2012 Dodge Caravan

87 federal complaints (116 component records) · 0 recall campaigns on file · 1 federal investigation · 97 service bulletins · 10 Canadian recalls
See all 34 model years of the Dodge Caravan →
Engine
3.6L 6-cyl
Fuel
Gasoline Or E85
Drive
FWD
EPA economy
17 city / 25 hwy
Federal complaints
87
Recall campaigns
0
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Electrical system
47
Engine & cooling
19
Brakes
9
Other
8
Fuel system
6
Air bags
4
Body & structure
3
Speed control
3
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 5 complaints01 years old: 8 complaints2 years old: 24 complaints3 years old: 17 complaints4 years old: 9 complaints5 years old: 4 complaints56 years old: 15 complaints7 years old: 4 complaints8 years old: 1 complaints9 years old: 0 complaints10 years old: 0 complaints1011 years old: 0 complaints12 years old: 0 complaints13 years old: 0 complaints14 years old: 0 complaints15 years old: 0 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 0 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 87 of 87 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 5 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 13 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 14 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 4 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 3 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 4 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 7 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 3 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 1 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 0 complaints200,000+ miles: 2 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 56 of 87 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Electrical system

47 complaint records2 fire reports
"WIPERS COME ON AND STAYS ON WITHOUT BEING TURNED ON BRIGHT LIGHTS INOPERABLE, LOW BEAMS STAY ON DOOR LOCKS BY THEMSELVES. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse electrical system parts in the directory →

Engine & cooling

19 complaint records
"VAN STOPS ABRUPTLY. WILL DIE WHILE DRIVING, WHEEL WILL LOCK UP AND AND VAN POWERS DOWN. WILL START BACK UP AS SOON AS ITS STOPS...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse engine & cooling parts in the directory →

Brakes

9 complaint records1 fire report1 crash report
"MY WIFE WHILE DRIVING SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES AND THE VAN SHUT OFF IT HOWEVER RESTART RIGHT AWAY.THIS WAS VERY SCARY AND COULD PUT HER LIFE IN DANGER IF SOMEONE HAD RUN INTO HER VAN BACK...."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse brakes parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
DP14004
opened Sep 2014
closed Jul 2015Electrical SystemTotally Integrated Power Module Failure
In a letter dated August 21, 2014, the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to initiate a defect investigation of alleged failures associated with the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM)...

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2024548
2024-08-15
Label314,717Issue: On certain vehicles, the tire and loading information label does not list that there is no spare tire in both official languages. The label reads as "NONE" when it should read as "NONE / AUCUN".
2019420
2019-08-21
Other5,327Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered.
2018439
2018-08-21
Seats And Restraints230On certain wheelchair-accessible vehicles, the bolts used to attach the removable seats to the floor may contain a defect and could break in the event of a crash, creating a risk of injury.
2017303
2017-06-14
Airbag86,378On certain vehicles, an electrical short could occur in the steering wheel wiring harness, which could result in an inadvertent deployment of the driver frontal airbag.
2016575
2016-11-17
Fuel System207On certain Amerivan 10 wheelchair accessible vehicles built on Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country platforms, the crimp fasteners used to retain fittings in the fuel line may not be fully crimped or compressed.
Show 5 more Canadian recalls
RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2015288
2015-06-26
Suspension1On certain Amerivan 10 wheelchair accessible vehicles built on Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country platforms, the upper rear mounts for the shock aborbers may separate from the chassis.
2014167
2014-05-08
Electrical106,904On certain vehicles, if the vent window switch (located in the driver's door armrest) is exposed to liquids, it could overheat.
2012155
2012-05-03
Other36On certain vehicles, the right side liftgate sensor may not function as intended, resulting in an increase in force required to stop the power liftgate during its final closing stages.
2012118
2012-04-03
Other26Certain vehicles may have been equipped with an incorrectly manufactured right rear hub and bearing assembly. Hub failure could result in wheel separation. A wheel separating from the vehicle could cause a loss of control and a crash.
2011351
2011-09-27
Engine30On certain vehicles equipped with a 3.6L engine, debris in the cylinder block (from the manufacturing process) could cause connecting rod bearing and crankshaft bearing damage.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
108463
Nov 2025
Service BrakesPAD KIT - REAR DISC BRAKE, FRONT DISC BRAKE
108464
Nov 2025
Service BrakesPAD KIT - REAR DISC BRAKE, FRONT DISC BRAKE
103617
Mar 2025
EngineSTARTER - ENGINE
9100456
Nov 2024
SeatsIncoming Vehicles with Deployed Active Head Rest (AHR) should have a through enquiry. If there is no Broken Pieces or Electrical failure, Direction to RESET the AHR following the Procedure.
9100229
Sep 2023
SuspensionLIFTER, Hydraulic Roller Deactivating Please do not replace MDS lifters because the disconnecting pin is not lined up, this is normal and not a defect.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
9100226
Sep 2023
Electrical SystemConnector kit Before ordering this connector repair kit 68018957A$, check it in the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website to confirm part number and applicability.
9100196
Jul 2023
EquipmentLubrication and Maintenance Fluids If MOPAR fluids and chemicals are not readily available, please review Service Library for specifications so a suitable alternative can be used
1804823
Apr 2023
EquipmentwiTECH Small Leak Verification Test (SLVT) - P0456-EVAP SYSTEM SMALL LEAK
3100122
Aug 2022
StructureApproved Use of Weld Through Primers This bulletin documents the FCA US LLC position regarding the use of weld through primer when using Squeeze Type Resistance Spot Welding (STRSW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) processes when welding steel body panels and structural...
9004206
Jun 2022
Power TrainRemanufactured Transmission Assembly 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles: a) If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) must be replaced as they are one-time usage.
S2209000004
Apr 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingIf a Mopar oil filter is not available, use a filter that meets or exceeds USCAR36 specification and is compatible with semi and full synthetic oils.
9004509
Mar 2022
Power TrainOil Filter If a Mopar Oil Filter is not available, use a filter that meets or exceeds USCAR36 specification and is compatible with semi and full synthetic oils. Recommended Brands: Wix, Purolator, and NapaGold
9004206
Mar 2022
StructureRemanufactured Transmission Assembly 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles: a) If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) must be replaced as they are one-time usage.
S2109000004
Jul 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingIssue involves overheating, running hot, coolant leaks and related symptoms after a Mopar replacement engine has been installed in the vehicle.
S2008000113 Rev.
Apr 2021
Power TrainNo Start Intermittently, Vehicle Requires Multiple Keyless Push To Start Attempts To Start Vehicle, Intermittent Key Not Detected Message
S2008000113
Apr 2021
Electrical SystemNo Start Intermittently, Vehicle Requires Multiple Keyless Push To Start Attempts To Start Vehicle, Intermittent Key Not Detected Message
S1821000001
Apr 2021
Power TrainGear Ratio DTC?s, Transmission Shift Concerns, Does Not Shift At Times, Shudders
9004206
Apr 2021
Power TrainRemanufactured Transmission Assembly 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles: a) If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) must be replaced as they are one-time usage.
9004009
Apr 2021
Power TrainTransmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage.
S2121000005
Apr 2021
Engine And Engine Cooling62TE 6-Speed Transmission Cracked Torque Converter (TC) Piston Repair Index, To Aid In Diagnosis And Repair
23-030-20 REV. A
Dec 2020
SeatsActive Head Restraint (AHR) Inadvertent Deployment - X87 Warranty Extension This bulletin involves inspecting the sled bracket striker pin and possibly replacing a front seat AHR that has inadvertently deployed.
70324
Nov 2020
SeatsWarranty Bulletin D-20-19 (X87) Active Head Restraint - Select 2012-2017 Dodge Grand Caravan (RT) (Rev. A)
69920
Nov 2020
SeatsWarranty Bulletin D-20-19 (X87) Active Head Restraint - Select 2010-2017 Dodge Grand Caravan (RT)
23-030-20
Nov 2020
EquipmentActive Head Restraint (AHR) Inadvertent Deployment - X87 Warranty Extension This bulletin involves inspecting the sled bracket striker pin and possibly replacing a front seat AHR that has inadvertently deployed.
2303020
Nov 2020
SeatsActive Head Restraint (AHR) Inadvertent Deployment - X87 Warranty Extension This bulletin involves inspecting the sled bracket striker pin and possibly replacing a front seat AHR that has inadvertently deployed.
9004300
Sep 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingCooler line, Power steering return The clips that hold the line to the core support are not available at this time and will need to be reused. Use care when opening and re-latching clip.
S1121000006 Rev.
Aug 2020
Power Train(Revision A) No Start No Crank ? Starter Will Not Engage And There Are No Related Codes Or Concerns
S1121000006RevA
Aug 2020
Power Train(Revision A) No Start No Crank ? Starter Will Not Engage And There Are No Related Codes Or Concerns
S2008000113
Aug 2020
Electrical SystemNo Start Intermittently, Vehicle Requires Multiple Keyless Push To Start Attempts To Start Vehicle
9004206
May 2020
Power TrainRemanufactured Transmission Assembly 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles: a) If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) must be replaced as they are one-time usage.
23-015-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentDisinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19
08-049-20
Apr 2020
EquipmentCharging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
18-039-20
Apr 2020
Fuel SystemPossible Driveability Issues due to the Winter-Blend Fuel into the Warmer Season
S1508000480
Mar 2020
EquipmentSpeed Control Operates Intermittently
9004022
Dec 2019
SuspensionAir Suspension Components Star Parts Catalog has been updated to show individual service parts for the compressor assembly. This will allow service technicians to repair the root cause without over repairing the system.
31-006-19
Nov 2019
StructureRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
31-004-19
Nov 2019
VisibilityAuthentic Mopar® Glass Replacement This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the recommended usage of Authentic Mopar® Glass.
31-003-19
Nov 2019
EquipmentUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
31-005-19
Nov 2019
EquipmentUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
3100619
Nov 2019
StructureRepair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
3100419
Nov 2019
VisibilityAuthentic Mopar® Glass Replacement This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the recommended usage of Authentic Mopar® Glass.
3100319
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
3100519
Nov 2019
StructureUse of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
9003220
Aug 2019
EquipmentRADIO [RES] - New and/or Service Exchange For RES radio concerns. Use the wiTECH 2.0 and inspect the radio part number and serial number under the Radio/ECU Details tab. Please verify that the radio part number and/or serial number is not "FFFF".
9002706
May 2019
EquipmentVALVE KIT, A/C Expansion For concern of noise while AC is running, prior to replacing this part, please call Thomas Rolo at (248) 931-0484. If no response in 15 minutes, proceed with repair.
9004076
May 2019
EngineOil Filter Adapter If replacing Oil Filter Adapter due to oil leak, please be aware a seal kit is available for repair. If replacing due to missing Spring Loaded Check Valve, a replacement spring and check valve are now available through MOPAR.
9003109
Jun 2017
VisibilityWasher Fluid Level Sensor Prior to replacing this part due to "Low Washer Fluid" tell tale light on the dash and the washer fluid bottle is full, please perform this inspection: Check if float sensor is rotated off location from the bottle anti-rotation features that surround...
9003694
Mar 2017
Engine And Engine CoolingOil Pump Assembly If error code P06DD present on any Pentastar V6 application, please inspect oil pump for relief valve failure. See photo attached.
9003687
Mar 2017
Seat BeltsRestraints Remove I-Sheet from packaging. Correct information sheet (I-Sheet) has been added to Star Parts. Print I-Sheet for technician use.
9003681
Mar 2017
Seat BeltsRestraints Information Sheet (I-Sheet) has been added to Star Parts. Print I-Sheet for technician use.
05152029
Sep 2016
Visibility/WiperWasher Fluid Level Sensor Prior to replacing this part due to "Low Washer Fluid" tell tale light on the dash and the washer fluid bottle is full, please perform the this inspection. Inspect the sensor for a fluid coating on the sensor pins.
R4880213A$
Jun 2016
Power Train"SHAFT - AXLE HALF NOTE: THE JOINT BETWEEN THE SPLINES ON THE HALFSHAFT AND THE HUB AND BEARING IS AN INTERFERENCE FIT. THE HALFSHAFT NUT IS TO BE USED TO DRAW THE HUB AND BEARING ONTO THE HALFSHAFT SPLINES. THIS IS PARTICULARLY TRUE IF HUB AND BEARING IS ALSO BEING REPLACED"
R4880213A
Jun 2016
Power TrainShaft - Axle Half Note: The joint between the splines on the halfshaft and the hub and bearing is an interference fit. The halfshaft nut is to be used to draw the hub and bearing onto the halfshaft splines. This is particularly true if hub and bearing is also being replaced.~
Z5091195A$
May 2016
EquipmentRES / RHA / REB radio that supports Bluetooth and Hands-Free For issues with Bluetooth, Hands-Free Calling, and/or Voice Commands, DO NOT replace the radio. Diagnose the Hands-Free Module system (also called the Telematics Module).
Z5091195A
May 2016
EquipmentRES / RHA / REB radio that supports Bluetooth and Hands-Free For issues with Bluetooth, Hands-Free Calling, and/or Voice Commands, DO NOT replace the radio. Diagnose the Hands-Free Module system (also called the Telematics Module).
68277402A
Apr 2016
Vehicle Speed ControlAdaptive Cruise Control Sensor 1) If you are replacing this part due to the cluster displaying Clean Radar Sensor in Front of Vehicle or DTC C1266 ACC Sensor Blinded, please verify that there is no blockage in front of the sensor.
08-031-16
Mar 2016
EquipmentHands Free Module Prompts Begin Erroneously This bulletin involves diagnosing and based on outcome, either performing a USB flash or replacing the Mopar accessory Hands Free Module (HFM).
0803116
Mar 2016
Electrical SystemHands Free Module Prompts Begin Erroneously.
RL108213A$
Jan 2016
Engine And Engine CoolingNAG1 (5A580) Valve Body As per Warranty Bulletin D-13-22, please use R2108213A$ valve body for all Warranty (W), Mopar (M) and Mopar Vehicle Protection (F) claims.~ Assembly also includes Filter (52108325AA) and Gasket (52108332AA).~
24-001-16
Jan 2016
EquipmentFlash: HVAC System Improvements This bulletin involves reprogramming the HVAC Module with new software. The customer may describe one or more of the following conditions: · Feeling hot air coming out of the passenger side vents.

Showing 60 of 97 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Sit in it with the engine off and test everything that has a switch.Windows, locks, lights, the cluster, the radio. Electrical faults are this vehicle's story and the hardest to see on a drive: an intermittent no-start waits for the second week of ownership. Ask for the battery's age and whether any control module has been replaced.
  2. Cold-start it yourself and listen for the first thirty seconds.Knocking, ticking that fades as it warms, or blue or white smoke on startup are the sounds of this vehicle's engine cluster. Check the oil level and the coolant color, and ask whether the engine or its head gaskets have ever been out.
  3. Brake hard once from speed on an empty road.A pull to one side, a pulsing pedal, a pedal that sinks at a stop, or an ABS light that stays lit are the brake complaints on this vehicle presenting themselves.
  4. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this Dodge Caravan →