Two problems related to engine belts and pulleys have been reported for the 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan based on all problems reported for the 2005 Grand Caravan.
While slowing down motor will try and shut off. If you come to a stop it will shut off. Seat belts do not lock in place. Rear windshield wiper will not move. Passenger side cargo door will not unlock. Some settings for heat and ac will not work. Left turn signal won't shut off after turning.
While driving the car home at only 35 mph, my wife heard a large bang and immediately lost the power steering, but was able to pull off the road. When I was able to check under the hood of the vehicle, I found that the aluminum casting had broken that holds the bracket for the alternator. The alternator and serpentine belts were laying near the left side of the engine compartment. I took photos of the problem since I know it is not usual for the casting to break. I had the car towed to the Chrysler dealer that we have had all the service for the vehicle performed. I explained that I was concerned that the casting broke and they seemed concerned also at that point. They stated that they had not seen this problem before. I had the repairs made at a cost of over $1500. 00. They had to replace the cvr pkg-engine because the break was part of the casting for the cover of that part. I then contacted the Chrysler Dodge costomer service department and told them I was concerned about the safety of the vehicle and that if my wife had been going 75 on the expressway and rounding a curve in heavy traffic, such a break could easily cause catastrophic damage, injury, or death. I told them that I believe that this is not a normal wear and tear or maintnance item, but a manufacturing defect since the aluminum casting broke and not the bracket. The customer service case manager only came back with a statement that the vehicle had 138000 miles and they could offer me only $465. 00 toward the repairs. There was no acknowledgement, or concern that this was a safety issue. While I believe that Chrysler should pay for the entire repairs, I am more concerned that this could be a potential life threatening situation for other unknowing drivers. I have the pictures and I have the part in my posession if anyone needs to investigate this!.