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"Plans include an electric minivan, with lithium-ion batteries in the second-row cargo wells. Chrysler showed a prototype in September, along with an electric Dodge sports car and a Jeep Wrangler EV. The minivan is an "extended-range" vehicle that can run 40 miles on battery alone, with a small gasoline engine to extend that range to about 400 miles. One of the three will be on the road next year as a 2010, the rest a year later, said Doug Quigley, product engineer with ENVI, Chrysler's electric vehicle division. If validation proves the minivan is "most robust soonest," it will lead the charge. GM's extended range Chevrolet Volt is slated for sale in November 2010.
An electric minivan would supersede plans for a hybrid minivan, said Frank Klegon, executive vice president of product development.
Another upgrade is replacing the aging V-6 engines with the new Phoenix family of more efficient six-cylinders due in 2010. Despite rumors to the contrary, the Phoenix program is on track. Some test minivans have been built with the new engine, said Larry Lyons, vice president of the product team, and last month president Jim Press said he was driving a vehicle with one of the new V-6s..."
But still, I am surprised that my T&C (message center) tells me "Oil change required" every 2,500 miles or less! I already have almost 12,000 miles, and I have about 65% local and the rest highway mile, and live in NY where temperatures are mostly not extreme. So why do I need to change it that often???
What else, oh Anyone else have numerous squeaks,rattles from rear windows and plastic pieces? I also have those pull up sun shades in the rear doors and windows and they rattle up or down. I've found 4 different screws, nuts and plastic clips that have fallen off different areas, but none seem related to my noises. Can't wait until the things they used to hold start rattlling. What am I saying? I guess I miss my 2005, that van was well built, this one not at all. Well let me know how well yours is screwed together. The bright side in all of this is I got one of the last Chrysler Leases, I only have to drive this junker 2 more years. I hope gas doesn't go back to 4 bucks any time soon. :lemon: :lemon:
Re noises and squeeks, I have been lucky. I do not have any rattles. The only problem I have had with this model is that the automatic doors sometimes need two clicks or more to finally close. Happens about 1 in 10 times, usually if the car is on a downward slope when parked.
Got it the end of Aug 08 and have 8,000 miles on it already, I LOVE IT! and I'm happy to report that I don't have any of your problems. Using the computer on board it says I get around 18-19 mpg driving locally, and 23-25 on I-81 going 70 mph. I'm very pleased with mine. Only wish I could have gotten the Signature (or is it Special Edition?) with more options and better pricing. Didn't because it is not available with tan interior and that was a requirement for me. Love the MyGIG and have had no problems with it, as some reported; however, I don't have the navigation system. I have a Garmin which is great and a lot less expensive.
Try figuring your MPG manually...is it possible that the "computer" is not working correctly? Whatever it is, the mileage is very poor and I would continue to bug the dealer to find a reason and correct it! GOOD LUCK!
On the highway I actually get good mileage, it once went over 25 MPG when traveling speed 50-55. But my local mileage is bad, Computer says something like 11 MPG, but I use my remote starter a lot, especially in the frozen cold weather, so maybe this is the reason here.
I also started to get painfully bad rattles from my rear end, the liftgate area. Of course my dealer was "unable to duplicate the problem". I am already sick and tired of the dealers never finding anything. As of now, I have terrible squeaks & rattles, especially when going over bumps or potholes, and severely vibrating and knocking from the rear when in reverse. Although not always - I usually have it when it rains or it snows. Also, when I am in reverse and listening to the radio, I hear an annoying sound in the background of the radio.
To sum up, I feel this van is just falling apart. I was in love when I got my van, but now - sorry Chrysler - I think that's it with Chrysler. I just wish any importer should have the multimedia options Chrysler offers....
For the mileage, cars get the worse mileage on short trips. Mileage also gets worse in the winter, with or without the remote start. So, if you are in the cold northern areas (as I am), you will see your mileage improve as the weather improves.
Last week while on Vacation, I drove a 2009 T&C rental for 8 days. While it was somewhat stripped compared to my current van, I was very disappointed, and wonder if I am alone in my opinion.
Overall, I the new van did not feel as solid as my current van, did not ride as quiet as my 2006, and got much worse gas mileage. I tend to get 25-26 on the highway with my 3.8 Grand Caravan. On my rental, I only averaged 20, which mostly consisted of Highway travel in FLA. Even on smooth roads, the road noise was more intrusive than with my 2006.
The new van had about 8000 miles on it, so I don't think the poor mileage was due to not being broken in.
A few other comments...the position of the inside door handle on the sliding doors of new van is less convenient, as is the inside grip on the rear hatch. I did like the interior styling a bit better on the new model, particulary on the dash and steering wheel. The new position of the gear shift is interesting, but not a plus or minus.
Am I alone in thinking that the new model is a step back from the prior version?
Is the CEL on? Did you try pulling the OBD-II codes?
Did the poor gas mileage start all of a sudden, or has in gotten worse over time?
Yeah, 9.8 mpg is pretty bad, even for city driving.
:confuse: :sick:
I am just curious to see how many others are having this same problem, and would love to see some other postings of mpg numbers. I am also hoping that be reposting this as a new topic, it will get more exposure and interest, since not everyone reads all posts on all subjects, and that someone will have some suggestions for me as to what may be the cause or what I may do to try to improve the milage because in 40 yrs or working on cars, I am completely stumped.
2000 T&C LXi, 3.8 ltr, AWD, 87,000 miles as of yesterday. All filters clean, all plugs, wires & connections good. No Air or fuel leaks to be found anyplace on vehicle. Mileage suddenly down to 9.8 mpg ! Used to get between 13.5 and 26 mpg. Anyone have any ideas as to cause and or correction, or is this the best I can hope for at this point??
#477 of 478 Re: Reall low MPG [joepeterson56] by srs_49 Mar 05, 2009 (10:44 am) Save | Reply
Replying to: joepeterson56 (Mar 05, 2009 10:29 am)
One of the front O2 sensors (ahead of the catalytic converter)?
Is the CEL on? Did you try pulling the OBD-II codes?
Did the poor gas mileage start all of a sudden, or has in gotten worse over time?
Yeah, 9.8 mpg is pretty bad, even for city driving.
Replies to this message:
joepeterson56 (Mar 05, 2009 11:22 am)
#478 of 478 Re: Reall low MPG [srs_49] by joepeterson56 Mar 05, 2009 (11:22 am) Save | Reply
Replying to: srs_49 (Mar 05, 2009 10:44 am)
I'm sorry, I forgot to say, no lights on for codes,no codes at all in system. I check for them regularly when I do any work on it or have a problem, as I do NOT trust any idiot lights! Runs smooth and steady, no loss of power, just the worst mileage of anything I ever owned! It has decreased pretty steadily, but this is the worts. I filled it the other night, drove 5.8 miles right after fill up, got in it the a day and a half later, and it was down an 1/8 th of a tank and checked the readout and couldn't believe it. No leaks anywhere, and no fumes either, and tires always properly inflated. I am stumped! By the way, as a side not because I have seen other posting on the tire inflation subject, I called the manufacturer of my tires because I didn't like the ride after they were put on, and they said all tires on the C/D minivans should be filled and ran at about 39lbs all the time for improved tire handling, wear, ride and gas mileage purposes. I never heard that before, but it was right from the manufacturer's tech support line.
Well, after driving it for one day, I must say I am very impressed! It is SO MUCH BETTER than my Chrysler van, that I was shocked. Sure, in terms of features and entertainment, the Chrysler wins hands down. But other than that, I must applause Kia/Hyundai. I got an LX Sedona, a bare-bones model, with no extra features, just the basics.
To start the comparison, let me state that I have the Limited version of the Town & Country, which have the more powerful 4.0L engine (251 hp) and a 6-speed transmission, as apposed to the 5-speed only on the Sedona, which also has a 3.8L, 250 hp engine (across the line, BTW, not only in top models). But the Sedona was so much better at takeoff, it felt briskly and ready to go, while my truck-like Town & Country feels much more sluggish. Leave alone the engine noise – the Sedona has a quieter, much more refined sound when accelerating, while the Town & Country has a harsh-sounding engine which would rather suite for a truck.
The ride on smooth roads is quite similar, but on bumps or potholes, the Sedona WINS - BIG TIME! It takes’em so much better. The handling of the Sedona is also superior to the Town & Country. The Sedona feels almost sporty when compared to the Town & Country, it feels lighter, almost car-like, the steering feel is better, and the steering wheel is much smaller which enhance the driving experience. (The Town & Country has a H-U-G-E thick steering wheel which would also rather suite for a truck.)
Overall, the Sedona feels much more refined that the Town & Country, in most every aspect. The controls feel more precise, even small things, like the signal lever, and even the signal clicks. Controls are up high within easy reach, while in my Town & Country I have to bend down below my knees for some A/C controls. Everything is lighted, even the ignition key ring insert, the glove box, etc. It has the windshield wiper de-icer – a feature Chrysler had it first on minivans, but they dropped it to save some money, and companies like Kia picked it up instead. What a shame.
Again, The Town & Country has its own pros, it’s much nicer executed in many ways, much more luxurious, and more exciting gauge cluster and entertainment options, but the driving experience is not even close to the Sedona.
I am still shocked.
Didn't you test drive any other vans before deciding on Chrysler? I test drove Toyota, Honda, and Hyundai before buying mine. It seems like nobody takes their cars for test drives before buying them.
Never did I thought that the new one will be worse than the predecessor. My lease was up with the old one at the same time when the new one was released, and I had no source to check any reviews, only the "new features" which Chrysler added, and sounded very exciting. Many features I did not want but there was no choice, I could only get them that way or wait another few months for a custom-built model. I knew I will hate the power 3rd row seats. Who needs it? Now it gives me the hell. Every day new problems. It does not act like it supposed to. Squeaks and rattles all over the van like crazy. All passengers, included my own kids, keep questioning me if I am sure this is a new van??...
I am sure that it's because it's a first year model, and in a year or 2 most problems will be corrected - with the exception of the engine refinement, ride and handling, which needs a major makeover. I hope that Chrysler see their situation today, and will learn the hard way - and in the end, release better products.
I tried a sedona on a recent trip, and it felt very sluggish and stodgy...a bit like the 90's era grand caravan. The highway fuel economy was about 3 MPG less than my 3.8. The only good thing I can say about the Sedona is that it rode better than the Kia Amanti, which is supposedly a luxury car.
Does anyone here have an opinion about the new chrysler 4.0L vs the 3.8?
I just passed 66K and other than a leaking rack, the van has been flawless.
Note: I just replaced the factory Bridgestone's with Cooper CS4's. What a difference in feel and road noise!
People's experiences with Chrysler/Dodge minivans seem to be all over the map.
What I meant to say, that I never expected the Kia to feel so much lighter, faster, better bump absorbing, less body lean, easier controls, than my once-beloved Town & Country. But it did. And that was my shock. Hyundai/Kia are improving with giant steps. And Chrysler?????
Anyway, we're not into comparisons here, but I just wanter to air out my feelings, my thoughts... That's all. Back to the Chrysler Town & Country........
My Mother still has a 2002 Caravan Sport which has also been flawless. Two close friends each drive a Grand STX or T&C Touring which also have been flawless in the 2 years they've owned them. I know these are just anecdotes, but the truth is that you rarely hear the success stories. I don't blame people for complaining when they get a lemon, but I don't want to throw the baby out with the bathwater either. I just hope Chrysler hangs on, because the Caravan is their only vehicle that reigns supreme in it's market segment, and I hope to keep buying them.
- Power doors open back up just as they hit the closed position. Dealer has upgraded software several times and it still happens every week or so. Quite a security issue--we've returned to the car a couple of times to find the door open since we don't always stick around to watch it close. Has anyone heard of a definitive fix for this?
- MyGig freezes with no sound, can't adjust volume. Seems to have been fixed by latest software upgrade (fingers crossed).
- Rear hatch shock sticky, so it doesn't open all the way and then won't power close. Dealer is replacing on next visit.
- Loud whine from rear at highway speeds. I found that gently pressing the brake at speed several times clears the noise. Will have dealer check rear brakes next visit.
All the bells and whistles are nice when they work. The Backseat TV is great. Stow 'n go is fantastic. No other minivan was able to get rid of 2nd row seats so neatly. 4.0L Engine is powerful but noisy.
GPS is fine, but the fact that you can't use it while driving makes it virtually useless. If I'm driving and need to find nearest gas or food, I don't want to have to pull over to do it. Does anyone know if the dealer can override this?
Is there a list of all dealer-programmable settings for the GC on the web somewhere? I couldn't find anything via Google.
I was able to get the Chrysler lifetime warranty when I bought the car, so if they can stay in business, I won't have to pay for repairs ($50 deductible), but overall the car has been very disappointing in quality, despite having many good features. Make sure you get all the SW upgrades.
Has any one else had this problem??
Thanks
Here is a link to the product: http://www.coastaletech.com/MYGIG.htm
Copy and paste it in your browser address bar. Scroll down a bit and watch the demonstration video. As you will see, ALL factory options are unlocked. So, while driving, you can now use all nav features, watch a movie, or even view the backup camera.
If you are impressed, go to ebay and search for MYGIG LOCK PICK. You can usually find it on there for quite a bit cheaper than ordering direct from the maker. Finally, there are other products out there too, but this is generally the one most recommended. BE CAREFUL ON EBAY. There are several knock-off -look exactly the same but are not LOCK PICK brand and I can not vouch for how well they work (or do not work).
Hope this helps!
Kirk
1. MyGig Lockpick. This little devil box turns off all the My Gig safety features. Now you can watch movies (including auxiliary and VES sources), use all navigation features (including address search), and even watch the backup camera - all while driving! For more information on this product visit the following link (or google Mygig lockpick), scroll down and watch the demo video - you will love it: link title
2. Weathertech Floor Liner. These puppies are made of slightly rigid plastic that still has a grippyness of rubber. The are digitally molded to fit over almost every inch of carpet and hang just a little over the door trim. So, you get nearly perfect protection for your carpets. Plus they have color matched to all production interior options! They are expensive, but just remember, a dollar isn't worth a dime until you spend it. This is one product you will praise for years to come, after you make peace with the price. Here is the link:
link title
3. Chrome Pillar Posts. The T&C Limited is an eye catcher. But with a few more additions, it will become a chrome-clad automotive Adonis. These are easy to install, inexpensive, and make my ride look incredible. Here is a link - the pictures look good but really dont do it justice - in person, these things really, REALLY look great! link title
4. Chrome Fender Trim. After the pillar posts are nicely sparked, the only thing missing is fender trim. Click on this link then pick year, make, and model, and then click on the picture link to see it installed on the 08 T&C - B&I is the best in the business! link title
5. Blind Spot Obstacle Detection. This uses infrared sensors mounted inside the mirror cover to detect when an object enters the blind spot of the vehicle on either the driver or passenger side. This will be standard equipment on all vehicles in the near future and could certainly prevent an accident. Retails for $580 but can be had for $450 and maybe even less. Here is a link for more information and Mopar part number: link title
6. Update MyGig Software. Most dealers have no idea how to do this. The most recent version of the software is 1.220. If you have anything earlier, UPDATE NOW! It is easy and addresses a lot of bugs. It is also FREE! Here is a link - read it carefully - there is a step by step instructions and pictures to show you what you will see. A 5 year old could do it. link title
7. Update the Grace Notes database. Grace Notes is the database inside the MyGig that allows you to see the names of songs and related information when playing back from the internal hard drive. Database and instructions available from this link (when you get there, click on GRACENOTE on the left-hand side): link title
8. Update the Nav Database. I am reluctant to recommend this except to people really needing it or for the rich who will not mist the $220! They claim to have increase the number of points of interest by over 10% but tehre are some markets, especially in Canada, where there have been no new data in 3 years! Call the company and ask specific questions about what has been updated before you buy. All sales final. NO REFUND! Here is the link: link title
9. Invisible Mask Paint Protector. Invismask and 3M are the top makers of these products, though there are other competitors. This is an incredibly durable super thin film that is glued onto the paint. I have had it on my 300C for over 3 years and not even 1 chip or ding in the area protected by the film (which is the entire front of the car) plus it has not yellowed in any way. This product is an absolute mast have if you want your vehicle to keep looking new for the next 5 years. Finally, while the makers assure you that you can install it yourself... DONT! Get a professional and CHECK THEIR WORK before you hire them. Puting this stuff on the lower bumper is harder than hanging walpaper with your feet! link title
10. Factory running boards and the upgraded trim kit.
So this is my list. What is yours? Also, there are a few things I am still looking for:
1. A chromed cover (or replacement part) for the black plastic fog lamp holders.
2. A chrome replacement grill - something big and bold like my Boss grill for the 300c
Kirk
Regarding the blind spot detectors, I recommend 2" convex mirrors, which stick on the surface of the side view mirrors (I mount mine at the outer, lower corner on each side), to eliminate blind spots. These cost about $4 total and completely eliminate bind spots along both sides. Of course, they do require the driver to actually check them.... Just when someone makes something that is foolproof, along comes a new model of fool.
Hope this helps.
Kirk
If your dealer can't find it.... Show 'em this. It's TSB: 23-023-08
SUBJECT:
Whistle, Honk Or Howl Sound Coming From "A" Pillar Or Windshield Area
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves applying clear flowable silicone sealer to the backside of the
windshield molding lip seal to adhere the lip seal to the A-Pillar.
MODELS:
2008 (RT) Town & Country/Grand Caravan
SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
The customer may experience a whistle, honk or howl sound from the A-Pillar area or
windshield area of A-Pillar on either side of the vehicle. A combination of high ambient
temperatures above 32° C (90° F), high driving speeds 112 Kph (70 Mph) or higher and
cross winds are required to make this sound occur. The condition may be intermittent or
can be continuous when the conditions are met.
An outer lip seal on the windshield moulding that contacts the A-Pillar may vibrate and
cause this sound.
DIAGNOSIS:
If the vehicle exhibits the condition described in the Symptom/Condition, perform the
Repair Procedure.
PARTS REQUIRED:
Qty. Part No. Description
1 04467708 Clear Flowable Silicone Windshield & Glass
Sealer - (1.5 oz. Tube) 1 Tube may service 2
vehicles
NUMBER: 23-023-08
GROUP: Body
DATE: August 1, 2008
REPAIR PROCEDURE:
1. Start at the top or bottom of the A-Pillar and insert a thin fiber stick between the
A-Pillar and the windshield molding lip seal so the lip seal is lifted up and away from
the A-Pillar. (Fig. 1).
NOTE: A thin card (plastic) can be used as a tool to lift the lip seal from the A-Pillar if
a thin fiber stick is not available.
Fig. 1 A-PILLAR WINDOW MOULDING
1 - A-Pillar
2 - Windshield Moulding Lip Seal
3 - Windshield Moulding
4 - Windshield
5 - Silicone Sealant Applied to Back Side of Lip
6 - Windshield Moulding Lip Seal Lifted from A-Pillar
NOTE: The area where the sealer is applied is narrow. Carefully cut the silicone
nozzle tip at the narrowest point at an angle to be able to apply the silicone
into the area described.
2. Insert the nozzle of the silicone sealant in between the A-Pillar and windshield molding
lip just behind the fiber stick.
3. Move the fiber stick slowly along the A-Pillar while allowing the silicone to flow onto the
back side of the molding lip and A-Pillar.
4. Proceed as far along the A-Pillar as possible. Do not overfill cavity. There must be an
adequate volume of silicone to adhere the tip of the lip seal to the A-Pillar.
5. Wipe the A-Pillar surface clean of any excess (exposed) silicone sealant.
6. Allow sufficient time for the newly applied sealer to air dry.
POLICY:
Reimbursable within the provisions of the warranty.
23-023-08 -2-
TIME ALLOWANCE:
Labor Operation
No:
Description Amount
23-50-25-90 Adhere Windshield Moulding Lip to
A-Pillar (B)
0.3 Hrs.
FAILURE CODE:
ZZ Service Action
-3- 23-023-08
I do agree with you about buying American. the problem I see in buying American is there is no integrity in the American manufactures anymore. It is difficult to know where the American manufacture makes his product. I happen to also have a 1997 Pontiac which is a General Motors (made in America). Most of the nuts and bolts on it are metric and there are stickers all over it Made in Canada. I also am 62 and I guess I just don't remember when America went to the "Metric System". A warranty is only as good as those who stand behind it.
Ran across your post and used the MyGig webpage to reload my operating system for the van - great link! My nav system was "choking" and not updating the display map or the traffic with Sirius. Went to that webpage and downloaded the latest version of MyGig and FOLLOWED the instructions to a "T" which is a must. Worked like a charm! Agree with the weather Tech mats as well - 3 small kids and they are a life saver! Great post!
Jeff