Dodge Caliber problems
The Dodge Caliber is a compact hatchback manufactured and marketed by Chrysler's Dodge division from the 2007 through 2012 model years, replacing the Dodge Neon and Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Following the Caliber concept, which debuted at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show, the pre-production version debuted at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, with a market launch in March 2006.
The Caliber was manufactured at the Belvidere Assembly (Illinois) plant, and across its six-year model run, just over 400,000 were produced.
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Dodge Caliber model years
Common Dodge Caliber problems
The Dodge Caliber has been known to have several common problems, primarily related to the transmission system, engine, suspension, and water leaks.
These common problems have contributed to the Dodge Caliber's low resale prices, which may be its most redeeming quality for budget-conscious buyers.
What year to avoid Dodge Caliber?
The 2007 to 2011 Dodge Caliber years are known to have drain tube problems that require cleaning and repairs. The 2009 Caliber had the most complaints in the lineup. Don't try to fix the drain tube yourself because you might end up puncturing the material and letting water into the vehicle.
Is the Dodge Caliber a reliable car?
Dodge Caliber Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Dodge Caliber Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 16th out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $501 which means it has lower than average ownership costs.
How long do Dodge calibers last?
However, with proper care and maintenance, a Dodge Hemi engine can typically last well over 100,000 miles or more. Regular oil changes, timely maintenance of the engine and its components, and driving the vehicle in a reasonable manner can help to extend the life of the engine.
Do Dodge calibers have transmission problems?
What is the Most Common Problem With the Dodge Caliber? The CVT transmission of the Dodge Caliber can jerk, leak and whine at 48,900 miles on average. Faulty ball joints and control arms are also common in the Dodge Caliber and cause suspension and steering failure.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Dodge Caliber years
We have researched Dodge problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Dodge Caliber cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Dodge Caliber model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Dodge Caliber model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Dodge Caliber years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Dodge Caliber car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Dodge Caliber , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Dodge Caliber vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Caliber model years
A total of 119 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Caliber model years
There were a total of 32 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Caliber model years
There were a total of 94 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Caliber model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1927 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Dodge Caliber . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Dodge Caliber vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Dodge Caliber 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1B3CB4HA1AD
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,WHEELS
- Summary: Severe rust to vehicle frame COMMON TO THIS VEHICLE, no accident. Rust has corroded frame despite normal use and normal care. Vehicle hasn't reached 75k miles yet, and the frame is failing. How is this not a recall?
Dodge Caliber 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 1B3HB48B87D
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My car is at 69739 miles and the control arms and the front and rear subframe is rotted out
Dodge Caliber 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 1B3HB48B97D
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: This is a follow up to complaint #11459461 filed on 4/3/22 at 9:16:43am. I was not able to send documents at that time. Documents included relate to follow up on complaint #11591104. First pdf file: pages 1-4 Service bulletin from Chrysler - my model year not included; pages 5-7 service invoice and picture of missing engine cradle pan; page 8 original repair invoice; page 9 copy of original repair invoice with notations for Magna plant manager; page 10 notice of having received complaint; page 11 Defective lug nut issue; page 12 Complaint #11591104; page 13 Service invoice noting replacement of two defective lug nuts. Second pdf file: pages 1-2 Copy of original complaint #11459461; page 3 Copy of towing receipt due to defective lug nut. Third pdf file: Picture of three of four defective lug nut covers that I had to remove due to flat tires. First one not shown due to being damaged while attempting to remove beyond recognition. Upper left lug nut cover came off just in handling of removed lug nuts.
Dodge Caliber 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 1B3CB3HA6BD
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Horn started honking on its own
Dodge Caliber 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- VIN: 1B3CB3HA6BD
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Active headrest in drivers seat deployed with no apparent cause and air bag light has been on since I bought the car August 29, 2023
Dodge Caliber 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-20
- VIN: 1B3HB78K47D
- Components: VISIBILITY,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated that while it was raining, there was water entering through the sunroof and doors into the vehicle. The air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, who stated that there were no related recalls for the failures. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that there was no recall coverage for the failures and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failures. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Dodge Caliber 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-13
- VIN: 1B3HB48A59D
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Check frame - known rot concerns Hole has started to open up center rear of engine subframe on the weld line. Subframe doesn’t appear to be in immediate failure, but will not pass inspection. Called dealer and was told parts aren’t available! No incident just getting inspected!
Dodge Caliber 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-25
- VIN: 1C3CDWDA6CD
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated that there was a rattling noise coming from the front sub frame of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the sub frame was rusted. The vehicle was not repaired. A local dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.
Dodge Caliber 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-25
- VIN: 1B3HB48B47D
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Dodge Caliber. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 10V234000 (Vehicle Speed Control) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Dodge Caliber 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-21
- VIN: 1B3CB4HA0AD
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The air bag lights came on
Dodge Caliber 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-05
- VIN: 1B3CB9HB1AD
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact's daughter owns a 2010 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated while his daughter was driving at various speeds, she heard an abnormal sound and felt a vibration in the rear end of the vehicle. The contact stated that he had also noticed the failure while test-driving the vehicle. Upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact noticed that the rear cross member was severely rusted and had fractured. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 77,200.
Dodge Caliber 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-27
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated while pulling into a parking space, there was an abnormal sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. The contact stated that upon inspecting the vehicle, he noticed that the subframe was severely rusted and there was a piece of metal hanging down in the rear of the vehicle. An independent mechanic inspected the vehicle and determined that the subframe needed to be replaced. The mechanic informed the contact that the vehicle was undrivable. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 175,000. The VIN was not available.
Dodge Caliber 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-20
- VIN: 1B3HB28B57D
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The air bag light and sound are going off without any collision or accident type. Just randomly started going off. Airbags have never been deployed and goes off with or without weight on the seats.
Dodge Caliber 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-03
- VIN: 1B3HB48B77D
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Premature rust on rear subframe
Dodge Caliber 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-31
- VIN: 1B3CB8HB5BD
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: seat headrest deployed while car was sitting in the driveway...would have been a problem if driver had been driving pass.side deployed on 1 30 24....driver side deployed 1 30 24
Latest 5 recalls Dodge Caliber
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the Dodge Caliber.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Dodge Caliber 2007
- Report Received Date: 2017-12-21
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
- Consequence: If the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury in the event of a fire.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403 or Kidde customer service service toll-free at 1-855-262-3540, or online at www.kidde.com and click on "Product Safety Recall" for more information. Chrysler's number for this recall is T82.
- Model: Dodge Caliber 2010
- Report Received Date: 2016-09-15
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles. The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCR, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not available yet were mailed on October 26, 2016. The recall began on August 15, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S61.
- Model: Dodge Caliber 2011
- Report Received Date: 2016-09-15
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles. The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCR, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not available yet were mailed on October 26, 2016. The recall began on August 15, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S61.
- Model: Dodge Caliber 2012
- Report Received Date: 2016-09-15
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US LLC)
- Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles. The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.
- Consequence: If the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags are disabled, there is an increased risk of injury to the vehicle occupants in the event of a vehicle crash that necessitates deployment of these safety systems.
- Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCR, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not available yet were mailed on October 26, 2016. The recall began on August 15, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is S61.
- Model: Dodge Caliber 2011
- Report Received Date: 2011-06-08
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER GROUP LLC
- Components: STEERING:COLUMN
- Summary: CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011DODGE JOURNEY, JEEP WRANGLER, CHRYSLER 200, CHRYSLER 200 CONVERTIBLE, DODGE AVENGER, DODGE NITRO, JEEP LIBERTY, DODGE CALIBER, JEEP COMPASS, JEEP PATRIOT, DODGE GRAND CARAVAN AND CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH A MISSING OR INCORRECTLY INSTALLED STEERING COLUMN PIVOT RIVET.
- Consequence: A MISSING OR INCORRECTLY INSTALLED RIVET COULD COMPROMISE THE ABILITY OF THE STEERING COLUMN TO SUPPORT THE OCCUPANT LOADS IN THE EVENT OF A FRONTAL CRASH, DECREASING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE FRONTAL IMPACT SAFETY SYSTEM. AS A RESULT, THE CONDITION MAY INCREASE THE POTENTIAL FOR INJURY IN A FRONTAL CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR RIVET PRESENCE AND ALIGNMENT AND REPAIR THE STEERING COLUMN PIVOT AS REQUIRED, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 4, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Latest negative Dodge Caliber car reviews
Latest positive Dodge Caliber car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2010
I must say, your car is performing really well! In just two weeks, you're already getting 33MPG, which is impressive. The ride is comfortable, and although bumps on the road can be felt, it's not too bad. The car is also pretty quiet, which is a plus. The GPS/MyGig unit is fantastic, and downloading music is a breeze. The steering wheel controls are also very convenient, and the UConnect bluetooth is simply amazing! The car looks great from all angles, and the wheels are a nice touch. The speakers are pretty loud and don't distort, which is great. The car handles corners well, and the headlights are nice and bright. The engine is also very quiet, which is a plus. The Nav system works great, especially with the real-time traffic info.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I bought this car for my wife to use on long trips, and it's been a great choice. The car is surprisingly spacious and comfortable, with plenty of legroom in the back seat. Despite its compact size, we've never had any issues fitting all of our luggage and passengers inside. The car is also equipped with many convenient compartments, including a tri-fold glove compartment with three sections, one of which is cooled by the air conditioner. This is a great spot for storing drinks and snacks. Additionally, the factory stereo is impressive and provides excellent sound quality. Overall, we're very happy with our purchase.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I absolutely love my car! Although it lacks acceleration, it is the perfect size for my daily commute to work and can easily fit 4-5 people without any issues. The fold-down seats provide great hauling capability, although the angle of the back hatch has gotten in my way a time or two. The gas mileage is spectacular and still holds up well even as the car gets older. I have had minimal maintenance, with only normal oil changes and new tires. Two months ago, I had to have something fixed for the first time - the power steering pump lines had a hole and the entire pump wasn't working correctly. However, after spending $400 on a brand new pump, the car is driving as good as new! While the acceleration could be better and it struggles going up into the Rockies here in Colorado, overall, I would say this is a great car that has been perfect for me. Thank you for considering my opinion!
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Vehicle year: 2012
Its size and comfort are perfect for what you were looking for. It's bigger than a car, yet smaller than an SUV. You must be in love!!!
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Vehicle year: 2010
We recently purchased a 09 RT caliber from a dealer and it was in great cosmetic condition. The car drove decently and the stereo was fantastic. We were able to get a fair price for it. Unfortunately, within just two weeks, the engine shut off and the lights on the dash went crazy, leaving us stranded. After some back-and-forth with the dealer, they found an aftermarket chip in the vehicle and convinced us to give it another try. We're so glad we did! They removed the chip and upgraded the car's computer software. While the acceleration was still marginal, we were able to improve it by using one bottle of Lucas gas treatment and replacing the plugs with Bosch platinum +4. Now, the car runs like it just came out of the factory and we plan on keeping it for a while.
Are you having problems with your Dodge Caliber?
Junius Runte 2025-05-15
Vehicle year: 2009
Hello! I recently rented a car on a trip and chose a small hatchback because I love them. At home, I drive a 2008 VW Rabbit. My college-age son, who isn't really into cars, immediately noticed that the interior quality was not as good as our Rabbit's. He asked if it was an American car, but I doubt he would say that about a newer Ford. While driving this car, I didn't find it as pleasurable as driving German cars. It's adequately powered, but the steering is not very responsive. However, the car does get points for its exterior styling, and I assume it's fairly reliable. If you're looking for a small hatch, I would recommend checking out the Mazda3, new Golfs, Honda Fit, etc. before considering this one. Thank you for reading!
Sterling Conn 2025-05-03
Vehicle year: 2007
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 2007 Caliber that I bought back in March of 2006. It was one of the first ones in my area and I was a bit worried at first because I had the stalling problem (which I'm sure some Caliber owners can relate to) and I also lost the alternator at around 50k miles, which was quite an expensive repair. However, despite these initial setbacks, I still own the car and it has now clocked over 256,000 miles! I did have to replace the alternator again, as well as the tie rods (the roads where I live in NE Ohio are pretty rough) and one wheel bearing over the last six years. But, on the plus side, I get an impressive 32 mpg on the highway with my 1.8 stick shift. Interestingly, the stalling issue just disappeared (did the computer self-adjust?). And, to top it all off, the car still has its original exhaust system! So, after two alternators, tie rods, a battery, and 256k miles, I can honestly say that this car owes me nothing. Thanks for listening!
Kevin Lockman 2025-04-28
Vehicle year: 2007
I really enjoy driving this car. The car has a great look and feel, and it responds really well. However, I did have a couple of expensive repairs early on in the car's life. Unfortunately, I had to replace the entire instrument cluster at 54,000 miles due to a bad illumination system, which cost $500. Additionally, at 64,000 miles, the k-frame was found to be rusted through, which made the car unsafe to drive. The cost to repair this was $1,400. Although there are 27 complaints on NHTSA for this same issue, Dodge did not offer any assistance. While I understand that car parts will wear out over time, these two repairs were not typical.
Reece Krajcik 2025-04-25
Vehicle year: 2010
The issue causing the shut off while driving on the highway is related to a cooling sensor that prevents the transmission from overheating. It is surprising that this problem was not addressed as a recall issue, as my niece experienced the same problem.
Lawson West 2025-04-12
Vehicle year: 2007
This car has been a major disappointment since I purchased it two months ago. Despite having the sway bars and tie rods replaced, the oil light and gas cap light have both come on, and the dealer has been unable to identify the problem. The car even died on my wife while she was driving up a hill, causing the brakes and steering wheel to lock and the car to go out of control and over a ledge into a dirt mound. Despite numerous visits to the dealership, the mechanics have been unable to diagnose the issue. The noise level inside the car is also quite high. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend this vehicle. I am concerned for the safety of my wife and infant every time they use it.