Dodge Caravan 1996-2000 Body Specifications
Explore the detailed body specifications for the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan, including dimensions, body panels, and chassis details. This guide is essential for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades.
Overview Specifications
This document provides detailed specifications and technical information about the body design and features of the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan. It is organized into sections covering dimensions, materials, design elements, and safety features. Use the search functionality to locate specific details or navigate through the sections for a comprehensive understanding of the vehicle's body specifications.
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Key Specifications
Length
189.4 inches
Width
76.8 inches
Height
68.9 inches
Wheelbase
113.3 inches
Curb Weight
3,600 lbs
Available Specifications
Dimensions
This section covers the exterior and interior dimensions of the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan, including length, width, height, and wheelbase. It also includes details on cargo space and seating capacity.
Dimensions
This section covers the exterior and interior dimensions of the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan, including length, width, height, and wheelbase. It also includes details on cargo space and seating capacity.
Exterior Dimensions
- Overall length: 189.4 inches
- Overall width: 76.8 inches
- Overall height: 68.9 inches
- Wheelbase: 113.3 inches
- Ground clearance: 6.1 inches
- Curb weight: 3,600 lbs
Interior Dimensions
- Headroom (front/rear): 39.8/39.1 inches
- Legroom (front/rear): 41.0/36.5 inches
- Shoulder room (front/rear): 63.0/62.5 inches
- Cargo volume: 144.5 cubic feet
- Seating capacity: 7 passengers
Materials and Construction
This section details the materials used in the body construction of the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan, including the type of steel, paint, and corrosion protection methods.
Materials and Construction
This section details the materials used in the body construction of the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan, including the type of steel, paint, and corrosion protection methods.
Body Materials
- High-strength steel frame
- Galvanized steel panels
- Thermoplastic bumpers
- UV-resistant paint
- Anti-corrosion undercoating
Construction Features
- Unibody construction
- Reinforced side-impact beams
- Energy-absorbing crumple zones
- Seam-sealed joints
- Rust-resistant coatings
Design Elements
This section highlights the design features of the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan, including aerodynamic styling, lighting, and exterior accents.
Design Elements
This section highlights the design features of the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan, including aerodynamic styling, lighting, and exterior accents.
Aerodynamics
- Sleek, wind-tunnel-tested design
- Drag coefficient: 0.35
- Integrated roof rack
- Flush-mounted windows
- Rear spoiler (optional)
Lighting and Accents
- Halogen headlights
- Fog lights (optional)
- Chrome grille accents
- Body-colored bumpers
- Rear wiper and defroster
Safety Features
This section outlines the safety features incorporated into the body design of the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan, including structural reinforcements and passive safety systems.
Safety Features
This section outlines the safety features incorporated into the body design of the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan, including structural reinforcements and passive safety systems.
Structural Safety
- Reinforced passenger cage
- Side-impact door beams
- Energy-absorbing steering column
- Crash-resistant fuel tank
- Child safety door locks
Passive Safety
- Dual front airbags
- 3-point seat belts for all seats
- Height-adjustable shoulder belts
- LATCH child seat anchors
- Rear door child safety locks
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Component Specifications
Overview
- Type
- Minivan
- Configuration
- Front-engine, front-wheel drive
- Platform
- Chrysler NS platform
- Material
- Steel unibody construction
- Location
- Windsor, Ontario, Canada
Dimensions
- Length
- 200.9 inches (5103 mm)
- Width
- 76.8 inches (1951 mm)
- Height
- 68.9 inches (1750 mm)
- Wheelbase
- 113.3 inches (2878 mm)
- Track Front
- 64.3 inches (1633 mm)
- Track Rear
- 63.9 inches (1623 mm)
- Ground Clearance
- 6.1 inches (155 mm)
- Curb Weight
- 3780 lbs (1715 kg)
Materials
- Frame
- High-strength steel
- Body Panels
- Galvanized steel
- Roof
- Steel with optional fiberglass sunroof
- Windows
- Laminated safety glass
- Doors
- Steel with integrated side-impact beams
Features
- Exterior
-
- Sliding rear doors
- Power liftgate (optional)
- Integrated roof rack
- Chrome grille accents
- interior
-
- 7-passenger seating
- Removable second-row seats
- Fold-flat third-row seats
- Dual front cupholders
- Lighting
-
- Halogen headlights
- Front fog lights (optional)
- Rear window defroster with timer
- Center high-mounted stop lamp
- Storage
-
- Under-seat storage bins
- Overhead console storage
- Rear cargo area organizer
- Dual glove compartments
- Convenience
-
- Power windows
- Power door locks
- Remote keyless entry
- Cruise control
Safety Features
- Structural
-
- Energy-absorbing steering column
- Reinforced side-impact protection
- Crumple zones
- Restraint Systems
-
- Dual front airbags
- 3-point seat belts for all seats
- Child safety door locks
- Visibility
-
- Dual electric side mirrors
- Rear window wiper/washer
- Day/night rearview mirror
Comfort Features
- Seating
-
- Cloth upholstery (standard)
- Leather-trimmed seats (optional)
- 6-way adjustable driver's seat
- Fold-down armrests
- Climate Control
-
- Manual air conditioning
- Rear HVAC vents
- Dual-zone climate control (optional)
- Audio
-
- AM/FM stereo with cassette player
- 4 speakers
- CD changer (optional)
- Ride Quality
-
- Independent front suspension
- Torsion beam rear suspension
- Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering
Accessories
- Exterior
-
- Roof rack crossbars
- Trailer hitch
- Mud flaps
- interior
-
- Cargo area cover
- Seat covers
- Floor mats
- Technology
-
- Upgraded sound system
- Rear-seat entertainment system
- Navigation system (aftermarket)
Maintenance
- Service interval
- Every 7,500 miles or 6 months
- Service Items
-
- Inspect and lubricate door hinges
- Check body panel alignment
- Inspect weatherstripping
- Clean and condition exterior surfaces
- Check for rust or corrosion
- Maintenance Notes
- Regular waxing recommended to protect paint finish
Warranty
- Basic
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
- Powertrain
- Miles: 60,000Years: 5Coverage: Engine, transmission, drivetrain
- Corrosion
- Miles: 100,000Years: 7Coverage: Perforation from rust-through
- Roadside Assistance
- Miles: 36,000Years: 3Coverage: 24-hour emergency services
Production Details
- Manufacturer
- Chrysler Corporation
- Manufacturing Process
-
- Robotic welding
- Electrocoating primer
- Automated paint application
- Quality Control
- inspection Stages: 5Testing Procedures: Water leak testing, Wind noise testing, Panel gap measurement
- Sustainability Practices
-
- Recycled steel content
- Water-based paint systems
- Energy-efficient manufacturing
- Production Metrics
- Annual Units: 250,000Production Time: 18 hours per vehicleDefect Rate: 0.8%
Service Information for body Service
Maintenance and service requirements specific to the body
- Inspect door seals and weatherstripping
- Check for body panel alignment
- Lubricate door hinges and latches
- Inspect for paint damage or corrosion
- Clean and condition exterior surfaces
Use only approved cleaning products to maintain finish
- Inspect sliding door mechanisms
- Check power liftgate operation (if equipped)
- Inspect roof rack mounting points
- Verify proper operation of all exterior lights
- Check for rust or corrosion in underbody areas
Pay special attention to areas prone to stone chips
- Perform comprehensive body inspection
- Check for structural integrity
- Inspect all welded joints
- Verify proper operation of all doors and latches
- Inspect and clean sunroof drainage channels (if equipped)
Professional inspection recommended for structural components
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What are the technical specifications for the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan?
What are the technical specifications for the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan?
The 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan features a 2.4L inline-4 or 3.0L V6 engine, with front-wheel drive and a 4-speed automatic transmission. It has a wheelbase of 112.3 inches, a curb weight of 3,500-3,900 lbs, and a fuel capacity of 20 gallons. The vehicle is compatible with standard 15-inch tires and supports towing capacities up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped.
Q2 What maintenance is required for the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan?
What maintenance is required for the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan?
Regular maintenance includes oil changes every 3,000-5,000 miles, tire rotations every 6,000 miles, and brake inspections every 12,000 miles. Replace the timing belt every 60,000-100,000 miles, and check the coolant and transmission fluid levels annually. Inspect the suspension and exhaust system periodically to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Q3 How do I replace the alternator in a 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan?
How do I replace the alternator in a 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan?
To replace the alternator, disconnect the battery, remove the serpentine belt, and unbolt the alternator. Disconnect the electrical connectors, then install the new alternator by reversing the steps. Reconnect the battery and test the charging system to ensure proper functionality. Refer to the service manual for torque specifications and additional details.
Q4 What should I do if my 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan overheats?
What should I do if my 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan overheats?
If your Caravan overheats, check the coolant level and inspect for leaks. Ensure the radiator fan is functioning and the thermostat is not stuck. Flush the cooling system if necessary and replace the coolant. If the issue persists, inspect the water pump and radiator for damage or blockages.
Q5 How can I optimize the performance of my 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan?
How can I optimize the performance of my 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan?
To optimize performance, use high-quality fuel and synthetic oil. Regularly clean or replace the air filter and ensure proper tire inflation. Upgrade to performance spark plugs and wires, and consider a cold air intake system. Regularly inspect and maintain the suspension and exhaust systems for improved handling and efficiency.
Factory Service Resources
Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.
1996-2000 Dodge Caravan Service Manual
Coming SoonComprehensive guide covering maintenance, repairs, and technical specifications for the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan.
Technical Service Bulletin for Transmission Issues
Coming SoonDetails common transmission problems and recommended solutions for the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan.
1996-2000 Dodge Caravan Parts Catalog
Coming SoonComplete catalog of OEM and aftermarket parts for the 1996-2000 Dodge Caravan, including part numbers and diagrams.
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Technical Information
- All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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