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Comments
reason for the hp change is due to a new standard of measuring hp, most automakers are using the new standard, thus the apparent decrease in hp figures
When buying my 2005 Dodge G.C., I debated if I should buy the extended warranty. I mean I have a three year, 36,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty and a 7/70,000 power train warranty. Should I get yet another at a cost of around $1,300.00, almost twice what an extended warranty cost on my old Dodge Dakota back in 2001? Well at first I said no, it was to expensive and I shouldn't need it. But then I read where Chrysler's roadside service doesn't cover you if you get a flat, run out of gas, lock yourself out, etc. It only covers you if a part that is covered under their warranty breaks down. So I called AAA and asked what they charge for road side service for my wife and I. They quoted me a price of $145.00 a year for a tow for up to 100 miles. I get out my pin and paper and see at that price for seven years, I would have to pay $1,015.00 just for roadside service. If I were to have the compressor on my A/C go out in the fourth or fifth year, that alone could cost $1,000.00 or more. Although I didn't want to get it, that 7/70,000 extended warranty seem pretty reasonable to me now. It would only be $335.00 more than just paying for AAA. Considering all the power accessories on the G.C., It is cheap, even if nothing goes wrong and the extended service gives you road side service.
I believe that my insurance paid for both of them although I no longer carry that coverage on my insurance. Buy good tires (Michelin), carry a spare, and if all else fails, call a tow truck.
I am more concerned about a high speed blow-out and subsequent crash than about a mechanical failure.
If you want the warranty, get it for the warranty.
1. Stupid one first-should cross bars have come with the roof rack option, or are they always added after? Any brand recomendations? Might use it for kayak and or gear bag.
2. Anybody have any recomendations on aftermarket center consoles? I like the ability to walk through to the back, but might want one for misc storage of small items. Remeber this is caravan sxt so it does not come with console that is in Grand caravan sxt.
Thanks much.
The Added Care covers almost everything except brake pads, windshield wiper blades, tires, battery, etc. There is a $ 100 Deductible.
The center console is NOT standard equipment on any SXT and a factory installed center console is not available on the Caravan SXT. (I do NOT want one as I too like the walk space between front seats).
Bob
Thanks much.
I bought an after market console at Pep Boys. It cost around $48.00 and you can mount it to the floor or not. I don't because I also want to be able to walk through.
This has a sliding lockable lid, place for four drinking cups. Two for front seat, two for back. Also a place front and back for tissue. The bin it's self has a lot of room in it for all kinds of stuff. It also has a tray on top for small stuff you want to get at fast. I just talked my brother into getting one a couple of weeks ago. Really helps keeping your van clean and neat without putting a crimp in your wallet. It usually comes in two tone black and gray colors, which fits right in with my minivan.
I think the T&C wheels are "too busy" in appearance with too many spokes :confuse: ...although the 5 spoke GC SXT wheels are NOT as attractive as Sienna LE 6 spoke or 2002-2005 Odd EX 7 spoke cast wheels.
I will agree that the fake wood on the T&C dash is more attractive than the carbon filament trim of the GC SXT.
I no longer have to pick up my three grand kids from school, so there is mostly just me and my dog in it. The wife said I got rid of the truck to soon now that I don't have to pick up the kids and asked me if I was sorry I bought the minivan and no longer had my truck. I told her no way. I really enjoy driving the minivan. I enjoy having all that room I didn't have in the truck. I enjoy not having tools, battery cables and etc. laying in the floor. I enjoy the way the driver's seat fits me like my easy chair and the arm rest it has. I enjoy the better gas mileage I get with the minivan, especially on the highway.(Could never get 20 mpg on the truck, even if all highway driving.) I enjoy how much easier it is to pull into a parking space in a shopping center without having to belly out like I did with the truck. I enjoy being able to buy stuff at more than one store, without having to go home and drop stuff off before going to another. I enjoy the better sound system the minivan has. I really enjoy stowing one middle seat so that I have plenty of room putting big stuff in the side door instead of lifting it up and putting it in the back. I just love the looks of the van from the outside. It really is the nicest looking on the outside of any of them. Especially since putting on that gold pinstipe all around it. A great invention the minivan. I should have gotten one sooner.
I think it's hard to beat DCX styling - minivans, trucks or cars! I keep my 2nd row seats folded and love the space in the van and space saved in my garage not having to stow seats there!
My biggest like - the power hatch, something I thought was a waste of $400 is now a must have item for rest of my life.
I'm itching to see what DCX does for 2008 Minivans! I expect bold styling and a more "german" feel since they'll also be building Minivans for Volkswagen.
This van has options on top of options. From the power doors, to the power hatch, to the DVD, to the backup system warning, to the sun roof, to the Sirius, to the overhead console, to the leather seats, to the stowing of the rear seats, to the seat warmers, etc., etc., etc.
I asked my wife which options she likes best. In order....seat warmers, power doors, and the stow-n-go.
The 3.8l engine has some pep for such a large vehicle. After the second oil change, I went with a full synthetic oil. That thing starts right up on the coldest of winter days. And it's quiet. On the highway it gets between 26-28 MPG. How can you beat that.
The ride is smooth and quiet. It drives like a car and not like a truck. My wife likes to sit high in a vehicle and this thing is a little higher than her previous Villager.
This thing is really nice. I'm actually starting to think that she likes this thing more than me.
So far I like the Town & Country Touring with luxury and leather group or the limited. Both are attractive and appear to be well thought out vans.
Are there any limited model owners out there (2005 and newer) that would like to share some feedback? My only gripe so far is that you have to delete side airbags to get a sunroof, which I won't do because we have babies riding with us.
Would be curious to hear from other young families who have given the T&C a try as their family vehicle.
I believe you can now get sunroof and side airbags. Go to site and try building, it should work.
Sounds like folks are pretty happy with the T&C which is great to hear. I might still be in the market for an '06 model as I still like the look and features.
Now if they would only bring back Employee Pricing I would be all set!
Last year there were 3 times the selection from a base Caravan SE 4 cyl to a T&C Limited.
I am disappointed that DC is deleting nice features that are on my 2002 T&C LX.
DC minivans have the most attractive exterior styling while GM "Cross-over" vehicles are least attractive with very poor 3rd row seating and very little cargo space behind 3rd row.
DC minivan instrument cluster is not as attractive as Sienna but DC stereo and HVAC controls are more user friendly.
DC would be smart to not drastically change the exterior styling of THE MOST ATTRACTIVE minivan...the styling and interior changes of the Chrysler PT Cruiser have been most detrimental.
I really liked the Chrysler Aspen SUV (based on Durango). 5.7 HEMI, loved the interior etc........Could be my next camping vehicle Then there'd be no limit on the size I trailer I could tow ~~
I'm hearing DCX is talking about a V8 for 2008 in minivans???? and 6 spd auto?
I also fell in love with the Lincoln MKX CUV......WOW!!! fantastic interior, styling but I'm afraid it's tow rating would be any better than my minivan
The Salt Lake City Auto Show (in Sandy, Utah) did NOT have the Chrysler Aspen nor did I see the Lincoln MKX CUV. Not even a Dodge Caliber.
There was a 2006 Kia Sedona, a few Dodge/Chrysler little sports cars (that I don't look at), a Chevy Nomad, a Ford Fairlane, Mazda 5, 2006 Toyota RAV4, 2007 Chevy Tahoe...I primarily looked at the 4 DC minivans, 2 Siennas, and the lone Odyssey.
My wife and I did sit inside the Lexus RX330 just for kicks. :P
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
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After repair by dealer, they said it was a bad seal in trans. Upon reading the ticket it says they replaced the front pump! Isn't that the torque converter?
The salesman swore up and down before the purchase that DCX
had resolved all the old problems with T&C transmissions. Can anybody relate to this problem?
P.S.-This 5 Star dealership also tried to hand her a $600 bill for a warranty repair!
Buyer beware when purchasing a used vehicle.
I noticed some vibration when I first drove it home from the dealership, but thought is was due to the poor road and weather conditions. When I drove the van to work the following Monday on the highway, I really noticed the vibration that comes through the steering wheel, seat and brake pedal. It is like a pulsing sensation that runs up your arms and leg and across your back and chest. It is really strange and difficult to describe. I have never been in a vehicle that has done this before. It seems to get more intense with speed and more annoying the longer you are in the van. The man from servicing said it was just the harmonics of the vehicle. I have never had a car make me feel sick before (either as the driver or the passenger)and I have been driving for 30 years.
I found four other posts on line from 2005 Grand Caravan owners complaining of vibrations described as follows:
"When you accelerate it feels like you are on driving on gravel"
"there is a troubling vibration (it can be heard & felt when trany is in overdrive going 45-50 mph"
"The engine produces vibration that can be felt in the gas pedal"
"I got a bad vibration in the steering wheel/seat that is worse when idling"
These complaints sound like they may be the same thing I'm experiencing.
I'm going to ask the dealership to let me test drive another van of the same model to see if there is any difference. I don't think I'm imagining this problem, but I have no idea what could be causing it. I don't think it is the tires or steering as the vibration can be felt when the car is not moving. I'm hoping it goes away because otherwise I really like the van, but I don't want to drive a vehicle that makes me feel nauseated all the time.
Has anyone purchased the 2nd row bins for Stow-n-Go?
Comments? Seems like alot of $$ for them, the carpeted factory area seems fine..?
Also has anyone purchased additonal overhead bins for the rail system? I think 2 more would be cool...
Also has anyone heard of a snake light for the overhead rails??
Overall this mini van rocks and is most excellent! Like others have said, should have gotten one long ago...I still dont understand the 'stigma' with them, people snicker when I tell them about it. But it is FAR more versatile than any of their vehicles.
Stow-n-Go Rocks!
Tony
Comments? Seems like alot of $$ for them, the carpeted factory area seems fine..?
I purchased the 3rd row bin and folding table. Like the bin but not impressed with the table/lid. I used the table a few times camping for my 2 burner coleman propane stove. The stove isn't heavy at all, and the table sags?
This is my 3rd Minivan, I love em and don't care with others think If someone has a problem with you driving a minivan, it's their problem, not your's
I am digging on the overhead bins, I think I found out they are $140 EACH though the guy is not sure...Wouldnt that be rich?
http://www.leeparts.com/item-1-59-326-427.html
He thought it was one bin but has to dig ...
Tony
"State-of-the-art technology is used to ensure quietness in all seating positions for 2005 Chrysler and Dodge minivans. By combining computer simulation techniques with vehicle testing in Chrysler's state-of-the-art Auburn Hills wind tunnel and on environmental four-post shakers, Chrysler Group engineers were able to create the quietest minivans in the marketplace. Some changes for 2005 models include:
* Robotically applied liquid spray dampener technology to prevent noise from entering the passenger compartment. The damping treatment is applied to the floor, toe-pan, cowl, and roof panel.
* Expandable polyurethane foam is injected into cavities at the base of the cowl plenum, liftgate opening, and center and rear door pillars to cut noise.
* The new underbody structure is designed for high bending and torsional stiffness, which helps isolate suspension vibration and chatter from passenger compartment.
* A fluid-filled hydro engine mount significantly reduces engine vibration into the front rails to help isolate engine vibration.
* Suspension control arms utilize tuned hydro bushings to further reduce suspension vibration."
This is much more than the normal engine vibration you feel in a van, I have never felt uncomfortable driving before. The van also seem to wobble when going over small bumps in the pavement, adding to the uncomfortable ride. It may be because I am feeling ill from the vibration that I'm noticing any other movement more intensely. I won't have time to get back to the dealership before next friday, but I'll let you know what I find out from driving another similar vehicle.
I just find it annoying to have to keep going back to the dealership after buying a brand new vehicle. This has been a very disappointing experience.
I hope you're documenting all this(conversations with dealer/reps, work records etc.), it sounds like you might need it if it comes to a lemon law situation.
1) A car (ANY car) that uses a quart every 3,000 miles is just fine. Typically manufacturers have some arbritrary point (like 1 quart per 1,000 miles) where the car is deemed to be using too much oil.
2) We have two DGCs, both with the 3.8, one with 106,000 miles, the other with 57,000 miles, and neither use a full quart between 7,500 mile oil changes.
3) If an engine doesn't use some oil, that to me is more of a worry than if it uses a little too much. The fact is that the oil that lubricates things like valve guides is not recoverable, and as such, if no oil is being consumed, then the valve guides aren't being lubricated.
Best Regards,
Shipo
Hmmm, not too likely, especially so since many engines (the Cadillac Northstar comes to mind) are considered very frugal with oil at anything over 2,000 miles to the quart.
Funny thing, there was a time when the older of the two vans was using oil more along the 3,000-4,000 mile range, but that was with conventional oil. Given that I find that fairly normal I've never given it much thought, however, when I converted it to Synthetic (Mobil 1 5W-30) I sort of expected consumption to get worse (given its superior flow characteristics), however, it gradually got better. Why? I haven't given that much thought either, however, a theory has just descended upon my brain. I wonder if the oil rings had become partially clogged/sludged on dealership oil, and if it just took a while for the synthetic to clean up the mess. Hmmm, thinking about this a little further, for the first year or two (between say 20,000 miles and 50,000 miles) after I started using Mobil 1, the oil would be quite black after only three or four thousand miles, now however, the oil stays amber color almost for the entire duration of my typical 7,500 oil change.
If you want to take a look, I posted a couple of rocker arm pictures a few weeks ago at http://photos.yahoo.com/shipo inside of the "Caravan Stuff" folder. In those two pictures you can see a small pool of oil puddled in the rocker arm, and clearly see through the oil. These photos were taken at about 104,200 miles, 4,200 miles after I had changed the oil. If you do take a look, click the "Download" button to see them in their full resolution.
I have heard a few (very few) rumors of some DC engines sludging, although I don't think that any of them were MiniVan engines. I wonder, even though the previous owner of your van changed the oil every three thousand miles, if the fact that they were using dealership oil (i.e. whatever the dealership got a good deal on from their supplier) meant that you've got some clogged oil rings. As a suggestion, you might want to convert to a good Synthetic (not Castrol, unless you can get the German version which is true synthetic). If you decide to convert, I would only go 4,000 miles for the first couple of changes because the amount of dirt that synthetic cleans up and then needs to hold in suspension is rather amazing. After the first couple of changes you can then return to a more normal 7,500 mile OCI regimen.
Best Regards,
Shipo
BTW, my Caravan has the 4 cylinder engine, which works a lot harder than the 6 cylinder, so I switched to Mobil 1 at 1,500 miles and will thereafter do changes at 6,000, 12,000 etc. (the 2006 allow a maximum 6,000 mile interval, compared to a couple of years ago when 7,500 miles maximum was common in DC products; probably due to sludging concerns).
2d BTW, the "1" in Mobil 1 signifies it is their full-synthetic formulation. There are other flavors of Mobil oils - Mobil Drive Clean (or just Clean) and Mobil 5000, Mobil 7,500. Be warned these are NOT full synthetic. When in doubt, read the label!