How many miles per gallon does a 2017 caravan get?

The official EPA ratings for the 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan with the 3.6-liter V6 and automatic transmission are 17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined.

This article examines what those numbers mean, how they apply to the 2017 Grand Caravan’s front-wheel-drive configuration, and what owners typically observe in real-world driving.

EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2017 Grand Caravan

These are the standard estimates published by the EPA for the vehicle’s 2WD configuration.

• City: 17 mpg


• Highway: 25 mpg


• Combined: 20 mpg

Note: EPA numbers are guidelines based on standardized testing and may not reflect individual driving conditions or loads.

What affects mpg on a 2017 Grand Caravan

Several everyday factors can push the MPG up or down relative to the EPA estimates for this minivan.

• Weight and cargo load


• Tire size and inflation pressure


• Driving style (rapid acceleration and hard braking reduce mpg)


• Terrain and elevation (hills and mountainous regions lower efficiency)


• Use of air conditioning and climate control


• Regular maintenance (engine tune-ups, air filters, and oil changes)

In practice, real-world mileage for the 2017 Grand Caravan often falls within a broad range around the EPA figure, influenced by how and where you drive.

Tips to maximize mpg

Implementing fuel-saving strategies can help you approach or exceed the EPA combined rating under typical driving conditions.

• Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure


• Remove unnecessary cargo to reduce weight


• Drive smoothly with gradual acceleration and steady speeds


• Use cruise control on highways when appropriate


• Limit air conditioning use on cool days and plan routes to minimize stop-and-go traffic


• Maintain regular service intervals (air filter, spark plugs, oil changes)

With mindful driving and proper maintenance, owners can often see improved fuel economy relative to the baseline estimates.

Summary

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan with a 3.6L V6 and front-wheel drive is EPA-rated at 17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined. Real-world mileage varies based on load, driving habits, terrain, and upkeep; many drivers report mileage in the mid-teens to low-20s. Adopting efficient driving practices and keeping up with maintenance can help you maximize fuel efficiency.

How many miles per gallon does a 2017 Dodge Caravan get?

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway, for a combined 20 MPG. This applies to all trim levels of the 2017 model.
 

• City MPG: 17 MPG
• Highway MPG: 25 MPG
• Combined MPG: 20 MPG

Is 2017 a good year for a grand caravan?

The 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan is considered a good value for a family vehicle, praised for its comfortable and spacious interior, and strong standard engine. However, it has drawbacks including outdated technology and design, lower fuel efficiency compared to some competitors, and potential reliability issues like frequent maintenance and repairs.
 
Pros

• Comfort and Space: Praised for a comfortable and spacious interior with plenty of legroom and storage, including the Stow 'n Go seating. It is comfortable for long trips, with a 25 mpg highway rating. 
• Performance: The standard V6 engine provides good acceleration. 
• Value: It can be a good value, especially with a lower initial price than some competitors. 
• Features: Modern features like power sliding doors, a power liftgate, and a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen were introduced for the 2017 model year. 

Cons

• Technology: The technology is outdated compared to modern standards, with a low-quality backup camera and a lack of features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 
• Reliability: Some reviews mention potential issues with the electrical system, brakes, and transmission, with higher maintenance and repair costs compared to some competitors. 
• Fuel Efficiency: Fuel economy is not exceptional. 
• Ride Quality: The ride is not as refined as some competitors, with some road impacts being transmitted to the passengers. 
• Resale Value: It may not hold its resale value as well as some competitors like the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna. 

Who it is a good car for

• Families on a budget who prioritize interior space and comfort over the latest technology and resale value. 

Who it may not be a good car for

• Buyers looking for the most up-to-date tech features, the best fuel economy, or a vehicle with the highest reliability ratings and resale value. 
• Those who prioritize a refined and quiet ride and responsive handling. 

What year to stay away from a Dodge Caravan?

Years to avoid for the Dodge Caravan include 2005, 2008, 2011, and 2018, due to issues like brake problems, electrical faults, and transmission troubles. Other potentially problematic years include the first year of a new engine (such as the 3.6L in 2011) and models with the 4.0L engine due to a variety of potential issues.
 
This video discusses common problems with the Dodge Grand Caravan from 2014 to 2020: 47sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Feb 6, 2023
Years with significant issues 

• 2005: Known for brake issues and interior accessory problems. 
• 2008: Common complaints include brake problems, a slipping transmission, and A/C issues. 
• 2011: Electrical issues are frequently reported, and this was the first year for the 3.6L engine, which may have issues in its first year. 
• 2018: Recalls include an issue with rear brake lines and a faulty fuel tank gasket that can cause a fire risk. 

This video explains the top 5 problems with the 5th generation Dodge Grand Caravan: 46s1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Mar 28, 2020
Other considerations

• Engine and transmission: Avoid the 4.0L engine. The 62TE transmission is also known to have major issues in some models. 
• First-year models: It's best to avoid the first model year for any new engine, such as the 3.6L introduced in 2011, as they often have issues that are fixed in later years. 
• Power sliding doors: Vehicles with power sliding doors have a potential for expensive door issues, regardless of the model year. 

What is the life expectancy of a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan?

The life expectancy for a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan can vary, but with proper maintenance, it has the potential to last well over 200,000 miles, with some owners reporting success beyond 300,000 miles. However, reliability issues with the transmission and other components are common, and a history of regular maintenance is crucial for achieving a long lifespan. 

• Potential lifespan: While one study estimates the potential lifespan around 209,350 miles, this is based on averages and many owners report their vehicles lasting much longer. 
• Reliability concerns: Some owners have reported major issues, such as the transmission failing around 80,000 miles or the engine developing problems, according to Cars.com. 
• Importance of maintenance: To maximize the life of a 2017 Grand Caravan, consistent and proper maintenance is key. This includes regularly changing the transmission fluid and being mindful of the transmission's limitations, especially under heavy use, as noted in this YouTube video. 
• Common problems: Be aware of common issues such as power window motor failure, coolant leaks from the rear heat/AC, and potential oil leaks from the oil filter adapter, says RepairPal.