The Good
The 2004 Dodge Caravan offers practical advantages like spaciousness and versatile seating, appealing to families seeking functionality. Its affordability makes it a strong value proposition. While not a performance vehicle, it provides adequate power for daily driving. Comfort is decent, and its design, though dated, is functional. Emotionally, it represents family adventures and shared memories.
The Bad
The 2004 Dodge Caravan has known weaknesses including potential transmission issues, particularly with higher mileage. Power window regulators and door latches are prone to failure. Rust can be a problem, especially in areas with road salt. The plastic interior trim can be fragile and prone to cracking. Watch for signs of fluid leaks.
2004 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: Ranging from 150 to 215 hp, depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.4L I4: Approximately 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 3.3L V6: Approximately 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 3.8L V6: Approximately 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Varies by engine; expect roughly 10-12 seconds for V6 models. The I4 will be significantly slower.
- Towing Capacity: Around 3,500 lbs when properly equipped.
- Trim-Level Features:
- SE: Base model; typically includes cloth upholstery, air conditioning, basic audio system, power windows and locks.
- SXT: Upgraded features; may include alloy wheels, upgraded audio, power sliding doors (optional), and upgraded interior trim.
- eX: (Later in the model year run and sometimes badged as "Limited") Top-tier trim; leather upholstery, premium audio, power sliding doors and liftgate, and other convenience features. Not common for 2004.
- Stow 'n Go Seating: Available on some models (primarily SXT and eX), allowing the second and third-row seats to fold completely into the floor.
2004 Dodge Caravan Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Dodge |
| Model | Caravan |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Cargo Van |
| Type | Van |
| Category | Cargo Van |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | AUBURN HILLS |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3764 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 68.90 inches |
| Overall Length | 189.30 inches |
| Overall Width | 78.60 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 113.30 inches |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
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) | $21,920 |
| Invoice Price | $20,562 |
| Delivery Charges | $665 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Dodge Caravan Have?
Rust, especially in regions with salted roads, is a significant concern, affecting the body panels and undercarriage. Interior plastic trim is known to crack and break easily. Engine oil leaks are also common, particularly around the valve cover gaskets. Electrical issues, such as faulty sensors and wiring problems, can occur.
While specific recalls for the 2004 model year should be checked with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), common recalls for this generation of Caravan often relate to safety issues like airbag deployment and brake system components. Long-term reliability is generally considered below average compared to some competitors, with higher repair costs and more frequent maintenance required as the vehicle ages. Owners should be diligent with maintenance and prepared for potential repairs.
How long will the 2004 Dodge Caravan last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features are minimal, limited to features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and cruise control (on some trims). Safety features include front airbags, and some models might have optional side airbags. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was not widely available on this model year.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) should be consulted for specific scores. Generally, the 2004 Caravan received decent, but not outstanding, crash-test ratings for frontal and side impacts. Rollover ratings were typically lower, as is common for taller vehicles. It is essential to verify these ratings from official sources like NHTSA.
Optional features could include power sliding doors, a power liftgate, leather upholstery, and upgraded wheels. Considering the age of the vehicle, the available technology and safety features are dated compared to newer vehicles, so buyers should prioritize careful driving and regular maintenance to ensure safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2004 Dodge Caravan Prices and Market Value
2004 Dodge Caravan Cost of Ownership
2004 Dodge Caravan Fuel Efficiency
2004 Dodge Caravan Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2004 Dodge Caravan Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2004 Dodge Caravan Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Dodge Caravan Compare to Other Van?
In terms of performance, the Caravan's V6 engines were adequate but not as refined or fuel-efficient as those from Honda and Toyota. Features were comparable, particularly with the Stow 'n Go seating, which was a significant advantage. However, the Caravan's interior materials and build quality were often perceived as lower than its Japanese rivals.
If reliability and longevity are top priorities, the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna are better alternatives, despite being more expensive. If budget is the primary concern and you're willing to accept potentially higher maintenance costs, the Caravan might be acceptable. A well-maintained Chrysler Town & Country of the same year could offer a similar experience with potentially slightly more upscale features.
Ranks #117 Van
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Sienna | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Odyssey | (5.0★) |
| 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★) |
| 117 | 2004 Dodge Caravan | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Dodge Caravan a Good Van?
Gotto on August 25, 2018
Dodge Grand Caravan SXTOwned the Dodge Grand Caravan SXT 14 years and the van still runs great. Put the key in and the car starts every time. Taken many road trips, very comfortable and reliable. Interior is big and comfortable. Great car
jabcaat on September 4, 2017
LOVE MY CARAVANbOUGHT THE CAR NEW AND HAVE A 151000 MILES ON IT AND STILL GET 20mpg AND IT STARTS EVERY DAY, Winter or Summer. I haven't kept it in the garage the last 3-years and although the paint is not so good in isolated spots, it still looks good when I wash & wax it I probably will earnestly look for a another car in January, 2018
van man on April 16, 2013
Honest bargainI am very pleased with my Dodge Caravan. I am getting better gas mileage now than I did with my old van. It has all the features I wanted. It did well on my first longer trip. Two of the speakers are defective but I still get good sound. The Cruise control is very accurate and easy to use.The bucket seats are very comfortable.
Dodger on November 1, 2011
DisappointingThis is my second Caravan and my last. If it ain't one thing it's another. The front suspension requires yearly rebuilding. The check engine light has been on for over 15 thousand miles. The headlight covers have frosted at 60,000 miles. The heater vents don't operate properly and the paint is coming off lower front plastic parts. Don't buy it.
Preacher on June 1, 2011
great vanI love the Dodge Caravan. It is spacious and it gets good gas mileage. That's a difficult combination. It drives smooth, and it's easy to handle.
Happy with my Dodge Caravan-Great for the price! on January 13, 2010
Great for a 'Family Vehicle" Im happy!!!Our van was very affordable and it does what its meant for, a family vehicle. We wanted a honda but not the 'transmission' issue. All vehicles need work at some time but this Dodge van holds up for its value!!! Im happy!!! We own a 2004 60K I see some vans 200k+++ I'd b happier! We want ours to do 200K 😉
Chris on December 11, 2009
ChrisWe've had nothing but problems with our 04 Dodge Grand Caravan (Anniv Edit). It only has 54k miles and we've had several problems with it both big and small. The heater tube went bad, some rods in the front, power doors and liftgate do not work. Several brake jobs/rotor. Wiper motor/transmission. Too many problems to mention or remember. Overall the van is decently styled, has nice features, and the seating is great, but mechanically a real problem. My wife has totally lost confidence in the vehicle. No fix is ever cheap.
Gotto on August 25, 2018
Dodge Grand Caravan SXTOwned the Dodge Grand Caravan SXT 14 years and the van still runs great. Put the key in and the car starts every time. Taken many road trips, very comfortable and reliable. Interior is big and comfortable. Great car
jabcaat on September 4, 2017
LOVE MY CARAVANbOUGHT THE CAR NEW AND HAVE A 151000 MILES ON IT AND STILL GET 20mpg AND IT STARTS EVERY DAY, Winter or Summer. I haven't kept it in the garage the last 3-years and although the paint is not so good in isolated spots, it still looks good when I wash & wax it I probably will earnestly look for a another car in January, 2018
van man on April 16, 2013
Honest bargainI am very pleased with my Dodge Caravan. I am getting better gas mileage now than I did with my old van. It has all the features I wanted. It did well on my first longer trip. Two of the speakers are defective but I still get good sound. The Cruise control is very accurate and easy to use.The bucket seats are very comfortable.
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.