1997 Dodge Grand Caravan: engine overheating

Filed Jul 21, 2015 · Brakes, Fuel system · NC

Part 1.... I used to be a mechanic and tow truck operator. My mini van "like most others" is usually driven by a female & with a load of children. If driving in rain or through a water puddle the belt jumps off causing loss of power steering overheating battery drain etc, is a dangerous even deadly problem, if a turn is needed at the time this belt jumps off, even a strong healthy man can leave the line of intended travel and hit what ever is in the way, a curb, a pedestrian or even cause a head on collision. This mostly happens during rainy/nasty days & because of the complexity of replacing the belt, and the damage that is caused when it comes off, the vehicle usually requires a tow 4 repair. It is stated that, when a consumer makes a complaint & if the same complaint is repeated an investigation will be started. This is an old problem with many, many, many complaints yet, I see "no action, not even an investigation into this problem", why?? Consumers are depending on you "safecar.gov, the federal safety agency" etc. What will it take, "a death" to start an investigation? Or, should I say, how many??? I know there has been accidents because of this, and a lot of damage just from the belt as it jumps off and goes flopping around, not to mention the people that burned up their motor even started a fire trying to get home, to a shop etc. This problem has been a plague since day one and should have been at least fixed on the next years model but chrysler just ignored it. Their have been many vehicles with these serpentine belts,, chrysler vans is the only ones that I know of with this particular problem. This is a deadly problem that should be repaired by the chrysler corporation since they knew about the problem from the start and just flat out ignored it. The gas line decaying and suspension strut mounts rusting away on these same models will be my next post

Filed Sep 6, 2012 · Engine · 130,000 miles · NY

Tl* the contact owns a 1997 dodge grand caravan. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, the vehicle hit a small pothole and the contact lost power steering. Also, the vehicle overheated and the alternator warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who was unable to diagnosed the failure but decided to replaced the serpentine belt as a safety precaution. The failure recurred several times mostly when it rained or hit a pothole. The contact stated that the serpentine belt came off several times. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance. The failure mileage was 130,000 and the current mileage was 143,000.

Filed Oct 18, 2006 · Transmission · KY

Took off from stop light transmission failed had been slipping for a while before. Also shifted hard into gear. Already had the cooling system replace due to overheating problems at the cost of $1,000.00 no they say the transmission will cost about $2,000.00 to replace.

Filed Mar 22, 2002 · Engine · WI

While traveling steering wheel became hard to turn and engine overheated. Vehicle was serviced, and technician noticed that engine belts had broken. Please provide further information.

Filed Sep 21, 2000 · Engine · FL

Serpentine belt tensioner bolt sheered off at mount. Metal was stressed causing bolt to break off. Assume defective bolt (have assembly for further exanination if needed).power steering, air conditioning, engine water pump etc etc ceased to function because belt came off all power accessories. Engine overheated and may have caused damage to engine. Very dangerous situation as far as vehicle control etc. Was told by mechanic that this item has been causing problems for some time. He has replaced many of these items on dodge caravans. Request that a recall be considered in this situation. Thanks

Filed Aug 8, 2000 · Engine · TX

Failure has occurred twice within two months. Vehicle is undriveable due to overheating. This stranded family with small children both times.

Filed May 2, 2000 · Engine · TX

Engine cooling fan failed to operate while traveling, causing vehicle to overheat. Dealer notified, and replacements/repairs done at consumer's cost. Recall for the 96 model for the same problem. *ak

Filed Feb 13, 2000 · Engine, Transmission · PA

Transmission will not shift out of second gear under load conditions going uphill. When weather is hot, the drivetrain and engine overheat, can not maintain speed while attempting to maintin speed of greater than 45 going uphill. When pulling out onto a highway going uphill with the speed limit 45 or more, you can not accelerate to the speed without the engine racing at over 6,000 RPM and the transmission will not shift out of second gear while it is in a load situation. Daimlerchrysler has stating in writing that it is a design fualt issue and they have no intentions of resolving the bad design. This condition has cause numerous close calls concerning accidents.

Filed Oct 30, 1999 · Engine, Transmission · NY

Engine slippage jan. 1999. To dealer who diagnosed and concluded needed transmission fluid. Transmission rebuilt aug. 1999. Oct. 1999, car overheated, towed. Headgasket replacement with engine rebuilt. Total cost - $4,000.00