How to Remove the Dash in a Dodge Grand Caravan
by Daniel ValladaresThe Dodge Grand Caravan houses several of its electrical components within the dashboard. In order to access any of these devices, you will have to remove the dashboard panels and their respective screws and bolts. In addition, the battery must be disconnected from the vehicle in order to prevent the Grand Caravan's air bags from deploying. You can expect to spend anywhere from one to two hours disassembling the dashboard on your Dodge Grand Caravan. Although it is a time consuming process, it is also fairly simple.
Step 1
Disconnect the negative terminal from the battery with a socket wrench. Open the driver's side door and adjust the steering wheel to its lowest position.
Step 2
Remove the knee bolsters by removing the three screws securing them to the Grand Caravan with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull them out of the vehicle. Remove the two steering column cover screws and pull the cover out as well. This will reveal the vehicle's electrical connections. Disconnect the three connections by squeezing the tabs and pulling on them.
Step 3
Remove the two side bolts from both side panels on the dashboard. Pull up the defroster vent and remove the screws underneath. Remove the five bolts along the edge of the dashboard near the windshield with a socket wrench.
Step 4
Remove the bolts below the gauge cluster and the bolt below the glove compartment. At this point, lift the dashboard up and out of the Grand Caravan.
References
- "Chrysler Caravan, Voyager and Town & Country 1996-2002 Chilton's Repair Manual"; Haynes; 2005
Tips
- When removing the dashboard, you will have to carefully maneuver around the steering wheel to pull it off. If you find it too difficult to pull it off, remove the steering column bolts and drop the steering column onto the driver's seat.
Things You'll Need
- Socket wrench
- Philips screwdriver
- Flat-head screwdriver
Writer Bio
Daniel Valladares began his career as a medical writer in 2008. He has written patient education brochures for several pharmaceutical companies and has worked as an auto mechanic at Kim's Speedy Auto Service since 2007. Valladares holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Rice University and is currently studying to become a personal trainer.
