Help! Should I have 2.4L buyer's remorse? Comments/info wanted!
First post.
I have been looking at mini-vans for over a month, taking my time to do the research and think things over. But today, for whatever reason, I made a quick decision to buy a 2006 Caravan with the 2.4L engine. The van is very clean - inside, outside, underneath, and under the hood - but hasn't been detailed, just kept clean. It is a one-owner with a clean history, has 43K miles and drives and runs well. It seems to have sufficient power for my needs; it merges into traffic and cruises easily on thefreeway at 75+. I can hear the engine more than if it was a six, but it's not annoying.
However, I have been reading here and elsewhere lots of bad stuff about the 2.4L engine and transmission. I have a 90 day, 3K mile power train warranty, so there's no immediate issue, but what am I in for? And what can I do to minimize the trouble and maximize the life? I would like to drive this van at least another 150K miles.
Thanks in advance for your comments.
Added 3/16/08 - First mileage check shows 26 mpg.
I have been looking at mini-vans for over a month, taking my time to do the research and think things over. But today, for whatever reason, I made a quick decision to buy a 2006 Caravan with the 2.4L engine. The van is very clean - inside, outside, underneath, and under the hood - but hasn't been detailed, just kept clean. It is a one-owner with a clean history, has 43K miles and drives and runs well. It seems to have sufficient power for my needs; it merges into traffic and cruises easily on thefreeway at 75+. I can hear the engine more than if it was a six, but it's not annoying.
However, I have been reading here and elsewhere lots of bad stuff about the 2.4L engine and transmission. I have a 90 day, 3K mile power train warranty, so there's no immediate issue, but what am I in for? And what can I do to minimize the trouble and maximize the life? I would like to drive this van at least another 150K miles.
Thanks in advance for your comments.
Added 3/16/08 - First mileage check shows 26 mpg.
The 2.4 like any 4 cyl has its issues. But in my opinion..its a pretty good engine. The transmission stuff is pretty much a given and has been an issue for years with Dodge. Just do the routine maintenance..keep an eye on fluids..ect. And it should be as good as you can get.


