1991 Dodge Caravan Problems & Reliability

If you’ve ever found yourself reminiscing about the early ’90s, chances are you might picture the iconic Dodge Caravan cruising down the suburban streets. The 1991 Dodge Caravan, a staple of family road trips and soccer practice carpools, holds a special place in automotive history. But like any vehicle that’s been around for a few decades, it’s not without its quirks and challenges. Whether you’re a nostalgic car enthusiast or someone considering a vintage ride, understanding the common problems and overall reliability of this classic minivan is essential. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of the 1991 Dodge Caravan, exploring the typical issues owners have faced over the years and how these affect its reliability today. From transmission troubles to electrical gremlins, we’ll cover the highs and lows of owning this vintage vehicle. So, buckle up as we take a trip down memory lane and see if the 1991 Dodge Caravan still holds up in the world of modern automobiles. Whether you’re looking to buy one or just curious about its legacy, this guide will give you the insights you need.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

  • Silding Door May Fall Off Track
  • Door Adjar Light May Turn On and Chime Will Sound While Driving
  • Vent Window Latch Can Pop Open

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan seems to have a few quirks that could be a bit annoying. You might find the sliding door falling off its track, which isn’t ideal, especially if you’re in a hurry. Plus, the door ajar light might randomly turn on and chime while you’re driving, and the vent window latch could pop open unexpectedly.

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Transmission May Fail Causing Slipping in First or Reverse Gear

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan has some reliability issues, particularly with its transmission. Owners have reported problems with the transmission failing, which can cause slipping in first or reverse gear. This issue can be a significant concern for those relying on the vehicle for daily use, as it may lead to unexpected repairs and maintenance costs.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • Braking Difficulties Due to Defective ABS Pump/Leaking Piston Seals

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan has had some issues with braking reliability, mainly due to defective ABS pumps and leaking piston seals. These problems can lead to braking difficulties, which is definitely something to keep in mind if youre considering this vehicle. While its a classic minivan, make sure to check the brake system thoroughly to avoid any unexpected surprises on the road.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Airbag light may be on due to blown fuse

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan has its quirks, and one common issue is the airbag light coming on, which might just be due to a blown fuse. While this isn’t a massive problem, it can be a bit annoying and might require some attention to ensure everything’s working safely. Overall, the Caravan is a classic ride, but like any older vehicle, it comes with its share of maintenance needs.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Transmission issues require overhaul of transmission

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan seems to have some reliability issues, especially when it comes to the transmission. Many owners have reported that transmission problems are common and often require a complete overhaul to fix. If you’re considering this vehicle, it’s something to keep in mind as it could lead to significant repair costs down the line.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Speedometer Not Working Due to Failed Vehicle Speed Sensor

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan seems to have a common issue with the speedometer not working, often due to a failed vehicle speed sensor. This problem can be a bit of a hassle since it affects your ability to accurately gauge your speed while driving. Overall, while the Caravan is known for its practicality, this particular issue might require some attention to ensure a smooth driving experience.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Rear Lift Gate Support Attaching Bolts May Break

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan has a known issue with the rear lift gate support attaching bolts, which may break over time. This problem can lead to difficulties in keeping the lift gate securely open, potentially causing inconvenience or safety concerns. While this issue is notable, it’s important to consider it alongside other factors when assessing the overall reliability of the vehicle.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Worn transmission seals can cause erratic shifting

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan is known for a few issues, with worn transmission seals being a common problem that can lead to erratic shifting. While this can be a hassle, it’s a fixable issue that many owners have dealt with over the years. Overall, the Caravan has its quirks, but with regular maintenance, it can still be a reliable ride.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

  • Loss of speed control after sensor/transaxle replacement

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan seems to have some reliability issues, especially when it comes to speed control after replacing the sensor or transaxle. This problem can be pretty frustrating, as it affects the vehicle’s performance and safety. If you’re considering this model, it’s something to keep in mind, especially if any major repairs have been done.

Flagship-One-Engine-Computer-In-Stock
Onboard & Powertrain Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • Power window may fail due to damaged “flex track”

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan has a known issue with the power windows, which can fail due to a damaged “flex track.” This problem can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you rely on your power windows frequently. While it’s not the end of the world, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering the overall reliability of this vehicle.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

  • Wrong sized tires on AWD vehicles can cause transmission problems

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

  • Engine may not crank due to connection at starter

Analysis:

The 1991 Dodge Caravan has a known issue where the engine might not crank due to a faulty connection at the starter. This problem can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you’re in a hurry and your van decides not to start. Overall, while the Caravan is generally reliable, this particular issue is something to keep an eye on to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Conclusion

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