After 12 years of working on Dodge Caravans in my garage, I’ve learned that bolt patterns can be trickier than they seem. Pretty much every week, I see someone struggling with wheel fitment issues that could have been avoided with the right knowledge.
The good news? I’ve got your back.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve picked up about Caravan bolt patterns over the years – from the basic measurements to those little quirks that only experience can teach you.
I’ll break down the evolution of these patterns from the early 4-lug designs to the now-standard 5x100mm setup, and share some practical tips that have saved me (and my customers) both time and money.
Trust me, getting this right can make all the difference between a smooth ride and a costly mistake.
What Is the Bolt Pattern of A Dodge Caravan?
The Dodge Caravan’s bolt pattern depends on the year of the vehicle.
From 1984 to 2020, most Dodge Caravans used a 5-lug bolt pattern, which means there are five holes in the wheel hub where the lug nuts attach. The specific measurement is 5x100mm, meaning there are 5 lugs in a circle with a 100-millimeter diameter.
Some older models from the 1980s used a 4x100mm pattern instead.
When looking at your wheel, you’ll see either 4 or 5 evenly spaced holes – this is your bolt pattern. The center bore (the big hole in the middle of the wheel) is typically 58.1mm for most years.
This standardized pattern made it easier for owners to find replacement wheels and helped keep manufacturing costs down.
If you’re replacing wheels, always double-check your specific model year’s bolt pattern to ensure proper fit.
How to Identify the Correct Bolt Pattern for A Specific Dodge Caravan Model
The VIN Method
- I always start with this foolproof method – just check your vehicle’s VIN number in combination with a manufacturer’s database.
- You’ll find the VIN on your dashboard or driver’s side door jamb (I usually use my phone’s flashlight to read it clearly).
- Pop that number into the database, and boom – you’ve got your exact specifications. I love this method because it’s never steered me wrong in my 15 years of working with Caravans.
DIY Measurement Approach
- When I’m in my garage and need a quick check, I grab my trusty measuring tape.
- Just measure from the center of one lug hole to the center of the opposite lug hole (if you’ve got odd numbers of lugs) or to the closest edge of the opposite hole (for even numbers).
- Most Caravans I’ve worked on after ’91 measure about 100mm across five lugs – it’s pretty much become second nature to me now.
A Gauge Tool
- Here’s a game-changer I found at my local shop – the bolt pattern gauge tool. It’s like having a professional mechanic in your pocket!
- Just place it over your wheel’s lug holes, and it tells you everything you need to know.
- This tool has saved me countless hours of guesswork.
A Quick Reference Check
- Sometimes the simplest solution is the best – just crack open your owner’s manual or peek at that information sticker inside your driver’s side door jamb.
- I keep a photo of mine on my phone since the print started fading. It’s saved me more than once when shopping for new wheels.
The Hidden Wheel Code
- Here’s a little-known tip I learned from my mechanic buddy – flip your wheel over and look for stamped numbers on the back.
- Once you spot something like “5×100”, you’ve hit the jackpot!
- Just remember to cross-reference this with your model year specs
List of The Correct Bolt Patterns for Different Dodge Caravan Models
| Model Year Range | Bolt Pattern | Center Bore | Lug Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1984 – 1990 | 4x100mm | 57.1mm | M12x1.5 | First Generation Models |
| 1991 – 1995 | 5x100mm | 58.1mm | M12x1.5 | Second Generation |
| 1996 – 2000 | 5x100mm | 58.1mm | M12x1.5 | Third Generation |
| 2001 – 2007 | 5x100mm | 58.1mm | M12x1.5 | Fourth Generation |
| 2008 – 2016 | 5x100mm | 58.1mm | M12x1.5 | Fifth Generation |
| 2017 – 2020 | 5x100mm | 58.1mm | M12x1.5 | Final Generation |
Key Information:
- M12x1.5 refers to the lug nut thread size
- Center bore measurement is critical for wheel fitment
- All measurements are factory specifications
Understanding Dodge Caravan’s Bolt Patterns and Their Compatibility
1. 1984-1990 First Generation Caravan
- Bolt Pattern: 4x100mm
- Compatible with: Early Plymouth Voyager, Chrysler Town & Country, and many compact Dodge/Plymouth vehicles from the same era
- Hub Center Bore: 57.1mm
2. 1991-1995 Second Generation Caravan
- Bolt Pattern: 5x100mm
- Compatible with: Plymouth Voyager, Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Neon, Plymouth Neon
- Hub Center Bore: 58.1mm
- Note: Not interchangeable with first-generation wheels due to different lug count
3. 1996-2000 Third Generation Caravan
- Bolt Pattern: 5x100mm
- Compatible with: Later Plymouth Voyager models, Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Stratus
- Hub Center Bore: 58.1mm
- Note: Shares same pattern as second generation but may require different offset wheels
4. 2001-2007 Fourth Generation Caravan
- Bolt Pattern: 5x100mm
- Compatible with: Chrysler Town & Country, Chrysler Pacifica (first generation)
- Hub Center Bore: 58.1mm
- Note: Wheel offset changes make some earlier generation wheels unsuitable
5. 2008-2020 Fifth Generation Caravan
- Bolt Pattern: 5x127mm
- Compatible with: Later Chrysler Town & Country models, Dodge Journey
- Hub Center Bore: 71.5mm
- Note: Not backward compatible with any earlier generation due to larger bolt pattern
Comparisons Between Chrysler and Other Brands’ Bolt Patterns with Prices
| Brand & Model | Bolt Pattern | Center Bore | Typical Wheel Price Range (2020)* | Compatibility Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dodge Caravan (2008-2020) | 5x100mm | 58.1mm | $75 – $150 | Base reference model |
| Honda Odyssey (2018-2024) | 5x120mm | 64.1mm | $120 – $200 | Not compatible with Caravan |
| Toyota Sienna (2011-2024) | 5×114.3mm | 60.1mm | $100 – $180 | Different pattern, no crossfit |
| Kia Sedona (2015-2021) | 5×114.3mm | 67.1mm | $85 – $160 | Not compatible with Caravan |
| Chrysler Pacifica (2017-2024) | 5x127mm | 71.5mm | $130 – $220 | Despite same manufacturer, different pattern |
| Chrysler Town & Country (2008-2016) | 5x100mm | 58.1mm | $75 – $150 | Direct fit with Caravan |
| Ford Windstar/Freestar (1999-2007) | 5x108mm | 63.5mm | $70 – $140 | No compatibility with Caravan |
Additional Notes:
- Prices listed are for standard OEM-style wheels, not premium or aftermarket options
- Prices may vary based on location, material, and design
- All measurements are factory specifications
- Prices shown are approximate retail costs from 2020 for comparison purposes
How to Maintain Bolt Patterns on Your Dodge Caravan
1. The Basics
- Keep lug nuts torqued to spec (100 ft-lbs) and check regularly with a torque wrench
- Make it a habit to check before any long trips
- Remember: loose wheels at highway speeds can be catastrophic
2. What to Look For
- Include stud checks in your regular tire rotation routine
- Watch for rust spots, unusual wear patterns, or cross-threading
- Take photos of any concerning areas to track changes over time
3. Protection Tips
- Use anti-seize compound only on wheel studs, never lug nut threads
- Apply sparingly – a little goes a long way
- Clean off any excess compound immediately
4. Surface Care
- Wipe down hub faces and mounting surfaces during every rotation
- Use a wire brush for stubborn brake dust
- Keep a dedicated cleaning rag in your maintenance kit
5. Getting It Right
- Let the vehicle’s weight help center the wheels naturally
- Always follow the star pattern when tightening
- Consider marking your starting point with chalk for consistent tightening
6. Making Smart Choices
- Avoid universal spacers despite their appealing price
- Invest in wheels with proper specifications for your model
Conclusion
After immersing deep into Caravan bolt patterns, I hope you’re feeling more confident about tackling wheel-related issues. Remember, these measurements aren’t just random numbers – they’re your ticket to safe and proper wheel fitment.
Speaking of patterns, if you found this guide helpful, you might want to check out my recent piece on Lexus lug pattern specifications. It’s pretty interesting to see how different manufacturers approach similar challenges.
If you’re a weekend warrior or a curious Caravan owner, the key is to take your time with measurements and never assume patterns are universal. I’ve made these mistakes so you don’t have to.
Got questions about your specific model? Drop a comment below – I’m always around to help fellow van enthusiasts get it right the first time.
Until next time, keep those wheels spinning true!