The 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan only lasts around 200,000 miles with some serious computer and transmission problems. At $9,895 to $12,699, it’s cheap but not worth the money when it’ll take thousands of dollars to keep running.
Is the 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan a Good Used Minivan?
- Overall Rating 5/10 – 2013 is a bad year for the Grand Caravan and it deserves a low overall rating since there are widespread mechanical problems. Owner reviews complain about engine issues, overheating, and broken A/C systems.
- Interior, Comfort & Storage 6/10 – The interior has basic durable fabric, the seats are heavily padded like a couch, and there’s enough storage space to fit cargo and luggage.
- Reliability 5/10 – Models from 2013 have a lot of transmission problems. We recommend avoiding models from 2008–2013 and going with 2014–2020 models which have reliability improvements.
- Performance 7/10 – The standard V6 engine offers good power for a minivan, but it’s still not very exciting to drive.
- Safety 7/10 – The 2013 Grand Caravan gets an overall 4-star rating in government crash tests with 4-stars in the frontal impact and 5-stars in the side impact tests. Optional safety technology includes blind spot monitoring and a rearview camera.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at around 20 MPG, which should get owners around 400 miles of range out of the 20 gallon gas tank. Gas costs are about $15 cheaper than average at $241 per month.
- Value 6/10 – The 2013 Grand Caravan is cheaper than other minivans on the market, yet isn’t a good value when you’ll spend a lot repairing it over the years.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Dodge Grand Caravan?
- Consumer Reports says the Dodge Grand Caravan is past its prime, with low owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Grand Caravan a 3.7/5 praising the affordable pricing, but doesn’t like the firm suspension.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Grand Caravan a 3.8/5 and enjoy the powerful V6, but owners don’t like that it has less technology than other minivans.
What Common Problems Does the 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan Have?
Common problems found on the 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan include the engine failing to start, worn-out brakes, and transmission failures. Overall, these problems are more severe than the issues found on other minivans from 2013, and repair costs are expensive as well.
The engine failing to start is a widespread complaint from owners at around 90,000 miles. Usually the problem is caused by a failing totally integrated power module (TIPM) which is common on many Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler vehicles. Replacing the TIPM costs around $1,200.
Worn-out brakes show up on a lot of Grand Caravan models at around 40,000 miles. The brake pads and rotors wear out faster than on other minivans and have to be replaced. Changing out a set of pads and rotors costs around $700, depending on local labor rates.
Transmission failures are another serious issue on many Grand Caravan models at around 70,000 miles. Parts in the transmission simply break as the van ages. Replacing the transmission and torque converter fixes the problem, although is costly at nearly $4,000.
There are 3 recalls, and a majority are minor compared to other minivans from 2013. The most serious recall is for a window vent switch, which may overheat and start a fire. Dodge will change out the switch for free on all affected models. The other two recalls are for air bags which are common on all makes and models.
How Long Will the 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan Last?
A well-maintained 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan may last around 200,000 miles, which is over 100,000 miles worse than the top-rated Toyota Sienna. Regular annual maintenance costs are much higher than average, according to data from Repair Pal, at $756 per year.
Since nearly all used 2013 Grand Caravans will have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace the engine front cover gasket for $750, the coolant temperature sensor costing $400, and the fuel injectors which cost $335.
For the most part yes. Only problem I have is in the winter and rain months. Traction control is limited at best. If this van were capable of 4 wheel drive and had a larger wheel base to accommodate thicker ply tires it could easily outperform most mid size SUVs.
No, none that I have seen after over 100k miles. It has lasted many a road trip and has given my family confidence in the van and the company.
Yes it is reliable I've had it 3 years almost and no problems with driving or safety I would recommend this vehicle to others.
It has not caused us any problems and we have driven it on long trips. I would say that it has been reliable.
It had a lot of mechanical problems. The computer dysentery was bad and it took five trips to get it all completely fixed.
For the 6 years I have driven it, I have never once been stranded. We do tend to replace the brakes quite frequently though, including pads, rotors, and calipers. It has also had paint bubbles since I purchased it which are getting increasingly worse so rust is a concern.
Mine has 70,000 miles and no problems so far. Just wear and tear stuff like new brake pads and tires.
Yes, my van is very reliable and no there are no problems with my van except the driver's seat, the fuse keeps blowing so I can't move it and since I can't move it the seat that is behind the driver's seat is not able to be pulled out of the floor.
How Is the Technology?
The entertainment technology in the Dodge Grand Caravan is basic compared to other minivans from 2013, with a simple stereo system. Safety technology is average and the optional features include blind spot monitoring, a rearview camera, and parking sensors.
Is the 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan a Good Value?
No, the 2013 Grand Caravan is not a good value with all the mechanical problems. Blue book prices range from $9,895 to $12,699, making it cheaper than the Honda Odyssey or Volkswagen Routan. When new, the price range was $19,995 to $29,995. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 15% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Dodge Grand Caravan?
There are five models of the Grand Caravan offered for 2013, including the base AVP up to the sportier R/T version.
AVP is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Power Windows
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- 4-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With 3.5mm AUX
SE is a step up, adding:
- Tri-Zone Climate Control
- Second Row Captain’s Chairs
- Stow ‘n Go Seating
- 6-Speaker Stereo System
SXT offers additional features such as:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Power Liftgate
- Power Sliding Rear Doors
- Larger Center Console
Crew is next in the lineup with:
- Remote Start
- Automatic Headlights
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Touchscreen Stereo System
- Overhead Storage Console
R/T is the sporty model and adds:
- Unique 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Sport Suspension
- Larger Brakes
- Rearview Camera
- Infinity Stereo System
What Engines Come In the Dodge Grand Caravan?
The engine found in the 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan is a strong 3.6L V6 which makes 283 horsepower and gets up to 20 MPG. Performance is average, taking 8 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Dodge Grand Caravan Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Dodge Grand Caravan?
The 2013 Dodge Grand Caravan is a comfortable minivan with seating for up to 7 people. The seats are very padded, and offer a decent level of support if you need to take the van on a long drive.
Passenger room is excellent, there is enough space for adults in all three rows, and the optional second row captain’s chairs are extra comfortable for adults in the back seats.
How Much Storage Space Does the Dodge Grand Caravan Have?
Cargo space is comparable to other minivans from 2013 with enough space for 5-6 suitcases behind the third row, 10-12 with the third row folded flat, and over 20 with all seats folded.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fifth generation of the Dodge Grand caravan was introduced in 2008, and discontinued after 2020.
2011: Minor exterior styling and suspension updates.
2012: New lower cost base model added.
2013: Optional Blu-Ray compatible entertainment system, and new super stow ‘n go seats.
2014: No major changes.
2015: Standard 17-inch wheels added, and new entry-level model added.
2016: No major changes.
How Does the Dodge Grand Caravan Compare to the Competition?
The Dodge Grand Caravan is one of the worst minivans you can buy from 2013 since there are so many serious mechanical problems. We recommend going with one from 2014–2020, which are all more reliable.
The Chrysler Town & Country is another minivan which costs around $2,000 more. Both minivans are built on the same platform, however, the Chrysler Town & Country has more luxurious interior materials. We recommend avoiding both the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan for 2013 since they have serious engine and computer issues.
The Honda Odyssey is a competitor which costs about $4,000 more. Technology and features are better in the Honda Odyssey, but the seats in the Dodge Grand Caravan are slightly more comfortable. We recommend the Honda Odyssey since there are fewer problems and lower ownership costs.
Do Owners Recommend the Dodge Grand Caravan?
Yes. From seating to head space, its comfort level is great for even tall and large people. Storage is better than most because of the sto n go option, and price point is fair. Gas mileage is good and the vehicle handles well on the road.
Yes it's a great vehicle for long road trips to trips to the grocery store or for hauling rock, sod or anything else.
Yes I love it! Has the right amount of space with storage but... The spare tire could be more accessible then under a hot vehicle trying to be careful so you don't get burned.
It serves its purpose for our family. It carries our children and lots of luggage. It does get good gas mileage.
It is alright. We had a lot of mechanical issues at first but it is been good lately. It was frustrating at first.
Yes, it comfortably seats my family of 7 and still offers enough storage space for all of our 'stuff'. I especially like the ease of putting the seats down when I need even more room and the stow and go feature.
Yes. Excellent mileage, close to 30 mpg on long trips. I love the stow and go seats. Makes it like a truck, can carry tons of stuff
Yes, it is a really great van. I really love that the seats go in the floor flat. I can store them in the floor or have them all up for plenty of room.