Five problems related to engine head gasket failure have been reported for the 1997 Dodge Caravan. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Head gasket failed.
Dealer service manager stated that they (Dodge) have had many failures of the head gaskets on the Caravan 4 cylinder. Even though the car was out of warranty, Dodge agreed to fix the engine head gasket. This is the second head gasket failure. Thank god that I noticed the small oil leaks in the carport. If I haddn't the engine could have let go on the highway. Something is very, very, wrong when you have to get a head gasket replaced every 10-30k miles.
While driving vehicle started overheating. The driver had vehicle towed, who indicated that this was caused by the way the head gasket was designed. The head gasket was replaced, but the problem recurred twice. Ts.
Gasket failed causing oil leak.
Vehicle was taking to mechanic for routine service. Upon inspection of vehicle, dealer noticed oil was leaking onto the engine compartment. Mechanic stated head gasket was going bad, needed to be replaced. The auto shops that inspected the vehicle stated that the head gasket failure was a common problem with these models.