PROBLEM GUIDE
Here's what owners are experiencing, based on our research of real owner reports and repair data.
Last updated June 2026
583
complaints filed for the 2012 model year
2008–2016
Model years affected
$4,000 – $5,000
Typical repair cost, by problem
Click a problem for the full write-up — symptoms, what we found, and typical repair costs where we have them.
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Start my diagnosis →Vehicle loses steering and brakes while driving
Check engine light: On
A TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) fuel pump relay failure — the dominant defect in the sample — causes vehicles to unexpectedly lose all power, including power steering and brakes, while driving; ignition switch failures are also reported.
"Notably excluded" the 2012 Grand Caravan despite the same defect
Check engine light: Off
Complainants repeatedly state that "similar issues were recalled on other Dodge/Chrysler models (Durango, [Jeep Grand] Cherokee, Charger) but notably excluded the 2012 Grand Caravan" — confirmed via a targeted recall search: no TIPM/fuel-pump-relay recall exists for this nameplate/model year, despite the same corporate family's other nameplates having addressed similar electrical-shutdown defects.
Debris inside the engine block on 3.6L engines
Check engine light: On
Unexpected engine shutdown at various speeds, overheating, oil pump defects, and connecting rod bearing failure from debris inside the engine block on 3.6L engines are documented — recall 11V487000.
Multiple complete transmission failures documented
Check engine light: On
Transmission shifting problems and loss of motive power are documented, with multiple reports describing complete transmission failure/replacement.
Wheel separation risk — recall 12V141000
Check engine light: Off
Right rear hub/bearing assemblies not fully machined create a wheel separation risk — recall 12V141000.
Increased closing force — recall 12V191000
Check engine light: Off
A right-side liftgate pinch sensor malfunction causes increased closing force — recall 12V191000. Separately, a driver's frontal airbag may unexpectedly deploy if wiring harness chafes within the steering wheel — recall 17V376000.
Power window motor and switches may fail
Check engine light: Off
Power window motor and switches may fail. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 483 owner reports on file.
Underbody coolant leaks from the rear heat/AC are common
Check engine light: Off
Underbody coolant leaks from the rear heat/AC are common. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 254 owner reports on file.
The key may not start the car or release from the ignition
Check engine light: On
The key may not start the car or release from the ignition. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 245 owner reports on file.
Oil may leak from the oil filter adapter
Check engine light: Off
Oil may leak from the oil filter adapter. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 144 owner reports on file.
Worn sway bar bushings or end links may cause noise in the front suspension
Check engine light: Off
Worn sway bar bushings or end links may cause noise in the front suspension. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 103 owner reports on file.
Auxiliary heater hose connections may develop coolant leaks
Check engine light: Off
Auxiliary heater hose connections may develop coolant leaks. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 90 owner reports on file.
A cleaner/disinfectant is issued to address a musty odor in the AC system
Check engine light: Off
A cleaner/disinfectant is issued to address a musty odor in the AC system. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 83 owner reports on file.
The sliding door may fall off track
Check engine light: Off
The sliding door may fall off track. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 74 owner reports on file.
A CD becomes stuck in the changer
Check engine light: Off
A CD becomes stuck in the changer. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 62 owner reports on file.
A yellow ABS light that stays on means the anti-lock feature is disabled
Check engine light: On
A yellow ABS light that stays on means the anti-lock feature is disabled. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 57 owner reports on file.
A malfunctioning switch in the steering column may cause problems with the front wipers
Check engine light: Off
A malfunctioning switch in the steering column may cause problems with the front wipers. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 51 owner reports on file.
The door ajar light may turn on and a chime will sound while driving
Check engine light: Off
The door ajar light may turn on and a chime will sound while driving. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 50 owner reports on file.
The airbag light may stay on due to water intrusion
Check engine light: On
The airbag light may stay on due to water intrusion. This is among the more frequently reported issues on this generation, with 47 owner reports on file.
No recall exists for the TIPM fuel-pump-relay defect on this nameplate, despite similar defects being recalled on other Dodge/Chrysler models. Enter your VIN to get the confirmed, current recall picture for your specific car.
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a diagnosis. It is compiled from aggregated owner-reported data and publicly available sources, not from an inspection of your vehicle. Symptoms described here can have multiple causes, and the presence of a commonly reported problem does not mean your vehicle has it. Repair cost ranges are estimates that vary by region, shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Recall and service campaign information may be incomplete or out of date — verify current recall status with NHTSA or your manufacturer. MyGearGuru is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer; manufacturer and model names are used for identification only. Always consult a qualified technician before making repair decisions.
A TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) fuel pump relay failure — the dominant defect in the sample — causes vehicles to unexpectedly lose all power, including power steering and brakes, while driving. Complainants repeatedly note that similar issues were recalled on other Dodge/Chrysler models but the Grand Caravan was notably excluded.