The Good
The 2000 Dodge Caravan offered a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appealing to practical buyers needing family transportation. Its available V6 engines provided adequate performance. While not known for stellar reliability, it offered good value for the money. The sheer practicality and ability to haul kids and cargo appealed to the emotional needs of busy families.
The Bad
The 2000 Dodge Caravan is known for potential transmission issues, especially with higher mileage. Power window and door lock problems are also frequently reported. Rust can be a concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. Watch out for oil leaks and cooling system issues, which can lead to more significant repairs.
2000 Dodge Caravan: Quick Overview
Key specs for the 2000 Dodge Caravan:
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Inline-4: 150 hp
- 3.0L V6: 150 hp
- 3.3L V6: 158 hp
- Horsepower: Ranges from 150 to 158 hp depending on engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.4L I4: Around 19 city / 26 highway MPG
- 3.3L V6: Around 17 city / 24 highway MPG
- 0-60 Times: Not a primary focus, but expect around 11-13 seconds depending on the engine.
- Towing Capacity: Typically around 2,000 lbs when properly equipped.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Basic features, cloth seats, standard safety features.
- SE: Adds features like power windows and locks, upgraded upholstery.
- LE: Offers more comfort and convenience features, such as upgraded audio system, cruise control, and sometimes alloy wheels.
- ES: Top-of-the-line trim with premium features like leather seats, premium audio, and sometimes upgraded suspension.
2000 Dodge Caravan Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Minivan |
| Category | Minivan |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | WINDSOR |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3894 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 | 3.3-L V-6 OHV 12V |
| 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) | $23,525 |
| Invoice Price | $21,237 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2000 Dodge Caravan Have?
Recalls for the 2000 Dodge Caravan were issued for issues such as faulty windshield wipers and potential problems with the rear liftgate support struts. These should be checked to ensure the repairs were completed. Long-term reliability can be a concern due to the age of the vehicle. Proper maintenance records are crucial when considering a purchase. Ensure the vehicle has been well-maintained to mitigate potential problems. Specific model year variations in issues are not significantly different within the third generation (1996-2000), sharing similar common problems.
How long will the 2000 Dodge Caravan last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied. Some tests showed decent protection for front occupants, while others revealed potential weaknesses. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings were generally marginal. Given its age, the safety features are significantly outdated compared to modern vehicles. It lacks modern driver-assistance technologies like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking. Overall, the 2000 Dodge Caravan prioritized basic safety and limited entertainment options, reflecting the technology available at the time. For families prioritizing safety, newer vehicles offer significantly better protection.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2000 Dodge Caravan Prices and Market Value
2000 Dodge Caravan Cost of Ownership
2000 Dodge Caravan Fuel Efficiency
2000 Dodge Caravan Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2000 Dodge Caravan Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2000 Dodge Caravan Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 Dodge Caravan Compare to Other Minivan?
In terms of performance, the V6 engines were adequate but not class-leading. Feature-wise, the Caravan offered comparable amenities but lacked some of the more refined touches of its Japanese rivals. While the Caravan was often more affordable upfront, the potential for higher repair costs could negate that advantage in the long run.
Alternatives to consider might be a similarly aged Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna, if reliability is a primary concern, even if they command a slightly higher price. A newer, more reliable minivan from any manufacturer would also be a better option for those prioritizing safety and peace of mind, though at a significantly higher cost. However, if a very cheap minivan is needed for short-term use, the Caravan could be considered, provided a thorough inspection is performed beforehand.
Ranks #122 Van
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Sienna | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Odyssey | (2.0★) |
| 3 | 2001 Mazda MPV | (4.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Ford E-Series Cutaway | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Chevrolet Express Passenger | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2021 Nissan NV200 | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 GMC Savana | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram ProMaster | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2013 Volkswagen Routan | (4.0★) |
| 12 | 2007 Buick Terraza | (0.0★) |
| 122 | 2000 Dodge Caravan | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Dodge Caravan a Good Minivan?
ajba on August 5, 2018
Still Driving Great - Should Keep ItOne of those cars that will keep on going 110K+ miles - Great Deal!!!! Does need struts but ride height and stability are good. Only really needs right front strut making noise.
dan on February 24, 2018
extremely reliablehauls a lot or up to 8 people 5 doors easy to get in and out of. very reliable and comfortable. strong v6 quiet smooth ride.
Ryan.swalve on September 15, 2017
Great first car. Still runs well.It is my first car. My grandpa purchased it in 2004 and drove it till 2016 when he got a new mini van. He gave it to me because I just turned 16 and needed a way to get to work and around town. I have been driving it for about 18 months and have only had a few issues. The gas tank bracket rusted apart, the exhaust pipe rusted off the muffler, and the A/C isn't the best. But those were easy at home fixes. Aside from the cruise control and the horn working I enjoy it. There isn't too much rust that is visible. I like having the space of a van. And it hasn't let me down. It still has the original battery in it!
KidsLearningLadder on April 24, 2017
I love my minivan. Perfect for family with 4 kidsI bought my minivan when I started a home daycare. I love this van for it accommodates 4 car seats with no problem. Very roomy and easy to access the back to buckle the kids in the 3rd row. The space behind the 3rd seat has lots of space for a double stroller. Has 2 side doors. I wish it had the automatic open feature but it's an older model so I can't complain. I have never had any major problems, gets good gas mileage, comfortable and easy to drive.
4Him on December 14, 2012
Worth every dimeI have own this car for 10 years. I owned a Toyota Van before this one and really did not want an American vehicle, but boy was I wrong. I looked in consumer reports and they recommended this caravan with these options (SE, 3.3L engine, Not the grand caravan) I followed their recommendation and have never looked back. The foreign cars were rated very high also but the price difference was $3000. I now have 250,000 miles. My recommendation is look on the internet for user reviews. Find out what systems are good or bad on the vehicle. Look for recommended models and only then can you compare pricing.
mdbubba81 on February 20, 2012
Great VanI have had this van for almost 13 years. We love it. It gets me where I need to go. 136,000 and still kicking
Louisiana on October 21, 2011
Most comfortable vehicle I've ownedI have had this van for 11 years and it still drives great. I have had to change the water pump and brakes after 149,000 miles. It is so comfortable and rides smooth.
horse van on March 23, 2011
my big horseits nice van and gets me around we took off the seats to fit things in and it has huge space inside its like a pick up truck. itts my horse/pony because my dad drives slow so i imagine as if im sitting on a horse in downtown
Soccer Mom on March 11, 2011
gets you where you need to goi love my van yes its getting old but its gets me where i need to go and it has been good to me the years i need to take my son to soccer practice and school
Jakol on January 6, 2011
OKIDOKI VANI've own my van for 10 years and it started giving me headaches after 70000 mi. despite my meticulous maintenance through the years. It is ideal for a big family and very comfortable during travel.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.