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2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Review: Comfortable & Spacious Minivan With No Widespread Issues

Rating: 4.54
Based on 100 Owner Reviews â–¶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The Dodge Grand Caravan is a minivan that has been a staple in family transportation for decades. The 2017 model continues that tradition. It's a front-wheel-drive minivan available in several trims, including SE, SE Plus, SXT, and GT. Model years stretch back much further than 2017. Known for its affordability and practicality, the Grand Caravan's popularity stems from its Stow 'n Go seating, spacious interior, and budget-friendly price point. The pricing range typically starts in the low $20,000s.
The Good

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan offers a compelling blend of practicality and value. Its strong V6 engine provides adequate performance. Stow 'n Go seating offers unmatched convenience. While not the most stylish, it's undeniably functional. The Grand Caravan wins on price, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious families. Emotionally, it represents family road trips and practicality.

The Bad

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan has several known weaknesses. Fuel economy isn't a strong suit. The interior materials and design are dated compared to newer competitors. Reliability can be a concern, so carefully inspect the transmission and electrical systems. The ride quality can be rough, and handling isn't particularly engaging. Watch out for potential problems with the sliding door mechanisms.

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan: Quick Overview

Key specs for the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan:

  • Engine Options: A single engine option is available: a 3.6-liter V6.
  • Horsepower: The 3.6-liter V6 produces 283 horsepower.
  • Fuel Economy: EPA estimates are around 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway.
  • 0-60 Times: The 0-60 mph acceleration time is approximately 8.0 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity: Towing capacity is rated at up to 3,600 pounds when properly equipped.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • SE: Includes features like cloth upholstery, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, and Stow 'n Go second-row seating.
    • SE Plus: Adds features like upgraded upholstery, alloy wheels, and a few more convenience features.
    • SXT: Includes power sliding doors, power liftgate, and upgraded interior trim.
    • GT: The top-of-the-line trim with leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and sportier styling cues. Also comes with a performance-tuned suspension.
  • Seating: Seats seven passengers.
  • Transmission: Equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2017
Make Dodge
Model Grand Caravan
Trim -
Style Front-Wheel Drive
Type Truck
Category Minivan
Manufacturing Details
Made In Canada
Manufacturing City WINDSOR
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 4535.92 kg
Overall Height 175.01 cm
Overall Length 515.11 cm
Overall Width 199.9 cm
Wheelbase Length 307.85 cm
Standard Seating 7
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.6-L V-6
Engine Size 3.6L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 6-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 6-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System Standard
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $32,395 USD
Invoice Price $31,118 USD
Delivery Charges $995 USD

Vehicle History Report

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What Problems Does the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Have?

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan has some frequently reported problems and reliability concerns. Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, including rough shifting and premature failure. Electrical problems, such as issues with the power sliding doors and the infotainment system, are also relatively common. There have been recalls related to airbag deployment and faulty wiring harnesses that could increase the risk of a fire. Long-term reliability can be a concern, with some owners reporting issues with the suspension, brakes, and air conditioning systems as the vehicle ages. Rust can also become a problem in areas with harsh winters and road salt. It's crucial to obtain a thorough pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic, paying close attention to these potential problem areas. Checking the vehicle history report for any prior accidents or maintenance records is also highly recommended. Specific model year issues aren't significantly different for the 2017 model compared to other recent Grand Caravans, so general reliability trends for the platform apply.

How long will the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan last?

With regular maintenance, a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan can reasonably be expected to reach 150,000-200,000 miles or 10-13 years of service. Proper maintenance habits are crucial for longevity. Long-term durability concerns include potential transmission issues, electrical problems, and rust, particularly in colder climates. The Stow 'n Go seating mechanism can also become less reliable over time. Keeping up with fluid changes, brake maintenance, and addressing minor issues promptly will significantly extend the vehicle's lifespan. Neglecting maintenance can lead to premature component failure and reduced lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Justin
Amazing and reliable this vehicle will make it to half a million miles And it holds and sits legally seven Children and adults. All seats stow away with simple locksystem
pole sitter
I just cannot see the reason not to have the convenience of a minivan .Automatic lockable Sliding doors to keep the kiddies safe and automatic tailgate..Then you get to use it for your trucking needs..where else can a 4x8 sheet and numerous 2x4s and tools all protected from the weather be transported for your home projects..oh and dont forget the fishing poles you have to bend double to fit in the average pickup or suv...its a no brainer...
Said abouauf
Excellent service good sales person his name Mark in a Blain location good cars and helping for finance all this in the Blain location thanks
Negative Owner Reviews
Eric
Passenger door has locked up and cannot be opened and can't be fixed manually. Loud buzzing noise when door unlocked and locked. Very loud road while driving. Can't close hatch using the buttons. WOULD NEVER buy another one!
shelby13
The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is a great entry level, budget minivan. The 283 hp V6 is powerful and efficient and gets the 2 ton vehicle to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 113 mph. The car is most comfortable at 65 mph. The interior is cheap and the sound system is the worst I've ever had, but this is the cheapest minivan in the US, so you can't have high expectations.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan offers a basic but functional set of tech, entertainment, and safety features. Standard features include a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and stability control. Higher trims offer features like a DVD entertainment system with a 9-inch screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and satellite radio.
Driver-assistance features are limited, with no advanced safety technologies like automatic emergency braking or lane departure warning available. Optional features include rear parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring.
In terms of safety, the 2017 Grand Caravan received mixed crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). While some tests yielded good results, others, particularly the small overlap front crash test, received lower scores. These mixed ratings should be carefully considered when evaluating the vehicle's overall safety performance. The limited availability of advanced driver-assistance features also contributes to a lower overall safety rating compared to newer minivans. The presence of multiple airbags and standard safety features like electronic stability control contribute to its baseline safety, but it lacks the advanced technology found in many competitors.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Billet Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Granite Crystal Metallic Clearcoat
Brilliant Black Crystal Pearlcoat
Bright White Clearcoat
Redline 2 Pearlcoat
Indigo Blue
Interior Colors
Black/Light Graystone
Black/Red
Black

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Prices and Market Value

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan had a starting MSRP in the low $20,000s when new, with higher trims reaching the low $30,000s. Current used market prices range from approximately $10,000 to $20,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. The Grand Caravan depreciates fairly quickly, reflecting its age and reputation for less-than-stellar reliability compared to some competitors. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, maintenance history, and whether it has desirable options like the DVD entertainment system. Lower trims depreciate more rapidly than higher trims like the GT.

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Cost of Ownership

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is generally considered relatively economical to own, primarily due to its lower purchase price. Insurance costs are typically average for a minivan. Fuel costs can be higher than some competitors due to its fuel economy. Maintenance and repair costs can be moderate, but potential transmission and electrical issues can lead to unexpected expenses. Overall, while not the cheapest vehicle to maintain, its initial affordability makes it a reasonably priced option for budget-conscious buyers. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on maintenance and repair diligence.

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 44.67 liters
City Mileage 5.82 km/l
Highway Mileage 4 km/l

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Safety Rating

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

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Recalls & Defects

Electrical System:wiring:front Underhood
Recall date 2018-08-09
Recall no. 18v524000
Source NHTSA
Summary Chrysler (Fca US Llc) IS Recalling Certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x Vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country Vehicles and 2018-2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid Vehicles. THE Powertrain Control Module MAY BE Equipped With A Voltage Regulator Chip IN THE Circuit Board That MAY Fail, Causing A Stall or A NO Start Condition.
Consequence A Vehicle Stall CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Chrysler Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Powertrain Control Module, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began October 2, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Chrysler Customer Service AT 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's Number FOR This Recall IS U87.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date 2020-05-15
Recall no. 20v278000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vantage Mobility International, LLC (Vantage) IS Recalling Certain Vantage-Modified 2016-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan Vehicles. THE Fuel Pump Gasket MAY Deteriorate, Allowing Fuel TO Leak.
Consequence A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Vantage Will Notify Owners, and Will Provide Parts and Reimbursement TO Owners FOR Repair Facilities TO Replace THE Fuel Tank Gasket, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 19, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Vantage Customer Service AT 1-800-488-9082.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date 2020-05-15
Recall no. 20v278000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vantage Mobility International, LLC (Vantage) IS Recalling Certain Vantage-Modified 2016-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan Vehicles. THE Fuel Pump Gasket MAY Deteriorate, Allowing Fuel TO Leak.
Consequence A Fuel Leak IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Vantage Will Notify Owners, and Will Provide Parts and Reimbursement TO Owners FOR Repair Facilities TO Replace THE Fuel Tank Gasket, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 19, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Vantage Customer Service AT 1-800-488-9082.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Insurance

Insurance for a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Compare to Other Truck?

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan competes with minivans like the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and Chrysler Pacifica. In terms of performance, its V6 engine is adequate, but the Sienna and Odyssey offer slightly better driving dynamics. Feature-wise, the Grand Caravan lags behind its rivals, especially in terms of advanced safety technology. Reliability is a significant area where the Grand Caravan falls short compared to the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey, which have better track records. However, the Grand Caravan's main advantage is its price. It's significantly more affordable than the other options.

Alternatives to consider include a used Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey for improved reliability and features, albeit at a higher price point. The Chrysler Pacifica, a more modern minivan from the same manufacturer, offers better features and a more refined driving experience but also comes at a higher cost. For buyers prioritizing budget above all else, the Grand Caravan remains a viable option. But for those seeking better reliability, features, and overall refinement, the Sienna, Odyssey, or Pacifica are better choices.

Ranks #479 Truck

1 2023 Toyota Tundra (5.0★)
2 2022 Honda Ridgeline (5.0★)
3 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis (0.0★)
4 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis (0.0★)
5 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD (0.0★)
6 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz (5.0★)
7 2023 Nissan Frontier (5.0★)
8 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD (0.0★)
9 2023 Ram 4500 (0.0★)
10 2022 Jeep Gladiator (5.0★)
11 2012 Suzuki Equator (0.0★)
12 2009 Mitsubishi Raider (5.0★)
479 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan a Good Truck?

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is ideal for budget-conscious families who need a spacious and practical minivan and are willing to accept compromises in terms of reliability, features, and refinement. It's worth buying primarily in the used market, as its value proposition is strongest when purchased at a lower price. The specific trim level depends on individual needs and budget, but even the base SE trim offers essential features like Stow 'n Go seating. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial to assess its mechanical condition and identify any potential problems. If reliability and advanced features are a priority, consider alternatives, even if it means spending more.

2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Owner Reviews

4.54
Overall rating
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Eric on July 8, 2024

Passenger door has locked up and cannot be opened and

Passenger door has locked up and cannot be opened and can't be fixed manually. Loud buzzing noise when door unlocked and locked. Very loud road while driving. Can't close hatch using the buttons. WOULD NEVER buy another one!

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Justin on December 6, 2023

Sxt minivan

Amazing and reliable this vehicle will make it to half a million miles And it holds and sits legally seven Children and adults. All seats stow away with simple locksystem

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Carol gaszczynski on November 9, 2023

Trouble shooting. Why would a car with only 74000

This vehicle has been very good for my wife and myself love the hidden storage compartments. Having only 74000 plus miles on it. It is now getting broken in . However, we got into our car today it would not start. Battery was good. Mechanic I am not. It appears to be a censor. Had to call a tow truck to take my vehicle to a car dealer. Will not know the results until Monday, 13th, 2023

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CJC on May 13, 2023

Very Happy

I bought it used in September, 2018, and it already had 45,000 miles. Was concerned that it had such high mileage after only 18 months but it's been great. Can haul stuff w/out worrying about weather, then put up seats for family. Am at 120k miles now and no regrets. Still very impressive looking vehicle, too. Will keep this as long as I can.

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pole sitter on March 9, 2023

Hello

I just cannot see the reason not to have the convenience of a minivan .Automatic lockable Sliding doors to keep the kiddies safe and automatic tailgate..Then you get to use it for your trucking needs..where else can a 4x8 sheet and numerous 2x4s and tools all protected from the weather be transported for your home projects..oh and dont forget the fishing poles you have to bend double to fit in the average pickup or suv...its a no brainer...

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1
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Said abouauf on August 14, 2022

I recommend for anyone need a good cars

Excellent service good sales person his name Mark in a Blain location good cars and helping for finance all this in the Blain location thanks

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Mom and 3 kids on August 12, 2022

Not with it

I purchased my 2017 grand caravan in 2019. It had one user, mileage was only 40,000. By 80,000 miles the transmission went out and now the motor started ticking at 92,000. Not worth the headache. This was my first American made car and my last!!!

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Skip on June 13, 2022

Very reliable van

I don't understand the complaints about reliability. Our Grand Caravan has 120,000 miles and the only unscheduled maintenance was for CD player. Pretty comfortable for long distance traveling with a consistent 25 mpg highway. Lots of room for people who like to take a lot of stuff on their travels. Would buy this van again

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Rosalyn on April 17, 2022

Never informed about this dangerous situation

This is a very expensive van an it's not worth the money at all it stalls and I was never contacted a out any of these recalls

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DRK on March 20, 2022

Performs all that I ask well!

Affordable, reliable, efficient, does all that is asked of it. 63,000 miles so far trouble free! Would definitely purchase another one if they still made them.

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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.