Four problems related to transmission noise have been reported for the 1997 Dodge Caravan. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
We have had our vehicle since 1999 and have been disappointed with its performance. This is our third Chrysler/Dodge van and this is the second of the three to have transmission problems. The first had them at 37,000 miles and this one is having them at 71,000 miles. We were Smart enough to have an extended warranty for both vehicles, unfortunately, on the current van the warranty ran out last month. . . Besides the poor engineering of the transmissions this van has had several problems with the tie rod and front end noise as well as going through front brakes relatively quickly (we do not drive it roughly and it is mainly used to transport our kids around our community approximately. 12000 miles or less a year since we have owned it.
When putting car in park it made a funny noise, consumer put it in reverse ,and it would not move. Consumer had car towed to dealer. Mechanic said it was transmission, and bits of pieces of metal was everywhere, like it had exploded.
When driving at any speed and applying the brakes there is a sqeuaking noise coming from the rear brakes. Also, transmission went out.
Consumer was pulling into garage and heard a noise coming from underneath of vehicle. It was a broken pin from transmission. Dealership told her that transmission had to be replaced.