2004 Dodge Grand Caravan Engine cooling Problems

“Periodically, the engine of our 2004 Grand Caravan sputters and dies without warning. Typically this happens right after filling the gas tank. Upon leaving the gas station, the van runs normally for a minute or two, then cuts out all together. Usually this happens just as we are pulling out of the station into traffic. Once the van is re-started, it runs roughly for a minute, then quite normally. This first occurred in late 2009 and happened infrequently for a time. The older the van becomes, the more frequently it happens - now on almost every fill-up. …”

“I had continually added oil every month starting after about 10,000 miles. I changed oil every 3-5,000 miles. Driving back from up north and I heard a ticking noise. I had checked the oil level before our trip on 8-3-07 and added 2 quarts of oil to bring it up to full. As we had the windows closed as the temp had fallen to chilly, I could no longer hear the noise until we were within mile of our home. It became louder and as we pulled into the driveway, it was very loud. I was going to bring it to a dealership to get it checked out the next day, but the van would not start. …”

“We have had numerous and repeat problems with our 2004 Dodge Grand Caravan and we get no help from the dealer or the manufacturer. The main complaint that is most concerning is our brakes as we have had to replace them 3 times in less than a year. We have terrible shaking, vibration and grinding. The vehicle has pulled to the right from the moment we purchased it, I thought it was out of alignment but they have not been able to correct the problem although it has been in several times. Coincidentally it is the right side that wears more than then left. …”

“1. Metal coolant lines going to rear heater failed ,massive corrosion where the heater hose attaches to the pipe completely rotted/rusted out, the vehicle had 75k miles on it. 2. If the coolant level gets too low of course my engine will overheat and seize. 3. The steel pipes need to be replaced for aluminum pipes or corrosion protection from the factory that's needed to withstand harsh climes, especially ones where salt is used to deice roadways.”

“After going through water puddles, the car became difficult to steer. The wheel turned but as if the engine was off. The car also hesitates as if the engine will stall.”