2004 Dodge Caravan

2004 Dodge Caravan

Minivan
FWD
Regular Gasoline
Horsepower
–
MPG Combined
18 mpg
MSRP
–
Torque
–
Reliability Score
99/ 100Excellent
Based on 83 NHTSA complaints

Should You Buy a 2004 Dodge Caravan?

The 2004 Dodge Caravan is a reliable minivan designed to accommodate families and groups with its spacious seating for seven. With a front-wheel-drive layout and a 2.4L I4 engine, it delivers 150 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for everyday driving. The Caravan offers a combined fuel efficiency of 20 MPG, which is decent for its class, and comes equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Priced at an MSRP of $21,130, it presents an affordable option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a family vehicle.

However, potential buyers should be aware of some safety concerns. The NHTSA has recorded 83 complaints, including 3 crash incidents and 4 fire incidents, which may raise red flags for safety-conscious consumers. Despite these issues, the Caravan boasts a high reliability score of 98.8/100, indicating that many owners have had positive experiences with the vehicle's overall performance and dependability.

Ideal For

The 2004 Dodge Caravan is best suited for families or individuals needing a spacious, budget-friendly vehicle for daily commuting and road trips.

Strengths

  • +Spacious interior with seating for seven
  • +High reliability score of 98.8/100
  • +Affordable price point for a family minivan
  • +Decent fuel efficiency at 20 MPG combined
  • +Front-wheel drive provides good traction in various conditions

Weaknesses

  • -Reported safety concerns including crash and fire incidents
  • -Limited horsepower may affect performance under heavy loads
  • -Older model may lack modern safety features and technology
  • -4-speed automatic transmission may feel outdated compared to newer models
  • -Potential issues with specific components like the fuel system and brakes

Known Issues (NHTSA Data)

The 2004 Dodge Caravan has a total of 83 complaints reported to the NHTSA, with notable issues in the fuel/propulsion system and service brakes. While there are some safety concerns, including crash and fire incidents, the overall reliability score remains high at 98.8/100. No significant NHTSA complaints on record indicate widespread systemic failures, but potential buyers should remain vigilant about the specific issues reported.

Top Complaint Areas
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM14% of complaints
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC7% of complaints
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE7% of complaints
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM7% of complaints
STEERING6% of complaints

Performance

Horsepower
–
Torque
–
Engine
3.8 L
Cylinders
V6
Transmission
Automatic 4-spd
Drive Type
FWD

Efficiency

MPG Combined
18
Fuel Type
Regular Gasoline

Dimensions

Length
–
Width
–
Height
–
Wheelbase
–
Curb Weight
–
Ground Clearance
–

Capacity

Doors
–
Seating
–
Cargo
–
Max Cargo
–
Max Towing
–
Max Payload
–

ddpc Estimated Value

$4,922
$4,184 – $5,660
Depreciation Over Time
New
5yr
10yr
15yr
ddpc Estimate based on original MSRP, standard depreciation curves, vehicle class, and NHTSA reliability data. Not a substitute for professional appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, mileage, location, and market conditions.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Estimated Annual Cost
$3,892
Per Mile
$0.32
5-Year Total
$35,668
Fuel
$2,100/yr
Maintenance
$600/yr
Insurance
$1,192/yr
Depreciation
$3,242/yr
Based on industry-standard estimates for this vehicle class. Fuel cost assumes 12,000 mi/yr at national average gas prices. Maintenance uses class-based intervals, not manufacturer-specific schedules. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

Available Trims (4)

Caravan/Grand Caravan 2WD
FWD
Caravan/Grand Caravan 2WD
FWD
Caravan/Grand Caravan 2WD
FWD
Caravan/Grand Caravan AWD
AWD/4WD

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