8.0

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
$20
Average Mileage:
137,000 miles
Total Complaints:
1 complaints

Most common solutions:

  1. replace tensioner pulley (1 reports)
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problem #1

Nov 082020

Grand Caravan SE 3.3L

  • Automatic transmission
  • 137,000 miles

I purchased this vehicle in March of 2020, and it had a slight noise then. The noise got significantly worse as the months went on. I first replaced the power steering pump, but it didn't fix the noise. Next was the pulley on the power steering pump, not that either. Was for sure it was then the alternator, nope! Another $200 down the drain. Finally figured out it was the tensioner pulley. That was only a $17 part so that was good, but when replacing that the tensioner itself broke inside the timing chain cover.

So I had to take the whole motor apart again over a $90 tensioner. Also had to buy the timing chain cover gasket, oil pan gasket and water pump gasket because all of them had to be taken off to get the cover off. So there was $200 for $17 part fix. Start it up and the awful whining was gone, then the van would cut out at like 30mph, I couldn't set the cruise and the traction control light was one. This then needed the PCM sensor replaced. Another $30 and another day without the vehicle.

Finally got all that done and the vehicle would be dead every time - to start, I had to jump it every single time. Finally it would not start after jumping anymore and had to replace the battery, another $200. I have the van back and thought all was good and now there is some other kind of whistling/whining noise coming from the passenger side when accelerating. I cant take it anymore! I want a different vehicle I am so over this!!!!

- Angela M., Fort Madison, IA, US