Caravan anyone?

[Mooh]

Tune-up costs can vary so much it's hard to know without specifics, but your bill seems high to me.

We had a '93 Plymouth Voyager (like the Dodge Caravan) from new until Dec '07. We put over 330,000 km on it without any major issues. It never used oil, the head and oil pan had never been removed (ie original gaskets), and it was easy on rubber after we ditched the original factory tires for Bridgestones. The front end got sloppy towards the end and I know that the next owner lost a front wheel, I suspect the safety check was less than thorough. That van went camping, fishing, pulled the tent trailer without complaint, moved people and pets comfortably, and otherwise lived up to its billing.

Caveat...It is not a truck and not a car. We often missed the pickup truck and the compact cars we had, though the van was a reasonable compromise. We now drive an '09 Rav4 and love it, though it would be too small if we still had the kids at home.

Would I recommend another Voyager/Caravan? Nope, there are better vehicles available, we just got lucky...and we were religious about service.

Peace, Mooh.

[Lincoln]

Something else you can do quickly........take the vehicle to a dark place and idle the engine with the hood open. You shouldn't see a fire show. If you do, note where the wires are arcing and move them away from there (after shutting the engine off) (unless you like to dance).

If nothing is sparking, change your fuel filter.

[Powdered Toast Man]

I've got an '06 Caravan and I love it. I don't even have kids. I just really love the Dodge minivans and it's the best bang for your buck versatile vehicle. Not to mention excellent for road trips.