Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission

Origins & Technical Overview

The Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission series, derived from the older 41TE design but with two additional gearsets bolted on, making it more complex and heavier (around 350 lb) 
Introduced in the mid‑2007 model year, it was widely used across multiple front‑wheel drive models—2008–2020 Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Journey, Volkswagen Routan, and later the Ram ProMaster van.
It includes variable line pressure technology (VLP) and a solenoid pack externally mounted—design choices meant to improve shift quality but which ultimately introduced failure points.

2. Common Weaknesses & Reliability Issues

Despite decent mileage potential under good maintenance, the Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission suffers from a well‑documented reputation for failure, especially in high‑heat or heavy‑use situations:

• Pump failures and loss of hydraulic pressure are frequent. Some Reddit mechanics report virtually all failures stem from pump seizure triggered by filter neglect or low fluid leading to “loss of prime” and dry‑running pumps .

• Solenoid pack failures are another common failure mode—these can sometimes be replaced externally without dropping the transmission, but are still costly if they occur .

• Torque converter and valve body issues also get mentioned often in owner experiences, especially shifting hesitation or slipping from (~30–80 K miles).

• Owners often warn: this transmission has at best a 60,000 mile expectancy without fluid/filter service—but some examples survive beyond 200,000–300,000 miles with proper attention

Examples:

3. Maintenance Tips for Longevity

If you have or plan to install a Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission, consistent maintenance is key:

• Transmission fluid and filter: change every 30,000–60,000 miles (some recommend extraction every 5,000 miles), sticking with the approved ATF+4 fluid exclusively.

• Use ATF+4 only—dexron or generic substitutes often cause failures

• Monitor filter debris, pan magnets, fluid odor or color to assess lifespan; but don’t rely solely on those cues besides smell or metal content .

• Early response to symptoms: slipping, rough shifts, odd RPMs at idle may signal failing solenoids or internal wear; address promptly.

With diligence many report 200 K miles or more. Exceptional cases have seen 300 K miles

4. Purchasing a Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission

Remanufactured/rebuilt modules

Available through online sellers (notably eBay auctions) and transmission shops—common price range between US $1,900 and US $2,700 depending on year, supplier, and warranty terms.

– MR MOTORS LLC offers rebuilt units for 2011–2020 Caravan/Town & Country from ~$2,100 with 3‑year warranty, no core charge, torque converter included. Many sold (over 170).
– For earlier years (2008–2010), MR MOTORS also lists remanufactured Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission units in the ~$1,900 range with similar terms

Another reseller, Danny’s Trannys (Transmission Depot), lists Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission remanufactured units for approximately US $2,695–2,795, shipping internationally for about $199–$650 depending on location.

Used but tested/low‑mileage units

Occasionally available under $2,000—e.g., used Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission for head‑to‑head fitment on 2016 or 2018 Caravan 3.6L from high miles but graded condition and tested ~1,852 USD with free shipping.

What to compare:

5. Installation Considerations

• The Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission weighs ~350 lb and tight engine‑bay fitment makes removal and installation labor‑intensive—use transmission jack, serious jacking, engine support bar, and solid jackstands; don’t rely on floor jacks alone.

• Ensure proper torque converter alignment and that the cooler lines are flushed or replaced to avoid metal debris entering the new unit.

• If your vehicle is equipped with AWD (some early/sebring applications), use proper AWD 62TE. Confirm FWD vs AWD variant.

6. Shipping & Availability

Expect:

• Shipping cost globally: ~$200 from Florida (US origin), possibly $600 for heavy freight; customs/duties may apply for international deliveries.

• Delivery lead times: domestic ~1–2 weeks; internationally longer. Some sellers advertise expedited shipping options.

• Supply shortages occasionally reported in parts for newer models like Promaster, where delays of months or backorders were cited; Caravan models generally easier to source.

7. Real‑World Owner Reports

Multiple user anecdotes:

• Many report failure between 60K and 100K miles; some got replacements under extended warranty but saw repeat failures shortly after.

• One poster noted that dealer quotes for replacement ranged ~$8K but was negotiated down to ~$1.6K with warranty—but still failed again days later.

• Fleet operators (e.g. Promaster) reported backlogs; dealership delays and long waits without resolution have generated frustration and legal threats.

• Conversely, a lucky owner got 300 K miles out of one via rigorous maintenance.

8. Buying Strategy & Recommendations

If you’re in the market for a replacement Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission:

1. Confirm exact vehicle compatibilities—engine (3.6 L Pentastar), drive type (FWD vs AWD), and model year fitment are crucial.

2. Prefer remanufactured units with a 3‑year warranty, no core charge, torque converter included—MR Motors is frequently recommended.

3. Ask for proof of internal rebuild (new clutches, solenoids, clean valve body, etc.), and clarity on return policy and shipping.

4. Be wary of ultra‑cheap used units under $1,600 unless they’re certified and low mileage—often no warranty and unknown condition risks.

5. Plan installation carefully—ensure mechanic/service can handle heavy weight, remove transmission properly, flush cooler lines, refill ATF+4, and verify no debris left in system.

9. Conclusion

The Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission is a functional but mechanically complex unit that powers many Dodge, Chrysler, VW, and Ram vans. It delivers six forward gears and reasonable performance in typical van applications. However, its documented reliability problems—notably pump and solenoid failures—mean that proper maintenance and careful selection of a replacement unit are fundamental to long-term service.

Estimated cost for a good remanufactured 62TE: US $2,100–2,700, with warranty and torque converter included.
Lifespan potential: often 60K–100K miles without intervention; many reach 200K miles on disciplined fluid/filter service; exceptional cases even 300K miles exist.
Installation complexity: high—due to weight, tight fitment, need to unbolt engine, etc.

If you’re in a situation where your transmission has failed or is imminent, sourcing a 3‑year‑warranty reman unit with full rebuild documentation, changing fluid and filter immediately and regularly, and installing by a competent mechanic will give you the best chance of getting the most out of the Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission.

References

Key listings (eBay sources):

• MR Motors rebuilt 2011–2020 unit ~US $2,150, 3‑year warranty, no core charge.

• MR Motors rebuilt 2008–2010 ~US $1,900 with converter, 3‑year warranty

• Danny’s Transmission Dept listing ~US $2,695–2,795, remanufactured Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission with shipping estimates

Technical and community reporting from Reddit show widespread Dodge Caravan 62TE Transmission failure patterns, maintenance tips, and user experiences—including quotes above.