Dodge Grand Caravan-which model year to choose?

[KrisZ]

OK, I need some input from the owners/people that know the Caravans/Town & Countrys.

My family is at the stage where we need a true family hauler. Grand Caravan/Town & Country naturally come to mind.
The plan is to buy used, however I'm debating between getting the 2008-2010 which are available in 3.3, 3.8 and 4.0L engines. Or go with the 2011+ year models with the Pentastar engine.

So far from my limited knowledge the pros for 2008-10 models would be quite a cheaper price, 3.3 is proven although lacking in power. The 4.0 I read is very nice, a bit thirsty and requires a timing belt change (not really a deal breaker), and I have not read any inherit problems with this engine. I don't know much about 3.8 and I'm not even sure it was available in Canada.

The 2011+ year models have more modern looking interiors and of course the pentastar which punches a nice dose of HP and a very good fuel economy. But I read it had few teething problems and of course being newer would be more expensive.

So should I:
1) Go with the 2008-10 model and if so, should I get the 3.3 or the 4.0? Anything else about this model year that I should know or keep an eye for?
2) Go with the 2011+ year model and spend a bit extra for a more modern engine? Anything about this model year I should be aware of or keep an eye for?

Your input is much appreciated.

 

[NHGUY]

The 08-up went way down hill in quality in my opinion.I wouldn't go beyond a 2007 and with a 3.3 only.But that's just me...

 

[anonobomber]

A family member had a 2000 with the 3.3 and it ran for 200,000mi with basically no maintenance in the last 100,000. Oil changes were probably 25,000 apart at the shortest intervals. I couldn't believe it still ran after the [censored] he put it through.

 

[Rolla07]

Not considering other options?

 

[ryansride2017]

Originally Posted By: KrisZ
The 4.0 I read is very nice, a bit thirsty and requires a timing belt change


Starting from 2008 on, which Chrysler minivan engines use a belt?

 

[cptbarkey]

08-10 was a dark time for chrysler, avoid it like the plague. 11-current are fine.

 

[JC1]

Originally Posted By: cptbarkey
08-10 was a dark time for chrysler, avoid it like the plague. 11-current are fine.


2011 and 2012 have an issue with inadequate breaks. Starting in 2012-13 they upgraded to HD brakes which solve that issue.

Here`s a link to tell if the van has HD breaks.
http://forum.chryslerminivan.net/showthr...-brakes-or-not.


As you mention the pre 2008 vans are pretty solid if there is no rust.

 

[WobblyElvis]

I looked at used dodge mini vans for several months this past summer. My budget would only let me buy a 2011 at the newest. I found 2006 had electrical problems. 2007 and up have problems with rust. I could not find a 2007-11 that did not have paint bubbling around the wheel wells. Try to buy a one owner car privately. Their trade in value is very low as you can buy a new one for $19,990 Canadian. I'd buy 2012 and up or 2005 and older.

 

[ram_man]

I'd go with the 3.6l penastar engine see a few in for service some with 120+ and are great vehicles. The 3.3/3.8 is also a decent engine if ok with more dated interior. Family member recently bought a 2011 grand caravan with 117,000 for 7000 from a dealer it's in good shape and runs good.

 

[901Memphis]

Why Chrysler?

 

[Nick1994]

Pentastar

 

[gabriel9766]

2011+ with the 3.6. the 3.3/3.8 are ok motors but 3.6 is more updated and i have no problem working on them.

 

[zrxkawboy]

Originally Posted By: ryansride2017
Originally Posted By: KrisZ
The 4.0 I read is very nice, a bit thirsty and requires a timing belt change


Starting from 2008 on, which Chrysler minivan engines use a belt?


Like he said, the 4.0.

 

[zrxkawboy]

I think the big problem was the TIPM. Research to see which years had this issue.

 

[KGMtech]

TIPM issues resolved for 2011+ ??

 

[Corollaman]

We have a 2014 with the 3.6, lots of power decent MPG's. Our 2005 with the 3.3, low on power and MPG's. Get the 3.6, you won't regret it.

 

[bubbatime]

I believe there was some issues with the first year 2011 3.6 engines, so I would look for a 2012 at least if going with that engine.

I have the 2009 4.0 and it's been a good car. Gets 20 mpg around town, 22 highway, so it's a little more thirsty than the smaller engines. It does have a timing belt that needs changed at 7 years old. The rear brakes were down to metal at 45k miles, so the brakes are not all that durable. Be sure to check your brakes often.

 

[daves87rs]

My mom has a 2012 3.6.

Pentastar is worth it....

 

[hansj3]

'89 with the turbo 2.5 and 5 speed..... .

Work has a bunch of caravans, the trans cooler lines leak, p/s line leaks and a few have loud lifter tick.

 

[CKN]

Just rented a Town and Country on vacation. Nice interior with leather-captain chairs in second row. Other than that-what a piece of junk. At 37,000 miles in rattled, the transmission would shudder. The transmission would clunk going from drive to reverse. It did drive smooth and get 28mpg gallon on the way to the Florida Keys and back.

Maybe if one would buy new and treat it well it would be OK.