1987 Dodge Grand Caravan Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
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Quick Facts · 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the latches/locks/linkages:tailgate:latch.
- Scores 4 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1989 Dodge Grand Caravan earns a 62.
- The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (a-413) (critical severity).
The 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan at a glance
- Is the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan 58/100 (grade D), categorized as high risk. A vintage utility icon that requires deep pockets and mechanical expertise to keep reliably on the road today.
- Should I buy a used 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan. The 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan is a high-risk proposition for anyone seeking reliable daily transportation. While it offers nostalgic charm and unparalleled utility for its time, its age and inherent weaknesses, particularly the automatic transmission and rust, demand a significant investment of time and money. Only p…
- Which Dodge Grand Caravan years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: For the first generation, the slightly later 1989-1990 models are marginally better due to minor refinements, but all early models carry significant risk.. Years to avoid: All model years of the first-generation (1984-1990) should be approached with extreme caution, as they share fundamental design flaws and age-related degradation..
- What are the most common problems with the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan?
- The top failure points on the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan are Automatic Transmission (A-413) (typically around 70,000-110,000 miles), Body & Frame Rust (typically around Any mileage, geographically dependent miles), Electrical System (typically around 80,000-120,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — At this mileage, the vehicle should still be in excellent mechanical condition, primarily requiring routine fluid changes and basic inspections. Any significant issues indicate a poorly maintained or abused example.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan?
The 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan, while a pioneering and practical minivan, presents a high risk for ownership today due to widespread age-related failures and several inherent weaknesses in its drivetrain and body structure. Proceed with significant caution, as neglected examples will almost certainly lead to costly repairs and frequent breakdowns, diminishing any perceived initial value.
The 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan is a high-risk proposition for anyone seeking reliable daily transportation. While it offers nostalgic charm and unparalleled utility for its time, its age and inherent weaknesses, particularly the automatic transmission and rust, demand a significant investment of time and money. Only p…
Best Model Years
For the first generation, the slightly later 1989-1990 models are marginally better due to minor refinements, but all early models carry significant risk.
Years to Avoid
All model years of the first-generation (1984-1990) should be approached with extreme caution, as they share fundamental design flaws and age-related degradation.
Biggest Strengths
- Unmatched interior space and practicality for its era
- Sliding side doors for easy access
- Vast parts availability due to K-Car platform commonality
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 3-speed A-413 automatic transmission is notorious for slipping, harsh shifts, and eventual pump or clutch pack failure, often leading to complete loss of drive. This is largely due to design limitations and inadequate cooling, exacer…
These vans are highly susceptible to extensive rust in critical areas including rocker panels, wheel wells, door bottoms, floor pans, and subframe components. This compromises structural integrity, can lead to dangerous failures, and mak…
Deteriorating wiring, failing grounds, and problematic components like the ignition module, alternator, and various sensors lead to erratic behavior, starting issues, and non-functional accessories. Dash instrumentation and power window…
1987 Dodge Grand Caravan Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the vehicle should still be in excellent mechanical condition, primarily requiring routine fluid changes and basic inspections. Any significant issues indicate a poorly maintained or abused example.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage typically calls for more significant preventative maintenance, including timing belt (V6), transmission fluid flush (if brave), spark plugs, and a comprehensive inspection of suspension components.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond 90k, the risk of major component failure increases significantly. Look for signs of neglect, as major repairs to the transmission, engine, or suspension are likely due or overdue.
High Risk Zone
At this mileage, you are well into the territory where major component rebuilds (engine, transmission) are common. Expect pervasive leaks, electrical gremlins, and significant rust. Only consider if you have significant mechanical skills…
1987 Dodge Grand Caravan Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$800-1,500 (assuming proactive maintenance and occasional repair)
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 several times a year for various age-related failures
How Long Does the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan Last?
For a 1987 model, anything under 90,000 miles is exceptionally rare and should be viewed with a critical eye for signs of prolonged storage. Over 120,000 miles indicates a vehicle that has either been incredibly well-maintained or is on its last legs; anticipate major work.
What 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Incredible cargo and passenger versatility
- Easy ingress/egress with sliding doors
- Nostalgic value and unique road presence
- Surprisingly comfortable ride quality for its size
Common Frustrations
- Frequent breakdowns and unexpected repair costs
- Poor fuel economy, especially with the V6
- Noticeable body rattles and interior squeaks
- Substantial rust issues, particularly in colder climates
Who Should Buy the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan?
Best For
- Classic car enthusiasts seeking a project van
- Budget-conscious individuals needing temporary, basic cargo hauling (with a backup plan)
- Mechanically inclined hobbyists looking for a cheap utility vehicle
Not Ideal For
- Anyone needing reliable daily transportation
- Families planning long road trips
How the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan Compares to Rivals
While pioneering in its class, the Grand Caravan's long-term reliability is overshadowed by later, more refined, and better-built minivans, especially those from Japanese manufacturers. It's on par with its domestic rivals for common age-related failures.
More Reliable Than
- Volkswagen Vanagon (cost of parts, complexity)
- Some unreliable European sedans of the era
Comparable To
- Ford Aerostar (similar rust and V6 issues)
- Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari (different layout, similar age-related issues)
NHTSA Recalls
2 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TAILGATE:LATCH
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PASSENGER MINIVANS WITH REMOTE RELEASE. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL. THERE HAS BEEN NO DETERMINATION THAT A SAFETY DEFECT EXISTS WITH THE MINIVAN LATCHES. CHRYSLER IS CONDUCTING A SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO REPLACE THE LIFTGATE LATCH ASSEMBLY OF THE AFFECTED MINIVANS. IN A COLLISION, THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCH ASSEMBLY COULD OPEN.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:LOCK
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PASSENGER MINIVANS WITHOUT REMOTE RELEASE. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL. THERE HAS BEEN NO DETERMINATION THAT A SAFETY DEFECT EXISTS WITH THE MINIVAN LATCHES. CHRYSLER IS CONDUCTING A SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO REPLACE THE LIFTGATE LATCH ASSEMBLY OF THE AFFECTED MINIVANS. IN A COLLISION, THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCH ASSEMBLY COULD OPEN.
What breaks on the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Dodge Grand Caravan by Year
Compare AutoScores across nearby years of the Dodge Grand Caravan. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by AutoScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan
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Where the 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan report beats Carfax + CR
Carfax tells you if it crashed. Consumer Reports rates the whole nameplate. Autojunket tells you what will actually break on this specific year — and how to negotiate it.
Year-specific reliability score
Common problems + repair costs
Mileage danger zone map
AI negotiation script + walk-away price
Single report price
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sell your 1987 Dodge Grand Caravan for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your Dodge Grand Caravan. When it's time to sell, hand the buyer a signed PDF — every receipt, mileage-verified, close the deal at your price.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
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