PLATE, TORQUE CONVERTER DRIVE For 3.6L with 62TE NOTE: FOR ALL PROMASTER VF 3.6L/62TE EQUIPPED VEHICLES: IF THE TRANSMISSION BRACKET TO THE TRANSMISSION CASE FASTENERS ARE REMOVED DURING SERVICING, THE FASTENERS Part Number 06511385A$ ARE ONE TIME USEAGE & MUST BE REPLACED & PROPERLY TORQUED TO 105NM Replace the eight bolts 8 06503465 drive plate to crank shaft and the four TC bolts 06504383 as they have sealants Vehicle miles < 30K: Mandatory replacement of transmission and driveplate Vehicle miles > 30K: Replace driveplate only shot peened
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2012 Dodge Grand Caravan powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan have filed 45 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 80,000 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
45
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2009 Grand Caravan | 18 |
| 2010 Grand Caravan | 46 |
| 2011 Grand Caravan | 42 |
| 2012 Grand Caravan (this page) | 45 |
| 2013 Grand Caravan | 35 |
| 2014 Grand Caravan | 18 |
| 2015 Grand Caravan | 75 |
| 2016 Grand Caravan | 214 |
What stands out
Owners have filed 45 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 6 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
PLATE, TORQUE CONVERTER DRIVE For 3.6L with 62TE NOTE: FOR ALL PROMASTER (VF) 3.6L/62TE EQUIPPED VEHICLES: IF THE TRANSMISSION BRACKET TO THE TRANSMISSION CASE FASTENERS ARE REMOVED DURING SERVICING, THE FASTENERS (Part Number 06511385A$) ARE ONE TIME USEAGE & MUST BE REPLACED & PROPERLY TORQUED TO 105NM Replace the eight bolts (8) 06503465 drive plate to crank shaft and the four TC bolts 06504383 as they have sealants Vehicle miles < 30K: Mandatory replacement of transmission and driveplate Vehicle miles > 30K: Replace driveplate only (shot peened)
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Gear Ratio DTC?s, Transmission Shift Concerns, Does Not Shift At Times, Shudders
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA Vehicles built after on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. All 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the vehicle you are repairing has a crack in the flex plate or failed pump bushing inspect and confirm that both (2) dowel pins
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2012 Grand Caravan exhibits a cluster of interconnected powertrain failures that create genuine hazards. The most dangerous is sudden engine stall while driving—owners describe complete loss of engine, power steering, and brakes at highway speeds (55–65 mph), forcing them to coast to a stop. In several cases, vehicles behind them could have caused fatal collisions.
The TIPM (Transmission Integrated Power Module) failure is the most consistent culprit. Multiple owners report the module failing and triggering no-start conditions, vehicle stalls, dashboard light flashing, key fob malfunction, and complete electrical shutdown. One dealership reported 14 vans waiting for replacement modules, backordered for over a month, at $994–$1400 parts alone. Owners cite blog posts dating to 2014 documenting the same issue with no recall.
Transmission problems surface early and persist: hard, loud clunking when shifting; refusal to shift gears; and rough engagement as early as 11k–18k miles. One owner's rebuilt transmission failed again within 4000 miles. By 60–80k miles, full transmission replacement is common. Service bulletins for PCM reprogramming do not resolve the shifting problems.
The P06DD code on 3.6L engines locks vehicles in limp mode, severely cutting power. Owners report replacing oil pump, filter housing, pressure switch, wiring harness, and even entire engines—the code persists. One mechanic and a Chrysler technician could not clear it after extensive diagnostics.
Flex plate cracking, transmission seal leaks, and EVAP system leaks compound the picture. A dealership service representative confirmed flex plate failure is "not uncommon" for this model year but Dodge has not recalled it. Owners report spending thousands on repairs with recurring failures.
Same Dodge Grand Caravan powertrain reports on nearby years: 2010 · 2011 · 2013 · 2014 · 2015
Failure modes owners describe
TIPM Module Failure
Transmission Integrated Power Module (TIPM) failures causing complete loss of engine ignition, fuel pump control, and electrical function. Multiple owners report the module going bad, leading to no-start conditions, stalling, loss of power steering and brakes during driving, and key fob malfunction. Dealerships have confirmed backlogs of failed units.
When: Varies; typically occurs at lower mileage but reported across range from 14k to 140k+ miles; some failures intermittent
Symptoms owners cite: Engine won't start or starts intermittently after short delay; Sputtering during startup with whistling noise (vacuum leak symptom); Vehicle stalls without warning while driving at any speed; Complete loss of all power—engine, power steering, brakes, lights, dashboard; Dashboard lights flashing erratically; Keyless entry fails to unlock vehicle; Key fob malfunction; Limp mode activation reducing power; Battery drains even when vehicle is off; Engine dies in park or when shifting gears; Difficulty restarting; extended cranking required
Codes mentioned: No stored codes typically (failure often prevents code storage)
Repairs/costs cited: TIPM module replacement $994–$1400 parts plus $360 labor reported; parts backordered for extended periods; some dealers report 14+ vans waiting for same part; replacement attempts sometimes failed due to faulty replacements
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls issued despite known pattern since at least 2014; Chrysler customer care takes complaint but provides no follow-up; some TSBs mention electrical/airbag campaigns but TIPM not specifically recalled for this failure mode
P06DD Code—Oil System Limp Mode (3.6L Engine)
Persistent check engine code P06DD on 3.6L engines puts vehicle in limp/safe mode, severely restricting power output. Owners report replacing oil pump, filter housing, pressure switch, and harnesses without resolution; some have replaced entire engines and code persists. Known issue across Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep 3.6L platforms.
When: Reported on vehicles with 5k–131k miles; some issues present immediately upon purchase of used vehicles
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates; Engine enters limp mode—extremely reduced power output; Inability to accelerate on highways; dangerous merging conditions; Rough idle; Loss of power overall
Codes mentioned: P06DD
Repairs/costs cited: Over $1000 in parts and labor reported for oil pump, filter housing adapter, oil pressure switch, wiring harness, and PCM reflash—issue persists after all repairs; owners report mechanic and Chrysler technician unable to resolve; full engine replacement attempted with no success on code elimination
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall or TSB resolution provided; issue documented as known problem affecting new vehicles coming from dealership
Engine Stall and Power Loss While Driving
Engine shuts off suddenly while vehicle is in motion at highway and city speeds without warning. Power steering and brakes become inoperative, forcing drivers to coast. Causes include TIPM failure, transmission issues, ignition switch malfunction, and fuel system problems. No consistent diagnostic code; some owners report no codes stored.
When: Reported at various mileages and speeds; some at low mileage, others at 80k–150k miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine dies completely while driving; No warning lights or codes in some cases; Loss of power steering requiring manual steering to roadside; Loss of power brakes; Speedometer, fuel gauge, and engine instruments all go dead; Vehicle can be restarted after waiting or multiple attempts; Check engine light may come on after restart; Occurs at idle, low speed, and highway speeds (35–65 mph)
Codes mentioned: No code (failure does not always store codes), Check engine light after restart (inconsistent code storage)
Repairs/costs cited: Repairs attempted include TIPM replacement ($994–$1400), camshaft diagnosis and replacement ($1000+), fuel pump replacement ($800–$806), ignition switch replacement, thermostat gasket replacement, battery replacement, alternator/starter replacement—outcomes vary; many owners report continuing stalls after repairs
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler acknowledges as known issue in some communications; dealership comments suggest 'should have been recalled'; no recall issued for stall failures; customer care provides no follow-up
Transmission Shift Failures and Hard/Rough Shifting
Transmission struggles to shift smoothly or at all, with rough engagement, clunking sounds, and inability to shift into proper gear. Failures occur in first-to-second transitions, complete refusal to upshift, and sudden downshifts. Some owners report solenoid pack failures and recurrent issues after 'repairs.' Occurs as early as 11k miles and requires full transmission replacement or rebuild by 60k miles.
When: Very early failures reported—11k, 14k, 18.5k miles; others at 60k, 62k, 80k+ miles; some recur within 4000 miles of rebuilt transmission
Symptoms owners cite: Hard, loud clunking when placing vehicle in any gear (Park to Reverse, Park to Drive); Rough, jerky shifting between gears while driving; Hesitation or delay shifting from first to second gear; Vehicle refuses to shift out of lower gear despite driver input; Trembling/vibration during gear engagement; Loud grinding/groaning noise during shifts; Transmission seems sluggish, unwilling to engage; Downshifting unexpectedly at highway speed; Shifting into neutral when lever is in Drive position; RPMs spike during shifts
Codes mentioned: Check engine light (inconsistent code storage), P0760 (shift solenoid relay), Transmission pressure codes, Gear ratio codes
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission rebuilds/replacements $1000+–full replacement required at 60k–80k miles; solenoid pack replacement ($200–500 estimated); PCM reprogramming per service bulletin—does not resolve issue; rebuilt transmissions fail again within thousands of miles; some owners report multiple transmission replacements on single vehicle
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Service bulletins issued for PCM programming but do not resolve underlying issue; recalls for transmission shift problems on some 2012 Caravans (mentioned by owners but not universally applied); no systematic dealer warranty coverage beyond 100k miles
Flex Plate Cracking
Flex plate (engine-to-transmission coupling) cracks prematurely due to material defect. Owner reports dealership service representative stated it is 'not uncommon' for this part to fail on 2012 Grand Caravans. Crack occurs as early as pre-recall service.
When: One owner reports the week before TIPM failure (no mileage specified); dealership states it is routine failure on model
Symptoms owners cite: Grinding/groaning noise when idling and at lower RPMs; Noise worsens with AC operation; Rattling sensation
Repairs/costs cited: Flex plate replacement $789.95; dealership service representative confirmed it is a known, recurring issue on this model year
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued; dealership confirms issue but treats as routine maintenance
Transmission Fluid Leak—Pump and Axle Seals
Transmission pump and axle seals leak transmission fluid, causing loss of lubrication and cooling. Leak documented at low mileage (approximately 45 mph drive, 20 additional miles before detection). Dealership refused to replace transmission under drivetrain warranty, replacing only seals and fluid despite documented fluid loss during operation.
When: Occurred during normal driving at 45 mph; detected after 20 miles of driving with active leak; vehicle was brand new
Symptoms owners cite: Red transmission fluid visible leaking in driveway and engine compartment; Leak continues during driving (16 additional miles documented with active leak)
Repairs/costs cited: Only fluid and seals replaced by dealership (refused full transmission replacement); transmission ran without adequate fluid, risking component damage; documented by multiple technicians outside dealership
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler and dealership refused transmission replacement under 5-year/50k-mile drivetrain warranty despite documented leak and inadequate lubrication; only fluid and seals replaced
Evaporative System (EVAP) Leak
Check engine code P0456 indicates evaporative emissions system leak. Dealership blamed gas cap (customer purchased new one); after cap replacement and dealership service, strong gasoline fumes in cabin persist and vehicle runs poorly.
When: Post-recall service at dealership; symptom appeared after fuel pump replacement and TIPM work
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates with P0456 code; Strong gasoline odor/fumes inside vehicle; Engine running roughly after cap replacement and dealer service
Codes mentioned: P0456
Repairs/costs cited: Gas cap replaced; dealership diagnosed as cap issue but problem persists; vehicle runs poorly with strong fumes post-repair
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership blamed external component (gas cap); no systematic EVAP system repair
Cold Start Difficulty and Engine Rattle
Vehicle exhibits difficulty starting in cold conditions, requiring extended cranking or multiple attempts. Engine produces rattling noise for a few seconds after cold start and vibrates at certain RPM ranges during driving.
When: Cold start condition; vibration at 1200–1500 RPM during driving
Symptoms owners cite: Hard starting in cold conditions; Extended cranking time or multiple start attempts required; Engine rattle for first few seconds of cold start; Vibration felt at 1200–1500 RPM during driving
Repairs/costs cited: None specified by owners
Transmission Cooler Line Leak
Transmission cooler line develops leak at relatively low mileage, spilling transmission fluid throughout engine compartment and compromising cooling.
When: 70,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission fluid pooling in engine compartment
Repairs/costs cited: Cooler line replacement (cost not specified)
Synthesized from 45 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
Tl* the contact owns a 2012 Dodge grand caravan. While driving various speeds, the vehicle shut off without warning. The vehicle was towed to the contact's home after the latest failure. The contact also stated that the key fob did not cooperate with the transmitter and failed to operate. The dealer and manufacturer were not notified. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage…
My 2012 Dodge grand caravan been in the shop 3 times for transmission problems it's no good. I don't know what to do about this but, I don't want to keep on paying a car note for a car that is going to give out and any giving time. It's not going to last long. I want a new car free of charge. *tr
Had powertrain trouble with your 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 45 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 31 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 55,000 and 115,135 miles, with the median around 80,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 55,000; a quarter make it past 115,135. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2012/Dodge/Grand Caravan.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.