Hi!

I'm looking at buying a used 4th generation Dodge Grand Caravan (01-07) privately and was wondering if anyone could please give some suggestions on what I should specifically request when having a mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection? Should I just get this done at any reputable independent garage or will Dodge dealers do this too? Is a mechanical inspection sufficient (looking for any accident damage, integrity of suspension etc.) or would a leakdown test of the engine be recommended too?

The one I am currently looking at is a 2007 SXT.

Thanks so much!

 

Well, all that testing has to cost SOMEONE some money, especially when you start talking leakdown tests.

A competent mechanic should be able to assess current physical condition. Get a history report to look for accidents. If it runs good and passes emissions easily, I wouldn't worry there.

If there are maintenance records available then you can breath even easier.

You could spend $1000 investigating a vehicle front to back and it still has a chance of a random failure of an expensive part. I'd just get a basic once over done.

 

Check the maintenance records and have your mechanic put it on the lift and look at it from the underside. You can see everything that's happening from the bottom view: leaks, damage, repairs, and failing parts.

 

Thanks! When you say to check the maintenance records - where can I find a list of all the scheduled maintenance a 2007 Grand Caravan should have received for a given mileage?

 

The owner's manual or Repairpal.com will give you a good place to look. Look for regular oil and filter changes, transmission servicing, and tune ups. Look from the bottom side of the vehicle!