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Comments
Chrysler does not seem to be very organized operation.
Thanks.
The only way I know of would be to go to chrysler.com and click on the Build My Own tab.
I try to look at the bright side of things. By it not coming in yet I will save on taxes - I will be assessed on a auto will be 1 year old at the time of assessment (Dec). I backed into a pole recently and scratched a little paint on my bumper - glad it wasn't my new van. Went skiing and my van is covered with salt from the road - glad it isn't my new van. Gotta think positively about this!!
I've been driving an 08 Town & Country Limited since November and overall I love it. It's my 5th van and by far the best yet. I do however have 2 gripes that perhaps someone could explain to me:
1. There is no low washer fluid level warning. Every car I've had since I started driving has had this. The T&C even has tire pressure details available, but I can't find anywhere the low washer fluid indicator and I keep unexpectedly running out. Am I missing something here or is it really not there? If not, why on earth would they omit it?
2. Low fuel indicator. At least it has this. On my previous Grand Caravans the "distance until empty" value would decrease to zero, then you'd have a few more available miles on the reserve tank before it was truly out. On this one, the DTE measurement is still there, but only until you reach the low fuel level (about 1/4 tank). As soon as that low fuel warning comes on, no more distance measurements.
Anyone have any insight into these issues?
We are considering a new TC or GC. Can anyone tell me what differences there are between the two in general? Are there any different features? Package deals, options, gizmos? :-)
Thanks
2008 Chrysler Town & Country
http://www.chrysler.com/en/2008/town_country/
LX MSRP*:$23,240
Touring MSRP*:$28,625
Touring Signature Series Value Package MSRP*:$32,145
Limited MSRP*:$36,400
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
http://www.dodge.com/en/2008/grand_caravan/
SE VALUE MSRP*:$22,520
SE MSRP*:$26,210
SXT MSRP*:$27,730
T&C is a bit more expensive for the same options but has a more upscale interior (nicer leather, faux wood dash, better feel overall) and a softer ride. Strangely the vastly superior 4.0L engine is more difficult to get since it is only on the top of the line Limited.
Speaking of engines, I was surprised and dismayed to see that they are still making pushrod engines when overhead cams (OHC) are so much more powerful and efficient and all of their competitors use OHC engines (Single OHC or Dual OHC). The 3.3L pushrod is far too weak but lets them claim fuel economy and flex fuel capability; the 3.8L pushrod on the other hand is completely pointless when you get the same economy and a lot more power from the 4.0L which is OHC.
The Grand Caravan has a slightly firmer ride (a good thing IMHO, more so would be better), but you can feel the cost difference by the quality of interior materials. The 4.0L engine is much more accessible with the SXT N or M packages which, while well equipped, don't have to have all the expensive bells and whistles found on the T&C Limited.
Thanks also to Tedebear...I'm going to be spending a lot of time on those sites..
I would love to hear everyone's reasons for choosing one over the other...sounds like it is going to be a tough choice.
Who will it be, Dodge Caravan or the Town and Country? Doesn't the Caravan outsell the T & C?
Buyer beware.
Chrysler hasn't said which models they are considering cutting but if one of the two minivans goes that doesn't mean it will not still be available under a different name. The Chrysler PT Cruiser used to be a Plymouth.
This is not a new issue as many other brands both domestic and foreign have done it in the past.
It might be interesting to note the resale value of a used Pacifica since DX decided to kill that model.
Since both of these minivans are built under the same roof the company can configure what goes out the door however they want. There would no physical change to the product, other than a namplate. Did the resale of the PT Cruiser suddenly drop when it became a Chrysler?
Right now the Chrysler and Dodge minivans have 7 different configurations between the two. If they get rid of one name I suspect the company will consolidate some of those models into maybe 4-5 different choices.
2008 Chrysler Town & Country
LX MSRP*:$23,240
Touring MSRP*:$28,625
Touring Signature Series Value Package MSRP*:$32,145
Limited MSRP*:$36,400
2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
SE VALUE MSRP*:$22,520
SE MSRP*:$26,210
SXT MSRP*:$27,730
Also, the only PT Cruiser leaving is the convertible version. The Sebring isn't leaving either.
When considering resale -- you must consider what you paid for it in the first place to determine who got the better deal.
1. The exterior look, in my opinion, is very classy. As I have had the chance to really look at the car, I really like the squared off proportions of this car. So far I have had 3 people stop me to look at the car.
2. The interior plastics are hard in certain areas. I agree with others here. However, the driving position is excellent and the doors have a very solid, mercedes feel. Absent the hard plastic, I tend to really prefer the look of the T&C over the DGC (just my opinion). The adjustable pedals are nice, and the mygig radio does become more intuitive as you get used to it. All the gauges are clear and very easy to read. I do wish it had a 6 disc cd player, but the radio does have a lot of functionality that over time might make this a non-issue. The sliding console should have a better feel. Ours works great, but the hard plastic here and the mechanisms aren't premium feeling. I do like the way it looks over the standard console though.
3. The interior lighting at night is EXCELLENT. You might not notice this at your first test drive unless it is at night, but the bright white LED's are very nice, casting a great easy to see light over the cabin when entering and exiting at night. Particulary useful when you need to find a childs toy or are loading the van at night.
4. Chrysler is right on target offering a power tailgate on many models (we all know you need to get an XLE Sienna or Touring Ody to get this).
5. The six speed tranny is offering very nice, smooth and seamless shifting. I was weary of Chrysler trannys but so far so good.
6. The DVD player loads in the front, a better design for those with very small kids. You don't want them out of their car seat to load a movie, and you don't want to reach back while you are driving.
7. If you are getting a Touring and it is not an M or L package, get the family value group. We've already used the second row sunshades. Nice feature.
8. We also have the heated front and second row seats (cloth). Very nice. Very european offering here.
9. It has a surprisingly tight turning radius, and the ride is very, very smooth. Yet at the same time, I like the handling. I know it isn't generally highly regarded here, but so far I am very impressed with the way it drives.
The front end looks stunning, with a raised hood and giant grille, which looks really good. Headlamps is very nice and is bright. Door handles are pretty large, and have a good feel. The sliding doors are much improved over the previous version in many ways. First of all, they slide smoother and quieter, and don’t make that strange noise when power closing the door, before finishing the process of closing. Also, in the old version, if you wanted to reverse direction, you were not able to do that. For example, if you wanted to close the sliding door in middle of power-opening operation, you would have to wait until it completes opening, and only then press the button again to close it. Now in the 2008 models it’s much more flexible. You can reverse direction at any time instantly.
The liftgate handle is much better now, just a simple handle like ion the good old times... not anymore this annoying electronic touch handle which confused every single family member.. It now also have an extra control in the rear to close it, which is VERY useful.
The rear end looks very dull. I understand they made it so square-ish in order to increase interior room, and that’s a good thing, but I can’t get over the looks. The lamps mimic the Chrysler 300, which is not so nice on the van (and where is the LED lamps?).
I also dislike the wheels of the Limited. It’s supposed to be nice and elegant, but is rather sporty and very different. I would love Chrysler to offer a choice of 2-3 wheels.
The outside mirrors is now huge, almost double the size of the previous generation vans, which enhances visibility. They now have an option (on the Limited only I think) that the exterior mirror tilt down when in reverse, but unfortunately it’s only for the left (driver side) mirror. IMO, it would be much more useful for the passenger side mirror. Mirrors are auto-dim (interior and driver side exterior), and can be turned off in case you dislike this feature. Note that when the driver side mirror is dim, there is a small surrounding part that does not get dim (looks like a “border” around the mirror) which is sometimes disturbing and feels funny.
In the higher-end models, the mirrors include a signal lamp in front (rear of mirror), which is very nice. But I would like to extend it a bit longer, to bring a small part of it to the rear (front of mirror) so the driver should be able to see it. The way it’s designed, the signal is invisible from the driver’s seat.
A note about the windshield wipers: It’s not crossover style anymore. I hate that the driver side wiper does not go further to the end of the windshield when wiping, leaving about 4-5 inches of rain/snow, which hurts visibility. I can’t figure out why they (American built vehicles) always need to leave such a big gap. (The Japanese are doing better with that).
A big mistake Chrysler did with the redesign is not returning the wiper de-icer feature. So many people requested this, longing back to the old times when they used to offer (on minivans before 2003), and now many competitors already adopted this excellent useful feature, like Toyota Sienna; Kia/Hyundai twins, and more.
You can set via the settings whether or not the headlamps should come on automatically when you press UNLOCK on the remote. It’s a very useful feature, which I have seen already for years on GM vehicles. GM vehicles went a step further, that it also illuminates the rear backup lamps, so no matter which direction you’re coming from, it’s always bright around your car. Hopefully Chrysler will include the rear lamps in the next updated version.
As noted in other posts, the antenna seems to be un-removable, which is a design flaw IMO. In general I think that antennas like this should be a thing of the past. The newer cars have them built in in the rear windows. But I took already many car washes, and it stays OK.
Interior:
The looks and feel inside is much much better than the older vans. I still think that some controls are not at the right position, and I would definitely change them, but overall it looks stunning, rich, elegant and inviting. And most of my friends / family agree.
Let me start with the good points. The interior door handles are HUGE and is very pleasant to use. Opening the front doors is just a pleasure. The grab handles is also very comfortable. Unfortunately, you only get those comfy grab handles in the Chrysler version, not in the Dodge. Silly.
The interior controls are all clearly illuminated, besides for the ignition key ring hole. Speaking about illumination, I must mention my anger when I found out that of both glove boxes neither is illuminated. They added so many beautiful lighting all over the van, I can’t figure out why they forgot of the glove compartments, one of the most used storage compartments. Much more important than the illuminated bottle holders in the bottom of the front doors. (as someone stated above, maybe that’s why they’re including the flash light in the rear of van... but they should replace it to the front then....)
The leather seats is so much better than the older vans, it’s no comparison at all. The old vans had a rough feeling – it felt rather like a school bus vinyl covered seat, not a comfortable leather at all. Now it is just delicious. Smooth, soft, and nice. The same leather is used for the gear selector, which also feels very good and upscale. Unfortunately, the steering wheel does not get that leather, but a different (cheaper IMO) kind.
Speaking of the gear selector, I was skeptical at first for the new location, but I must admit that it’s a pleasure to use. Once you get used to that, you just like it.
The gauges are very nice, and beautifully designed. That’s true for most Chrysler vehicles. I was first a bit upset that they don’t offer the optitron gauges like many others do, but now I think that this way is better, so you don’t lose the nice graphical gauges even at night. That being said, it would be nicer that the needles should be in striking red color, not black. Also, The engine temperature and fuel level gauges to go up and down, not right to left (I like this in the Dodge version better than the Chrysler).
I was not so impressed, though, of the LCD’s below the 2 center gauges, which shows the outside temperature and compass. They’re pixelated, and the previous generation vans were much better with that. But they show you a wealth of information, including the GPS directions (if the main unit is off), shows you graphically which door is open, and countless other messages. They also let you choose a ton of settings in the higher end models (if you have a model without the so-called “Information Center”, you can have your settings changed at your dealer). Still, I would’ve love for the exterior temperature indicator and compass to stay in front of the overhead console, so it’s visible to all passengers. Just put the trip computer dow
The one I have is the MyGig, with navigation and U-connect Bluetooth. But not rear entertainment system (I don’t need it, since most of the times I am traveling without passengers, and even when I have a family trip, I don’t want my children to watch videos on the way).
Even though I don’t have the DVD entertainment system, you can still play DVD’s in the front audio unit. Just put a DVD into the slot of the CD player, and choose “view video”, and you could watch it sitting on the front seat. Of course it’s only working when you’re in Park. Beware that the screen is a wide aspect, and if you put a standard aspect (3:4) DVD, the movie will widen horizontally to fill the entire screen, which is quite annoying.
The MyGig is a beautiful feature. You can load pictures and music (via CD or USB drive – but not via DVD). I wish they would add video format also (MPG, AVI and RAM). The hard drive is sometimes noisy, like older computers while ‘thinking’. That noise happens even when the audio system is not turned on, since it is working in the background for the GPS navigation system and your contacts for the U-connect phone.
The system is pretty much informative when playing an audio file. I would love to see a graphical bar that shows how long the song is and at which position it is now – similar to all computer based AND portable media players. At least a “time remaining” would be useful. You could also see at-a-glance in your “info center” below the gauges if it’s a CD, HDD, or RADIO, which station/or track, etc.
There are so many features for this system, that Chrysler included a separate thick manual. Of course it’s not possible to list them here, but it’s jam-packed with so many handy capabilities.
It also includes the rear backup camera which is very nice. If you don’t like it, you can disable it. The picture is not as clear as some other cars, but it gets the job done. You can also set that when the LCD is off, it should display the time. The time format is updated automatically via GPS, so it’s always accurate. (But it does not work together with the analog clock).
I also have the Sirius traffic information, but I never used it so I can’t comment. It seems to be a very good idea. The navigation itself is working excellent, and gives you so many options and ways to customize.
With Bluetooth, when a call comes in, the audio is muted (CD player or HDD is paused) and it announces that there is an incoming call, but does not read names. Names does not appear unless you put it in your VAN’s contact list (it will not scan the phone book from your phone – or maybe it depends which phone?). Outgoing calls is quite time consuming, first you press the Uconnect button, then at the prompt say “CALL” (or DIAL if the number is not programmed with an VOICE.....), and then say the name/number, then confirm “YES”, and only then it will say ‘calling...’. I find it easier to just take out my phone and speed-dial the number, and it automatically immediately connects. I can then return the phone to my pocket and speak on Uconnect system. (If the phone number is not stored in the Uconnect system, you can’t see the number, only the time.) During a phone conversation, you see the time elapsed, and the battery / signal level.
The Auxiliary-In works very well, so I can connect my laptop (or sometimes my old cassette player) to the vehicles audio system. I would like it placed at a lower position - some companies place the jack in the center console - somewhere closer to the device you're using - and it's better, so you don't have a cable hanging down thru your IP.
SEATING
The front seats are comfortable, especially in the Limited I have, with bigger side bolsters. As mentioned above, the leather is great (except for the inside part, where it mimics the previous generation leather – but you barely feel it). The power seat controls are much smaller than the older vans, and work differently too – when moving up, it automatically moves you forward and vice versa (like many Japanese vehicles are acting). I really don’t like it. I got the memory seats which is very good, of course.
The lumbar support is placed on a very wired location. It’s on the side of the seat, up pretty high. It’s not easy to access, especially in middle of driving. I would like to have it POWERED.
Middle row seats – I got the stow ‘n go, so it’s not as big & comfy as the other versions, but still acceptable. What’s really bad, is the rear seat – on ALL models and versions. They got a slightly bigger well behind the rear seat than the older vans – it should’ve been even bigger (to match rivals dimensions) and also improve the tiny uncomfortable seat. Any other minivan has better 3rd row seat seating position. My 3rd row seats power-folds in floor with a push of a button. I think it’s useless, especially that you CAN’T override it. You must stay patiently and wait... it takes much longer than doing it manually. Also, because of that power feature, the recliner is also powered and dificult to operate.
First & second row seats can get heated. I would love to have cooled seats for the hot summer days... so many vehicles offer them already...
OK, I will stop here now. I will probably add more in the future..
Call me old fashioned, but that's one thing I always look for before taking a test drive. The sales literature doesn't show where it is either.
Any info on this would be so very helpful!! Thanks so much! And after having a T&C for the last 8 yrs...I can say this is for sure my favorite one!!! Did I just say that out loud?? LOL Thanks again for any help you may have to offer me!!!
Danielle
Regarding being connected to the Uconnect system, did you pair the phone yet?
wpark3, could you post something when you are told about the sliding door fix please. I'm sure there are plenty of other people (myself included) that are having problems that would appreciate knowing that a fix is available.
We are really enjoying the van, but it would be nice to be able to enjoy every feature that it has to offer without having issues.
I can't help you with the other questions but on the phone, you need to have a Bluetooth compatible cell phone in the vehicle. You also have to "pair" it to the MyGIG unit the first time before you use it.
After that, anytime you're in your vehicle and you have your cell phone turned on it will automatically link to let you make or receive hands-free calls. It uses the stereo speakers and the microphone is in the rearview mirror. The MyGIG does not have to be turned on to receive a call but it does if you want to make a call. Read the UConnect section of your owner's manual.
Not all MyGIG systems may have dual DVD players, mine has a separate VES (Video Entertainment System) player below the AC controls in addition to the slot behind the MyGIG screen
To watch 2 different DVD's, use the remote control:
- put one DVD behind the Mygig screen up front, another in the VES slot below
- the physical switch on the right of the remote switches from screen 1 or 2
- then press "Mode" on the bottom left to select the input for the given screen
If you do not have MyGIG with navigation (the "infotainment" one I think) you might not have UConnect, but the button will still be there. If you do have UConnect, the instructions above will get you hooked up.
As far as the phone goes...when I push the "phone" button..it just says you aren't connected to U-connect. It won't let me pair it at all. I think I don't have the service.
Thanks for your help! It is surely appreciated!!!!
Yes, mine has the same set up as yours. So I will try that in the AM when I take my kiddies to the bus stop. Thanks sooo much! And yeah, I don't have the navigation..so I think you are right on the button being there but not able to use it. Waa! My husband has SYNC in his car and I love that my phone connects to his car when I drive it!! Once you use it, you don't want to hold that phone to your ear! Thanks so much for your info as well! I am sure glad I stumbled upon this site!!!
Danielle
Danielle
Danielle
Wow, a lot of questions here.
First, nav is not required to have UConnect. Also, you don't pair the phone by pressing the Phone icon button. It's in the system setup - a different button. The procedure should be described in your owner's manual.
You do have to have a Bluetooth-compatible cell phone with you and turned on when you do this though. It's telling you that you are not connected because you haven't paired a phone to it yet.
On the remote start, I've used mine successfully from over 600 ft away looking out a closed window at my car in the parking lot. The distance greatly decreases when going through walls. If you press the start button twice too fast or too slowly it might not work either.
Danielle
There can only be one audio source playing through the speakers at a time, so for your kids to each hear their own audio from their screen they would need the headphones. You could have just one kid with the headphones on and the other listening to the audio from the speakers. Otherwise you could have both listening on headphones and you could listen to something completely different from them.
FYI - if you have the security package then your vehicle has UConnect. Do you have rear park sensors or the signal lights on the side mirrors? If so you have the security package and UConnect.
I do have the back up camera...but not the sensors or the lights on the mirrors.
Thanks so much!!
Danielle
Also, I followed the instructions from the previous helper on the dual DVD....IT WORKS!! YAY!!! And I get to hear the radio!!! Thanks for saving me!!
Danielle