Three problems related to alternator/generator/regulator have been reported for the 1998 Dodge Caravan. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
On my wife's 1998 Dodge Caravan, the idler serpentine belt tensioner arm completely broke off causing alot of noise under the hood, loss of power steering, and loss of alternator battery recharge. It also caused some damage to the other pulleys. I've owned many cars and this has never happened on other makes. This is a safety hazard that can leave anybody in the middle of no where.
I only have 35,000 miles on this car and of course the warranty is expired. And all of a sudden, the car acts like it has 135,000 miles on it. This has already cost me over $200 to repair brakes because of rotors, not bad brakes. Now I need $1000 head gasket work. Starter only seems to start when it wants to. Very temporamental. What is going on here that a 35,000 mile car would have so much wrong so soon. Dt.
Serpentine belt failed for the 4th time while driving. Had heard a funny noise prior to no steering. This caused a loss of steering control. First 2 times was at 35mph. 2nd 2 times was while starting vehicle. Been to dealer each time to have belt replaced. Power steering, water pum, alternator and air conditioner failed.