2009 Dodge Grand Caravan: engine overheating

Filed Mar 15, 2018 · Electrical · 155,000 miles · KY

This vehicle has had several electrical component failures that were premature and unexplained. Computer module replaced twice, sensors replaced before they should have gone bad. We also were experiencing small electrical issues all over the vehicle, problems with windows, slide doors, accessories, radio etc. After inspection of the electrical system a problem was observed with two of the main wiring harnesses for engine components, one was routed over the top of the radiator hose where it attaches to the top of the motor allowing excessive heat to melt the wire protection sleeves and wire coating which caused contact of wires exposed. Another section of wiring routed down from the main fuse box and rested on top of the transmission cover resulting in overheating of the wires. These two issues caused excessive heating of the wiring to effect the current flow to and from the main wire port for all electrical components of the vehicle and resulted in system malfunctions everywhere. This is a poor design by the manufacturer and a serious safety concern. I would want anyone with the same vehicle to know this is probably the result of numerous electrical component failures or problems they are experiencing that may lead to excessive repairs that are not necessary if the wiring is routed in a better way to avoid overheating.

Filed Jun 23, 2016 · Engine, Locks · 75,000 miles · CA

Tl* the contact owns a 2009 dodge grand caravan. While driving at an unknown speed, the passenger side sliding door independently opened without warning. The contact indicated that the failure occurred on five separate occasions. In addition, while driving, the vehicle overheated without warning. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 75,000.

Filed Dec 29, 2014 · Brakes, Engine · 35,000 miles · SC

Multiple problems. Worst first. High oil consumption, maintain vehicle faithfully. At approx. 70 k miles the engine oil light popped on. Checked oil. Was not registering on stick. Over three qts low! Engine continues to use 3-4 qts between oil changes (3000 miles). Van is on its third set of brakes. Tires have to be rotated very often because the front ruins tires quickly. Have had to replace the key fob twice. Both times it has left us stranded with no warning. Van is now in the shop for bad motor mounts. Gauge cluster has been replaced once. Heater hose "y" connection blew apart while on vacation at approx. 75k miles. (engine did not overheat). Van is on its third or fourth battery. Power sliding doors continually have problems closing. Power steering pump whines since 15k miles. Van currently has 91k miles.

Filed Sep 27, 2013 · Suspension · 74,500 miles · GA

While on a 500 mile trip the right front wheel bearing overheated and caused wheel to seize up on the highway. Had to have vehicle repaired out of town and incurred motel expenses for the night of the break down.

Filed Nov 2, 2012 · Engine · 82,000 miles · GA

The rear heater diverter valve has a large crack in it and while searching I seen many others that had this problem. It should not happen. It causes coolant leaks and overheats.

Filed Jun 15, 2012 · Brakes · 35,719 miles · MI

Exited highway (70 MPH) then drove 55 MPH for 3 miles to our home. Noticed heavy brake burning smell that stayed with me until arrived at home. Noticed smoke coming from driver side rear wheel/brake assembly. Husband(ex-ase master tech) came out to inspect and noticed all other brakes seemed ok in temp but left rear was extremely hot, smoking and rotor was discolored from over heat(black/blue). No metal on metal van was just in less than 1000 miles and dealer replaced front pads, rotors under tsb with $100 deductible. I was told at this time that rears had approx 20% pad left. Way to soon for rear brakes to wear out (before 36k miles?) took van into rochester hills chrysler dodge and they stated issue was left rear brake pad stuck in slides causing overheat. They stated that the brake bracket/clip/pads clearance is too tight and doesn't take much corrosion or brake dust collecting to cause sticking pads. I am aware of a new chrysler brake bracket design for these vans and that they are on national backorder at the time of this report and that the redesign has additional clearance to eliminate this problem. But instead I was charged $174.80 for new pads and turn both rotors. I fear that this issue will happen again and wonder if it will be worse next time (pad/brake fire, brake/wheel lock up or possible loss of control). This is not safe especially on a vehicle that is primarily used to transport kids, people etc. Lots of families out there with these. Please help! Thank you.

Filed Mar 9, 2012 · Brakes · 45,650 miles · MN

Drivers side rear brake stayed engaged. Overheated wheel and brake assembly. This has occurred another time approximately 2,000 miles later. Suspect traction control system was applying braking to that wheel. Brake released when vehicle was restarted.

Filed Jul 9, 2011 · Brakes · 21,291 miles · NY

Very noticeable brake pulsation,all four brake rotors and pads replaced due to their being pitted,rusted and down to metal on metal. Since off warranty asked for goodwill from dodge dealer and repair done for $100. Once again on 08/02/2010 the front rotors were found to be bad by dealer and replaced by dealer under warranty. Now, as of 07/07/2011 left rear brake appears to be stuck in a locked on position, brake is overheating,squealing and poor gas mileage and causing damage to rotor, pad and caliper per local mechanic. This failure is a real danger to someone who doesn't notice the condition as it may cause a fire due to excessive heat, premature tire wear, loss of braking due to fade and boiling of brake fluid. This condition also causes other brakes to work harder causing their premature wear.