2003 Dodge Caravan recalls and problems

The 2003 Dodge Caravan has 3 safety recalls and 195 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Dodge dealer.

Recalls
3
Complaints
195
Crashes / fires
13 / 5
Injuries / deaths
23 / 1

Recalls may cover only some 2003 Dodge Caravan vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 Dodge Caravan recalls

Recall 05V-134: Latches/Locks/Linkages

Reported Apr 6, 2005 · 70,235 vehicles affected · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Problem: On certain minivans, the power liftgate (Plg) latch may not engage the striker allowing the liftgate to open while driving.

Risk: In the event of a crash, an unbelted passenger could be ejected from the vehicle.

Fix: Dealers will replace the power liftgate control module free of charge. The recall began april 26, 2005. Owners may contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Recall 04V-386: Steering

Reported Aug 5, 2004 · 681,000 vehicles affected · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Problem: On certain minivans equipped with 3.3 or 3.8l V-6 engine, the upper power steering cooler hose may split and cause a fluid leak.

Risk: Power steering fluid leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in an under hood fire.

Fix: Dealers will replace the upper power steering cooler hose. This recall began on september 27, 2004. Owners should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Recall 03V-094: Structure

Reported Mar 7, 2003 · 3,674 vehicles affected · SOUTHERN COMFORT CONVERSIONS

Problem: Certain pickup truck, van, and mini van conversions equipped with southern comfort built running boards that contain certain courtesy lights manufactured by american technology components, inc. These units contain a courtesy light or lights that might overheat when the wire harness is exposed to excessive moisture and road salt.

Risk: This overheating condition can cause the running board to melt or cause a fire.

Fix: Dealers will replace the wiring harness on these running boards. Owner notification began march 7, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact southern comfort at 1-800-745-6096.

2003 Dodge Caravan problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Steering44
Service Brakes, Hydraulic35
Electrical System29
Power Train22
Engine and Engine Cooling17
Air Bags14
Fuel System, Gasoline11
Exterior Lighting10
Suspension8
Tires8
Equipment7
Seat Belts5

Most reported parts

  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 13
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 7
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Pads — 6
  • Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist System — 6
  • Steering › Rack and Pinion — 5
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor — 5
  • Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist › Hose, Piping, and Connections — 5
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 4

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 40,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2003 Dodge Caravan complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Engine · at 154,000 miles · reported Mar 24, 2021
Driving down the highway at regular speed and engine compression shut down and vehicle stalled, as I barely coasted off to the side of the highway, as this situation was very dangerous..
Steering · at 108,000 miles · reported Mar 15, 2021
The contact owns a 2003 dodge caravan. The contact stated while driving at 25 MPH, the power steering started to fail which made the vehicle difficult to steer. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with the upper power steering cooler hose needing to be replaced. The contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 04v386000 (Steering) which was previously performed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.
Suspension · at 137,000 miles · reported Feb 12, 2020
I was driving and hit a pot hole and the rear axle broke cause by cheap design rear axle support. After checking out you tube it is e common problem with dodge and chrysler vans. If this happened on the highway one can end up under a 18 wheeler.
Steering · at 100,000 miles · reported May 31, 2018
The contact owns a 2003 dodge caravan. While driving 15 MPH and attempting to make a right or left turn, the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer and manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000. The VIN was not available.
Power Train · at 36,000 miles · reported Jan 19, 2018
I had already sent info to dol (Below) on 03 caravan I from unlicensed dealer michael rankin. Please see complaint form inattachment -it's too long to add. They're in process of charging michael rankin on 12 counts for different vehicles sold,and asessing monetary fines. I have done transmission repairs to this postal fleet vehicle.according to experienced mechaniss at 32,300 miles the transmission had already been rebuilt -improperly. I'm complaining because I was stuck on fast moving arterial with leaking transmission (Unsafe condition) because of improper repairs ,and could not move the…

Other Dodge Caravan years

Compare all Dodge Caravan years · All Dodge models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 Dodge Caravan have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2003 Dodge Caravan: 05V-134 (latches/locks/linkages), 04V-386 (steering), 03V-094 (structure). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Dodge Caravan?

Owners report steering problems most often (44 reports), followed by service brakes, hydraulic (35). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 40,000 miles.

Are Dodge recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Dodge dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.