Budget-conscious buyers seeking practicality, versatility, and a higher seating position than a traditional car.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage.
Key Features
Distinctive Elements:
Distinctive styling (for its time), practical interior space for its class, availability of All-Wheel Drive (AWD).
Manual Advantage:
This manual provides the exact, vehicle-specific information needed by professional technicians, ensuring accurate and efficient repairs, unlike generic online guides.
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (40TE / 41TE - less common for this year in many markets)
Features
Drivetrain Options:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD - typically with 2.4L engine and CVT/Automatic).
Cvt Details:
CVT uses a belt and pulley system for continuously variable gear ratios. Requires specific CVT fluid (e.g., Mopar CVTF+4).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
174.5 inches (4432 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
63.7 inches (1618 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.7 inches (2634 mm)
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 97.6 cu ft
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approximately 21.0 cu ft
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approximately 53.1 cu ft
Weights
Curb Weight Min:
3,175 lbs (1440 kg) (2.0L FWD Manual)
Curb Weight Max:
3,549 lbs (1609 kg) (2.4L AWD)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4/5 stars
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Roof Strength Rating:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (all standard).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants, 3-point seatbelts for rear occupants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with 4 or 6 speakers. Optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system available.
Uconnect System:
Optional Uconnect Voice Command and Bluetooth connectivity available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Keyless Entry:
Standard on most trims.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 to 7,500 miles (9,650 to 12,070 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil meeting API SN and SAE viscosity.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Iridium-tip spark plugs (e.g., Champion Iridium).
Transmission Fluid Cvt:
Check level regularly. Replacement interval varies; consult manual, typically around 60,000 miles (96,500 km) for severe use. Use Mopar CVTF+4 or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Check level. Replacement typically at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or as specified by manufacturer. Use appropriate manual transmission fluid (e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for specific engine/climate), API SN or higher.
Coolant:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant, P/N 05010017AA (Purple) or equivalent HOAT. Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid, P/N 05120012AA or equivalent.
Known Issues
Cvt Reliability:
Some CVT models have reported issues with durability, including hesitation, slipping, or failure, often related to fluid degradation or solenoid issues. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Suspension Noise:
Reports of knocking or rattling from front suspension components, often attributed to worn strut mounts or sway bar links.
Heater Core Leaks:
Some models have experienced premature heater core leaks, leading to coolant loss and a sweet smell inside the cabin.
Window Regulator Failure:
Power window regulators can fail, leading to windows not operating or dropping down.
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine mounts can lead to increased vibration felt in the cabin, especially at idle.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Context:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history of producing robust and often performance-oriented vehicles. The Caliber represented their entry into the compact crossover segment.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
The Dodge Caliber was introduced for the 2007 model year, replacing the Dodge Neon as Chrysler's compact car offering. It was presented as a crossover-style hatchback.
2012 Model Year Updates:
For 2012, the Caliber received minor cosmetic updates and equipment shuffling. It was the penultimate model year before its discontinuation, being replaced by the Dodge Dart (sedan) and ultimately the Fiat 500X crossover in North America.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.
Production Years:
2007 - 2012
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Achieved 'Good' ratings in IIHS front, side, and roof strength tests, indicating solid safety performance for its class and era.
Practicality Awards:
While not a major award winner, its practicality and versatile interior space were often cited as key strengths by automotive reviewers.
Certifications
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for the 2012 model year.