How much does a 1990 Dodge Caravan weigh?

The 1990 Dodge Caravan, a pioneer of the modern minivan, came in multiple trims and with different powertrains. Weight varies by configuration, so values aren’t identical from one vehicle to another.

In general, the curb weight of a 1990 Dodge Caravan falls roughly in the 3,000 to 3,800-pound range, depending on engine, drivetrain, and options.

What affects the weight

Weight differences in the 1990 Caravan mainly come from the chosen engine, trim level, optional equipment, and whether the vehicle carried extra features such as air conditioning, power accessories, or larger wheels. The figures discussed here refer to curb weight—empty of cargo and passengers and with standard fluids—rather than the vehicle’s gross weight capacity.

Below are typical weight ranges for common configurations of the 1990 Caravan:

• Base configuration (lightweight trim, smaller engine): about 3,000–3,300 pounds


• Mid-range with more equipment: about 3,300–3,600 pounds


• Fully equipped top trim with additional options: about 3,600–3,900 pounds

These figures illustrate the general spread you could see depending on how the minivan was equipped. Fuel level, cargo, and the presence of accessories can push the weight slightly higher in real-world use.

GVWR and payload

Understanding weight terminology helps put the numbers in context. The curb weight is what the vehicle weighs on its own; the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the maximum safe weight of the vehicle when loaded with passengers, cargo, and fluids. For many 1990 Caravans, the GVWR was commonly in the 4,700–5,000-pound range, depending on options and trim, which means payload capacities typically hovered around 1,000–1,300 pounds.

While GVWR gives a ceiling for loaded weight, the actual payload depends on the chosen configuration and options. If you’re buying or restoring a 1990 Caravan, the placard on the door jamb or the owner's manual will provide the precise GVWR and recommended payload for that specific vehicle.

Where to verify the exact weight for a specific unit

To determine the exact curb weight and GVWR for a particular 1990 Caravan, check the vehicle’s door pillar placard, which lists the curb weight and GVWR, or consult the VIN and historical specification sheets from Chrysler or archives of automotive databases. This helps account for any deviations caused by factory options, regional variations, or later recalls and service updates.

Summary

In sum, a 1990 Dodge Caravan typically weighed between roughly 3,000 and 3,900 pounds when empty, with variations driven by engine choice, trim level, and equipment. The GVWR generally placed the loaded vehicle in the neighborhood of 4,700–5,000 pounds, outlining a payload of about 1,000–1,300 pounds. For precise figures, refer to the specific vehicle’s placard or official specification sheets.

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. 

How many pounds does a Dodge Caravan weigh?

The weight of a Dodge Caravan varies by model year, with recent models typically around 4,510 lbs (2,050 kg) for curb weight, while older models were lighter. For example, the 2006 model was around 4,146 lbs, and the first-generation 1985 model was about 2,910 lbs. 
By model year

• 2020: 4,510 lbs (2,050 kg)
• 2018: 4,510 lbs
• 2017: 4,510 lbs
• 2015: 4,510 lbs
• 2011: 4,510 lbs
• 2006: 4,146 lbs
• 1985: 2,910 lbs (1,320 kg) 

Other weight-related information

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The maximum weight the vehicle can carry, including its own weight, passengers, and cargo, is around 6,050 lbs for recent models.
• Towing Capacity: Recent models can tow up to 3,600 lbs when properly equipped. 

Will a 4x8 sheet of plywood fit in a Dodge Grand Caravan?

Yes, you can fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood in a Dodge Grand Caravan, especially if you have the seats folded down or removed, though a single sheet can be a tight fit with the seats in. A longer version of the van will fit a sheet with the tailgate closed, while a standard-length model may require the tailgate to be open or partially open. 
This video demonstrates how to fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood in a Dodge Grand Caravan: 1mhoohoohoblinYouTube · Sep 22, 2019
Tips for fitting a 4x8 sheet

• Remove or fold the seats: The most crucial step is to fold down or remove the second and third rows of seats to maximize the flat cargo space. 
• Adjust the front seats: You may need to move the front seats forward to create more room at the front of the van. 
• Mind the length: A standard 4x8 sheet is exactly 8 feet long, which will be a tight fit. The exact fit can depend on the model year and any interior trim or seat mounts that may protrude. 
• For long trips: Consider securing the sheet to prevent it from shifting or to protect the vehicle's interior from damage. 
• Be aware of other vehicles: Some people have found that a Grand Caravan's interior space is longer and wider than some pickup truck beds, making it a more practical option for transporting 4x8 sheets. 

What to consider

• Model year: Some model years may have slightly different interior dimensions. 
• Seat configuration: Check your van's specific seat configuration before you start loading to ensure you have enough space.
• Weight limit: Be mindful of the van's payload capacity to avoid overloading it. 

If you are not planning to remove or fold the seats, a 4x8 sheet of plywood may not fit at all. If you are transporting multiple sheets, you will likely need to fold or remove the seats and potentially open or partially open the tailgate. 
This video shows how to fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood in a minivan: 15sMatt’s VanYouTube · Oct 17, 2018

What is the curb weight of a 1990 Dodge Caravan?

The base model's curb weight was 2,910 lb (1,320 kg).