This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.
So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.
The contact owns a 1996 Dodge Caravan. While driving in inclement weather conditions, water, or with the air conditioner activated, the vehicle temporarily loses control. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and they stated that the serpentine belt slipped off. No warning lights illuminated at the time of the failure. The vehicle was repaired approximately five times, however, the failures recurred two months later. The manufacturer was unable to provide assistance. The speed was unknown. The failure mileage was 119,000 and current mileage was 135,000. Updated 01-23-08. The dealer stated upper radiator loose, loose clamps, front brake pads, belt tensioner, oxygen sensor, and alternator bracket. Updated 01/23/08
This vehicle has gone through 5 alternator/power steering belts (serpentine) and 3 belt tensioners over a period from 1/30/98 (12,858 miles) to 9/29/00 (39,761 miles). This seems to be far too many problems from this component and could be a safety hazard if it fails while driving (no power steering).
Starter wire shorted out and started a fire inside under the hood, fire department came and has a report. Dealer contacted and repair work done, vehicle under warranty.
While driving the vehicle engine shuts down at low and high speeds. The dealer is attempting to fix the vehicle, but has not been successful yet. Alternator was replaced in September of 1997. Consumer is in process of purchasing a 1998 from dealer, colonial fitzgerald Dodge has been helping consumer negotiate a buyback.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
- Cokeysville, MD, USA