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2002 Dodge Caravan Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2002 Dodge Caravan is a minivan, a body style that Dodge helped pioneer. Part of the third generation (1996-2000 and updated 2001-2007), it offered practical family transportation. Key trims included the base model, SE, Sport, and high-end ES. New pricing ranged approximately from $18,000 to $28,000, depending on the trim and options. Its popularity stemmed from its affordability, spaciousness, and available features like Stow 'n Go seating (though not in 2002) and dual sliding doors.
The Good

The 2002 Dodge Caravan offers practical value with its spacious interior and comfortable ride, appealing to families needing ample passenger and cargo space. While not a performance vehicle, the available V6 engines provide adequate power. Its affordability and feature set made it an attractive option. The design, while dated now, was functional and family-oriented, providing a sense of security and convenience for daily life.

The Bad

The 2002 Dodge Caravan is known for potential transmission issues, especially with higher mileage. Power window and door lock malfunctions are also commonly reported. Rust can be a problem, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Premature wear of suspension components and issues with the air conditioning system are additional concerns to watch out for.

2002 Dodge Caravan: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.4L Inline-4: Approximately 150 horsepower
    • 3.3L V6: Approximately 180 horsepower
    • 3.8L V6: Approximately 215 horsepower
  • Horsepower: Ranges from 150 to 215 hp depending on the engine.
  • Fuel Economy (Estimated):
    • 2.4L I4: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
    • 3.3L V6: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
    • 3.8L V6: 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times: Varies based on engine; expect around 11-13 seconds for the 2.4L, and 9-11 seconds for the V6 engines.
  • Towing Capacity: Approximately 2,000 - 3,800 lbs depending on engine and equipment.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base: Basic features like air conditioning, AM/FM radio, and cloth seats.
    • SE: Added features such as power windows, power locks, and upgraded interior trim.
    • Sport: Sportier appearance with alloy wheels, upgraded suspension, and unique styling cues.
    • ES: Top-of-the-line trim with leather seats, premium audio system, power sliding doors, and other luxury features.
  • Other Notable Specs:
    • Seating Capacity: Typically 7 passengers
    • Transmission: 3- or 4-speed automatic
    • Front-wheel drive

2002 Dodge Caravan Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2002
Make Dodge
Model Caravan
Trim -
Style -
Type Van
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City -
Dimensions
Doors -
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 6000 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.3 L 6-Cyl.
Engine Size 3.3L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

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Past Sale
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Safety
Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2002 Dodge Caravan Have?

The 2002 Dodge Caravan has several frequently reported problems, notably concerning the automatic transmission. Slipping gears, rough shifting, and complete transmission failure are common complaints. These issues often surface after 100,000 miles. Power windows and door locks also exhibit frequent malfunctions. Owners report them ceasing to function or behaving erratically.

Rust is another significant concern, particularly in regions using road salt during winter. Body panels, undercarriage, and brake lines are susceptible. Engine cooling systems are prone to leaks, leading to overheating if not addressed promptly. The air conditioning system, especially the rear AC unit (if equipped), can develop leaks and require expensive repairs.

Recalls for the 2002 Dodge Caravan involved issues such as faulty airbags, potential for unintended acceleration, and brake light switch failures. Owners should check the NHTSA website with the VIN to verify if all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability is generally considered below average compared to some competitors due to the aforementioned issues. Maintenance records are crucial when considering a used model.

How long will the 2002 Dodge Caravan last?

With good maintenance, a 2002 Dodge Caravan can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, many succumb to major repairs around 150,000 miles due to transmission or engine issues. Average lifespan depends heavily on maintenance habits. Neglecting fluid changes or postponing repairs will significantly shorten its lifespan. Rust is a major durability concern, especially in colder climates. Suspension components wear out over time, requiring replacement. Regular servicing is key to maximizing the vehicle's longevity, but even then, inherent weaknesses in the transmission and electrical systems may limit its lifespan.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2002 Dodge Caravan offered basic tech and safety features for its time. Standard entertainment included an AM/FM radio, often with a cassette or CD player. Higher trims featured upgraded sound systems.

Driver-assistance features were minimal, limited to power steering and cruise control on some trims. Safety features included front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS) as an option. Side airbags were not widely available on this generation of Caravan. Power sliding doors were an optional convenience feature.

Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally showed moderate performance. While it provided adequate protection in frontal impacts, side-impact protection was less impressive. Ratings varied slightly depending on the specific year and test conditions. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted tests, providing further insight into its crashworthiness. Overall, safety technology was limited compared to modern vehicles, focusing primarily on basic crash protection rather than active safety systems. Optional features like keyless entry added some convenience.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Bright Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Black Clearcoat
Patriot Blue Pearlcoat
Deep Amethyst Pearlcoat
Stone White
Graphite Metallic Clearcoat
Opal Metallic Clearcoat
Driftwood Satin Glow
Interior Colors
Agate
Taupe

2002 Dodge Caravan Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2002 Dodge Caravan ranged from approximately $18,000 to $28,000, depending on trim and options. Today, used market prices are significantly lower, typically ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been substantial due to age, high production numbers, and reported reliability issues. Factors affecting resale value include: overall condition (rust-free is highly desirable), low mileage, a clean title, and documented maintenance history. Higher trim levels (Sport, ES) with desirable options might command a slightly higher price, but overall, the value is primarily determined by functional condition.

2002 Dodge Caravan Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2002 Dodge Caravan are generally low due to its age and relatively low market value. Fuel costs depend on the engine, but expect average to slightly below-average fuel economy for a minivan. Maintenance can be moderately expensive, particularly if the transmission or other major components require repair. Given the potential for mechanical issues, long-term ownership costs can be higher than some competitors. While the initial purchase price is low, potential repair bills can make it a less economical choice in the long run, especially if neglected.

2002 Dodge Caravan Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type -
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2002 Dodge Caravan Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2002 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 2001-10-04
Recall no. 01v310000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Certain Mini Vans Fail TO Comply With Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 225, "child Restraint Anchorage Systems." THE Owner Manuals Supplied With These Vehicles DO NOT Indicate Which Seating Positions ARE Equipped With Tether Anchorages and Child Restraint Anchorage Systems AS Required BY THE Standard.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Child Seat MAY NOT BE Properly Attached Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Child.
Remedy Owners Will BE Provided With THE Necessary Child Restraint System Information. Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin October 8, 2001. Owners WHO DO NOT Receive THE Free Information 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).
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).
Structure
Recall date 2003-03-07
Recall no. 03v094000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Pickup Truck, Van, and Mini Van Conversions Equipped With Southern Comfort Built Running Boards That Contain Certain Courtesy Lights Manufactured BY American Technology Components, Inc. These Units Contain A Courtesy Light or Lights That Might Overheat When THE Wire Harness IS Exposed TO Excessive Moisture and Road Salt.
Consequence This Overheating Condition CAN Cause THE Running Board TO Melt or Cause A Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Wiring Harness ON These Running Boards. Owner Notification Began March 7, 2003. 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 Southern Comfort AT 1-800-745-6096.
Notes Customers CAN Also 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).
Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:hose, Piping, and Connections
Recall date 2004-08-05
Recall no. 04v386000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Minivans Equipped With 3.3 or 3.8l V-6 Engine, THE Upper Power Steering Cooler Hose MAY Split and Cause A Fluid Leak.
Consequence Power Steering Fluid Leakage IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source CAN Result IN AN Under Hood Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Upper Power Steering Cooler Hose. This Recall Began ON September 27, 2004. Owners Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes Recall NO. D37.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Equipment:electrical:radio/Tape Deck/Cd Etc.
Recall date 2004-11-02
Recall no. 04v531000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Mini Vans, Condensation From THE Instrument Panel AIR Conditioning Ducts MAY Drop Through Vent Holes IN THE Top OF THE Radio and Result IN A Short Circuit That Subsequently Sends Direct Current TO THE Rear Speakers.
Consequence This Could Result IN A Speaker Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will ADD A Special Tape TO THE Top OF THE Radio TO Prevent THE Potential OF Water Intrusion. THE Recall Began ON January 31, 2005. Owners Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403.
Notes Daimlerchryslerrecall NO. D48.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
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.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2008-06-10
Recall no. 08e039000
Source NHTSA
Summary Maxzone IS Recalling 2,520 Headlight Assemblies, Depo Brand, P/Nos. 3341103l-As and 334-1103r-as Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR 2001-2007 Dodge Caravan Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Maxzone Will Notify Owners and Offer Reimbursement FOR ANY Noncompliant Headlights. THE Recall Began ON June 16, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Maxzone AT THE Following Locations: 1-888-286-1188 (Wa, OR, CA, ID, NV, AZ, MT, WY, UT, CO, KS, NM, OK, TX, AR, LA, AK, HI) 1-877-253-8930 (Me, NH, VT, MA, CT, RI, NY, NJ, PA, MD, DE, WV, VA) 1-800-859-4755 (nc, SC, GA, FL, TN, AL, MS) 1-866-783-6858 (nd, SD, NE, MN, IA, MO, WI, IL, MI, IN, OH, Ky).
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Chrysler.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 2008-08-08
Recall no. 08e048000
Source NHTSA
Summary Eagle Eyes IS Recalling 11,534 Headlamp Assemblies, P/Nos. Cs090-B001l and Cs090-B001r, Sold FOR USE AS Replacement Equipment FOR THE Above Listed Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Lower Beam Photometry Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Eagle Eyes Will Notify Owners and Offer Replacement Headlamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 30, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Eagle Eyes AT 1-800-568-1098.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Chrysler Llc.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.

2002 Dodge Caravan Insurance

Insurance for a 2002 Dodge Caravan is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2002 Dodge Caravan Compare to Other Van?

The 2002 Dodge Caravan competed with minivans like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Ford Windstar. Compared to the Honda and Toyota, the Caravan generally lagged in reliability and refinement. The Odyssey and Sienna offered smoother rides, more durable transmissions, and higher resale values.

The Ford Windstar was a closer competitor in terms of price and features, but it also suffered from reliability concerns. In terms of performance, the Caravan's V6 engines were adequate, but not as powerful or fuel-efficient as some rivals. Features were comparable, but the Caravan lacked some of the advanced safety and convenience features offered by Honda and Toyota.

Alternatives to the 2002 Dodge Caravan include the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna if reliability and long-term value are priorities, even at a higher initial cost. The Chrysler Town & Country, a closely related model, shares many of the Caravan's strengths and weaknesses. Considering a newer, well-maintained minivan from a different manufacturer might be a better choice for overall peace of mind.

Ranks #1890 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1890 2002 Dodge Caravan (0.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2002 Dodge Caravan a Good Van?

The 2002 Dodge Caravan is ideal for budget-conscious buyers needing a spacious vehicle for hauling passengers or cargo, and who are willing to accept potential reliability risks. It's worth buying *only* if found in exceptionally good condition with documented maintenance history and a pre-purchase inspection revealing no major issues. Avoid models with known rust or transmission problems. A higher trim level (Sport or ES) might offer a few more features, but the primary focus should be on mechanical soundness. Given its age, it's not advisable to purchase this vehicle without thorough due diligence and a realistic understanding of potential repair costs. Alternatives should be considered if reliability is a top priority.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.