1990 Dodge Grand Caravan
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Dodge › Grand Caravan › 1990
These records cover every 1990 Dodge Grand Caravan. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
3 recalls name the 1990 Dodge Grand Caravan. Newest first.
Federal mogul IS recalling 6,903 aftermarket ball joint assemblies shipped between november 9, 2007 and march 26, 2008, which may have been packaged with incorrect nuts. the part numbers packaged with incorrect nuts are: k7147, k7329, k8683, and 104353. these parts were made for use on the various vehicles listed above.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The nuts included in the packaging for these ball joint assemblies are missing the intended prevailing torque (self-locking) feature. if the incorrect nut was to become loose, the joining members may loosen leading to a separation of the ball joint. this may result in loss of vehicle control, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Federal mogul will notify owners and replace the parts free of charge. the recall began on may 22, 2008. owners can contact federal mogul at 877-489-6659.
Vehicle description: light duty passenger minivans without remote release. this IS not a safety recall. there has been no determination that a safety defect exists with the minivan latches. Chrysler IS conducting a service campaign to replace the liftgate latch assembly of the affected minivans. in a collision, the rear liftgate latch assembly could…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the liftgate latch opens, occupants can be ejected resulting in significantly increased risk of injury or death.
Remedy
Chrysler dealers will replace the liftgate latch with a stronger latch assembly without charge. chrysler began notifying owners during october 1995.
Vehicle description: light duty passenger minivans with remote release. this IS not a safety recall. there has been no determination that a safety defect exists with the minivan latches. chrysler IS conducting a service campaign to replace the liftgate latch assembly of the affected minivans. in a collision, the rear liftgate latch assembly could open.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the liftgate latch opens, occupants can be ejected resulting in significantly increased risk of injury or death.
Remedy
Chrysler dealers will replace the liftgate latch with a new stronger latch assembly without charge. chrysler began notifying owners of these vehicles in june 1996.
Owner complaints
55 complaints1 involved a crash2 involved a fire
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Fuel system, gasoline
Car kind of sputtered and then continually running good. as if it all of a sudden was short on gas. happened a couple of times before the engine died. this happened twice. once in wisc., luckily only a few blocks from a dodge dealership. they replaced the fuel pump. again in arkansas, had…
Car kind of sputtered and then continually running good. as if it all of a sudden was short on gas. happened a couple of times before the engine died. this happened twice. once in wisc., luckily only a few blocks from a dodge dealership. they replaced the fuel pump. again in arkansas, had the fuel pump replaced by an independent on a sunday. still had problems. would run a few block and die. about 4-5 times. waited until monday when dodge dealership opened, took it to them. they said a wire running to the fuel pump ran over the transmission, would rub against it rubbing it bare and short out the fuel pump. this event happened out in the boondocks about 15-20 miles. cell phone died, fortunately a state patrol/ sheriffs car happened by and was able to get us a tow truck. this was on a saturday late day. was towed into the nearest town where was able to get a fuel pump from a jobber on sunday, had an independents mechanic install it, but still car would not run right. on monday had the dodge dealership look at it. they said it was the wire leading to the fuel pump, which was rubbed bare and shorting out. they said a service bulletin had been issued to cut the wire, shortened it, splice it back together and tape it up away from the transmission so I doesn't occur again. this should be a vehicle recall I believe. in the far south it IS an inconvenience, a nuisance in the frigid northland it IS a life and death situation if you are caught out in the open at 20 below zero with a 20 mph wind blowing and the car suddenly dies. fortunately this happened while I was on a vacation in the south and not in my native northland. and I do sill have the fuel pump I replaced while I was in arkansas. it would be nice if information site as this were made more public knowledge. the first time it happened was about 5-6 years ago the second time it happened was about 3-27-04 I didn't report this to any agency because I had no idea where to report it. *tr
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Transmission dropped all but 2ND and 1ST gear was told at transmission shop it IS know to do that... *tr
- Fuel system, gasoline › Fuel injection system › Fuel rail
Fuel rail failed while driving the van. I started to smell raw gasoline in the closed cabin, I was about to pass my mechanics shop, so I pulled in to see where the smell was coming from. my mechanic and I were both surprised to see the fuel rail had failed in two places, at the same time!!!…
Fuel rail failed while driving the van. I started to smell raw gasoline in the closed cabin, I was about to pass my mechanics shop, so I pulled in to see where the smell was coming from. my mechanic and I were both surprised to see the fuel rail had failed in two places, at the same time!!!, causing the raw gasoline to be sprayed all over the hot engine, (3.3L). I am surprised at how many complaints there already are here on this data base about this very same problem. I was told that there was a recall, and repair parts available, but there was not!!! the new fuel rail IS $302.00 plus tax, plus my mechanic needs 1.9 hours of shop time to install it, (at $75.00/hr) plus tax, plus a upper plenum gasket set, ($30.00). that brings the total to over $500.00, heaven forbid if my van had actually caught on fire, and I lost everyone and everything that I had in our family van! I have always had great maintenance done and have all of the records. this was not a problem with abuse or anything like that. it IS just a manufacturing defect, period. I have bought another much newer dodge grand caravan, and just found out that it has 6 recalls on it !!!!!!! I am going to sell both as soon as possible, and get me another manufacturers van, or truck. *nm
- Fuel system, gasoline › Fuel injection system
The fuel injection leaked fuel in two positions.*jb
- Power train › Automatic transmission
This vehicle has had a problem transmission since it was driven away from the dealership. The "lurching" motion made by the transmission was reported to the dealer immediately and repeatedly. The dealer insisted that the transmission was normal and refused to repair it. in october 1991 the…
This vehicle has had a problem transmission since it was driven away from the dealership. The "lurching" motion made by the transmission was reported to the dealer immediately and repeatedly. The dealer insisted that the transmission was normal and refused to repair it. in october 1991 the transmission failed while we were in tennessee and witnessed by the dodge dealership in sieverville, tn. Upon return to florida. The dodge dealer in coral springs replaced the transmission. (Or so we were told) the 2ND transmission worked for 5 years and had to be replaced in september of 1996. That transmission was a problem immediately but the dealer refused to repair it. while in wash. Dc in july 1997, the car would not downshift. the engine kept racing and only stoped when I turned off the car. The dodge dealer in wdc said that by turning off the engine we cleared the computer and they could find nothing wrong with the car. The third transmission was eventually replaced and now I have had to have two repairs on the fourth transmission. Currently the vehicle lurches and jerks suggesting that there are more transmission problems. I feel that the transmission IS dangerous and could cause someone to lose control of their car. dt
- Equipment › Mechanical › Accessory scissor/screw/bottle jack/lift
Threaded composite block failed on car jack while jacking up right front portion of MINI van while operator was servicing right front tire. defect caused complete and immediate failure of jack and car falling to garage floor.*ak
- Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery
Fuel rail was leaking. Mech said this was extremely dangerous-could have caused fire.vehicle too old for recent recall, which covers vehicles from 1995-2000, but has the same problem.paid $630.76 on 1/13/01 for new fuel rail and o-rings. Mech said today (3/30/02) that my car had same problem that he had recently fixed on recalled vehicle. *Ak
- Power train › Automatic transmission
MINI van needs fifth transmission. Original transmission replaced on 10/25/91.
- Visibility › Windshield
Consumer was driving along and right side back pushed out window and shattered it. Also, air conditioning was running at time. dealers had no response to how it could have happened.*ak
- Power train › Manual transmission
A faulty ultradrive transmission caused the minivan to shudder/vibrate and loose all gears while driving. nlm
- Power train › Automatic transmission
A604 transmission failed within 3000 miles after purchase. Completely rebuilt in oct., 1997. Mileage at failure, approx. 82,000. Prior history unknown. Transmission again failed at a little over 122,000 miles. Again, completely overhauled. Spoke with manager of transmission shop, who informed me of…
A604 transmission failed within 3000 miles after purchase. Completely rebuilt in oct., 1997. Mileage at failure, approx. 82,000. Prior history unknown. Transmission again failed at a little over 122,000 miles. Again, completely overhauled. Spoke with manager of transmission shop, who informed me of countless failures of this transmission type, and that although it was good for his business, he knew of major design flaws within the A604, and its successor, A606. In fact, he had three other vehicles, with mileages ranging from 32,000 to 65,000, all with the same failures. This vehicle has also had the half-axles replaced, three times on the passenger side, twice on the drivers side, and seem to be related to the transmission problems. After researching this transmission on the internet, it IS readily apparent that chrysler/dodge has a fundamental, known latent defect in the design of this transmission. I have spent more on the transmission overhauls ($3000) and the half-axles ($1000) than I paid for the van. Respectfully request that nhtsa agressively pursue the issue of this expensive, recurring transmission and drivetrain design flaws and their catastrophic failures with the manufacturer. Individual consumer complaints with dealers and the chrysler corp. Are frustrating and pointless. They will not admit that they have a serious, multi-year problem, and individuals bear the brunt of this costly mistake on their part. Please note: chrysler's overhaul kit for this transmission does nothing to resolve the fundamental design flaw; it only prolongs the issue! Chrysler corp., and its dealers' attitude toward its customers with regard to this issue IS blatantly unfair, crass, and as of this date, full of lies and denials of the issue.
- Structure › Body › Door › Hinge and attachments
This IS the second time that the door has fallen out of its' track. Mechanics at my shop can't figure out what IS causing it to do this. Suggested I contact dodge to see if this IS a common problem or if it IS just an anomoly of my van. They can't even tell if something IS worn out and requiring replacement. *ak
- Power train › Manual transmission
A faulty ultradrive transmission caused the consumer vehicle to shudder/vibrate and loose all transmission gears while driving. nlm
- Power train › Automatic transmission
The transmission would not shift up after stopping. the vehicle went in to have the transmission rebuilt and our mechanic has discovered that there IS quite a waiting list for the case because there seems to be a problem with internal cracks on this case. most mechanics don't even want to work on them. I have been told by one mechanic that they work on these transmissions more than any others. *ak
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Original transmission failed at 66,000 miles. I am the third owner. I was told that dodge was having trouble, but figured that the problem was solved with the replacement of the original transmission. I was told that I had a version # 6 solenoid & computer. it was recommended that I update to a…
Original transmission failed at 66,000 miles. I am the third owner. I was told that dodge was having trouble, but figured that the problem was solved with the replacement of the original transmission. I was told that I had a version # 6 solenoid & computer. it was recommended that I update to a version # 10. the cost to repair IS $ 1,900. I am just finding out that dodge IS still having problems with this 1990 transmission. thank you for your help. leroy j. Hersh. *ak
- Power train › Automatic transmission
While driving on highway transmission dropped into a low gear and had to be reset by restarting vehicle. transmission was replaced and the second transmission has the same problem. dealer has been contacted, transmission needs to be replaced again. *ak *ML
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system · Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system › Radiator assembly · Power train › Axle assembly · Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer
Water pump failure caused noise yh
- Fuel system, gasoline › Fuel injection system
Fuel rail has two metal/metal joints that spray gas on the the engine when the weather IS cold. after the metal tube fitting warms up the leak stops. the fuel rail has to be replaced every two to three years. the only detection IS when gas sprays on the engine. *Ak
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Transmission went into "limp in" mode(2nd gear only) this IS the second time that this happened. The first time was at about 45,000 miles. The dealer replaced the transmission at no cost at that time. Now, this time I paid for the repair since I no longer have a warranty in effect. What, if any, IS my next step to recovering some of my repair expense?
- Power train › Automatic transmission › Cooling unit and lines
Automatic transmission cooling unit hose that directs transmission fluid flow went out, causing a leak. *ak
- Power train › Driveline › Differential unit
Steel pin in the differential IS loose, destroying it, and causing transmission to become inoperative. Total of 3 times part has been replaced. *ak
- Power train › Automatic transmission
The vehicle would not come out of second gear even at high speeds. Dlr has rebuilt transmission and problem IS occurring again.
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Automatic transmission failure premature and sudden. Van suddenly without cause downshifts to low gear. Van also upshifts surging forward. Dealer explains that the transmission assembly and transmission controller needs replacement. Dealer charges almost $1800.00 for repair that the service manager…
Automatic transmission failure premature and sudden. Van suddenly without cause downshifts to low gear. Van also upshifts surging forward. Dealer explains that the transmission assembly and transmission controller needs replacement. Dealer charges almost $1800.00 for repair that the service manager acknowledges IS a common defect in the 604 transmission. The dealer IS charging us a cost of $800 for this known defect. The service manager also stated, "the manufacturer accepts responsibility for part of the bill due to the known defect in the 604 transmission". The weather was inclement the evening that this suddenly happened, thank goodness that there was no one too close in front or behind of her on this 45 mph highway. If my wife or I driving with our three children had been on a highway traveling at the accepted speed of 70 mph and the van suddenly downshifted, we most assuredly would have become a national highway statistic. This IS truly a safety issue, and should not be overlooked anymore by the nhtsa. The right thing for dodge to due IS to recall the grand caravan with the 604 transmission and repair the problem entirely at their expense. How many accidents with fatalities have happened already due to this common defect? IS no one to take responsibility? *ak
- Fuel system, gasoline › Fuel injection system
Fuel distrubution rail broke and sprung a leak, almost causing a fire hazard. Mechanic will replaced part. *Ak
- Unknown or other
Paint IS bubled up and pealing off in large sections of front hood and roof of van.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Liftgate latches
Liftgate latches in the subject vehicles have failed in low and moderate speed impacts resulting in occupant ejections, injuries, and fatalities.there are two failure modes associated with latch failure: fork bolt-detent lever bypass, and inertial unlatching.nhtsa analyses of chrysler and peer minivans took the form…
Liftgate latches in the subject vehicles have failed in low and moderate speed impacts resulting in occupant ejections, injuries, and fatalities.there are two failure modes associated with latch failure: fork bolt-detent lever bypass, and inertial unlatching.nhtsa analyses of chrysler and peer minivans took the form of static and dynamic crash testing, engineering evaluations, complaint and field analyses, and real world data analyses.a technical report discussing these analyses can be found in the engineering analysis technical report in the public viewing file.chrysler has advised nhtsa that it will conduct a campaign to replace the latches on all the subject vehicles.the chrysler campaign will consist of notification letters to all owners; free replacement of all latches with stronger, safer latches regardless of the age of the minivans; national advertising to promote customer awareness of the campaign; quarterly reports regarding campaign completion rates; as well as additional measures to ensure a high completion rate, above and beyond the actions that normally would be taken in a formal safety recall.these include follow up written and telephonic notifications to owners who do not bring their vehicles in for corrective action.nhtsa firmly believes that the crash performance of the latches on these minivans raises serious safety concerns, and that the campaign addresses these concerns.the chrysler corrective action will increase the strength of the liftgate latches and decrease the potential for inertial unlatching, thereby reducing the risk of crash-related openings of the liftgate and possible occupant ejection through the liftgate opening.owners of chrysler minivans will get a stronger, safer latch free of charge at the earliest possible time, without the need for further technical investigation and complex and time-consuming litigation with an uncertain outcome.based on the above, odi IS closing this investigation.
- Trans park system failure
There is no summary currently available
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