2009 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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Common 2009 Dodge Caliber problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the 2009 Dodge Caliber, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Problems:
- Owners have reported issues such as random slowdowns, stalling, idling, or sudden shutdowns while driving. These problems can be caused by various factors like dirty or clogged fuel injectors, failed catalytic converters, or faulty fuel systems. A thorough cleaning of the fuel system components and regular maintenance checks are recommended to address these issues.
- CVT Transmission Failure:
- Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) failure is a common problem with the Dodge Caliber. Owners have experienced issues with the transmission system, leading to difficulties in shifting gears or complete transmission failure. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to prevent major transmission issues.
- Leaky Draining Tubes:
- Another common problem reported by Dodge Caliber owners is leaky draining tubes. These tubes are responsible for draining water away from the vehicle, and when they leak, it can lead to water accumulation inside the car, causing potential damage to the interior. Ensuring these tubes are properly maintained and replacing them if necessary can prevent water-related issues.
These common problems with the 2009 Dodge Caliber highlight the importance of regular maintenance, thorough inspections, and prompt repairs to ensure the longevity and performance of the vehicle.
What is the most common problem with Dodge Caliber SXT?
Several owners have reported issues like faulty transmission systems, engine problems, bad suspension components, and water leaks. The severity and frequency of this hatchback's issues make it difficult to recommend to anyone. This includes all its year models.
What are the recalls on a 2009 Dodge Caliber?
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 712 MY 2009 SEBRING, DODGE CALIBER, AVENGER, JOURNEY, JEEP PATRIOT, AND COMPASS VEHICLES. A NEW ADHESIVE USED IN THE POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) MANUFACTURING PROCESS CAN CAUSE THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD TO BREAK. What should you do: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PCM FREE OF CHARGE.
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.
How long does a Dodge Caliber engine 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.
Is 2009 Dodge Caliber a good car?
Vehicle overview
These days, there's a lot of parity in terms of reliability, power and features. Still, there are certainly cars that qualify as "not as good," and the 2009 Dodge Caliber happens to be one of them.
What is the most common problem with Dodge Caliber SXT?
Several owners have reported issues like faulty transmission systems, engine problems, bad suspension components, and water leaks. The severity and frequency of this hatchback's issues make it difficult to recommend to anyone. This includes all its year models.
Why did the Dodge Caliber fail?
In a nutshell, it was poor sales. The Caliber didn't have any strong attributes and didn't compete well. Also, the majority of the industry was producing mostly SUV's, and the Caliber was in an odd position, between a compact FWD compact with a type of crossover back end. There was simply no market for it.
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.
2009 Dodge Caliber car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Dodge Caliber problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Dodge Caliber vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2009 Dodge Caliber
The NHTSA has received 230 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Dodge Caliber. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2009 Dodge Caliber vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- 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!
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-02
- VIN: 1B3HB78B89D
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: My spouse and I owned this vehicle from day one. Front subframe assembly was rotting and was replaced by manufacturer under a recall but rear subframe assembly was not included. The rear subframe assembly is now rotted to the point where it needs to be replaced before vehicle becomes unsafe as it has for others. Vehicle barely has 72,000 miles on it and was garaged for the first 12 years of its life. Image of repaired front subframe assembly included for posterity.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-01
- VIN: 1B3HB48A99D
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Rear subframe rotted in half, causing rear driver side tire to sit sideways and loss of rear end
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-31
- VIN: 1B3HB28C79D
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rotting/rusting subframe. Not listed as a recall for this model year, but was for the previous years.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-16
- VIN: 1B3HB48A99D
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The transmission doesn't shift so if I am on the interstate doing 65 to 70 miles per hr.the transmission fluid heats up .Dodges answer to this is slow down or pull off interstate @ wait till it cools down then continue on your way,so in 50 miles I had to pull over 3 times my opinion not safe..
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-02
- VIN: 1B3HB48A09D
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: ● Component failed: Front and Rear Subframe. ● Safety at risk: Rotting Subframe. The front subframe had a recall which expired a couple years ago, which I was never notified about. I have replaced this part because it could have fallen out of my car due to the rotting. Now, the rear subframe is now rotting and unstable/unfit to drive. I have 88,000 miles on it and keep in the garage when possible. ● The vehicle and component has been inspected by the manufactorer as well as Monro Auto Service, Jiffy Lube and L&M Motors in Upstate New york regularly. ● No.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-14
- VIN: 1B3HB78BX9D
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Brought 2009 Caliber with 34,000 original miles to have breaks checked, the owner showed me there is not a brake issue, but the Sub Frame was extremely rotted and needed to be attended to as it could cause a serious accident. I had a Lifetime Added Care Plus warranty, but of course wasn't covered. I have been the only driver since vehicle was purchased.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-17
- VIN: 1b3hb48a39d
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: It started as a popping noise while driving which evolved into a louder sound and I was able to feel it click with my feet as I was driving, and I couldn't pinpoint exactly what was causing the issue at first. After going to a mechanics and having them look at it the subframe of the car was absolutely covered in rust to the point where it was falling apart and I could see inside. The air conditioning unit was badly designed, and the residual water from that caused the entire thing to rust. They advised that it was only going to get worse and could lead to the front axle essentially just falling out and totaling the car anyways. I drive everyday to and from work so having this issue is severely affecting my daily life and quite possibly my safety if anything happens while driving it.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-13
- VIN: 1B3HB28AX9D
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The problem initially occurred in early November of 2020 when the vehicle would unpredictably stall at a stop sign or traffic light and would not immediately start for a couple minutes. After this short wait of 1 to 3 minutes it was possible to restart the car and move forward normally and the car could be driven without stalling for 2 or 3 miles when it would stall again and the engine would not start again for 2 to 3 minutes. In traffic situations this was unsafe to not be able to move the vehicle to a safe distance from heavy traffic. Finally, the problem started to occur after the vehicle was supposedly repaired and not driven for 2 -3 days and when it an attempt to start the car it would idle for 3-5 seconds and sound like it was choking before dying, and this was happening 2 weeks after it had been "repaired" by the Dodge dealer. This problem has repeatedly occurred over the two years since the original incident and has been to a Dodge dealership for unsuccessful repairs 4 different times; 11/20; 04/22 &05/22 and it is still at the dealership being inoperable. Each time the car functioned for a few miles and then broke down again. The dealer informs us that the parts that would most likely repair the car are no longer made by Dodge and the car cannot be fixed. Interestingly enough this model vehicle has had a variety of recalls starting in 2007 but never for the particular control modules that are no longer available which are The Throttle control & Power Train Control modules, which the Dealer thinks might possibly be a fix but even that is not a sure thing. The Dodge dealer that worked on the vehicle presumably would have informed me about this situation at least before they had the vehicle in for now the 4th time in 3 years with the same problem with no solution. Up to the time of these breakdowns the vehicle was well maintained and taken care of and still has low mileage of just over 69,000 miles. Is the Dodge Corporation at least partially liable?
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-22
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B3HB48A29D
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: The car was in park on a hill, when I turned off the engine, it rolled down the steep hill and the brakes or emergency brake would not work. I crashed through a fence across the street and into a building. The car was totaled.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-08
- VIN: 1B3HB78B79D
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I was driving down to road and the the k member (subframe) rusted all the way through
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-07
- VIN: 1B3HB48A29D
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Hearing noise on drivers side. Took to garage for inspection and H Frame, sub frame, is rusting out and needs to be replaced. Motor and A Arms mount to this frame. Find out this is a common problem and no recall or help from Chrysler. This is a huge safety issue! Only have 68,000 on vehicle.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-16
- VIN: 1b3hb48a29d
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The vehicle had previously had the front subframe replaced under an unknown TSB. The contact stated that upon inspection, her son informed her that the rear subframe was corroded. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with NHTSA. The failure mileage was 155,946.
POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-23
- VIN: 1b3hb78b99d
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: The engine stalls when I take off more times than none I'm stuck idling in traffic almost causing accident the frame that hold motor mounts are bad I've replaced motor mounts twice in a less than a year the car heats up after 70 miles an hour I have 5o pull over and let it cool off this happens 3 to 4 times a week with the engine stalling and overheating didn't find out til after I leased the car from AtoZ auto on gen McMullen and it's financed through car financial services I believe they knew the car was damaged I got scammed and have to pay 425 dollars a month on a car that can't be fixed I've spent a lot trying to fix the car
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-04
- VIN: 1B3HB48A19D
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: My PCM failed car stopped on the highway in traffic without warning. I could have die or caused a death. My car is available . I’ve owned that vehicle for going on three months the first issue that I’ve had. After Car felt the check engine light came on I took it to be for a diagnostics test which read the PCM was the issue. My car is a 2009 Dodge caliber just recently charged 81,000 miles I pay $6000 for a car I just don’t believe that [XXX] dealer didn’t know I am fearful of dry driving it but what choice do I have. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B3HB48A79D
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Car was involved in an accident that resulted in a total loss . Air bags did not deploy. Car is currently at a towing company and can be inspected. No warning lights were on.
STEERING,AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1B3HB48A59D
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: Air bags didn't not deploy during a single car accident which ended in a head on crash into side of mountain then rolled over onto the roof. Speed about 30-35 mph. When tow truck turned car back over the driver's seat wasn't connected. Also prior to this accident problems with alignment, esp rear.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-18
- VIN: 1b3hb48a09d
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated that upon taking her vehicle to an independent mechanic for a state inspection, she was informed that the rear subframe was severely corroded. The contact was informed that the corrosion had caused a significant hole to form on the rear subframe which could cause a severe failure while driving. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that she would receive a callback. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 64,049.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-08
- VIN: 1B3HB48A29D
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: UNKNOWN Passenger side headlight will not come on Not a bad bulb
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-06
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1b3hb78b49d
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The front sub frame rusted out and almost killed everyone in the car the wheels turned out and lost all steering was really scary is there any way we can get this fixed by dodge this should be a recall I’ve looked at 6 calibers and all of them are rusted out
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-27
- VIN: 1B3HB48AX9D
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the steering wheel started vibrating. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the failure was caused by a corroded K-frame on the vehicle. The dealer was not made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist as the vehicle was not included in the 10-year extended warranty due to the manufacture on date. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-30
- VIN: 1B3HB48A79D
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated while coming to a stop, there was a loud banging sound heard. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the front passenger’s side wheel had detached due to a fractured lower control arm. The contact indicated that the failure was caused by severe rusting and corrosion of the subframe. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 109,000.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-10
- VIN: 1B3HB48A79D
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: When the vehicle reaches 3,000 RPMs the temperature light comes on and the vehicle seems like it wants to go into neutral The engine light comes on the antilock brake system light comes on.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-03
- VIN: 1B3HB48AX9D
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 2009 Dodge Caliper developed a split sub-frame suspension component due to heavy rust and the rear sub-frame has developed a severe rust and is also in danger of failure. This vehicle has less than 62,000 miles and is currently not operable. This vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The vehicle was being driven at the time of failure and had to be towed to a nearby repair shop. Contacted dealer service manager who stated that vehicle has no recalls or extended warranty’s. This incident occurred without any warnings. Please advise!
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-05
- VIN: 1B3HB48A89D
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY CAR WAS TOTALED BECAUSE THE FRONT SUBFLOOR BROKE IN HAVE THEY SAID IF GOING FASTER I WOULD HAVE ROLLED IT ONLY GOT 2000 HAD 1000 DEDUCTION I'M DISABLED I THINK I SHOULD GET MORE OF REFUND FOR YOUR DEFAULT
2009 Dodge Caliber recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2009 Dodge Caliber.
- Manufacturer: CHRYSLER LLC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
- Summary: CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 712 MY 2009 SEBRING, DODGE CALIBER, AVENGER, JOURNEY, JEEP PATRIOT, AND COMPASS VEHICLES. A NEW ADHESIVE USED IN THE POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) MANUFACTURING PROCESS CAN CAUSE THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD TO BREAK.
- Consequence: THIS CAN CAUSE THE ENGINE TO STALL AND CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PCM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 10, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Negative 2009 Dodge Caliber car reviews
Positive 2009 Dodge Caliber car reviews
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My wife and I test drove several different cars and finally decided on the Caliber. We went with the R/T model because we wanted the extra power that the 2.4L engine provides. We've been pleasantly surprised by all the little extras that come with it, which have added to our enjoyment of owning the car. Overall, we feel like we got a lot of car for our money.
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I'm so glad to hear that you love the Caliber SXT! It sounds like it's a great car with a lot of great features. It's always important to find a car that feels like a car and not a toy, and it's great to hear that the Caliber SXT meets that standard. Plus, it's American made in Illinois, which is fantastic. Thank you for sharing your experience and recommendation!
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This car has everything you need and more. They have really cut down on wind and engine noise since 2007, and for 2010, they are getting a new interior.
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I purchased my Caliber only 3 weeks ago and I'm happy to say it was an excellent choice. Compared to other cars in its class, it is comfortably roomy and has good acceleration. Plus, I've been getting 30+ mpg, driving both city and highway! If you can love a car, then I've met my soul mate.
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Great to hear that you're enjoying the impressive gas mileage and comfortable ride of your 4x2! It's great to know that it handles well in the snow too. Plus, it's easy to wash and get into. With so many options available at such a reasonable price, it's no wonder you're pleased with your purchase. The 4-cylinder engine also provides impressive get-up-and-go. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Dodge Caliber problems:
2009 Dodge Caliber Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 2009 Dodge Caliber? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2009 Dodge Caliber.
Dodge Caliber Mechanical Problems and Questions | Dodge ...
Discuss any Dodge Caliber mechanical problems/questions in this forum. Engine, trans, supension, body, interior moving parts, interior/exterior trim panels.
Dodge Caliber Reliability and Common Problems - In The Garage ...
Feb 14, 2024 ... The Dodge Caliber has a high reliability rating of 4 out of 5 from RepairPal despite the vehicle's many issues. Several owners have reported ...
Dodge Caliber: Intermittent Starting Problem | Dodge Caliber Forum
May 3, 2017 ... I've had a problem with my 2009 Dodge Caliber not starting intermittently for almost two years. ... common problem). The relay lives in a small ...
Reliable car? | Dodge Caliber Forums
Dec 3, 2011 ... Major problems include: motor mounts, a/c compressor and pulleys, steering rack and main gear(poor design causing failure around 75000 miles) ...
Other years of Dodge Caliber
Are you having problems with your 2009 Dodge Caliber?
Toni Nienow 2024-07-03
This car may not be the best fit for everyone, but it has its perks. If you enjoy the occasional adventure and don't mind some extra expenses, this car could be a fun choice. By the way, I've decided to get the car painted lemon yellow instead of dreamy blue.