How much coolant does a Dodge Caravan hold?
The cooling system of a Dodge Caravan typically holds about 9.5 to 13.5 liters (roughly 10 to 14 quarts) of coolant when it is drained and refilled. The exact amount depends on the year, engine size, and whether you count heater-core and bypass pathways in the drained volume.
Why capacity varies by year and engine
Across generations, Caravans used different engine options—from smaller inline-four to larger V6 configurations. Each setup has a distinct cooling-path footprint and radiator capacity, which changes the total system capacity. When estimating how much coolant to buy or how much to drain, consider that the official figure represents the entire cooling loop: radiator, engine block, cylinder heads, and heater core.
General capacity ranges by engine family
Below are approximate total-system capacities that guide maintenance tasks like flushes. They reflect typical vehicles and exclude minor variations from model year or trim.
- 2.4L inline-4 engines: roughly 9.5–11.0 quarts (about 9–11 liters)
- 3.3L V6 engines: roughly 12–14 quarts (about 11–13 liters)
- 3.8L V6 engines: roughly 13–15 quarts (about 12–14 liters)
These figures are approximate and can vary with specific configurations and cooling-system changes over production years. For the exact capacity of your particular Caravan, consult the owner’s manual, a factory service data sheet, or the dealership using your VIN.
Practical steps to confirm and refill accurately
To ensure you meet the correct capacity during a drain-and-fill, consult official documentation and follow the bleeding procedure to remove air pockets. Use the recommended coolant type and mix, and fill to the proper expansion-reservoir level when the engine reaches operating temperature.
Bleeding the cooling system
Bleeding procedures vary by year and engine. Start with the heater-core bleed valve or radiator bleed points as outlined in your manual, run the engine with the cap off until the thermostat opens, and watch for air bubbles while topping off coolant as needed.
Coolant type and mixture
Use the coolant type specified in your owner's manual. In most cases, a 50/50 mix with distilled water is appropriate, unless the manual calls for a premixed product. Never exceed the recommended level in the overflow reservoir.
Note: Always verify capacity using your vehicle’s VIN-specific data or official documentation for precise figures and bleed procedures.
Summary
In summary, a Dodge Caravan generally holds about 10–14 quarts (roughly 9.5–13.5 liters) of coolant in its full cooling system. Exact capacity depends on engine size and year, so consult the owner's manual or dealer data for your specific VIN to ensure accuracy in maintenance tasks like flushing and refilling.
