2003 Dodge Caravan Passenger

Dodge Caravan...KEEPER!

By Shortstuff (TN) on Friday, April 19, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 90,000

Pros: "Comfortable, easy access, handles well"

Cons: "better gas mileage?"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This 2003 Dodge Caravan has been a JOY to own! Reliable, attractive, comfortable...you name it! Not my first rodeo, either. I've owned other Caravans...after Ford discontinued its Aerostar. Wish gas mileage was better, but no real complaints. This jewel is ten years old, but except for a sluggish passenger power window and one power doorlock that must be locked manually, it's STILL a KEEPER! Much better ride and handling than the Aerostar, and is very easy to get in and out of, if that is a concern. 90,000 miles, but we have totally kept it maintained and clean! Love that it has BOTH a CD player and tape player...was important at the time I bought it...not so much now. Has a few blindspots, but not as many as Ford. Dependable...no worries on the road..Not "boxy-looking" like the newer models."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Gd. van to use for work or if you are a coach.

By Wizz (MA) on Thursday, March 28, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 115,000

Pros: "Just get the minor body work done ,it's a new Van"

Cons: "Just need little body work & paint."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"van needs minor body work but runs excellent,auto starter new tires tinted glass. 4cl,4doors& cd fm-am radio."

1 person out of 2 found this review helpful

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Great Family Car and Value

By Su (NJ) on Thursday, October 25, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 125,000

Pros: "Comfort and value"

Cons: "look out for rough roads; chews through brakes"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"The "original" minivan, the Dodge Caravan is easy to handle, has a nice smooth ride, and enough "get up and go" for a vehicle its size. It's the perfect vehicle for long trips, and I've even slept in it when boy scout camping. Not so great: It chews through brakes (which need replacement every other year) and gas pan underneath got dinged causing fuel leakage. Also needs new front end bearings. But, it's a heavy vehicle. IF you drive it carefully, avoid quick stops and pot holes, you will find it a great value and pleasure to drive."

6 people out of 9 found this review helpful

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This car doesn't owe me a penny!

By Amy (NY) on Thursday, July 26, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 157,000

Pros: "good mileage,Comfortable on long trips, few repair"

Cons: "needs separate rear air/heat,"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"At 157,000 miles, I still get 28 mpg on open roads and over hills. In the city I average 19-21 mpg. I have had to do minimal repairs and don't hesitate to take it on long trips. I change the oil every 3000 miles, then my garage checks for any other problems at that time. I have never had a vehicle that has been as dependable as this one.Goes great in the snow and ice too."

9 people out of 9 found this review helpful

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Long time Dodge owner

By Gyped (CA) on Monday, July 23, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 77,000

Pros: "Great people mover."

Cons: "Paid too much for cheap quality, money pit"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 3

"I have owned a previous model of this van (1997) and it was reliable and fared very well with the daily family life. It was a no muss-no fuss workhorse. I opened a daycare and decided I owed it to myself to own a newer model. The 2008 model, I paid $32k for all the "bells and whistles" and it has been a constant drain on my finances. The warranty requires a service every mark of certain mileage that costs about as much as my mortgage. The brake system (not covered by the warranty) has been redone twice and the tires are of a "special size" and costs more than your average set of tires by about $200. There has been 12 recalls on electronic and motor repairs that I have to drive and wait to have repaired. Now I look at the retail value of the van today and it's only worth a fraction of what I paid! I will never be a sucker for this business again. If you are looking into buying new, my advice is to say NO. If you buy this used, beware that this van is full of little costly problems. For Dodge, newer is not always better."

10 people out of 10 found this review helpful

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