I purchased a 2012 Caravan R/T last week. Tonight was the first time I tried to back into our driveway, since we have a sloped driveway. Once the entire van was on the slope, it had a very difficult time backing up. It almost felt like wheel slip or not enough power in transmission to complete the mission; the van was jerking A LOT! Our driveway is not too steep and in great condition. I'm pretty sure any vehicle should be able to back up our driveway without the problem our van gives us.

 

I also have a 2012 R/T that exhibits the same symptoms you are describing.

I have taken it to the selling dealership, described the symptoms and have been told that it is "normal". I have also been told they are aware of the problem but choose not to diagnose the probable cause because no fix has been made available from Chrysler as yet. (I think this means the dealership doesn't want to spend its time and money on diagnosing the problem until Chrysler steps up to the plate and makes it a recall or warranty item.)

Other customers have indicated that they have experienced the same problem in the 2011 model year as well as 2012. I'm not certain how pervasive the problem is overall but you are not alone.

I recently contacted Chrysler Customer Care about the problem and got them to authorize a diagnosis of the problem at the selling dealership. I would advise that you do the same.

I will post anything I learn following the diagnosis.

 

Thanks for the feedback!! Looks like I'll be going through the same hassles then. I hate dealing with dealerships! Thanks again.

 

I went into the dealership today to have them check out the shuddering when I back up a hill. Instead of looking at the vehicle, they printed off a case report from Chrysler. The case report described exactly what has been happening to my vehicle. They told me that they have had a lot of complaints about the same issue from other customers. The guy said dodge put a weak transmission in the vehicle. It also happens with the 300m and another dodge vehicle lineup. Basicaly, Chrysler knows there is a problem, but they are not going to do anything about it.

 

I have 2012 Grand Caravan Crew. Feels like it is jumping up & down when backing uphill in my driveway. Dealer has flashed the computer, which made the transmission behave better all around, but still have the backup problem
Also, my 1-2 and 2-3 shifts are rough. Seems like new gear engages before old gear disingages. And, my 6-5 downshift frequently is rough when coming to a stop. Anyone else having this problem?

 

I also have identical problems with my 2011 dodge caravan mainstreet. I'm going into the dealer 2/7/13..... I have done extensive research on the internet and cannot find anybody that has had this problem fixed. Sounds like dealer's resolution (regardless of location) is to flash ECU and send you on your merry way without actually fixing the problem. I will update with my experience at the dealership next month in walnut crk, ca. (of course, I am going to print out all info obtained from internet and take it in with me.) I won't be very happy if I hear the word, "normal."

 

The dealer is not responsible for Dodge's design flaws. The dealer IS responsible to give you whatever fix the manufacturer comes up with while it is under warranty. Dealerships may not have a good reputation for their own reasons, but they get a bum rap for bad engineering far too often.

 

is the NEW recall going to fix this issue?

 

I own a 2009 Caravan with 4-speed tranny, bought it brand new.

It has shuddered while backing uphill since day one.

I was told by the Dealer this is "normal", and if Dodge comes up with a fix, we'll all be notified.

 

My husband and I purchased our 2012 dodge grand caravan SXT we have had issues from the beginning. intermittent electrical issues from door locks, cruise control and because they can not duplicate it while they have it they say they cannot do anything, I have taken videos still does not matter. Transmission shutters. When I call customer service they tell me to take it to dealership, I do they have no codes so they send me on my way. I have been dealing with chrysler customer service and the dealership, they pass the buck. WORST van I have ever owned. Passenger window motor had to be replaced. Driver slider wiring harness had to be replaced. Doors lock and unlock when ever they want, now my cruise control works when it wants but they find no issues. called chrysler today I have to go back to dealership again. called dealership had to leave message with no response as of yet. Very unhappy with the whole situation.