The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan lasts around 200,000 miles with only minor A/C system and rust issues reported. At $15,275 to $16,575, it’s a good value for a minivan made for shoppers on a budget, even if it’s not the most advanced.
Is the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan a Good Used Minivan?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2018 is a good year for the Grand Caravan, although, it’s not as nice as other minivans on the market, giving it an average overall score. Owner reviews praise the passenger space, soft seats, as well as low maintenance costs.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 6/10 – Interior materials are cheaper than many other minivans, seating is reasonably comfortable, cargo space is also fantastic.
- Reliability 7/10 – There are no serious mechanical problems reported on the 2018 Grand Caravan. Avoid models from 2008-2013 since they have computer failures. Models from 2014 through 2020 are more dependable choices.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is similar to other minivans from the standard V6 engine, yet it’s not very exciting to drive.
- Safety 7/10 – The 2018 Grand Caravan earns 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. There’s a standard rearview camera. Optional upgrades include blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, along with rear parking sensors.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 22 MPG, giving 440 miles of range from the 20 gallon tank. Gas costs are $23 cheaper than average at $204 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan is cheaper than most other minivans, making it a good choice for shoppers on a budget.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Dodge Grand Caravan?
- Consumer Reports says the 2018 Grand Caravan is past its prime with outdated features, with average owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the Grand Caravan at 3.7/5, praising the stow ‘n go seating system, but doesn’t like the cheap interior materials.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Grand Caravan a 3.8/5, enjoying the outstanding passenger room, but owners don’t like the lack of safety tech.
What Common Problems Does the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan Have?
Common problems found on the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan include the A/C system not blowing cold air, rust forming on the hood, as well as the transmission surging while going uphill. Overall, these problems are a little worse than other minivans, while repair costs are not very expensive.
The A/C system not blowing cold air is the most widespread complaint from 2018 Grand Caravan owners in the first 10,000 miles. Usually the problem is caused by a leak in one of the A/C lines. Fixing the link and recharging the system with refrigerant costs around $250, depending on local labor rates.
Rust forming on the hood is another issue mentioned by Grand Caravan owners at roughly 15,000 miles. Paint which is left outdoors and not properly cared for will start to deteriorate over time. The only way to fix the issues is by repainting the affected areas, which costs around $1,000 per panel.
The transmission surging while going uphill is another complaint from some Grand Caravan owners in the first 25,000 miles. Usually, when the transmission surges while going uphill, it’s just doing its job of downshifting to get more power to the road. If you feel the surging is excessive, you may need to have the transmission reprogrammed, costing around $100.
There are three recalls on the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan, which is similar to other minivans from the same year. The most serious recall covers the fuel pump gasket, which may cause fuel to leak. Dodge will replace the gaskets on affected models for free. Other recalls cover the coating on the rear brake calipers, along with the voltage regulator. Dodge will repair both of those issues for free as well.
How Long Will the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan Last?
A well-maintained 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan can last around 200,000 miles, which is about 100,000 miles less than the top-rated Toyota Sienna. Regular annual maintenance costs are slightly higher than other minivans, according to data provided by Repair Pal at $533 per year.
As a used 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the brake master cylinder for $450, drive belt tensioner costing $330, as well as the steering knuckle which costs $800.
It is very reliable so far. The only problem I have had with it is the Bluetooth not working properly. I cannot connect my phone without an auxiliary cord. That is the only issue I have had so far.
Yes! My grand caravan is very reliable and has no problems. As long as you I keep the maintenance regularly up to date any car will last longer and not run into issues.
I have not had any problems with my grand caravan it is very reliable. I have the key start feature which I love in the summer I can cool it down or I can warm it up according to what we need.
So far yes it is reliable. We have had no problems yet. But it is also only a year old. I think when it gets five-seven years old we'll know more about the performance.
This vehicle is very reliable. I have never had any issues with it. The only thing is the tire pressure check light is displayed.
There are no problems with it at all. The one time the door wouldn't close but that was a user error.
No it has no problems, so far as I can tell it runs great, all the technology in the car works well and it has no problems.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is good with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen display in the dash. Optional upgrades include Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a 9-inch overhead rear screen for back seat passengers.
Safety is lagging behind the competition offering only a standard rearview camera. Available advanced safety features include blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, as well as rear parking sensors.
Is the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan a Good Value?
Yes, the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan is a good value since it’s more affordable than other minivans from the same year. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $15,400 to $16,650, making it cheaper than a Honda Odyssey or Chrysler Pacifica. When new, the price range was $26,250 to $31,750. Depreciation is similar to other minivans, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Dodge Grand Caravan?
There are four models of the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan offered from the base SE all the way up to the top-of-the-line GT. All of the Grand Caravan models come with front-wheel drive.
SE is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Heated Mirrors
- Remote Locking and Unlocking
- Tri-Zone Climate Control
- Cruise Control
- Rearview Camera
- Tilt-and-Telescoping Steering Wheel
- 5-Inch Touchscreen Display
- Six-Speaker Audio System
SE Plus is a minor step up, adding:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Upgraded Cloth Upholstery
- Second Row Captain’s Chairs
- Automatic Headlights
- Black Exterior Styling Elements
- Remote Engine Start
- Front Floor Console
- Bluetooth Connectivity
SXT is next in the lineup, which adds:
- Chrome Exterior Trim
- Leather Upholstery With Suede Inserts
- Power Liftgate
- Heated Front Seats
- Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel
- Eight-Way Power Driver Seat
- Roof Rails
- Power-Sliding Rear Doors
GT is the flagship model with:
- Full Leather Seating
- Performance-Tuned Suspension
- Unique Wheels
- Black Interior Accents
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Driver Information Center
- 115-Volt Household Outlet
- Heated Second Row Seats
- Nine-Speaker Audio System
- Optional 9-Inch Overhead Display
- Rear Seat Entertainment System
What Engines Come In the Dodge Grand Caravan?
The engine found in the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan is a reasonably strong 3.6L V6 which makes 283 horsepower at up to 22 MPG. It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. Performance is good, taking about 7.5 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Dodge Grand Caravan Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Dodge Grand Caravan?
The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan is a comfortable minivan, with seating for up to eight passengers. It has spacious and supportive seats, with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo.
The ride is smooth and quiet, and the van is equipped with a variety of features to help make long trips more comfortable, including available tri-zone climate control, power-adjustable pedals, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support. Some owners have noted that the Grand Caravan’s suspension can feel a bit harsh over rough roads, but overall it is a comfortable and practical choice.
How Much Storage Space Does the Dodge Grand Caravan Have?
The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan has a lot of cargo space at up to 140.3 cubic feet, which is enough room for over 25 suitcases with the second- and third-row seats folded down. With all seats in place, the Grand Caravan has enough space for 6 suitcases.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fifth generation of the Dodge Grand Caravan was launched in 2008, and was discontinued after 2020 when Dodge shifted to focus on SUVs.
2014: Entry-level crew model removed from the lineup.
2015: Standard 17-inch wheels added, power-adjustable pedals discontinued.
2016: No changes from earlier years.
2017: Standard rearview camera and touchscreen stereo system on all models.
2018: No major changes.
2019: Higher resolution rearview camera found on all models.
2020: Final model year for the Grand Caravan, minor exterior changes to the SE Plus model.
How Does the Dodge Grand Caravan Compare to the Competition?
The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan is a good budget-focused minivan, although it doesn’t have the latest safety and entertainment technology found in other minivans from the same year.
The Chrysler Pacifica is another minivan which costs around $2,000 more. Interior materials and technology are both better in the Chrysler Pacifica, while the Dodge Grand Caravan offers more responsive steering. We recommend the Chrysler Pacifica since the latest technology is worth the extra money.
The Honda Odyssey is a competitor which is available for roughly $5,000 more. Technology is much more advanced in the Honda Odyssey, while the Dodge Grand Caravan has better seats which hold up well over time. We recommend the Honda Odyssey since it does have better reliability ratings as it ages.
Do Owners Recommend the Dodge Grand Caravan?
Yes, I love it!It is so much better than the SUV I had before. It is easy to get into, has a lot of room, and I love the stow and go seating. It is a great family vehicle! Our family is growing and we needed a bigger and more dependable vehicle and my van is exactly what I wanted.
Yes it is a good vehicle. My dodge is great on gas. I have had it for a little over a year and have only had to do the regular oil change and regular maintenance required. It is very spacious; making road trips with my husband and three children easier and comfortable. They are comfy and plenty of room. It is my official mom caravan I always wanted since I had my first child and my husband surprised me. If given the choice I'd chose this vehicle every time.
Yes I absolutely love my grand caravan it is amazing and is just what I wanted. It handles well, has lots of storage I use this vehicle for the most part to get my grandmother to and from appointments.
Yes for the most part. Very practical and roomy with good gas mileage. Could have a few more extra features.
The dodge grand caravan se is a good vehicle. It has plenty of room for my whole family. There is always enough room for the groceries.
Yes, it has plenty of seats and storage for three kids. The seats are also fairly easy to vacuum and the front console is easy to clean with a damp cloth. It can be hard to remove the center seat, but we have done it to transport large items that we would otherwise need a truck for, so saves on transport costs as well.
The Dodge Grand Caravan is a great vehicle. It has everything in tech, such as electronic doors and hatchback, bucket seats and UConnect so I can talk hands free.