1996 Dodge Caravan Smart Maintenance

ROBERTERASMUS

MEMBER
1996 DODGE CARAVAN

1996 Dodge Caravan 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic

My car had a new motor at 111,000 miles and a new transmission some time soon after. It has 205, 000 on it now and I have done nothing except maintain oil changes, tire pressure, etc.

I need to know if I need to put a new timing chain (belt?) In? Would a complete "tuneup" (whatever that really means) help to maintain it any better. It runs fine and we keep it near the house (within a half hour's drive). The belts squeal a little so I'm contemplating a complete belt change (again, whatever that means.I'm not sure).

Someone said a radiator flush would do it good. Another said fluid change in general was in order.

Please tell me what would be good. I need this car to remain a working car.

Thank you

Bob

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,133 POSTS

First, I need to recommend following the manufacturer's recommendations. However, I can do my best to recommend. As far as the tune up, it will do nothing for the timing belt (if it is a 3.0L). You mentioned you hear a belt squeal. It is either the PS belt that is loose, or the serp belt. THe serp belt runs all of the accessories other than the PS. If the serp belt is squealing, it sounds like you may have a weak automatic belt tensionier. Also, keep the oil changed every 3K miles, and if you haven't had the cooling system or transmission serviced for a long time, that would be a good thing to consider too.

Let me know if you have other questions.
Joe