2012 Dodge Grand Caravan

584 federal complaints (818 component records) · 6 recall campaigns on file · 2 federal investigations · 75 service bulletins · 10 Canadian recalls
See all 35 model years of the Dodge Grand Caravan →
Engine
3.6L 6-cyl
Fuel
Gasoline Or E85
Drive
FWD
EPA economy
17 city / 25 hwy
Federal complaints
584
Recall campaigns
6
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
337
Engine & cooling
121
Fuel system
74
Other
60
Power train
48
Brakes
38
Speed control
24
Body & structure
19
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: 16 complaints01 years old: 21 complaints2 years old: 104 complaints3 years old: 77 complaints4 years old: 40 complaints5 years old: 42 complaints56 years old: 46 complaints7 years old: 79 complaints8 years old: 63 complaints9 years old: 37 complaints10 years old: 28 complaints1011 years old: 11 complaints12 years old: 10 complaints13 years old: 7 complaints14 years old: 2 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 583 of 584 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 25 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 32 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 51 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 38 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 49 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 70 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 53 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 27 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 10 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 6 complaints200,000+ miles: 6 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 367 of 584 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

337 complaint records11 fire reports
"LOUD CLICKING NOISE IN DASHBOARD AS WELL AS LACK OF FUNCTION INVOLVING THE A/C CONTROL PANEL. REAR DEFROSTER LIGHT BLINKS...."- 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

121 complaint records3 fire reports1 crash report
"THE ENGINE SHUTS DOWN WHILE I AM DRIVING. I HAVE TO PUT THE GEAR SHIFT IN N AND RESTART. ALSO, THE CAR DOES NOT START EVERY TIME..."- 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 →

Fuel system

74 complaint records
"PROBLEM STARTING FROM FAULTY TIPM CAUSING FUEL RELAY TO WORK INTERMITTENTLY. FUEL PUMP WORKS BY TESTING. THE PROBLEM IS FAULTY POWER IN TIPM...."- 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 fuel system 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
PE19014
opened Sep 2019
closed Feb 2026SeatsActive Head Rest Inadvertent Deployment
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE19014 on September 9, 2019, to investigate 128 consumer complaints alleging that the Active Head Rest (AHR) inadvertently deployed without the occurrence of a crash or other rear impact event in model year...
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)...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
25V876000Equipment Adaptive/MobilityRollx Vans (Rollx) is recalling certain GMC Yukon, Sierra, Chevrolet Express 2500, Ford Transit, E-250, Toyota Sienna, Sienna Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town and Country, Voyager, Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, and...Normally free
17V376000Air BagsChrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2011-2012 Dodge Grand Caravan vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the driver's frontal air bag may unexpectedly deploy if the air bag wiring harness gets chafed within the...Normally free
14V234000Electrical SystemChrysler Group, LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan vehicles manufactured August 25, 2010, through October 31, 2013.Normally free
12V191000EquipmentCHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 TOWN AND COUNTRY AND DODGE GRAND CARAVAN VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 9, 2012 THROUGH MARCH 12, 2012.Normally free
12V141000SuspensionCHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 TOWN AND COUNTRY AND DODGE GRAND CARAVAN VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 15, 2011, THROUGH NOVEMBER 21, 2011.Normally free
11V487000Engine And Engine CoolingCHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 CHRYSLER VEHICLES, INCLUDING 200 AND TOWN AND COUNTRY MODELS, DODGE VEHICLES, INCLUDING CHARGER, DURANGO, GRAND CARAVAN AND JOURNEY MODELS AND JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE VEHICLES...Normally free

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
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.
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
9003357a
Feb 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingADAPTER, Engine Oil Filter (Pentastar V6) For all 2014MY replace the Oil Filter Adapter (OFA). For any other MY review and follow instructions from the latest STAR Online S1809000007 available on Dealer Connect.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
9003357
Feb 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingADAPTER, Engine Oil Filter (Pentastar V6) For all 2014MY replace the Oil Filter Adapter (OFA). For any other MY (with mileage above 30,000) review and follow instructions from STAR Online S1809000007 REV. C available on Dealer Connect.
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...
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.
V51
Apr 2022
Unknown Or OtherCustomer Satisfaction Notification V51 Reprogram Powertrain Control Module
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
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.
9004330
Jun 2021
EquipmentPLATE, TORQUE CONVERTER DRIVE For 3.6L with 62TE NOTE: FOR 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 USEAGE & MUST BE REPLACED &...
S1821000001
Apr 2021
Power TrainGear Ratio DTC?s, Transmission Shift Concerns, Does Not Shift At Times, Shudders
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.
9003357
Mar 2021
Engine And Engine CoolingADAPTER, Engine Oil Filter (Pentastar V6) All vehicles equipped with a 3.2L or 3.6L except for model year 2014 vehicles with leak concern: 1) Ensure the Oil Filter Adapter (OFA) Cap O-ring is seated in the proper groove in the cap and not damaged or cut.
71060
Dec 2020
SeatsWarranty Bulletin D-20-19 (X87) Active Head Restraint - Select 2012-2017 Dodge Grand Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country (RT) (Rev. B)
DOR-M3J3F-07
Jun 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingThese SKUs are Exhaust Manifolds with Catalytic Converters. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory due to a loss of CARB certification. These SKUs can no longer be sold as they do not meet CARB standards, but parts on vehicles are not effected.
DOR-M9J4S-07
Jun 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingThese SKUs are Exhaust Manifolds with Catalytic Converters. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory due to a loss of CARB certification. These SKUs can no longer be sold as they do not meet CARB standards, but parts on vehicles are not effected.
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
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".
TS-WI-0290
Sep 2018
SeatsService Bulletin sent to all dealers to inspect L-track bolts for correct torque and to incorporate torque check as part of regular maintenance
TS-WI-0256
Jan 2018
Electrical SystemService Bulletin sent to all dealers to update the firmware in the affected vehicles VMI computer. This allows for more amperage to draw the Powerkneel up allowing the up-limit switch to be tripped consistently.
TS-WI-0249
Oct 2017
Fuel SystemInstructions to inspect the EO label on the fuel tank for accuracy and replace as required any affected label
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.
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
Electrical SystemRES / 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).~
9002887
Feb 2015
Engine And Engine CoolingPart Description: Valve Body Assembly Issue Description: Valve body design was changed between 2010MY and 2011MY applications. To prevent mix matching valve bodies and solenoid packs the connectors are color coded.~ Valve bodies with a white connector can be used on 2010, 2009,...
09-002-14 REV. B
Dec 2014
Engine And Engine CoolingMIL Illumination: P0300, P0302, P0304 or P0306 (X56 Warranty Extension) This bulletin involves checking for excessive cylinder leakage and replacing the cylinder head if necessary. Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination.
0900214REVB
Dec 2014
Exterior LightingMIL Illumination: P0300, P0302, P0304 or P0306 (X56 Warranty Extension) This bulletin involves checking for excessive cylinder leakage and replacing the cylinder head if necessary. Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination.
0900214a
Dec 2014
Engine And Engine CoolingMIL Illumination: P0300, P0302, P0304 or P0306 (X56 Warranty Extension) This bulletin involves checking for excessive cylinder leakage and replacing the cylinder head if necessary. Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination.
08-046-14REV.B
Dec 2014
Electrical SystemSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
08-046-14 REV. B
Dec 2014
EquipmentService Bulletin 08-046-14 REV. A Superseded By Customer Satisfaction Notification (CSN) P25 Refer to service procedures outlined in CSN P25.
0804614REVB
Dec 2014
Electrical SystemService Bulletin 08-046-14 REV. A Superseded By Customer Satisfaction Notification (CSN) P25 Refer to service procedures outlined in CSN P25.
0804614
Dec 2014
Electrical SystemService Bulletin 08-046-14 REV. A Superseded By Customer Satisfaction Notification (CSN) P25 Refer to service procedures outlined in CSN P25.
08-086-14 REV. A
Oct 2014
EquipmentRBZ Or RHB Radio Software Enhancements This bulletin involves upgrading the software on the RBZ or RHB Radio. The customer may experience one or more of the following. When changing the language on the radio, the navigation may still display English.
09-002-14 REV. A
Oct 2014
Engine And Engine CoolingMIL Illumination: P0300, P0302, P0304 or P0306 (X56 Warranty Extension) This bulletin involves checking for excessive cylinder leakage and replacing the cylinder head if necessary. Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination.
0900214
Oct 2014
Engine And Engine CoolingMIL Illumination: P0300, P0302, P0304 or P0306 (X56 Warranty Extension)
08-086-14
Oct 2014
EquipmentRBZ Or RHB Radio Software Enhancements This bulletin involves upgrading the software on the RBZ or RHB Radio. The customer may experience one or more of the following. ? When changing the language on the radio, the navigation may still display English. ?
09-002-14
Jun 2014
Fuel SystemMIL Illumination: P0300, P0302, P0304 or P0306 (X56 Warranty Extension) This bulletin involves checking for excessive cylinder leakage and replacing the cylinder head if necessary. Customers may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination.
24-004-14
May 2014
Electrical SystemSUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
08-046-14 REV. A
May 2014
VisibilityPower Window-Vent Switch - Interim CSN Repair This Bulletin involves disconnecting the switch for the rear power vent window, if requested by the customer.

Showing 60 of 75 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. Smell for fuel and watch the first restart when hot.Hard starting when warm, hesitation under load, or any fuel odor near the tank or engine bay match this vehicle's fuel-system cluster. Check the recall table for fuel pump campaigns.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 6 recall campaigns on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. 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 Grand Caravan →