Can a Dodge Caravan tow a trailer?
In this article, we will answer the following question: Can a Dodge Caravan tow a trailer? We will also give you two alternatives for the classic trailer that a Dodge Caravan will handle just great.
Can a Dodge Caravan tow a trailer?
A Dodge Caravan can tow some trailers, but with a towing capacity of only 3,600 lbs, you need to be sure that the caravan’s weight does not exceed 85% of the car’s weight.
Below you have an overview of the most popular Dodge Grand Caravan SE 4dr Minivan. By knowing the car’s specs, you will also decide whether your Dodge Caravan tow a trailer and of what dimensions. Let’s see:
| Overview of the Dodge Grand Caravan SE 4dr Minivan | |
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drive Type | Front wheel drive |
| Cylinders | V6 |
| Combined MPG | 20 |
| Total Seating | 7 |
| Basic Warranty | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
| Base Engine Size | 3.6 l |
| Horsepower | 283 hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Turning Circle | 39.1 ft. |
| Valves | 24 |
| Base Engine Type | Gas |
| Valve Timing | Variable |
| Cam Type | Double overhead cam (dohc) |
| Cylinders | V6 |
The Dodge Grand Caravan is certainly not our favourite vehicle, far from it. The model dates from another era, and no significant changes have been made to it since 2011. This means that the Grand Caravan is seriously starting to be outdated. However, considering FCA’s marketing strategy with this model, it retains an interest insofar as its prices are derisory in the face of the competition.
With current prices ranging from $ 24,597 to $ 34,185 for the fully equipped GT model, it’s hard not to consider it despite its many flaws and lack of modernity. Even its closest price rival, the Kia Sedona, is no match for Dodge.
Indeed, the Korean, infinitely more competent, arrives with a base price of $ 30,395. Dodge is therefore extremely aggressive with this product to attract buyers, even though it is well known that the Grand Caravan is dead last in the category against Kia, Toyota, Honda and even Chrysler.
With the 2020 Grand Caravan, on the other hand, we are completely changing the register. Although it can accommodate up to seven people as well, the Dodge minivan puts versatility in the foreground, including a generous interior volume and sliding doors for easy access to the rear seats.
The only engine that drives it is more capable than the Journey (higher model obliges!), Since it is the well-known six-cylinder V-shaped Pentastar 3.6, whose power rises to 283 hp for 260 lb-ft of torque. The towing capacity is logically greater (1,633 kg), which is perfect for weekend family activities!
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Do we recommend the Dodge Caravan?
The Grand Caravan offers a very well-appointed cabin that offers plenty of space and the exclusivity of Stow’n Go retractable seats, a marvel of ingenuity. With this accessory, you can occasionally free up the entire cabin with a flat floor for a more utilitarian vocation. Unfortunately, the finish and materials are out of step with the category, while the creaks are numerous, even in a new vehicle.
Under the hood, we still find the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6, one of the most powerful in the category. With 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, it can easily tow the 2,000 pounds you need since the limit is 3,500 pounds.
This will not be a problem, especially since the suspensions, while not durable, have the technical configuration to withstand the excess weight. Also, in this exercise, having a six-speed automatic transmission will be an advantage.
Although reliability improves a bit, this aspect remains the Achilles heel of the Grand Caravan. FCA is still improving, but very slowly, the vehicle’s mechanical and electronic components without achieving complete reliability. This fact is completely incomprehensible considering that he has been with us since 2011.
There are several things to watch out for, such as the suspensions, the brakes and, above all, the transmission. Added to that are random and recurring snags, and lacking electronics.
Do we recommend the Dodge Grand Caravan for towing a trailer? Honestly, no. On the other hand, taking into account your budget and the vehicle’s current prices, you would have to be stubborn not to realise that this is a very suitable choice for you. Unfortunately, it’s a good option only if you won’t be doing a lot of mileage annually.
To ensure the longevity of your Grand Caravan, do not skimp on maintenance. And if you are decided to go on a trip around the country with it, below you have two alternatives to the classic old trailers that your Dodge Caravan will have no issue with when towing.
A Dodge Caravan can two these two lightweight trailers
First, we want to ensure your safety on the road. While a Dodge Caravan would be an almost good job towing a trailer, we suggest the following lightweight trailers as an alternative: trailer-tents and mini-caravans.
What are the trailer-tents?
A trailer-tent can be a great choice when camping. It is imperative to have a vehicle designed to tow a recreational vehicle (RV). A sport utility vehicle (SUV) or minivan with a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds (1,600 kg) such as the Dodge Caravan is sufficient to tow a mid-size tent trailer.
The tent trailer is still a significant investment. You should budget from $4,000 to $ 12,000 to equip yourself, depending on whether you are buying new, used, small, large, etc.
There are hundreds of models of tent trailers, for all tastes and all budgets. These RVs can sleep one to ten people depending on the model. The length is always measured in feet with the RV closed, excluding the length of the hitch.
There are tent trailers of all sizes that are built for motorcycles and the like. The most common sizes are 8, 10 and 12 foot closed boxes.
The trailer-tent has the distinction of being almost twice as wide open as closed, which is in fact its main advantage. Most of the time, the hardtop part is mounted using a pulley system. Then we pull the beds on each side to stretch the canvases with crossbars.
What are mini-caravans?
The world of the caravan is sweet, it has always had a good base of faithful, but in recent years there has been a boom in this type of tourism, with more and more people encouraging themselves to go on a trip with a house on wheels. But what do you do when your Dodge Caravan can’t tow much more than 3,600 lbs? You choose a mini-caravan!
Why choose a mini caravan? Opting for a mini caravan to get started in this world is a good idea, so you have to weigh both its pros and its cons before investing in one.
Advantages:
- Their compact dimensions make them not too bulky and easy to store in a garage when not in use.
- This also influences that driving with them is more comfortable than with a larger trailer, since their weight is not exaggerated and their shape does not affect aerodynamics very negatively.
- The contained weight also means that practically any car can pull them without problems.
- The prices of the mini caravans are cheaper than those of the caravans and motorhomes.
- Despite their contained size, they usually have very complete equipment: bed, kitchen, etc.
Disadvantages
- Although they make good use of space, their contained dimensions mean that they are not as spacious as that provided by a camper van or, of course, full-size caravans or motorhomes.
- Although it depends on the model chosen, the normal thing is that they have fewer comforts and functionalities than those offered by the upper segments.
The bottom line
Can a Dodge Caravan tow a trailer? Well, as you have seen in this article, it can, but the wise choice would be a trailer-tent or a mini-caravan. This way, you will make sure that there is no issue along the road, and you will manage just fine for many miles.
The Dodge Grand Caravan is certainly not our favourite vehicle, far from it. The model dates from another era, and no significant changes have been made to it since 2011. However, considering its price, it may be just the right car for you!
If you have any questions or comments on the content, please let us know.
FAQ on Can a Dodge Caravan tow a trailer?
Can you put a trailer hitch on a Dodge Caravan?
You can put a three trailer hitch on a Dodge Caravan and it will be the perfect fit for your minivan.
Can a minivan tow a trailer?
Most minivans can tow a trailer; with a capacity of 3600 lbs your minivan will do a great job even on hard roads. Of course, you will have to instal a towing hitch and wiring harness, but overall it is possible.
How much weight can a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan tow?
A 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan can tow 3,600 lbs. This minivan has a powerful engine and it is a popular option among families who want to travel with a trailer.
