After having a pretty severe oil leak for the past few weeks, we finally found out that our 2014 Dodge Caravan has a cracked oil filter housing cover. The original mechanics at the dealership couldn't find the leak at first until a more skilled mechanic looked at it more closely and discovered the problem.

I was told this is a very unlikely thing to happen, yet the part needed to repair it is on backorder.

Does anyone else have this issue with their fairly new van? This isn't something I expected to happen to a vehicle that's only a year old.

It is not safe to drive this way as it could permanently damage the motor. The dealership is expecting to keep our van for at least a week, which is fine as our loaner vehicle is covered by our service warranty, but I wanted to make sure this isn't a bigger issue that needs to be addressed with Dodge and might prompt a recall.

Thanks!

 

Hmm. Could this be what you're talking about: https://dodgeforum.com/forum/off-top...pentastar.html

 

Had a similar problem yesterday. Took my 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan in to the Dodge dealer for a routine oil change. Later in the day, the oil light and check engine light came on while my wife was driving, and when we checked, the dipstick was dry and there was oil everywhere, mostly on the driver side. The oil plug was still fastened securely, so that wasn't the issue. I suspect the oil filter housing cracked when they replaced the filter, but they are still working on it. At least the dealer admitted it was likely their mistake and towed the vehicle for free and provided a free loaner. But if it is this part and it breaks when the dealer does the oil change; that's a sure sign of a design flaw IMO. Will post how it progresses.

 

Update: yes, it was my oil cooler/filter housing that had cracked. Dealer replaced under the power train warranty. I think they would have replaced themselves for free even if not under warranty, given that they did the oil change that cracked it. No engine damage detected for running low on oil.