2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Safety Report
2017 Dodge Grand Caravan: Good Crash Ratings, but Frequent Electrical and Sliding Door Failures Raise Safety Concerns
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan
Reliability Score
The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sliding Door Lock Actuator Failure Both driver and passenger side sliding door lock actuators frequently fail, causing doors to become stuck shut and preventing exit, posing a significant safety hazard in emergencies. Many complaints reference this issue, with some noting it's a known problem from prior model years. |
High | Common | 55000-104000 miles |
| Engine Oil Filter Housing Crack/Failure Reports of engine oil filter housing cracking, leading to oil leaks and potential engine damage or failure. One complaint specifically requests an investigation into this defect. |
Medium | Occasional | Unknown miles |
| Transmission Failure/Issues Multiple complaints detail transmission failure, including loss of motive power while driving, stalling, and needing full replacement. One owner reported failure at 92k miles. |
High | Occasional | 92000-104000 miles |
| Engine 'Pentastar Tick' / Cylinder Failure Engine noise ('Pentastar tick') and cylinder failure (e.g., cylinder #2) leading to stalling, reving, and potential engine failure, which owners describe as a serious safety issue. |
High | Occasional | Unknown miles |
| Flex Plate Loosening/Rattling The flex plate can become loose and rattle loudly, with potential for it to break loose and cause starter issues. Described as a well-known issue by dealerships. |
Medium | Occasional | Unknown miles |
| Unexpected Headrest Deployment Front passenger or driver's side headrest unexpectedly deploys without impact, causing loud noise and potential injury or disorientation. Two distinct complaints describe this. |
High | Rare | Unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan:
The most frequent complaint category, often linked to issues with door lock actuators, wiring, and other electrical malfunctions.
High number of complaints related to the vehicle's structure, specifically the sliding doors and their locking mechanisms becoming inoperable.
Significant complaints regarding engine stalling, 'Pentastar tick', oil filter housing failures, and general engine reliability issues.
Issues related to the transmission, including loss of motive power and complete transmission failure.
Directly related to the widespread problems with sliding door lock actuators and latches seizing up.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan
Is the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan received a 4-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars for side impact, indicating good crash protection. However, it has a high volume of 396 owner complaints, including 7 injuries, primarily concerning electrical system failures, inoperable sliding doors, and engine issues, which raise significant safety and reliability concerns outside of crash performance.
What are common problems with the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (74 complaints), STRUCTURE (57 complaints, often tied to sliding doors), and ENGINE (31 complaints). Specifically, frequent problems include sliding door lock actuator failures rendering doors inoperable, engine stalling or 'Pentastar tick', and transmission issues.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan?
Yes, the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan has 3 recalls. These include recalls for unsecured wheelchair restraints in modified vehicles, a potential fuel pump gasket deterioration leading to fuel leaks and fire risk in Vantage-modified vehicles, and a broader recall for electrical system wiring that could cause a vehicle stall.
How does the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan perform in crash tests?
The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 4-star overall safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Are the sliding door issues a safety concern?
Yes, the sliding door issues, specifically the failure of lock actuators causing doors to become stuck shut, are a significant safety concern. Multiple complaints highlight the inability to open doors manually or remotely, which could trap occupants, especially children, in an emergency. This issue is frequently reported under ELECTRICAL SYSTEM and STRUCTURE complaints.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high number of complaints, particularly regarding critical components like sliding doors and the engine, potential buyers should prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection and be prepared for possible repairs related to electrical systems and powertrain.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan. The data includes 396 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 5 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.