1996 Dodge Grand Caravan: headlights failing or too dim

Filed Sep 17, 2007 · Lights · 90,000 miles · NM

Milky headlight lens covers. Distance and clarity greatly affected.

Filed Dec 22, 2005 · Lights · 100,000 miles · TX

The headlights are a plastic and they have clouded over so that very little light penetrates. Safety hazard at night due to reduced visibility.

Filed Dec 12, 2005 · Lights · VA

! State annual car inspection 2. Failed inspection due to headlight assembly plastic cover faded and would not allow sufficient light to pass inspection. This I believe is a manufacturer defect as it is common on all dodge grand caravan (1996) and neon cars. This defect is something I believe should have been known to the manufacturer. It is certainly a safety defect affecting many chrysler vehicles. 3. The part quoted from the dealer was #281.00 plus tax and installation I was told by my auto mechanic that this was a common problem with may 1996 dodge caravan vehicles. I am sure there are many other vehicles produced by chrysler that have the same problem. I believe the manufacturer should be responsible for making all repairs.

Filed Aug 16, 2004 · Lights · 98,000 miles · NC

While driving, the front headlights lens fogged up, which made it difficult for the consumer to see during night hours. Ak the consumer was aware that this was a big problem with dodge per dodge dealers. The entire head light assembly would have to be replaced in order to resolve the problem. *sc

Filed Mar 30, 2004 · Lights · 87,000 miles · KS

Consumer complains about a headlight problem. The lens is not giving off enough light when driving at night. It appears that the lens is filled with condensation, and limits the amount of light being projected during night driving.

Filed Jan 16, 2004 · Lights · VA

The vehicle didn't pass the state inspection because of poor lighting. The headlights needed to be replaced. The cost was $300 each plus labor. *ak the outside of the headlight lenses were covered with frosted like covering over the lenses. This also cut the visibility at night to an unsafe lighting. *sc

Filed Mar 30, 2003 · Lights · 120,000 miles · OH

Headlights have steadily become fogged/ discolored. Believe this is caused by some kind of oxidation of the material from being exposed to the sun and other elements. Replaced one headlight with used partially clear unit 2 years ago. It to now is fogged to the point I can drive with my high beams on and no one knows it. My caravan headlights on bright are considerably less bright than my 10 yr old civic on normal setting. Luckily I have not had an accident from this inadequacy but only because I drive around with my high beams on to help project some light on the road due to these defective lenses.

Filed Feb 4, 2003 · Lights · VA

I recently reported the following defect to dodge: "the head light assemblies on my 1996 grand caravan have become fogged over. I've noticed reduced night visibility as a result. I've noticed the same degradation in head light assemblies on other caravans in our neighborhood. I took the vehicle to our local dealer who acknowledge the problem but said dodge hadn't issued any recall as of yet. This loss of clarity in the headlight assembly material will lead to night time accidents if not corrected. Is dodge aware of this defect and if so are there plans to correct this manufacturing shortcoming in the same manner you corrected the recent clockspring defect?". Dodge replied: "thank you for your recent e-mail to daimlerchrysler motors corporation regarding the headlights on your 1996 grand caravan." there are no incomplete recalls or pending recalls involving your vehicle for the problem you have described. Your concerns, particularly in view of the expense and inconvenience involved in this issue, are understandable. However, your request for consideration in this matter must be declined, because the vehicle in question has exceeded the time or mileage limitations of the manufacturer's warranty at the time the expense was incurred. Although a more favorable reply could not be provided, sharing your concerns with us is appreciated. Sincerely, nicole kalish senior staff representative daimlerchrysler customer assistance center I feel the response is in adequate and does not address the issue. There are several indentical complaints for the caravan listed on the federal safety agency web site. I am certain an extensive search of all chrysler minivan products would find numerous identical complaints. This materail defect needs to be investigated and corrected. It will, if it hasn't already, kill or injury innocent people due to reduced night lighting capability.

Filed Sep 28, 2000 · Acceleration, Airbags · NY

While driving speed control activated without manual operation. Air bag warning light remained illuminated, and headlights could not be manually turned off.please give any further details.

Filed Aug 10, 2000 · Lights · SC

The headlight plastic cover has become "foggy" on the outside which is distorting the actual headlight coverage.