1987 Dodge Caravan Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 1987 Dodge Caravan
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the suspension.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 1986 Dodge Caravan earns a 68.
- The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (critical severity).
Should You Buy the 1987 Dodge Caravan?
The 1987 Dodge Caravan was a groundbreaking vehicle, but its longevity is severely hampered by common powertrain failures and pervasive rust. While it offers unparalleled utility for its age, prospective owners must be prepared for significant transmission risks and structural integrity issues to avoid being stranded.
While historically significant and incredibly practical, the 1987 Dodge Caravan demands significant vigilance and a budget for potential major repairs. Its legendary automatic transmission issues and severe rust propensity mean it's only a viable purchase for enthusiasts or those with strong DIY mechanical skills wi…
Best Model Years
Avoid first-year models if possible, generally mid-90s second-generation Caravans had improved, though still flawed, transmissions.
Years to Avoid
1984-1990 models with the 3-speed automatic due to very high transmission failure rates.
Biggest Strengths
- Unmatched cargo and passenger capacity for its size and era
- Simple, easy-to-work-on mechanicals (if you know Mopar K-cars)
- Iconic design with significant nostalgic value
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Dodge Caravan, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 3-speed A413/A670 automatics are notorious for slipping, harsh shifts, and complete failure. Internal clutch pack wear, valve body issues, and fluid degradation are primary culprits. Often fails without much warning.
Severe rust is common in rocker panels, wheel wells, floor pans, and even subframe mounting points, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. This compromises structural integrity and safety.
Radiators are prone to clogging and leaking, water pumps fail, and hoses degrade. Overheating can lead to head gasket issues, especially on the I4 engines, accelerating engine wear.
1987 Dodge Caravan Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Dodge Caravan most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Early Life - Low Risk
At this mileage, the Caravan is still relatively fresh. Focus on basic fluid changes and general inspections to ensure no hidden manufacturing defects or early wear.
Maintenance Zone
This is where age-related items and the first signs of wear become apparent. Pay close attention to the automatic transmission's behavior and cooling system integrity.
Elevated Risk Zone
The risk of major component failure, particularly the automatic transmission, significantly increases. Rust can also begin to become a serious concern. Budget for significant repairs.
High Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Caravan is operating on borrowed time. Expect multiple systems to require attention. It's a testament to good maintenance if it reaches this point relatively problem-free.
1987 Dodge Caravan Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Dodge Caravan on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600 (basic maintenance and minor repairs)
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., suspension overhaul, cooling system, major electrical fix)
How Long Does the 1987 Dodge Caravan Last?
Focus less on total mileage and more on documented maintenance history, particularly for the transmission and cooling system. Lower mileage doesn't guarantee a rust-free or transmission-sound example, as age affects these vehicles significantly.
What 1987 Dodge Caravan Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Massive interior space for families and cargo, highly versatile.
- Easy to park and maneuver for its size.
- Simple, honest design without overly complex electronics.
- Affordable to acquire, making it an accessible utility vehicle.
Common Frustrations
- Automatic transmission failure is a constant, expensive anxiety.
- Rust is a pervasive issue, leading to structural and aesthetic problems.
- Poor fuel economy for an I4 engine, especially compared to modern vehicles.
- Aging components make finding replacement parts increasingly difficult.
Who Should Buy the 1987 Dodge Caravan?
Best For
- DIY mechanics looking for a project or cheap utility vehicle.
- Collectors interested in automotive history.
- Small businesses needing cheap, high-capacity cargo hauling.
Not Ideal For
- Anyone seeking a reliable daily driver.
- Individuals without a repair budget or mechanical aptitude.
How the 1987 Dodge Caravan Compares to Rivals
The 1987 Caravan defined the minivan segment, but its domestic reliability was standard for its time. Later Japanese minivans generally surpassed it in long-term mechanical dependability, particularly transmission durability.
More Reliable Than
- No direct competitors from its era offered better overall reliability without significant tradeoffs.
Comparable To
- Plymouth Voyager (same platform)
- Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari (different platform, RWD)
NHTSA Recalls
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
SUSPENSION
FEDERAL MOGUL IS RECALLING 6,903 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES SHIPPED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 9, 2007 AND MARCH 26, 2008, WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS. THE PART NUMBERS PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS ARE: K7147, K7329, K8683, AND 104353. THESE PARTS WERE MADE FOR USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE.
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:LOCK
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PASSENGER MINIVANS WITHOUT REMOTE RELEASE. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL. THERE HAS BEEN NO DETERMINATION THAT A SAFETY DEFECT EXISTS WITH THE MINIVAN LATCHES. CHRYSLER IS CONDUCTING A SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO REPLACE THE LIFTGATE LATCH ASSEMBLY OF THE AFFECTED MINIVANS. IN A COLLISION, THE REAR LIFTGATE LATCH ASSEMBLY COULD OPEN.
What breaks on the 1987 Dodge Caravan?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Dodge Caravan by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Dodge Caravan. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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