Chrysler Repair: 2005 Dodge Caravan 4 cyl - sell or keep, 2005 dodge caravan, mile powertrain warranty

Question
Hi Russell,

I own a 2005 Dodge Caravan 4 cylinder, as basic as they get (no power accessories, no power seats, etc.). I have 65,000 miles on it, I changed the transmission oil and filter on it at around 35,000 miles to prevent problems (and would have it done again pretty soon too), did regular engine oil changes (every 4k miles), so I'm taking reasonably good care of it. The vehicle came with a 7 year/70,000 mile powertrain warranty, which will expire in 5,000 miles.

Here's my question: based on your experience, would you recommend holding on to the vehicle past the expiration of the warranty or should I rather sell it and buy me a new car? I'm asking strictly from the point of view of your understanding of the reliability of this powertrain combination (2.4 cyl/4 speed auto) in a rather heavy vehicle such as the Caravan....

Thank you in advance for your help and advice!

Ian

Answer
With regular maintenance these vehicle tend to hold up pretty well as long as they are not used beyond their capabilities, such as towing and hauling heavy loads. Fuel mileage is much better on these models than those with a 6 cylinder, so that would be a factor you may wish to concider at this time. If it were my van I would keep it.