Home · 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan · Complaints

What 1,153 owners told NHTSA about the 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan

These are the actual owner complaints behind this car’s reliability verdict, filed with the federal government, unedited. They’re unverified reports, not confirmed defects: read them as leads for your pre-purchase inspection, not a diagnosis.

All (1,153)Crash / fire / injury (54)Electrical system (354)Transmission & drivetrain (248)Body & structure (233)Engine (97)Lights (56)Fuel system (30)Airbags (28)Seats (26)Speed control (26)Latches & locks (25)

248 of 1,153 complaints match · Transmission & drivetrain · clear filters · page 1 of 10

Jun 30, 2026Transmission & drivetrain

See attached document for complaint.

NHTSA ODI 11747348

May 21, 2026Transmission & drivetrain

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated that on multiple occasions, the vehicle experienced hard shifting while changing gears with no warning lights illuminated. The contact also stated that the vehicle experienced high engine revving and increased RPMs unexpectedly with no warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle stalled and failed to accelerate on several occasions with no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired . The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired . The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.

NHTSA ODI 11739297

Mar 25, 2026Transmission & drivetrainSeatsEngine

1) At D/S Stow and Go seat malfunctioned and was repaired by CarMax Service Center Jan 2023 - 2) Around 97,000 so - Engine started ticking on or about JUL/SEP 2023, enstate Lloyds Automotive in Spokane Valley replaced out engine due to manufacture defect in Oct 2023. 3) At 103,672mi - P/S stow and Go seat was repaired for same issues as D/S stow & Go Seat by Lloyds Automotive Oct 2023 when engine was replaced out. 4) Around 116,000mi the Transmission was flushed when I got the oil changed because I noticed jerking shifting at times, this was Aug 2024 there was no check engine or diag faults. 5) Around 132,720 Fell under CXLHX982 / CXLHX981 Actuator Sliding Door D/S & P both repaired and Transmissioned serviced again because my van started stalling out at stops and the jerking happened again no check engine or diag faults 6) Around 138,000 - D/S Sliding door hatch pin repair by Coos Bay Area Dodge. On 24Mar2026 - Around 142,000mi my transmission overheat warning came on and my van would not go any faster than 45 to 50mi, the RPMs went from 1.5 to 4 to 5 then 7 and back down, I immediately pulled over and sat for about 40min turned my van back on there was no overheat warning so I drove around 50mi per hour in the emergency lane to the next exit which was Hood River, Or and trailer towed my van from Hood River, Or to AAMCO, North Spokane Wa for transmission service. - I believe my vehicle 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T model - transmission was built with some underlying transmission serious safety defects and should have been recalled and a part of Part 573 Safety Recall Report 16V-461. My vehicle malfunctioning could have caused an accident if not for my quick thinking that day and keeping my vehicle maintained at a high standard. I do keep all my service records.

NHTSA ODI 11727028

Mar 3, 2026Transmission & drivetrain

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle stalled. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road and drove into the gas station parking lot. The mechanic was able to restart the vehicle, and an abnormal sound was coming from the engine. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic and DTC P084B (Pressure Switch Rationality - TCM Detects Abnormal Hydraulic Pressure in a Specific Circuit). The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then towed to another independent mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with a solenoid pack failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,950.

NHTSA ODI 11721812

Jan 16, 2026Transmission & drivetrainAirbagsSpeed control

See Attached Documents: 1.) NHTSA- Questions Answered 2.) Service 2016 Dodge Grand caravan Note: The Dodge Dealership is not compliying with the mandated repairs. The diagnostic summary provided by [XXX] on December 17, 2025, significantly mischaracterizes my complaints and omits the relevant factory campaigns. It has been over 30 days and it is apparent that they have no intention of complying with the mandated repairs or providing me any paperwork for my repair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11711381

Jan 14, 2026Transmission & drivetrain

Vehicle only has 93,000 miles and has been well maintained. I was was working and the transmission pump failed. It kicked out of gear going 55mph down a road. Could have caused me to have a major accident. Why are these not part of the 2015-2016 transmission recall?

NHTSA ODI 11710837

Dec 15, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

The transmission failed- according to the NTSB there was a recall for 2016 Dodge Caravans for auto transmission pump failures. I was told my vin # didn't match the recalled Vin numbers yet that's what failed on my vehicle costing about 4 thousand for repair work.

NHTSA ODI 11705163

Dec 7, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

Driving down Hwy 95 South without warning my transmission went out going at about 65 mph 5 hours from home.

NHTSA ODI 11703515

Oct 15, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

Vehicle lost propulsion power and was not able to move due to failed transmission pump. Same issue as a existing recall but my vehicle was not included in recall per vin search. NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID: 16V461000

NHTSA ODI 11693711

Sep 28, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

Transmission shuddering while accelerating and intermittent code for "low pressure" this vehicle checks as not being a part of recall despite the issue similar to the recall.

NHTSA ODI 11690144

Sep 22, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

The contact’s son owns a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made an abnormal sound, the transmission unintendedly shifted, and the vehicle failed to return to normal operation. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a different dealer, Turner Brothers Transmission (5612 Alma Hwy, Van Buren, AR 72956); where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 151,283.

NHTSA ODI 11689017

Aug 29, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

Transmission slipping in first gear. Codes from dealership. P0944 LOSS PRIME P0868 LOW PRESSURE

NHTSA ODI 11683914

Aug 5, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

While driving, transmission went out without warning. Prior, it was driving fine. While on the highway the vehicle lost power from the accelerator and the check engine light illuminated. When pressing the accelerator, RPMs would go all the way up and the car would not accelerate at all. It was checked out shortly after by a mechanic. They ran a scan for the check engine light, which reported several codes being thrown for failed transmission components.

NHTSA ODI 11678455

Jul 27, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

Transmission lost hydraulic pressure.How do I find out if a recall has been repaired on my vehicle because I know that's a recall from the past my transmission just lost the ability to shift out of nowhere just wondering how to find out if it was do to this recall thank you .

NHTSA ODI 11676491

Jul 25, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

I purchased a used 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan SE in April of 2025 with only 52,973 miles on it, and a one owner. On June 26, 2025, the van lost pull power, wouldn't accelerate, check engine light came on and I was stranded. Towed to dealer, had metal in the transmission fluid and a new transmission was ordered and installed under the extended warranty I had purchased when I bought the van. Within an hour or so after picking up my repaired van, after business hours and on the weekend, I broke down again. It was determined this time that two sensors on the new transmission were bad. Picked up my van and drove it for four days, and again after business hours and on the weekend, my van did the same thing, slipping transmission, wouldn't accelerate, only this time I was almost in a car wreck. I pulled onto a four lane interstate under construction (now one lane) from a dead stop and was almost ran over by a truck. Trying to get the van to a safe spot I had to pull over and let it sit, like to cool off maybe. This time there was no check engine light or codes the dealership reported. They apparently drove it some, said they couldn't find anything, couldn't do anything because there were not codes or check engine lights, that I could come and get it. I not only could have been in an accident, but could have been killed, and they want me to come and get it! After those remarks to them, they said they would keep it a couple days and drive it more. I have an extended warranty, but this warranty which also covers towing or rental is not covered because it now goes under the actual bought transmission warranty. I have been without my work vehicle for about a month now and know I can't trust this van any longer when I get it back. My only hope is with the extended warranty someday it will be repaired or van replaced. The Carfax report from where I bought it had "no recalls reported". Really!? Five so far.

NHTSA ODI 11676134

Jul 22, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

Driving in the left lane of an interstate highway at 75mph, in moderate traffic, in daylight hours, clear weather, with my young son. Sudden, unexpected decrease in engine rpm resulted in unannounced, approximate 40 mph reduction in speed. The instrument cluster illuminated stating “ service transmission continue in D. Do Not Shift or Turn Engine Off”. Such an unforeseen event, without brake light illumination, resulted in several following vehicles to take evasive actions, thus preventing a potential mass casualty accident. I was able steer towards the right shoulder at the greatly reduced speed of 35mph, collect myself, check on my upset son and try to make sense of what had happened. At this point panic began to set in. I called my Father & he was able to provide the next step being to deliver the vehicle to the local Dodge dealership. Those few miles were miserable since the dash was still presenting dismal warnings, there was reduced power and the vehicle acted like it was in a very low gear. The dealership was closed, so the vehicle was parked on lot however, once the engine was turned off the battery power remained on. Unable to lock, turn off or change any electrical device. We returned the following day and spoke to the service advisor who stated, “the vehicle had entered the Limp Mode” Addition research states it is a safety feature that activates when a critical issue is detected by a computer. Well, I guess the engineers never thought about such a radical transformation at highway speeds….without brake lights! Such a device should never allow an automobile to suddenly and without notice, startle the driver with annunciations while simultaneously downshifting and reducing engine rpm.

NHTSA ODI 11675495

Jul 11, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact became aware of an abnormal sound. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was in the process of being repaired. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact was informed that the vehicle manufacturer information was like the recall specifications. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.

NHTSA ODI 11672882

Jul 7, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V461000 (Power Train); and linked the failure to the recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. Two dealers were notified of the failure, and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ODI 11671637

Jun 26, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated while driving 10 MPH, the contact heard a grinding sound coming from the transmission. The contact pulled over to the right side of the road for 5-10 minutes, and then the vehicle was driven to an auto body shop. The vehicle was still drivable, and an independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V461000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 123,000.

NHTSA ODI 11669586

Jun 25, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

Driving along and suddenly van didn’t go into gear….towed and was confirmed there is a transmission issue….when checked for recalls about this issue, I was told my vehicle ID number doesn’t match the recall however no one can tell me why if there was a recall on this particular make and model and Year BUT my VIN is not included. I have been unsuccessful in ANY resolve or answers since March of this year ! Very disappointed and unsatisfied with the way I have not been able to get ANY help. I am [XXX] with very limited knowledge of the mechanical portion of this process. I would truly appreciate any further assistance you can offer. Thank you kindly, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11669198

Jun 10, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated that while diving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while the accelerator pedal was depressed. An unknown warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where unknown repairs were made at the consumer's expense; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where the driveshaft was replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, approximately 3 months later the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to another local independent mechanic for a second opinion where the transmission, control arms, and driveshaft were replaced twice; however, the failure persisted. In addition, the contact stated that while in reverse there was an abnormal sound coming from the transmission. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.

NHTSA ODI 11666023

Jun 4, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

Transmission no longer has reverse

NHTSA ODI 11664963

May 19, 2025Transmission & drivetrainEngine

The contact owns a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled, and the vehicle failed to shift into gear properly. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact became aware there was oil leaking from the front end of the vehicle near the engine compartment. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 225,419.

NHTSA ODI 11661897

Mar 11, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

The vehicle lost power in all gears while driving on highway, I was in the middle of large semi trucks speeding around me and nearly hit me. The vehicle transmission acted up at 115,000 miles. It has clean transmission fluid and it is full. I believe it should be covered under the transmission recall for this year range but it does not have any recalls.

NHTSA ODI 11647602

Mar 10, 2025Transmission & drivetrain

The transmission failed. The transmission pump failed and need to be replaced. This year model had a recall for failed transmission pumps. I was told my VIN was not part of the the recall -yet my transmission failed failed costing me over 3 thousand to repair

NHTSA ODI 11647412

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Working with the data? Download all 1,153 complaints as CSV · fetched from NHTSA July 20, 2026

How to use these: a complaint is one owner’s report, filed voluntarily and published unverified. Patterns matter more than any single story. If several owners describe the same failure at similar mileage, put that system at the top of your pre-purchase inspection list. Back to the full 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan verdict →