Dodge Caravan Recalls

The Dodge Caravan has 62 recalls spanning 1990–2017, with the most serious recent issue affecting 2017 models where a faulty brake switch can allow the shifter to move out of Park without the brake pedal pressed, enabling unintended vehicle movement.

The 2017 model also has a related condition where the brake lights stay on continuously, masking braking intentions from following traffic. On 2005 models, front airbag sensors can corrode and crack in salt-belt states, leaving occupants without full airbag protection in a crash, and the right front seat belt retractor on vehicles without the Stow 'n Go seating option can fail to lock properly. The 2008–2010 Braun mobility conversion vehicles have two concerns: the fuel filler pipe can contact the tire and wear through, and a suspension component can rub against the tire and eventually cause a blowout.

The 2003 model has a power liftgate latch that can fail to engage, allowing the gate to swing open while driving. On 2002 models, the power steering cooler hose can split and spray fluid onto hot engine parts, starting an underhood fire. The 2001 model has a lower front control arm pivot bolt that can fracture and let the arm separate from the crossmember, causing sudden loss of control.

The 1998 model has a clockspring that can fail and disable the driver's airbag, and integrated child seat harness webbing routed incorrectly that may not restrain a child in a crash. The 1997 model has a brake master cylinder that can leak fluid into the power brake booster and reduce braking effectiveness, along with rear seat belts that loose trim material can block and render inoperative.

The 1996 model year carries the heaviest concentration of recalls. Fuel system issues include static charge buildup on the ungrounded filler tube that can spark during refueling, a fuel pump module seal that can leak at the tank, a rollover valve that can pass liquid fuel into the vapor canister, and fuel rail O-ring seals that can degrade and leak near ignition sources. An engine oil galley plug that does not seal can leak oil onto hot surfaces. The clockspring can be wound incorrectly during assembly and eventually disable the driver's airbag. Rear bench seat bolts can become brittle and fracture in a crash, and integrated child seat mounting bolts can break as well.

Going further back, the 1993 model has a steering wheel armature that can crack and separate from the steering column hub, and airbag wiring that can short to ground and fire the airbags unexpectedly, injuring front seat occupants. Liftgate latches on 1990–1993 models can open in a crash and eject occupants. The 1992 model has a brake pedal pad that can break away from the pedal arm, eliminating braking ability, and fuel tank mounting flanges that can damage fuel lines and cause the tank to drop. The 1991 model has an anti-lock brake pump that can develop porosity, leak fluid, and eventually cause brake lockup and extended stopping distances. The 1990 model has front seat belt buckle straps that can fail under crash loads and a brake proportioning valve that can cause rear wheel skid under heavy braking.