2010
POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
I FOUND OUT THAT THE 1998 DODGE CARAVAN THAT I PURCHASED HAS TWO DESIGN FLAWS. ONE IS THAT THE VEHICLE DOES NOT HAVE BRAKE-SHIFT INTERLOCK. THE OTHER IS THAT THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH CHRYSLER GEN3 SEAT BELTS THAT, IN SOME VEHICLES, HAVE UNLATCHED WHILE PEOPLE WERE DRIVING. I BELIEVE THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD ORDER A RECALL OF THE 1998 CARAVAN FOR BOTH OF THESE IMPORTANT SAFETY ISSUES. *TR
Feb 27, 2010
AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I PURCHASED A USED 1998 DODGE CARAVAN VAN AT WESTSIDE DODGE 1672 CASSAT AVE JACKSONVILLE FL 32210 AND WAS TOLD BY THE SALESMAN THAT THE AIRBAG LIGHT WAS SUPPOSE TO STAY LIT AND THE A/C LIGHTS WERE SUPPOSED TO BE BLINKING. WHEN I FOUND THE OWNERS MANUAL THE DAY AFTER I PURCHASED THE VAN I READ THAT THE`AIRBAG LIGHT IS SUPPOSE TO GO OFF IN 8 SECONDS AFTER THE CAR IS STARTED AND I ALSO READ THAT WHEN THE A/C LIGHTS ARE FLASHING THE A/C NEEDS TO BE SERVICED. I ADVISED THE SALESMAN AND WAS TOLD TO BRING THE VAN BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP WHEN I DID THEY TRIED TO CHARGE ME $119.00 TO CHECK THE AIRBAG AND $49.95 TO CHECK THE AIRCONDITIONING. I REFUSED TO SIGN ANY CONSENT AND TRIED TO SPEAK WITH THE USED CAR SALES MANAGER AND WAS TOLD "WE ONLY SELL JUNK CARS TO THE PUBLIC AS A COURTESY", AND THAN HE HUNG UP ON ME. I ALSO FOUND ANOTHER COMPLAINT FROM ANOTHER CUSTOMER OF THIS DEALERSHIP WHO BOUGHT A NEW CAR AND HAD THE SAME EXACT AIR BAG PROBLEM AND TO THIS DATE IT HAS NOT BEEN RESOLVED. PLEASE HELP ME GET THIS RESOLVED, I AM DRIVING A VEHICLE THAT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND HAS NO AIR CONDITIONING. *TR
Jun 14, 2009
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
I HAVE A 1998 DODGE VAN CARAVAN. INTERMITTENTLY THE CRUISE CONTROL STAR TO FAIL, SOME TIME WOULD TURN ON OTHER TIMES WOULD NOT WORK AT ALL AND THEN DIED THEN THE HORN QUIT WORKING AND THEN E FEW WEEKS LATER THE AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON AND STAYED ON. FEW WEEKS AFTER THAT THE VAN AT PARKED WOULD START THEN SHUT OFF; START SHUT OFF. IT DOES THAT FIVE TIMES AND THEN IT DIES. 20 MINUTES LATER IT WOULD START JUST FINE. A FRIEND OF MINE CALL TO MY ATTENTION THAT THERE WERE A FEW RECALLS ON THIS VAN. ONE OF THEM WAS THE CLOCK SPRING AND THE REAR SOUND BARRIER/OUTBOARD SEAT BELTS. THE CLOCK SPRING WAS REPLACED. THE HORN AND THE AIR BAG LIGHT STATS OFF BUT THE CRUISE CONTROL LIGHT COMES ON BY IT SELF AND THE SHUTS OFF BY IT SELF. THE CRUISE CONTROL STILL NO ENGAGING. THE OTHER PROBLEM WITH ENGINE NOT STATING, IT WAS GOOD FOR A WHILE AFTER THE CLOCK SPRING WAS REPLACED BUT AFTER FOUR WEEKS IS DOING IT AGAIN ALONG WITH WHEN I AM DRIVING IT WONT BE NO FUNCTION ON THE PANEL. IT BLACKS OUT AND NO GAUGES ACTIVITY ( SPEEDOMETER,RPM :PANEL LIGHT: TEMP;GAS;ETC;ETC. PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF THESE PROBLEMS ARE RELATED TO ANY RECALLS. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR TIME. *TR
Jun 10, 2008
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
DT: THE CONTACT STATE THAT 1998 DODGE CARAVAN WAS HAVING AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH STARTING AND STOPPING. THE PROBLEM OCCURRED ON AND OFF FOR ABOUT TWO YEARS. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TO THE DEALERSHIP, THEY HAVE SEEN THE PROBLEM, BUT COULD NOT DUPLICATE IT. ALSO, THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP, AND THEY COULD NOT FIX THE PROBLEM EITHER. THE VEHICLE ONLY DID THIS WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO START IT. THIS HAPPENED EVERY DAY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER FOUR OR FIVE TIMES. *AK UPDATED 11/29/2005 - *NM
Oct 18, 2005
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
DT: THE CONSUMER OWNS A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. SERPENTINE BELT FAILED FIVE TIMES. WHEN THIS OCCURRED THERE WAS A LOSS OF POWER STEERING AS WELL AS THE CHARGING OF THE BATTERY. THIS ONLY HAPPENED IN WET OR RAINY CONDITIONS. THE CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO A DEALER, WHO SAID THEY COULD AGAIN REPLACE THE SERPENTINE BELT, BUT IT WOULD FAIL AGAIN IN WET CONDITIONS OR RAINY WEATHER. THERE WAS NO GUARANTEE. THE LAST TRIP TO THE DEALER RESULTED IN THE REPLACEMENT OF THE SERPENTINE BELT. NO ACCIDENT OR INJURY WAS REPORTED. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND FILED A COMPLAINT ALSO. THE LOCAL DEALER SAID NOTHING COULD BE DONE ABOUT. *AK UPDATED 02/07/06. *JB
Sep 29, 2005
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
DT: AIR CONDITIONING LIGHT IS BLINKING; ENGINE CHECK AND AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON, NOTHING ON THE DASH (SPEEDOMETER ETC) DOES NOT WORK. DOOR LOCKS DO NOT WORK; IT'S LIKE IT ALL WENT OUT AT ONCE.*AK
May 06, 2005
STEERING,STRUCTURE,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I OWN A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN 3.3L AND LESS THAN 55,000 MILES, THE TENSIONER PULLEY WENT OUT OF ALIGNMENT, THE BOLT HOLDING THE TENSIONER IN PLACE WAS SHEARED IN HALF, THE BELT FELL OFF, AND THE STEERING LOCKED UP IMMEDIATELY. THANK GOD THIS HAPPEN IN THE SHOPPING MALL PARKING LOT AND NOT ON FREEWAY, THE VAN BE IMPOSSIBLE TO CONTROL! HAVE THE VAN TOWED TO C&M AUTO SERVICE, HAVE THE SERPENTINE BELT, THE SERPENTINE BELT TENSIONER REPLACED AND RE-ALIGN THE TENSIONER. THE BELT/PULLEY DESIGN ON THIS VAN IS FLAWED AND A MAJOR SAFETY HAZARD! IN BRAZIL, CHRYSLER DID A RECALL BACK IN 2000 - DUE TO SEVERAL ISSUES RELATED TO BELT/PULLEY SYSTEM ON THE CARAVAN AND GRAND CARAVAN MODELS.*AK
Dec 02, 2004
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
VEHICLE WAS LEAKING FUEL. IT WAS DISCOVERED WHEN THE CONSUMER SMELLED GAS. CONSUMER MADE CONTACT WITH THE MANUFACTURER, AND H WAS TOLD THAT VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN 03E450000, 03E530000, AND 00V268000. *AK
Nov 12, 2004
STEERING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
THIS VEHICLE HAS MULTIPLY PROBLEMS. CONSUMER NOTICED THAT THE AIR BAG LIGHT APPEARED ON THE DASHBOARD AND REMAINED ON. WHEN PRESSING THE HORN IT FAILED TO COME ON ITS OWN. ALSO, SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. THE SMOKE EXTINGUISHED ITSELF OUT. NO INJURIES REPORTED. HAZARD LIGHTS FAILED TO COME ON. DROVE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE HORN ASSEMBLY AND AIR BAGS WERE SEPARATED PROBLEMS, AND THE STEERING COLUMN WAS OKAY. NO DETERMINATION ON THE HAZARD LIGHTS WAS MADE. CONSUMER INFORMED THE MECHANIC THAT THIS PROBLEM OCCURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS, AND HAD NOT BEEN RESOLVED. *AK
Nov 12, 2004
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
EXPERIENCE LOST OF ENGINE POWER AND STEERING. BOLTS BROKEN AND REPLACE GASKETS. LOST STEERING WHILE DRIVING. *BF THE FRONT END APPEARED TO BE MUCH LOWER THAN USUAL AND THE BELT WAS HANGING BELOW THE CHASSIS. *SC
Nov 05, 2004
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
1 complaint
THE AUTOMATIC SLIDING DOOR OPENED. ALSO, THE HANDICAP LIFT OPENED , AND FOLDED OUT. CONSUMER PULLED OVER, AND CLOSED THE LIFT AND THE DOOR. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM.*AK
Oct 28, 2004
POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I HAVE A 1998 DODGE CARAVAN WITH ONLY 66,332 MILES THE PROBLEM'S THAT HAVE COME UP IS FIRST THE TRANSMISSION HAD A INTERNAL PIN BUST WHICH CAUSED SEVERAL PARTS TO COME APART. THIS CAUSED THE TRANSMISSIONTO BREAK, IT HAD TO BE REBUILT ON 2-17-04 WITH 61995 MILES AT THE COST OF $1685.25. THE SECOND PROBLEM IS THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM HAD A FAILURE WITH THE EVAPORATOR WHICH SEEMS TO BE VERY COMON ACCORDING TO SEVERAL SERVICE CENTERS THAT I HAVE CONTACTED OUTSIDE THE CHRYSLER COMPANY. WHICH SPITZER DODGE WANTED TO CHARGE $1100.00 TO REPAIR. I KNOW THE VEHICAL IS 6 YEARS OLD BUT WITH THE LOW MILAGE I THINK THIS IS A LITTLE UNCALLED FOR AND THOUGH IT SHOULD BE REPORTED.*AK
Aug 27, 2004
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS MY 1998 DODGE CARAVAN WOULD STALL WHEN STARTING UP, IT HAS A REOCCURING AIRBAG LIGHT, CRUISE CONTROL MISFUNCTIONING AND HORN STALLING ISSUES. I CURRENTLY HAD TO TAKE IT TO CHYRISTLER FOR REPAIRS. I WAS TOLD FROM THE MANUFACTURER THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE DODGE CARAVAN 1996-1998 RE:CLOCKSPRING. MY VEH. WAS NOT LISTED WITH THIS RECALL AND I'M CONCERNED THAT I AM EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEMS AS THE DODGE CARAVANS THAT HAVE BEEN RECALLED. THE AIR BAG LIGHT APPEAR ON THE DASHBOARD AND REMAIN ON. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC REPLACED THE CLOCKSPRING. *AK
Jun 28, 2004
PARKING BRAKE,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
EMERGENCY BRAKES INOPERABLE, AIRBAG LIGHT TURNS ON, HORN DOES NOT WORK, HARD TIME REMOVING KEY FROM IGNITION AND I CAN GO FROM "P" TO "R" OR "D" WITHOUT PRESSING ON THE BRAKES (EVEN IF THERE IS NO KEY IN THE IGNITION). *JB
Feb 02, 2004
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
5 BATTERIES SINCE PURCHASED NEW. THREE WERE NOTED AS HAVING LEAKED BATTERY ACID. IN MAY/JUNE 2003, THE WIRING HARNESSES (MAIN ONES) HAD BEEN EATEN BY BATTERY ACID CAUSING ALL SORTS OF ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS. THE HARNESSES ARE ROUTED UNDER THE BATTERY PAN. STUPID PLACEMENT. DEALER SPLICED WIRES TOGETHER TO GET IT RUNNING AT HIS COST, AT MY INSISTENCE. VAN CONTINUES TO START INCONSISTENTLY. HORN DOESN'T WORK SINCE DEALER SPLICED WIRES. TURN IGNITION KEY - CLICK, REPEAT 10-20 TIMES, STARTER WILL CATCH ON ONE. DESIGN DEFECT IS ROUTING OF HARNESSES AND LACK OF SHIELD TO PROTECT THEM.
Jan 15, 2004
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
TRANSMISSION ------------ SUDDEN FAILURE OF ALL FORWARD AND REVERSE GEARS. KEY OFF-ON BRINGS BACK FORWARD DRIVE FOR ABOUT 100 YARDS THEN FAILS AGAIN. NO REVERSE GEAR AT ALL. COMPUTER DIAGNOSTIC INDICATES 3 TRANSMISSION ERRORS RELATED TO SHIFTING. SENSORS LOOK OK. SHOP HAD TO REBUILD TRANSMISSION AT A COST OF OVER $2,000. BRAKES ------ EXTREMELY EXCESSIVE WEAR OF FRONT BRAKE PADS. MUST BE REPLACED AT LEAST ONCE A YEAR NOW. FIRST TIME IT OCCURRED IT DESTROYED ONE BRAKE ROTOR -- HAD TO REPLACE THAT. NOW, AT THE FIRST SIGN OF BRAKE SQUEAL I MUST CHECK AND REPLACE THE PADS AS THEY ARE CLOSE TO WEARING OUT. GENERALLY GET LESS THAN 15,000 MILES PER SET.
Jan 15, 2004
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
MY A/C STOPPED WORKING RIGHT AFTER MY 3 YEAR 36 MILE WARRANTY RAN OUT. DEALER SAID IT WAS THE EVAPORATOR COIL. COSTS ME $400. RIGHT NOW MY A/C JUST QUIT. MY VAN HAS 58,000 MILES ON IT. I GO THROUGH BELTS LIKE CRAZY. MY MECHANIC CAN'T FIGURE IT OUT. AND OTHER MECHANICS SAY IT'S AN EPIDEMIC WITH CARAVANS. PLEASE HELP.
Jan 15, 2004
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
PROBLEMS WITH FUEL RAIL ON 1998 DODGE CARAVAN. *MR THE CONSUMER HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE IN FOR A RECALL REPAIR FOR THE FUEL LINE IN WHICH THE DODGE DEALER REPAIRED IT, BUT THERE WAS A CONTINUED LEAK THAT HAD COME FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONSUMER THEN TOOK THE VEHICLE TO GOOD YEAR WHO REPLACED THE FAULTY LINE TO STOP THE LEAK, AND ALL THE DEALER DID WAS PLACE A STRONGER CLAMP AROUND THE LEAKING LINE. THE CONSUMER WAS DENIED A REFUND, BECAUSE AN AUTHORIZED DEALER DID NOT PERFORM THE WORK. RECALL#00V268000 *SCC. THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED THE TRANSMISSION HAD TO BE REPLACED. *JB
Aug 27, 2003
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
1 complaint
FUEL TANK LEAKS. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
Aug 12, 2003
STEERING,SUSPENSION,SEATS
1 complaint
I HAVE A 1998 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN WE HAVE HAD THE STEERING RAC REPLACED TWICE. WE ALSO HAVE CONSTANT ALIGNMENT PROBLEMS WHAT WE ARE WONDERING HAS THERE EVER BEEN REPORTS ON THE FRONT SEATS (DRIVERS SEAT) SEPARATING AS THIS IS WHAT HAPPENED 8/3/03 THE WELDING HAS SEPERATED AND THE SUPPORT BAR HAS SNAPPED COMPLETELY APART WE HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE IT. *AK
Aug 05, 2003
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
ON MY WIFE'S 1998 DODGE CARAVAN, THE IDLER SERPENTINE BELT TENSIONER ARM COMPLETELY BROKE OFF CAUSING ALOT OF NOISE UNDER THE HOOD, LOSS OF POWER STEERING, AND LOSS OF ALTERNATOR BATTERY RECHARGE. IT ALSO CAUSED SOME DAMAGE TO THE OTHER PULLEYS. I'VE OWNED MANY CARS AND THIS HAS NEVER HAPPENED ON OTHER MAKES. THIS IS A SAFETY HAZARD THAT CAN LEAVE ANYBODY IN THE MIDDLE OF NO WHERE.*AK
Jul 12, 2003
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
RECALL 00V268000; VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE DUE TO ENGINE FUEL RAILS WITH NITROLE RUBBER O-RING SEALS WHICH DEGRADED OVER TIME, RESULTING INTO FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE UNDERHOOD FUEL INJECTION FUEL RAIL. *AK
Jun 09, 2003
PARKING BRAKE,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
1998 DODGE CARAVAN: (1.)TWICE IN THE PAST TWO YEARS "FLEX PLATE" BETWEEN THE ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION HAS FAILED BREAKING IN THE CENTER IMITATING THE SOUND OF A FAILING MAIN BEARING. UNDER 100,000 MILES. (2.) TRANSMISSION FAILED 100,000 MI., (3.)WIRING HARNESS CAUGHT FIRE WHILE ENGINE RUNNING - DESTROYED HARNESS. (SPARKS SHOOTING OUT FROM BENEATH VEHICLE - FIRE EXTINGUISHED BEFORE MAJOR DAMAGE @ 110,000 MILES. ,000 MI. ( 4.) HEADLIGHT LENS PLASTIC TURNED MILKY AND INHIBITS PROPER LIGHT PROJECTION - DIFFICULT TO SEE WELL AT NIGHT EVEN WHEN LIGHTS ARE ON BRIGHT. *NLM
Mar 21, 2003
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I ONLY HAVE 35,000 MILES ON THIS CAR AND OF COURSE THE WARRANTY IS EXPIRED. AND ALL OF A SUDDEN, THE CAR ACTS LIKE IT HAS 135,000 MILES ON IT. THIS HAS ALREADY COST ME OVER $200 TO REPAIR BRAKES BECAUSE OF ROTORS, NOT BAD BRAKES. NOW I NEED $1000 HEAD GASKET WORK. STARTER ONLY SEEMS TO START WHEN IT WANTS TO. VERY TEMPORAMENTAL. WHAT IS GOING ON HERE THAT A 35,000 MILE CAR WOULD HAVE SO MUCH WRONG SO SOON. DT
Nov 29, 2002
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
ENGINE HEAD GASKET BLEWOUT, CAUSING VEHICLE TO LEAK OIL. *AK CONSUMER STATES THAT THE MANIFOLD WAS CRACKED AND WELDED. *YD
Apr 10, 2002
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,WHEELS
1 complaint
VEHICLE WAS LEAKING OIL. TOOK VEHICLE TO MECHANIC, AND MECHANIC INDICATED EXTERNAL CYLINDER GASKET WAS GONE. DEALER CONTACTED. *AK CONSUMER STATED THAT THE VAN HAD NUMEROUS PROBLEMS, POWER STEERING LOSS, BACK WHEELS ON FIRE, COMPLETE BRAKE FAILURE AND ENGINE WOULD SEIZE AND STOP. *YH
Mar 08, 2002
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
AS A CONCERNED CITIZEN, WHO HANDLES THE FLEET FOR A STATE AGENCY, I UNHAPPY THAT NOTHING HAS BEEN PUBLISHED FROM THE MANUFACTURED AS RECALLS TO FIX THE PROBLEMS WHICH SEEMS TO HAPPEN AROUND 35,000 MILES OR IF THE VEHICLE HAPPENS TO BE PARKED FOR ANYTIME OVER TWO WEEKS. *AK
Feb 18, 2002
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
DURING JANUARY 2001 THE TRANSMISSION WOULD COMPLETELY SHUT OFF IN MID TRAFFIC OR AT A TURN THEN EITHER STALL OR TURN BACK ON BY ITSELF. WE HAD IT INTO THE DEALERSHIP 3 TIMES BEFORE ENGINE CHECK LIGHT CAME ON AND THEY COULD TELL US WHAT THEY SAY THE PROBLEM WAS : THE EGR VALVE AND SOME KIND OF TRANSMISSION LEAK. THEY COMPLETED THE WORK FOR SEVERAL HUNDRED DOLLARS AND NOW IN OCTOBER 2001 THE TRANSMISSION WHILE DRIVING STARTED MAKING REVVING (ACCELERATING) NOISES THEN STALLED WITH NO WARNING, NOW IT WILL NOT SHIFT FROM FIRST GEAR WITHOUT STALLING AND ANOTHER CHRYSLER DEALERSHIP SAYS WE NEED A WHOLE NEW TRANSMISSION FOR OVER TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS.*AK
Oct 24, 2001
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ENGINE WARNING LIGHT WAS ON, AND CONSUMER SAW SOMETHING HANGING FROM UNDER THE CAR, IT WAS SERPENTINE BELT. THEN, THERE WAS NO STEERING OR BRAKING.*AK
May 22, 2001
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
CONSUMER STATES LEFT FRONT SIDE OF VEHICLE APPEARS TO BE LOWER THAN THE RIGHT AND THE BRAKES WEAR DOWN ONLY ON THE FRONT LEFT SIDE, VEHICLE SKIDDED WHEN BRAKES WERE BEING APPLIED WHICH CAUSED AN ACCIDENT CONSUMER WAS ADVISED FRONT CALIPER, ROTOR AND BRAKE PADS WERE NEEDED BECAUSE THEY WERE WORN, DEALERSHIP ADVISED CONSUMER THEY COULD NOT EXPLAIN WHY VEHICLE WAS SKIDDING, CONSUMER IS HAVING TO REPLACE THE ROTOR, CALIPER AND BRAKE ONLY ON FRONT SIDE EVERY 8000 MILES, CONSUMER WAS ADVISED BY DELEARSHIP THAT THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE IS KNOWN TO HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKES AND WOULD PROBABLY HAVE TO BE REPLACED EVERY SIX MONTHS. *JB KEY WOULD NOT TURN IN IGNITION, DEALER ATTEMPTED TO REMOVE CYLINDER AND IT BROKE, DEALER REPLACED. TAPE DRAGGED IN THE TAPE PLAYER, DEALER REPLACED. AT TIMES WHEN STARTING VEHICLE, THERE IS NO RADIO, LIGHTS, OR HORN, DEALER COULD NOT FIND ANY PROBLEMS. SERPENTINE BELT WAS REPLACED. SLIGHT FLUID LEAK FROM TRANSMISSION COOLER LINE,CONSUMER STATES TRANSMISSION JERKED. ARM REST FASTNER BACKED OFF. LEFT FRONT BRAKES CONTINUE TO WEAR AND PULL VEHICLE, BRAKES LOCK UP CAUSING VEHICLE TO SKID. *SLC
Apr 25, 2001
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ENGINE CHECK LIGHT CAME ON DUE TO GAS CAP FAILURE. *AK
Apr 08, 2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
WITH THE MINIVAN IN REVERSE GEAR BACKING UP,AT 5MPH FROM A DISTANT OF 100FT AND THEN APPLY BRAKE PEDAL, FAIL TO STOP THE MINIVAN.THE ENGINE PICK UP SPEED,WHILE FOOT IS STILL ON BRAKE AND MINIVAN IS TURN TO LEFT MOVING IN A CIRCLE IN A PARKING AREA CAUSING DAMAGE TO MY MINIVAN AND ANOTHER CAR PARK IN AREA.*AK
Mar 30, 2001
AIR BAGS,SEATS
1 complaint
CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING 50MPH AND REARENDED A VEHICLE THAT CAME TO SUDDEN STOP. DRIVER'S SEAT COLLAPSED BACKWARDS. UPON IMPACT, AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. DRIVER SUFFERED INJURIES IN BOTH CASES. VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AFTER 12/14/00. *AK
Mar 27, 2001
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
CONSUMER HEARD A GROWLING NOISE WHEN TAKING FOOT OF GAS PEDAL. TRANSMISSION BLEW A QUARTER SIZE HOLE IN IT. ALSO, LOSING OIL*AK
Mar 15, 2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING COULD STEP ON THE BRAKES PEDAL AND VEHICLE WILL START SHAKING WITHOUT A NOTICE OF BRAKES WORKING. *AK IN LOW IDLE WITH BRAKES ON, VEHICLE START SHAKING AS IF IT WOULD DIE (ENGINE SHUT OFF). *YH
Jan 19, 2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
WE BOUGHT THIS VAN IN JANUARARY 1, 2000 WE HAVE HAD THIS VAN FOR A YEAR NOW AND HAVE HAD THE BRAKES DONE ON IT 8 TIMES. THE BRAKES GET SO HOT THAT IT MELTS THE VALVE STEMS. ALSO WHEN WE BOUGHT THIS VAN THE YELLOW LIGHTS ON THE FRONT DASH FOR THE REAR WINDOW WIPER AND THE OTHER LIGHTS SURROUNDING THAT LIGHT KEEP BLINKING AND WONT STOP BLINKING UNTIL DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY FOR ABOUT 10 TO 15 MINUTES. THE DEALERSHIP DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO MAKE THE LIGHTS STOP BLINKING. *AK
Jan 16, 2001
INTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
REAR DOOR INDICATOR LIGHT WAS STAYING ON DURING TRAVELING, CAUSING OVERHEAD LIGHT TO STAY ON . *AK THE PROBLEM HAS TO DO POSSILY WITH THE LATCH. JUST HAVE TO KEEP RESLAMMING THE DOOR DOWN TO TURN OFF THE LIGHTS. *YH
Jan 08, 2001
STEERING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
SOME PART OF THE TURN SIGNAL MECHANISM BROKE INSIDE THE STEERING COLUMN. EVIDENTLY, A BROKEN PIECE MOVED INTO SUCH A POSITION AS TO JAM THE STEERING SHAFT. THIS OCCURRED DURING A LEFT TURN AT A CONTROLLED INTERSECTION FROM A STOP. THE STEERING JAMMED IN A LEFT TURN POSITION GIVING THE FEELING TO THE DRIVER (MY WIFE) THAT STEERING CONTROL HAD BEEN LOST. GIVING THE STEERING WHEEL SIGNIFICANTLY GREATER EFFORT BROKE FREE THE JAM CONDITION ALLOWING US TO PROCEED TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIR. THE SERVICE WRITER'S COMMENT WAS TO THE EFFECT THAT THIS WAS NOT UNUSUAL. MY ATTITUDE IS THAT IT SHOULD NEVER HAPPEN BECAUSE IF THE DRIVER PANICS, OR THE JAM CAN'T BE BROKEN, A SERIOUS ACCIDENT CAN HAPPEN. I HAVEN'T HEARD OF A REPAIR CAMPAIGN ON THIS TYPE OF FAILURE. OTHER THAN THAT INSTANCE, THIS VAN IS FINE IN EVERY RESPECT. THANKS FOR YOUR SERVICE. *AK
Nov 27, 2000
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
SERPENTINE BELT FAILED FOR THE 4TH TIME WHILE DRIVING. HAD HEARD A FUNNY NOISE PRIOR TO NO STEERING. THIS CAUSED A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL. FIRST 2 TIMES WAS AT 35MPH. 2ND 2 TIMES WAS WHILE STARTING VEHICLE. BEEN TO DEALER EACH TIME TO HAVE BELT REPLACED.*AK POWER STEERING, WATER PUM, ALTERNATOR AND AIR CONDITIONER FAILED. *YH
Oct 30, 2000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
WINDSHIELD WIPERS BECOME INOPERABLE IN RAINY WEATHER CONDITIONS DUE TO A MALFUNCTION IN THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR, AND THE MULTI- FUNCTION SWITCH. *AK
Jul 31, 2000
VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 40MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. AND SLIDING DOOR ON PASSENGER'S SIDE CAME OPEN. ALSO, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WORK INTERMITTENTLY.*AK
May 24, 2000
EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
1 complaint
VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED WITH A HANDICAP RAMP. VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A SIDE IMPACT ACCIDENT WHICH CAUSED THE LIFT TO FALL AND HIT THE DRIVER IN THE JAW BREAKING IT. THE DRIVER ALSO SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE SHOULDER AND NECK. THE RAMP HAS NO SAFETY LOCK FEATURE WHICH COULD HAVE PREVENTED INJURIES. *AK *ML *NM
Feb 14, 2000
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH WITH CRUISE CONTROL SET SMOKE WAS COMING FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE DUE TO TRANSMISSION BEING REPLACED. WHEN CONSUMER STOPPED VEHICLE. IT WOULDN'T START BACK UP. *AK
Nov 10, 1999
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
1 complaint
I OWN A HANDICAP ADAPTED VAN WHICH I FEEL IS VERY UNSAFE FOR ME AND MY CHILDREN..THIS VAN HAS BEEN IN FOR REPAIRS (AT LEAST) 3 TIMES FOR THE SAME PROBLEM..(WHEN FILED WITH GASOLINE, IT BUCKS, HESTITTAES AND STALLS OUT , LAST TIME ON TOP OF THE RAILROAD TRACKS(I WAS SCARED TO DEATH), EACH TIME MY VAN IS IN FOR REPAIRS AS WELLI HAVE NO TRANSPORTATION AS I CAN ONLY DRIVE MY SPECIALLY ADAPTED VAN AND ASLO EACH TIME I HAVE TROUBLE WITH THE VAN AND IT HAS TO BE TOWED FOR REPAIRS..I'M ALSO IN A JAMI CAN'T BE DRIVING A VAN THAT COULD BREAK UP ON ME(I CAN;T WALK..I CAN'T TAKE A CAB) MY VAN CAME BACK WITH A NEW FUELTANK AND FUEL LINE LAST THURSDAY AND TODAY RIDE-AWAY CORP HAD TO PICK IT UP AGAIN..FOR REPAIRS TO THE SPECIALLY ADAPTED"EMERGENCY PARKING BRAKE, WHICH I'VE NOT HAD NOW SINCE LAST FRIDAY) AND ALSO SINCE THE "REPAIRED" VAN HAS BEEN RETURNED TO ME THE KNEELER(SPECIAL SUSPENSION FLOOR) HAS BEEN "BOUNCING" WHEN THE RAMP IS DEPLOYED AS WELL AS MAKING A "BARKING" SOUND..THIS VAN HAS ONLY (NOW) A LITTLE OVER 8 MILES ON IT, AND I FEEL THIS VAN IS VERY UNSAFE AND I'M VERY NERVOUS AND APPREHENSIVE EACH TIME ME AND MY 2 CHILDREN HAVE TO USE IT...I HAVE TRIED TO BE PATIENT AND HAVE TRIED "WORKING" WITH THE COMPANIES, BUT IT JUST APPEARS TO BE ONE PROBLEM AFTER ANOTHER WITH THIS VAN..ALSO I'D LIKE TO ADD ANOTHER POINT THAT I FEEL DESERVES SOME TIME..WHEN I ORIGINALLY PURCHASED THIS VAN IN 2/98 RIDE_AWAY CORP IN EAST HARTFORD OR NEW HAMPSHIRE(THE HEADQUARTERS) WERE THE "MIDDLEMAN" SO TO SPEAK , IT WAS THRU THEM THAT THE VAN WAS PURCHASED..THE MONEY WAS PAID IMMEDIATELY CUZ BRAUN IN INDIANA WOULDN'T SEND THE VAN UNTIL THEY HAD THEIR MONEY..IT WAS "FAXED" TO THEM AND WE WERE EXPECTING THE VAN IN A MATTER OF AT THE MOST 10DAYS(AS IT HAD TO BE FLAT BEDDED TO CT) THE VAN DIDN'T ARRIVE UNTIL 6 WEEKS LATER(AFTER BRAUN CHRSLER HAD THEIR MONEY) WHY DID MY VAN HAVE TO SIT THERE UP IN WINAMAC INDIANA FOR AN EXTRA 6 WEEK..COULD IT BE THAT THEY WERE HAVING A PROBLEM EVEN WAY BACK THEN?WH.
Jul 01, 1999
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
1 complaint
SPEED SENSOR FAILED.
Feb 16, 1999
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 1998 DODGE Caravan have?
The 1998 DODGE Caravan currently has 671 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 1998 DODGE Caravan?
The most common problems reported for the 1998 DODGE Caravan are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 1998 DODGE Caravan problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 1998 DODGE Caravan comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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