Engine problems of the 1996 Dodge Caravan

While driving 45 mph with two passengers, consumer noticed smoke coming from vent near the rear sliding door. Consumer pulled over to the curb and waited 2 minutes, then checked under the hood to try to find the problem for the smoke. No problem was found, but while getting back into vehicle, the consumer noticed smoke spewing from the rear right side wheels. Consumer barely removed passengers from vehicle when vehicle went up in flames. There were no injuries, but the vehicle was totaled. Police and fire department were notified. Flames started shooting from under the hood.

The engine" check, light has come on at least five (5) times. Each time the vehicle has been checked by a repair shop via computer with the diagnosis being "#5 cylinder is missing". The computer is reset after a cylinder check; however, a few miles later the light comes on again.

Engine check light came on. Took vehicle to dealer, and dealer claimed that head gasket and timing cover were leaking. This was the same problem as recalled in 1993 and 1994 in recall 99v318000.

Independent mechanics have told us of many failures of transmissions and head gaskets, and they say that Dodge is paying half the cost as they did with us to avoid a recall where Dodge would have to pay the full cost of repair. Rec.

Rocker panel on the bead had snapped off. This was caused by the short bolts which had developed cracks from the cylinder pounding. Had lost power & had no overheating heating. Also, had no prior warning.

Defective temperature relay failure caused the engine to fail and the fan malfunctioned. Yh.

While traveling on the street at 25-30 mph vehicle commenced to run very poorly, and it started to vibrate/hesitate and lose power. Vehicle was taken to an independent repair shop. Consumer was informed of a defective rocker arm, and a snapped engine head gasket. Manufacturer was contacted.

While driving up the driveway vehicle cuts off. Had no warning. Also, the gauges on dashboard do not work like they should, especially, odometer/fuel and pressure gauges. In addition, brake rotors had to be replaced twice/sliding doors cannot be opened properly with or without key. Vehicle towed to dealer to check out problems.

Intermittent overheating caused by faulty valve. Dealer was contacted but stated he hadn't heard of the problem. Fixed at other location. Could (and almost did) cause fire in engine.

While driving down the highway the oil light came on. The consumer then pulled over and waited for the engine to cool. After the engine cooled, the consumer checked the oil stick and it read nothing. Consumer took vehicle to the dealer and they said that they had a recall on the galley plug. Dealer said it could have been a fire hazard. Dealer repaired the problem.

Consumer was driving down a flat highway and the steering locked up, applied the abs brakes and the brakes wouldn't move, resulting in an accident/injuries, also excessive gas consumption.

Right rear brake cylinder, springs, shoes and linings failed.

Engine block failed.

Engine seals failed resulting in leakage.

Engine galley plugs are leaking fuel which could result in a fire,cause unknown. Please give any further details.