2007 Caravan

I am looking for feedback on these vans as my parents are considering buying one;what are the problem areas,What are some of the things that should be looked at before buying?What about the Consumer Reports ratings,how accurate are they?Thanks

If it were my money, I'd not be looking at anything older than 2008 since there really is a a major difference in the quality of the latest generation vans. I find that 2007 and 2008 vans are close in price and close enough that it doesn't make sense to NOT buy the current generation.

Just be aware that the current 5th generation Chrysler Corp minivans (08-11) have their problems just as previous generations. Currently, brakes and electrical circuit problems are primary concerns. Stalling problems caused by ill designed ignition modules and fires, stalling, and erratic instruments caused by shorting sliding door wire harnesses have made the headlines. TSBs and recalls have been issued. Transmission issues are starting to creep on the radar screen as well. That's not to say your van will have these problems. The majority don't. That is to say make sure all applicable recalls have been taken care of.

The 07 Caravan has had few recalls and those were comparatively minor. Still it's had it's problems. Sliding door wire harnesses for one though there's no recall. Various other electrical system problems for another. In my book they would get a 7-8 out of 10 reliability rating.

What's all this based on? I'm an admitted automotive forums junkie. I've been cruising through various forums and reading articles for many years, nearly daily. I've had zero hands on experience on 5th generation vans.

I'm a 2007 Grand Caravan owner. We've had it over 4 years and 60,000 miles with no real problems, except having to replace the brake pads and rotors on all four wheels at 40,000 and a set of tires after 60,000. The rotors seem to wear away so quickly so you need to replace them as often as the pads. Its the SXT model with the seats that fold away into the floor which is very handy for us since we've used it for passengers, cargo, moving big furniture, transporting our two large dogs and much more. Full 4X8 plywood sheets even fit into it with the back closed. I think I would give it an 8.5 out of 10 since a couple of the plastic mouldings on the seats have cracked. I also posted the power steering whine thread, which I'm advised is a common problem that might be fixed by changing the fluid. I've had none of the problems posted in the earlier replies.