Learn to Diagnose and Fix These Issues
Running through brake parts too quickly? Trouble with the automatic slide doors? Or maybe you’re just curious about the top issues on the 08-20 Dodge Grand Caravan. We review the five most common Dodge Grand Caravan problems on the 5th generation, years 2008-2020. Learn their symptoms, their causes, and how to fix them. For more information on repairing your own 08-20 Dodge Grand Caravan problems and for step-by-step how-to videos for many repairs, check out 1A Auto’s how-to video library.
Top Dodge Grand Caravan Problems—5th Generation (2008-2020)
1. Premature Brake Wear
Symptoms of Premature Brake Wear
- Brakes run hot, possibly leaving a smell and emitting heat
- Steering wheel gently shakes or vibration in the seat or mirrors from brake pulsation
- Loud high-pitched squeal from brake pad wear indicators or from a worn and heated brake rotor
Causes of Premature Brake Wear
Many Grand Caravan owners have reported the premature brake wear, noting more frequent brake jobs on this vehicle than others owned in the past. Some owners have reported up to 3 brake repairs in one year.
The size of the brakes on the 5th generation of Dodge Grand Caravans can cause them to have problems dissipating heat effectively.
How to Fix Premature Brake Wear
Buy a brake kit from 1aauto.com for the 08-20 Dodge Grand Caravan with drilled and slotted rotors to dissipate heat effectively. Watch one of our install videos like the one below, and replace the brakes yourself.
2. Malfunctioning Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM)
Symptoms of a Bad Totally Integrated Power Module
Of all the common Dodge Grand Caravan problems, this one might have the most unusual symptoms, like electrical parts working independently, such as the power windows rolling down on their own.
Causes of a Bad Totally Integrated Power Module
The totally integrated power module (TIPM) houses the electrical fuses and relays that allow many electrical parts on the van to function. On this van, moisture has a tendency to sneak inside the TIPM, causing many electrical parts like the windshield wipers to malfunction.
How to Fix a Bad Totally Integrated Power Module
- Inspect each fuse for discoloring or corrosion by removing it and replacing it with a new fuse if needed
- Inspect the inside of the TIPM for corrosion
- If needed, get a refresh completed at a Dodge dealership
- The TIPM may have to be replaced with a new unit and new fuses and relays
3. Cracked Oil Filter Housing
Symptoms of a Bad Oil Filter Housing
Oil leaking from the filter housing or the passenger side of the engine
Causes of a Bad Oil Filter Housing
The oil filter is always replaced during an oil change. This requires the removal of the oil filter housing. Sometimes the oil filter housing is tightened too tightly during reinstall, cracking the housing, which can leak oil.
How to Fix a Bad Oil Filter Housing
- Replace the oil filter housing
- Torque to specifications during reinstall
- When changing the oil, torque the oil filter housing to 25 newton-meters
4. Sliding Door Problems—Intermittent Left Rear Door Module
Symptoms of a Bad Left Rear Door Module
When closing or opening the sliding left rear door, the automatic function doesn’t always work properly
Causes a Bad Left Rear Door Module
If the sliding left rear door has trouble closing automatically, it could be an electrical issue or an issue with the motor/module. Problems with the sliding left rear door closing automatically should be addressed as soon as possible since it is a safety issue.
How to Fix a Bad Left Rear Door Module
- Check the power and ground at all wires, fuses, and relays for the door module. If power and ground goes to the module, the module is probably defective and needs replacing.
5. Harsh Shifting
Symptoms of Harsh Shifting
- Experiencing a bump or delay when shifting or when the automatic transmission shifts
Causes of Harsh Shifting
On the 5th generation of Dodge Grand Caravans, low transmission fluid and leaking transmission fluid can cause shifting problems such as harsh shifting when shifting the transmission or when the transmission shifts. A defective retainer inside the transmission that secures the transmission lockout and the TCC accumulator valve can also cause the solenoid to malfunction.
How to Fix Harsh Shifting
- Inspect the transmission for fluid leaks
- Check the transmission fluid level and add fluid if necessary
- If there are no leaks and the fluid level meets specifications, the solenoid might need to be replaced, which requires a more detailed job of removing and reinstalling the transmission pan
- The transmission may also require an overhaul or a new replacement
Shop 08-20 Dodge Grand Caravan Parts Featured in This Post
- Brake Pads
- Brake Rotors
- Brake Kits
- Electrical Parts
- Oil Filter Housing
- Oil Filter Housing and Cooler Assembly
- Transmission Pan
Related Content
- How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
- Signs of transmission failure and ways to prevent it
- TRQ brake parts buying guide: Save time and money with quality brake kits
- Brakes Squealing? It’s Probably Time for New Brake Pads
- Frozen Brakes: Do You Smell Burnt Rubber or Plastic?
- Why do my brakes squeak? [Expert Advice to Diagnose & Fix]
Model Years This Article Applies to
- 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan
- 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan
- 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan
- 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan
- 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan
- 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan
- 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan
Thanks for outlining the problem with the Dodge Grand caravan. I like the look and the feel of the Van , am in the process of getting a Mini van .Will you recommend this mini van ? Should I get the Honda Oddessy instead ? Am looking for 2008 , for any minivan that is reliable .
Thanks