The 1998 Dodge Caravan, part of the second generation of Dodge's pioneering minivan lineup, offered versatility and practicality. Available as a minivan, it spanned model years from 1996 to 2000. Key trims included the base, SE, LE, and the sportier ES. Its popularity stemmed from its family-friendly features, flexible seating, and a comfortable ride, making it a go-to for transporting people and cargo. It often featured a range of engine options to suit different needs.
The Good
The 1998 Dodge Caravan excelled in practicality with its spacious, adaptable interior and comfortable ride, appealing to families. Its value proposition was strong, offering ample features for its price point, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The Bad
Owners of the 1998 Dodge Caravan should be aware of potential issues with the transmission, particularly the automatic transmission, and electrical system glitches. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Engine performance might be sluggish with the base engines.
1998 Dodge Caravan: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1998 Dodge Caravan typically offered two main engine options: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.0-liter V6 engine. Some higher trims or specific configurations might have had access to a 3.3-liter V6 as well.
- Horsepower:
- 2.4L 4-cylinder: Approximately 150 horsepower.
- 3.0L V6: Around 158 horsepower.
- 3.3L V6: Approximately 158-170 horsepower depending on exact year/tune.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy varied by engine and drivetrain. For the 4-cylinder engine, expect figures around 20-22 MPG city and 26-28 MPG highway. The V6 engines were typically in the range of 17-19 MPG city and 23-25 MPG highway.
- 0-60 Times: With the base 4-cylinder engine, 0-60 mph times were generally in the 11-13 second range. The V6 engines offered slightly better acceleration, often in the 9-11 second range, but this was still considered leisurely for the time.
- Towing Capacity: The towing capacity for the 1998 Dodge Caravan was generally modest, typically around 1,500 to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped with a towing package. This was suitable for small trailers or recreational equipment.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Basic amenities, manual windows and locks, standard seating.
- SE: Often included a bit more comfort, such as upgraded upholstery, air conditioning, and power door locks.
- LE: Added features like power windows, cruise control, an upgraded audio system, and sometimes a roof rack.
- ES: The sportier trim often featured alloy wheels, fog lights, a more robust suspension, and premium interior appointments, sometimes including leather seating options and a more powerful engine option.
1998 Dodge Caravan Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Speed |
| Type | Minivan |
| Category | Minivan |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | FENTON |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3958 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5210 pounds |
| Overall Height | 68.50 inches |
| Overall Length | 186.30 inches |
| Overall Width | 76.80 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 113.30 inches |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.3L V6 |
| Engine Size | 3.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $25,155 |
| Invoice Price | $22,656 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
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Specifications
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History
All History
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Events
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1998 Dodge Caravan Have?
The 1998 Dodge Caravan, like many vehicles of its era, has a history of frequently reported problems that owners should be aware of. One of the most common and significant issues revolves around the automatic transmission. Failures, especially with the 4-speed automatic transmission, have been widely reported, often manifesting as slipping gears, delayed engagement, or complete failure to shift. This can be a costly repair. Another area of concern is the vehicle's electrical system. Owners have reported issues with power window motors, power lock actuators, instrument cluster failures, and erratic behavior of various sensors. The cooling system can also be a point of failure, with radiator leaks and coolant hose deterioration being noted. For models equipped with the 3.0L V6 engine, intake manifold gasket leaks have been observed, leading to coolant loss. Regarding recalls, specific recalls for the 1998 model year often targeted issues like potential fuel leaks, problems with the airbag system, or brake component concerns. It's always advisable to check for any outstanding recalls specific to a vehicle's VIN. Long-term reliability can be a mixed bag. While the basic structure of the Caravan is generally robust, the components prone to failure, particularly the transmission and certain electrical parts, can impact its longevity. Rust can also be a significant issue, especially in regions where road salt is used extensively, affecting body panels, suspension components, and the frame. The 1998 model year is part of the second generation of the Caravan, and while it smoothed out some of the kinks from the first generation, it still had its share of typical minivan issues of the late 90s.
How long will the 1998 Dodge Caravan last?
With proper and consistent maintenance, a 1998 Dodge Caravan can realistically reach an average of 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and some well-cared-for examples might even surpass 250,000 miles. However, achieving this mileage is highly dependent on proactive maintenance, especially concerning the transmission fluid changes and addressing any cooling system leaks promptly. The long-term durability is significantly challenged by the known weaknesses in the automatic transmission and potential for electrical gremlins. If these areas are neglected, the vehicle's service life can be considerably shortened. Rust is also a major factor affecting its lifespan in certain climates, weakening structural integrity over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Dodge Caravan offered a range of technology and safety features that were competitive for its time, focusing on practicality and family convenience. Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. Optional upgrades often included a CD player, allowing for a more modern listening experience. Higher trim levels might have featured premium audio systems with more speakers for improved sound quality.
Driver-assistance features were rudimentary by today's standards. Cruise control was a common convenience option, especially on SE and LE trims, aiding in highway driving comfort. Antilock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option on some models, enhancing braking control during emergencies.
Safety features included standard three-point seatbelts for all occupants, front airbags for the driver and front passenger, and child seat anchors (LATCH system precursors). Side-impact door beams were also a standard safety measure. The Caravan's body-on-frame construction (though often referred to as unibody, it had a robust structure for its class) was designed to absorb impact.
Optional features could extend to things like a roof rack for increased cargo capacity, a rear-seat entertainment system (though rare and basic for the era, perhaps just a VCR player), and sometimes upgraded interior lighting.
Regarding crash-test ratings, the 1998 Dodge Caravan, as part of the second generation, generally performed reasonably well for its class and time. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it four out of five stars in frontal driver and passenger impact tests. Side-impact ratings were also generally good, though results could vary based on specific equipment and testing protocols of the era. It's important to note that crash test standards and methodologies have evolved significantly since 1998, so these ratings should be viewed within the context of the time.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1998 Dodge Caravan Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Dodge Caravan had a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) that typically ranged from approximately $18,000 for a base model to over $25,000 for well-equipped LE or ES trims. Like most vehicles, the Caravan experienced significant depreciation in its initial years. Today, the current used market prices for a 1998 Dodge Caravan are considerably lower, generally ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, depending heavily on mileage, condition, trim level, and maintenance history. Factors affecting resale value include the notorious transmission reliability concerns, the presence of rust, overall cosmetic condition, and whether essential maintenance records are available. A well-maintained Caravan with fewer miles and in excellent condition will command a higher price, but these are rare finds for this model year.
1998 Dodge Caravan Cost of Ownership
The 1998 Dodge Caravan is generally considered economical to own, primarily due to its low purchase price on the used market. Insurance costs are typically modest, reflecting its age and value. Fuel costs will depend on engine choice and driving habits, with the 4-cylinder being more efficient. Routine maintenance is reasonably priced, with parts readily available. However, long-term ownership costs can escalate significantly if major repairs arise, particularly concerning the transmission or extensive electrical issues. While affordable upfront, potential buyers should budget for possible repair expenses to keep it running reliably.
1998 Dodge Caravan Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
19.80 gallons
City Mileage
12 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
17 miles/gallon
1998 Dodge Caravan Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1998 Dodge Caravan Recalls & Defects
Equipment
Recall date
2010-08-10
Recall no.
10e034000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Curt MFG IS Recalling Certain Class 3 Receiver Hitches, P/N 13347, Sold AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR USE ON 1997-2007 Chrysler Town and Country Vans, 1996-2007 Dodge Caravans, and 1996-2004 Plymouth Voyager Vans. When THE Hitch IS Loaded TO THE Maximum Rating, THE Hitch MAY Fracture or Break AT THE Bend Location Where THE Main Body OF THE Hitch Meets THE Hitch Muffler Strap.
Consequence
IF THE Area IN Question Fractures or Breaks, This Could Cause AN Unstable Driving Condition, Possibly Resulting IN A Crash.
Remedy
Curt MFG Will Notify Owners OF Record and Will Replace THE Hitch Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin During August 2010. Owners MAY Contact Curt MFG AT 1-715-831-8713.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Child Seat
Recall date
1997-12-15
Recall no.
97v231000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Minivans Equipped With Integrated Child Seats. THE Shoulder Harness Restraint Webbing WAS Incorrectly Routed Around THE Metal Reinforcement BAR ON These Seats.
Consequence
THE Child Seat Occupant MAY NOT BE Properly Restrained IN THE Event OF A Collision.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Routing OF THE Shoulder Belt Webbing and ANY Found Incorrect Will BE Properly Routed.
Notes
Owner Notification Began February 9, 1998.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-992-1997.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Fuel System, Gasoline:fuel Injection System
Recall date
2000-09-13
Recall no.
00v268000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Mini Vans Built With 3.3l and 3.8l Engines Have Fuel Rails With Nitrole Rubber O-Ring Seals That CAN Degrade Over Time. Fuel Leakage From THE Underhood Fuel Injection Fuel Rail Could Result, Increasing THE Likelihood OF A Vehicle Fire.
Consequence
Fuel Leakage IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source CAN Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Seal ON THE Vehicle Fuel Rails TO Prevent External Leakage OF Fuel From THE Fuel Rail Crossover Tube, Should THE Existing O-Rings Continue TO Degrade. Owner Notification Began ON January 25, 2002. DUE TO THE Large Quantity OF Vehicles Involved IN This Campaign, THE Owner Notification Will BE Phased Over THE Next Several Months. However, IF A Vehicle IS Leaking Fuel From THE O-Rings, THE Vehicle Should BE Taken Into A Dealer TO Have This Repaired AS Soon AS Possible. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date
2002-11-07
Recall no.
02v293000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Mini Vans, THE Clockspring Assembly MAY Have Been Wound Incorrectly During THE Vehicle Assembly Process.
Consequence
This Condition Will Manifest Itself Through Illumination OF THE AIR BAG Warning Lamp, and Could Eventually Result IN A Driver's AIR BAG Open Circuit, IF THE Part IS NOT Replaced IN A Reasonable Amount OF Time.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Clockspring Assembly ON All Vehicles With 70,000 Miles or Less. AN Extended Lifetime Warranty Will Also BE Placed ON This Component FOR All Affected Vehicles, Regardless OF Mileage. Daimlerchrysler Will Also Reimburse Owners WHO Have Paid TO Have THE Clockspring Replaced ON Their Vehicles. Owner Notification Began November 18, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Seat Belts:rear/Other
Recall date
2002-03-08
Recall no.
02v076000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Minivans, Some Trim Material CAN Loosen and Drop Into THE Rear Outboard Seat Belt Assembly, Causing THE Seat Belt TO Become Inoperative.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Seat Occupant MAY NOT BE Properly Restrained, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Trim With Foam Blockers and Inspect and Replace All 3RD ROW Seat Belt Assemblies. Owner Notification Began June 3, 2002. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. B09.also, Customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date
2003-10-24
Recall no.
03e053000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters, Models WIX Filter Part Numbers 33576, 33577, 33734; Napa Filter Part Numbers 3576, 3577, 3734; and Carquest Filter Part Numbers 86576, 86577, 86734 Used ON 1996-2000 Daimlerchrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, and Plymouth Voyager Vehicles, CAN Cause THE Fuel Lines TO Leak.
Consequence
A Possible Fire CAN Occur IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source.
Remedy
WIX Will Notify ITS Customers and Replace THE Fuel Filters Free OF Charge. Note: This Does NOT Involve ANY Products Manufactured BY THE Daimlerchrysler Corp. NOR ANY Dailmerchrysler Dealers. Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During November 2003. Owners WHO DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact WIX AT 704-864-6711.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager, and Dodge Caravan Minivansor ANY Other Products Manufactured BY Daimlerchrysler Corporation.customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Equipment
Recall date
2003-09-26
Recall no.
03e045000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters Manufactured Between September 17, 2002, and January 20, 2003, Sold Under THE Brand Names Listed Above. THE Filter MAY Experience Malfunction OF THE Quick Connector Either Blocking Fuel Flow TO THE Engine or Causing A Fuel Leak. This Does NOT Involve ANY Products Manufactured BY THE Daimlerchrysler Corp. NOR ANY Dailmerchrysler Dealers.
Consequence
IF This Condition Occurred While THE Vehicle IS IN Motion, THE Engine Could Stall. Also, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, THE Fuel Leak Could Result IN A Vehicle Fire.
Remedy
Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters FOR 1995-2000 Short Wheelbase Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan Minivans Part NO. 18232 and Date Code 0237, 0249, or 0252. Replacement Fuel Filters FOR 1995-2000 Long Wheelbase Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan Minivans Part NO. 18230 and Date Code 0237, 0249, 0251, or 0304. Replacement Fuel Filters FOR 2001-2004 Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager and Dodge Caravan Minivans Part NO. 28871 and Date Code 0249. These Part Numbers and Date Codes Appear ON THE Gold-tone Filter. Distributors and Retailers Will BE Notified TO Isolate and Return Affected Inventory. Owners WHO Have HAD THE Fuel Filter Serviced ON ONE OF THE Applicable Vehicles After September 17, 2002 Should Return Their Vehicle TO THE Service Facility TO BE Inspected TO SEE IF THE Fuel Filter That WAS Installed IS ONE That IS Involved IN THE Recall. IF SO, THE Owners Should Have THE Filter Replaced. TO Receive A Full Refund Plus THE Cost OF Postage, Owners Should CUT THE Connectors From THE Hoses, Rinse THE Connectors and Return Them Together With Proof OF THE Amount Paid FOR THE Replacement Part and Labor, TO Intercontinental AT Intercontinental Auto Parts, Inc., P.o. BOX 861, Mahwah, NJ 07430, Attn: Fuel Filter Recall. Intercontinental Will Mail A Full Refund TO THE Owner.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Fuel Filters and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Chrysler Town & Country, Plymouth Voyager, and Dodge Caravan Minivansor ANY Other Products Manufactured BY Daimlerchrysler Corporation.consumers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
AIR Bags
Recall date
2004-10-06
Recall no.
04v480000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Minivans, THE Driver's AIR BAG MAY Become Disabled DUE TO A Failure OF THE Clockspring, Which IS Located IN THE HUB OF THE Steering Wheel.
Consequence
This Condition Will Manifest Itself Through Illumination OF THE AIR BAG Warning Lamp, and Could Eventually Result IN A Driver's AIR BAG Open Circuit, IF THE Part IS NOT Replaced IN A Reasonable Amount OF Time.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Clockspring Assembly ON All Covered Vehicles With 70,000 Miles or Less. FOR Those Vehicles With More Than 70,000 Miles, Daimlerchrysler Will Offer AN Extended Lifetime Warranty Under Which IT Will Replace THE Clockspring AT NO Charge IF IT Fails. Daimlerchrysler Will Also Reimburse Owners WHO Have Paid TO Have THE Clockspring Replaced ON Their Vehicles. THE Recall Began ON October 12, 2004. Owners Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler Recall NO. D17.customers CAN Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2006-11-02
Recall no.
06e091000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Airtex Fuel Pump Modules, P/Nos. E7089m, E7094m, E7113m, and E7129m, Manufactured Between June 1 and September 24, 2006. These Fuel Pump Modules Were Sold AS Aftermarket FOR USE IN Certain Daimlerchrysler Vehicles Listed Above. Silicone Material Used IN Manufacture OF THE Flapper Valve WAS Out-Of-Specification, Leading TO Excess Swell OF THE Flapper Valve Restricting THE Flow OF Fuel TO THE Fuel Pump Module.
Consequence
Fuel Restriction Could Result IN Loss OF Power And/Or Engine Stall, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Airtex Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Defective Fuel Pump Modules Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 18, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Airtex Toll-Free AT 1-866-867-3759.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Fuel Pump Modules and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles BY Daimlerchrysler.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2006-03-13
Recall no.
06e023000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Anzo Combination Headlamp Assemblies Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles. Some Combination Lamps ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Which Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Anzo Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Headlamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 9, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Anzo USA AT 909-468-3688.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Headlamp Assemblies Manufactured BY Anzo and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Recall date
2006-03-13
Recall no.
06e022000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Aftermarket Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders Sold AS Replacement Brake Cylinders FOR Certain Ford, Daimlerchrysler, and Jeep Passenger Vehicles. These Brake Cylinders Were Sold Under THE Brand Names OF Napa, Raybestos, Aimco, AC Delco, Carquest, Bendix, and Wagner. Only Products That Were Manufactured From July 27, 2005 Through January 17, 2006 (Date Codes 0529 Through 0602) ARE Subject TO This Recall. When Subject TO Very Cold Temperatures, AN Internal Seal IN THE Master Cylinder Could Lose Flexibility and MAY Cause Brake Fluid TO Leak.
Consequence
Loss OF Brake Fluid CAN Lead TO A Decrease IN Brake Line Pressure and AN Increase IN Stopping Distance, Which CAN Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Affinia (Brake Parts, Inc.) Will Replace THE Subject Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 20, 2006. Owners CAN Contact Affina Group Customer Service AT 1-800-323-0354.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Napa, Raybestos, AC Delco, Aimco, Carquest, and Bendix Brake Hydraulic Master Cylinders and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Daimlerchrysler or Ford Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:glass, Side/Rear
Recall date
2007-12-11
Recall no.
07e104000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Curved Tempered Replacement Glass Manufactured BY Hangzhou Safety Glass LTD and Supplied TO Safelite BY Auto Temp Inc., Identified AS Dot-430, and Sold FOR USE ON Certain Domestic and Foreign Vehicles MAY NOT Break Into Small Pieces AS Expected OF Tempered Glass and Fails TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 205, "glazing Materials."
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash, THE Occupant(S) MAY BE Seriously Injured BY Shattered Glass.
Remedy
Safelite Will Notify ITS Retail Customers and Replace THE Glass Free OF Charge. Retail Customers CAN Contact Safelite Toll Free AT 1-888-843-2906. Safelite Will Notify ITS Wholesale Customers and Reimburse Wholesale Customers FOR Current Inventory and AT A Specified Rate FOR Replacing Their Customer's Glass. Wholesale Customers CAN Contact Safelite's Wholesale Division, Service Autoglass Toll Free AT 1-888-246-6298. THE Recall Began ON January 15, 2008.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Certain Curved Tempered Replacement Glass Manufactured BY Hangzhou Safety Glass, Ltd. (Dot-430) and Supplied TO Safelite BY Auto Temp Inc., and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed Above. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2009-05-11
Recall no.
09e025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
1998 Dodge Caravan Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1998 Dodge Caravan Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 Dodge Caravan is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Minivan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Dodge Caravan Compare to Other Minivan?
The 1998 Dodge Caravan competed in a highly contested minivan segment against rivals like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Ford Windstar. In terms of performance, the Caravan's V6 engines offered adequate power for its class, though neither exceptionally quick nor sluggish. The Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna often boasted smoother powertrains and a more refined driving experience. Features-wise, the Caravan was competitive, offering flexible seating and available amenities, but the Japanese rivals sometimes edged it out with perceived higher quality interior materials and more advanced optional features.
Reliability is where the Caravan faced its biggest challenges. While it offered good value, its long-term reliability, particularly concerning the transmission, lagged behind the stellar reputations of the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey. These Japanese minivans were known for their durability and fewer mechanical issues. The Ford Windstar had its own set of reliability concerns, sometimes comparable to or even worse than the Caravan's.
Price-wise, the Dodge Caravan was often positioned as a more affordable option upfront compared to its Japanese counterparts. This value proposition was a significant draw for many buyers.
Considering alternatives, if reliability is paramount, the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey from the same era are generally superior choices, despite often commanding higher used prices. They offer better long-term durability and a more refined ownership experience. If budget is the primary concern and you're willing to accept potential reliability risks, the 1998 Dodge Caravan can still be a functional choice, especially if a thorough pre-purchase inspection is performed. A similarly priced Ford Windstar might be an alternative, but carries its own reliability caveats. For a slightly different approach, consider larger SUVs if passenger capacity is needed, though fuel economy will likely suffer.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Dodge Caravan a Good Minivan?
The 1998 Dodge Caravan is ideal for budget-conscious individuals or families seeking a spacious and versatile vehicle for basic transportation needs, especially for hauling cargo or multiple passengers. It's worth buying only if found in excellent condition with meticulously documented maintenance, particularly regarding the transmission and cooling system. Given its age and known reliability issues, buying a used 1998 Caravan requires a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic. It is certainly not recommended for those prioritizing long-term dependability or minimal repair costs. Focus on lower mileage examples with evidence of diligent care, and be prepared for potential repairs. Newer used minivans or models from more reliable manufacturers would generally be a safer bet for consistent service.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.