Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with AutoStick (simulated manual shifting)
Features
Cvt Operation:
Belt and pulley system controlled electronically for optimal engine RPM
AWD Availability:
Optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available with 2.4L engine and CVT
Fluid Specs
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (check specific vehicle VIN and manual for exact spec)
Cvt Fluid:
CVTF (Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid) - Specific Mopar fluid required
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Length
Length:
174.9 inches (4443 mm)
Exterior Width
Width:
69.4 inches (1763 mm)
Exterior Height
Height:
63.7 inches (1618 mm)
Exterior Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
103.7 inches (2634 mm)
Exterior Ground Clearance
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 7.3 inches (185 mm)
Interior Passenger Volume
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 97.1 cu ft (2749 L)
Interior Cargo Volume
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 14.2 cu ft (402 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 35.4 cu ft (1002 L)
Weights Curb
Curb Weight Base:
Approx. 3082 lbs (1398 kg) (FWD, 2.0L)
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 3395 lbs (1539 kg) (AWD, 2.4L CVT)
Weights Gross
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 4400 lbs (1996 kg)
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Standard Tire Size:
215/60R17 (SE, SXT trims)
Optional Tire Size:
225/45R18 (R/T, optional SXT)
Standard Wheel Size:
17 x 6.5 inches
Optional Wheel Size:
18 x 7 inches
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings Nhtsa
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
★★★★☆
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
★★★★☆
NHTSA Side Driver Front Impact:
★★★★☆
NHTSA Side Passenger Front Impact:
★★★★★
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
★★★★☆
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
★★★★☆
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control (TCS) on most models
Electronic Stability Control:
Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Stability Assist
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags, optional side-curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, front seat pre-tensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System Options:
Optional AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Uconnect hands-free communication system.
Speaker Options:
4-speaker or optional 6-speaker Boston Acoustics premium audio system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Keyless Entry:
Optional keyless entry and ignition
Connectivity
Uconnect Features:
Bluetooth streaming audio and hands-free calling (on equipped models).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000-15,000 miles (19,000-24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L/2.4L:
Iridium spark plugs: 75,000-100,000 miles (120,000-160,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Cvt Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km) or as specified by the manual.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-20, API SN or SP certified (check manual for specific engine).
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approx. 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a pink color.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Known Issues
Transmission Cvt Reliability:
Some CVT models have reported issues with premature failure or shuddering, often related to fluid degradation or internal component wear. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Engine Mounts:
Engine mounts can wear prematurely, leading to vibrations and noise.
Power Steering Pump:
Some instances of power steering pump whine or failure have been reported.
Radiator Fan:
Radiator cooling fan motor can fail, leading to overheating.
Interior Rattles:
Plastic interior panels can sometimes develop rattles and squeaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Dodge History:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history in American automotive manufacturing, known for performance and utility vehicles.
Model Evolution
Caliber Introduction:
The Dodge Caliber was introduced for the 2007 model year, replacing the Dodge Neon as Chrysler's compact car offering. It was built on Chrysler's Global Engine Manufacturing Architecture (GEM) platform.
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform and powertrain components with Mitsubishi Lancer (CY platform).
Production
Production Period:
2006-2012
Production Location
Assembly Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Belvidere, Illinois, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
N/A (IIHS ratings vary by year and testing criteria; not consistently a top performer)
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated below average to average in reliability by consumer organizations.