10.0
really awful- Typical Repair Cost:
- $120
- Average Mileage:
- 144,050 miles
- Total Complaints:
- 2 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (1 reports)
- Use Gates 38379K kit to repair it (1 reports)
We purchased this auto new and within 2 years the serpentine belt had to be replaced. As a matter of fact I almost hit a tree because the steering shuts down. I called Dodge and of course there was no recall. The first incident happened in 2002. Now after 6 belts and the guide being replaced, the car is sitting in the drive with the belt off again. I have written Dodge again but to no avail. I wonder what they are going to do when the steering goes out agin and someone gets killed when you are traveling at 60 or 70 MPH. Adonna
- Adonna P., Pahrump, NV, US
Dodge grand caravan 1999-2000 serpentine belt will slip off during rain and snow conditions.
it is not limited to 3.8 eng but 3.0 as well. a few caravans owners have not had ANY problems with this but the majority have. I read its a alignment issue with the water pump. Imagine getting ready to go to work you are half way there and it snows ,slush then your belt comes off ..how do you know the power steering goes out..DANGEROUS !!! then you pull over and get your 15mm wrench and get under car pull belt up then align everything and pray you make it to work. For those who don't have skill to do this you must wait on a tow.
Well after time Gates came out with a solution kit consisting of new two sided belt, idler pulley and tension pulley
for caravan owners ( thank God ). mopar even carries the gates kit it you can find psart # on web. BTW goodyear also has a kit. Oh mopar kit # SBK38379AA. gates 38379K for 3.8. Do not fall for your mechanic saying i ll just change the belt or dodge dealer...if it happens more than once get gates kit or goodyear kit!!
I am surprise there are no lawsuits yet!! its a great van but buyer beware...don't believe me about the belt
google caravan belt slipping off !! I believe the problem is limited to 3rd gen caravans.
- kwesi, Chicago, IL, US