Dodge Caliber Reliability and Common Problems

When it was first introduced in 2007, the Dodge Caliber showed some potential as a versatile five-door hatchback. It offered more space and utility than its predecessor, the Dodge Neon. However, the Caliber has faced several issues throughout its five years of production from 2007 to 2012, which led to its discontinuation. If you plan on buying a 2012 Dodge Caliber, you can probably find a used model for less than $5,000 since the Caliber depreciates by 10% after five years, according to AutoPadre.

Are Dodge Calibers Reliable?

The Dodge Caliber’s reliability remains a contentious topic. RepairPal.com gave the Dodge Caliber a high reliability rating of 4 out of 5 despite the vehicle’s many flaws. Some owners have reported several issues with their vehicles, including faulty transmission systems, engine problems, bad suspension components, and water leaks. Newer Caliber models have updated interiors and decent cargo space, which add a bit of a comfort and utility. However, the high frequency of repairs and maintenance can be a turn-off for budget-conscious buyers. With such high ownership costs, the Caliber’s low resale prices may be its most redeeming quality.

Common Dodge Caliber Problems

Despite a successful first year of sales, the Caliber disappointed many Chrysler-Dodge fans with its poor performance and substandard parts that cost a fortune to replace. Dodge managed to fix some of the Caliber’s issues in subsequent releases, but the steady decline in sales assured the vehicle’s discontinuation from their lineup. Here are some of the most frequently reported Dodge Caliber issues.

CVT Failure

The Dodge Caliber had two types of transmission systems available: manual and CVT. The Continuously Variable Transmissions or CVT is a type of automatic transmission designed to improve a vehicle’s fuel efficiency and acceleration. Unlike manual transmissions, CVTs use a belt and pulley system instead of physical gears to select the best drive ratio to match a wide range of driving conditions. Whether you’re accelerating or cruising, the CVT automatically adjusts the vehicle’s handling to your desired speed, so there’s less hassle when driving. Sounds like a nifty feature to have, right? Well, the CVT on the Dodge Caliber had a series of issues:

• Jerking, slipping or jumping during acceleration
• Leaking transmission fluid
• Burning smell
• Check engine light comes on

Though transmission issues exist across all model years, the 2009 Caliber stands out as the most problematic in the lineup. Several owners have also complained about hearing whining or grinding noises when accelerating. This is a sure sign of transmission failure. If you have this problem, you need to check with your local mechanic to see if the part can still be repaired. Since the CVT is much more complex than your regular manual or automatic transmissions, the average cost of repairs can range from $3,000 to $8,000 depending on the severity of the damage.

Drain Tubes Leaking Water

The Dodge Caliber has drain tubes installed in the front and rear pan assembly of its sunroof designed to drain water and other liquids that fall onto the vehicle. When these tubes become clogged with debris, water can leak into the hatchback’s interiors, causing all kinds of damage to the car seats, floorboards, headliners, and even the electrical systems. Drain tubes are considered an accessory, but their importance cannot be understated. 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. If you want to avoid potential water damage, you’d better call a mechanic to check your drain tubes.

Bad Ball Joints and Control Arms

According to CarComplaints.com, the Dodge Caliber is known to have suspension problems commonly caused by faulty ball joints and control arms. This issue occurs in all Dodge Caliber years, but it’s most common in the 2007 model. Some owners have expressed their frustration with their Caliber’s bouncy suspension, which led to uneven tire wear. Many of them had to replace their control arm ball joints and bushings at least twice, but that hardly solved the vehicle’s suspension issues. They continued to complain about their vehicle’s bouncy suspension even after having their Calibers serviced. Driving with bad suspension components can lead to an accident, so you have to get these parts replaced as soon as you notice rough steering, uneven tire wear, or a shift in your vehicle’s alignment. Keep this in mind when buying a used Caliber.

Engine Problems

When your vehicle unexpectedly shuts down in the middle of traffic, it can lead to an accident. Many owners have reported engine problems that caused their 2007 Dodge Calibers to randomly slow down, stall, idle, or shut off. There are several possible causes for the Caliber’s slow acceleration. A dirty or clogged fuel injector, for instance, can affect the amount of fuel delivered to the engine, causing your vehicle to slow down. You may be able to solve this problem with a thorough cleaning. A failed catalytic converter may have the same effect on your Caliber’s acceleration as a clogged fuel injector. The change in back pressure created by a failed catalytic converter can cause the engine to run hotter than usual, resulting in idling or stalling. A faulty fuel system can also be the cause of the issue. Make sure to check your fuel pump, fuel filter, and fuel injector for signs of dirt and clogging, as these can disrupt the fuel to air ratio inside the engine. Whatever the case may be, you should visit your mechanic and ask for a complete maintenance check of your vehicle. They should be able to pinpoint the exact cause of your Caliber’s acceleration problems.

The Dodge Caliber has some serious maintenance problems that make it difficult to recommend to anyone. The only redeeming factor seems to be the Caliber’s low resale price and depreciation rate. Buying a used Dodge Caliber might be somewhat of a gamble, so make sure to ask the seller about the vehicle’s repair and maintenance history.

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