For decades, the Dodge Caravan has been one of the most famous minivans in North America, providing families with comfort and utility. Choosing the appropriate wheels is important for both safety and performance, whether you drive an early model from the 1980s or a later fourth-generation Caravan. The fit of the wheels can change how the car handles, how well it brakes, how quickly the tires wear out, and even how well it uses gas. This page has information on all Dodge Caravan models from 1984 to 2007, including factory specs, bolt patterns, rim diameters, and tire selections. By the end, you’ll know exactly what fits your Caravan and how to choose the best setup for your driving needs.
Understanding Wheel Fitment Basics
It’s helpful to know the main words you’ll come across before you get into the details of how to fit Dodge Caravan wheels. The bolt pattern tells you how many lug holes are on a wheel and how far apart they are. Offset tells you how far the wheel is from the hub, which affects stability and clearance. For the right alignment, the center bore must be the same size as the hub on your Caravan. The size of the rim and the tire are also important because making the wrong choices might cause rubbing, bad handling, or uneven tire wear. If you know these essentials, you’ll be able to choose wheels for your Dodge Caravan that not only look beautiful but also work well.
Dodge Caravan I (S) [1984–1990]
The first-generation Dodge Caravan set the bar for minivans, and its wheel specs showed that it was useful. Most models have 14-inch steel wheels that were made to be both comfortable and strong. It was easy to find replacements because the bolt pattern was simple. Tires were only available in small sizes to keep expenses down and make rides smooth for families. Lightweight alloy wheels are a popular alternative if you want to upgrade, but make sure you remain within the right size range so that they don’t hit anything. The first-gen Caravan’s fitment is still simple, even though it’s not as good as modern standards. Replacement parts are also easy to find.
| Year | Hub Bore (mm) | Bolt Pattern (PCD) | Thread Size | OEM Tire Size | OEM Rim Size | Offset Range (mm) | Tire Pressure (F/R, bar) | Aftermarket Wheel Size Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1984 | 57.1 | 4×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 185R14 98N | 5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.0 | 14″ – 15″ |
| 1985 | 57.1 | 4×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 185R14 98N | 5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.0 | 14″ – 15″ |
| 1986 | 57.1 | 4×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 185R14 98N | 5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.0 | 14″ – 15″ |
| 1987 | 57.1 | 4×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 185R14 98N | 5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.0 | 14″ – 15″ |
| 1988 | 57.1 | 4×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 185R14 98N | 5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.0 | 14″ – 15″ |
| 1989 | 57.1 | 4×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 185R14 98N | 5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.0 | 14″ – 15″ |
| 1990 | 57.1 | 4×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 185R14 98N | 5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.0 | 14″ – 15″ |
Dodge Caravan II (AS) [1991–1995]
Dodge made the design better with the second generation, and the wheels did too. Standard models usually had 14- to 15-inch rims, which gave drivers a little more freedom when it came to choosing tires. The bolt pattern stayed the same, which made fitting everything pretty easy. The sizes of tires changed considerably, so drivers who sought a mix of comfort and greater handling could find what they needed. For people who are updating now, period-correct alloy wheels can give the car a new design while keeping it safe. This generation also saw a rise in interest in handling dynamics, making it even more necessary for balanced performance to have the right wheel fitment.
| Year | Hub Bore | Bolt Pattern | Thread Size | OEM Tire Size | OEM Rim Size | Offset Range | Tire Pressure | Aftermarket Wheels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1991 | 57.1 | 5×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 195/75SR14 98S | 5.5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.2 | 14″ – 16″ |
| 1992 | 57.1 | 5×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 195/75SR14 98S | 5.5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.2 | 14″ – 16″ |
| 1993 | 57.1 | 5×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 195/75SR14 98S | 5.5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.2 | 14″ – 16″ |
| 1994 | 57.1 | 5×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 195/75SR14 98S | 5.5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.2 | 14″ – 16″ |
| 1995 | 57.1 | 5×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 195/75SR14 98S | 5.5Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.2 | 14″ – 16″ |
Dodge Caravan III (NS) [1996–2000]
The Dodge Caravan got bigger in the middle of the 1990s, and the way the wheels fit changed to match. The factory wheels were between 15 and 16 inches wide, and there were bigger tire alternatives to improve grip and stability on the road. The bolt pattern stayed the same for all trims, but the offset values became more crucial to make sure there was enough space with the bigger body design. A lot of owners today choose to switch to lightweight alloys for better appearances and performance, but sticking to the right sizes makes steering and braking smoother. This generation also had twin sliding doors, which meant that careful fitting helped keep things from rubbing or becoming stuck near the wheel wells.
| Year | Hub Bore (mm) | Bolt Pattern (PCD) | Thread Size | OEM Tire Size | OEM Rim Size | Offset Range (mm) | Tire Pressure (F/R, bar) | Aftermarket Wheel Size Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996 | 57.1 | 5×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 205/75R14 101S | 6Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.1 | 14″ – 16″ |
| 1997 | 57.1 | 5×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 205/75R14 101S | 6Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.1 | 14″ – 16″ |
| 1998 | 57.1 | 5×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 205/75R14 101S | 6Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.1 | 14″ – 16″ |
| 1999 | 57.1 | 5×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 205/75R14 101S | 6Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.1 | 14″ – 16″ |
| 2000 | 57.1 | 5×100 | M12 x 1.5 | 205/75R14 101S | 6Jx14 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.1 | 14″ – 16″ |
Dodge Caravan IV (RS) [2001–2007]
The fourth-generation Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan has more advanced features and more options for wheel fitment. Most factory wheels were 15 or 16 inches in diameter, however some higher trims offered 17-inch alloys. Tire ranges worked for both settings that focused on comfort and those that wanted sportier handling. The bolt design stayed the same, which made it easy to swap wheels between Chrysler models. If you’re getting new wheels today, 17-inch alloys are a popular choice because they improve handling without making the ride less comfortable. Because of the bigger body type, you also need to pay particular attention to the offset and width to keep them from rubbing. This version lets owners change their wheel and tire arrangement the most easily.
| Year | Hub Bore (mm) | Bolt Pattern (PCD) | Thread Size | OEM Tire Size | OEM Rim Size | Offset Range (mm) | Tire Pressure (F/R, bar) | Aftermarket Wheel Size Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2001 | 71.6 | 5×114.3 | M12 x 1.5 | 215/70R15 98S | 6.5Jx15 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.5 | 15″ – 17″ |
| 2002 | 71.6 | 5×114.3 | M12 x 1.5 | 215/70R15 98S | 6.5Jx15 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.5 | 15″ – 17″ |
| 2003 | 71.6 | 5×114.3 | M12 x 1.5 | 215/70R15 98S | 6.5Jx15 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.5 | 15″ – 17″ |
| 2004 | 71.6 | 5×114.3 | M12 x 1.5 | 215/70R15 98S | 6.5Jx15 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.5 | 15″ – 17″ |
| 2005 | 71.6 | 5×114.3 | M12 x 1.5 | 215/70R15 98S | 6.5Jx15 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.5 | 15″ – 17″ |
| 2006 | 71.6 | 5×114.3 | M12 x 1.5 | 215/70R15 98S | 6.5Jx15 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.5 | 15″ – 17″ |
| 2007 | 71.6 | 5×114.3 | M12 x 1.5 | 215/70R15 98S | 6.5Jx15 ET40 | 38 – 42 | 2.5 | 15″ – 17″ |
Tips for Upgrading Dodge Caravan Wheels
Before you make any changes, make sure you know the stock specs for your generation. Don’t pick wheels that are excessively broad, because they could scrape against or put stress on suspension parts. To maintain steering safe and predictable, stay within the specified offset ranges. If you want to cut weight and improve handling without losing comfort, alloy wheels are a good solution. Also, think about getting new tires that fit your driving style. For example, touring tires for family vacations or performance tires for better handling. Before you buy, make sure the parts will fit your Caravan. Even a minor difference in fitment can change how well it rides and how safe it is.
FAQ’s
Is it possible to use rims from a different Chrysler or Dodge model?
Yes, in a lot of cases, rims from other Chrysler and Dodge cars that have the same bolt pattern will fit your Caravan. You still need to check the offset and hub bore to make sure everything is lined up and has enough room.
What size tire can fit without rubbing?
It depends on how old you are. Older Caravans can only handle minimal improvements, but newer ones can easily accept wheels up to 17 inches in size. Before you commit, always check the clearance.
Do the Grand Caravan and short-wheelbase variants have the same fitment?
Yes, both variants usually have the same bolt pattern and wheel fitting standards. However, tire choices may be a little different because of variances in weight and suspension.
Conclusion
Because the Dodge Caravan has been around for so long, the way the wheels fit has changed along with the design. Each generation has its own set of wheels. For example, the 1980s had straightforward 14-inch steel wheels, while the 2000s had more flexible 17-inch alloys. To make sure your wheels fit right and work well, you need to know your bolt pattern, rim size, and offset. Proper fitment makes a big difference in how well your ride feels, whether you stick to factory specs or go for aftermarket improvements. This article will help you choose the proper wheel arrangement for your Caravan’s generation so you can enjoy a smoother, more dependable driving experience.
