Three problems related to power steering fluid have been reported for the 2003 Dodge Caravan. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Dodge Caravan based on all problems reported for the 2003 Caravan.
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 vehicle in conjested traffic 1621-72nd st east,tacoma,wa 98404. Vehicle was stationary at that moment and at another different time when driving. This is the unsafe part. The mechanic charged me approximately $1500 and also told me it had transmission already rebuilt and (4) loose bolts on pump seal, also had a "pre owned" used? wrecking yard torque converter which was painted black indicating the rebuild ocurred. He also stated how the 2 front half shafts (axels) were worn out and I had to replace those, about $250. It has bad power steering pump-and groaning noises currently (unsafe condition) just like when I got it (32. 3k miles) vehicle has a bad air conditioner not unsafe. *I have jpeg photos and receips for parts,axels, transmission repair and fluid I had to buy to keep fluid in transmission. Please see attachment for complaint sent to washington dol , josh is the contact.
Solution odi case number: 10218207 details: 2003 Dodge Caravan. Whining noise when engine is first started. Sounds like power steering pump. Checked fluid, but level is fine. No leaks anywhere. Mechanic can find no apparent problem. In warmer weather the noise is diminished, but still present. I purchased vehicle new. It has 71,000 miles. I tried a power steering conditioner that is suppose to stop whining. The whining worsened for a while. Never got better. From personal knowledge there is a flaw in the design in the filling tank design for the power steering on this van. Fill with power steering fluid above the full mark to the bottom of the fill tube on top but just below the filler cap plug when put back on. This will stop all noise from the power steering pump.
Dt consumer stated the power steering hose is crossing over the water line and the clamps leading to the radiator. He states this could cause loss of steering control and the vehicle has been repaired.