1997 Dodge Grand Caravan locks problems

Filed Feb 16, 2006 · Locks · 120,000 miles · NJ · 1 injury

Dt*: the contact stated while taking items out of the rear of the vehicle, the driver side hydraulic lift snapped. The rear hatch door came down and hit the contact, causing minor injuries. The vehicle has not been seen by a mechanic, but the manufacturer was alerted.

Filed Jul 17, 2005 · Locks · CA

This is on a '97 dodge grand caravan, 3.8 liter. 1) originally the brakes were terrible, (hard foot pressure was needed to stop the vehicle.). After 30kmiles, I took it in to a mechanic. In his experience, the dealer equipped front disc "pistons made of pheolic material" would often 'stick'.. After replacing w/ "steel" pistons this problem was repaired. 2) the problematic 'clock-spring' failed right before I received a recall notice! But, after 30k more miles, it failed again... This time the dealer refused to repair it free. Of course the "legally required horn" is also no-functioning. 3) the power locks fight me when opening with a key. On removing said key, they then 'relock' before I can open the door. I must open the door with key turned in the look. (safety, no, inconvenient yes.) however, now the power locks "sometimes unlock themselves" when left in a locked position, or when driving. 4) the electric cooling fan, though it comes on when the needed, "shuts off" when the ignition is turned off. Shouldn't' it "stay on" till the radiator cools a bit?? 5) the "engine stalled" and hesitated/misfired?. Numerous times the dealer could not find the problem.. Finally an independent "replaced cam sensor". Thank you in advance for your "important services". Sincerely, [xxx]. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Filed Jul 14, 2005 · Brakes, Locks · 152,000 miles · MI

The 1997 dodge grand caravan front and rear brake pads and rotors wear out nearly every month. The vehicle begins to sway while driving 55mph on freeway or when changing lanes. The emergency brake light is on due to a leakage in the brakes. The egr valve keeps going out and the service engine light is on.

Filed Feb 15, 2002 · Body, Brakes · CA

Vehicles electrical system has consistently and rapidly consumed batteries, all batteries were unable to be installed.

Filed Nov 9, 2001 · Locks · NJ

The lift gate bolt broke off on the right hand side. The gate crashed down on the back of my neck and back. This could have seriously injured my five year old if he were there. It could have seriously injured anyone for that matter. Please check into this matter. Two other people I spoke with have had the same problem. I told them to please report it. I think the 91-93 models had the same problem. The other problems are not as serious as this. I hope no one has to get seriously hurt by this before something is done. The gate is so heavy. I can not lift it to use it. The bolt is still broke off inside the panel. The dealer said the labor would be around $175.00, as the panel must be removed. The part is a reman part. Cost $21.00 #g0004532.I am very upset that a family vehicle is this unsafe, and the company isn't doing anything about it. I don't care if there were only three reported cases. That's three too many.

Filed Sep 10, 1999 · Locks · FL

Locks on the door will not unlock.the key constantly turned, around and the doors could not be unlocked manually either.

Filed Jan 29, 1999 · Locks · SC

Vehicle intermittently locks and unlocks on its own. Incident has occurred a dozen or more times. Dealer is aware of the problem and cannot remedy the problem. Vechicle is safety defect, and owners has children that have been locked in. Problem still exists. Provide further information.

Filed Aug 24, 1998 · Locks · FL

Had the key in the ignition and had placed the child in the vehicle. Closed the sliding door and all the doors were in the locked position, locking the child in the vehicle. Dealer admitted to the caravans having this problem. Cause unknown. Dealer cannot determine problem. Please provide details.

Filed Jan 4, 1998 · Locks · NY

Door locks on sliding doors work intermittently.

Filed Aug 19, 1997 · Locks · AZ

Doors can be opened with door locks depressed.