Competed against vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Mazda3, and Chevrolet Cobalt.
Key Features
Unique Selling Points:
Offered a unique blend of hatchback practicality with SUV-like styling, available AWD, and a range of engine options including a sporty turbocharged variant (Caliber SRT-4).
Manual Purpose
Value Proposition:
Enables DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs confidently, saving time and money.
Ignition control, charging system, lighting, instruments and gauges, audio/video, chime/buzzer, electronic control modules (ECMs, TCMs, etc.), power systems, speed control, vehicle theft security, wipers/washers, navigation/telecommunication, wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Frame, bumpers, body panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, seating, airbags (restraints), HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), emissions control.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid level checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, belt tensioning, spark plug replacement, tire rotation.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine assembly/disassembly, transmission servicing, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component diagnostics and replacement, body panel repair and replacement, HVAC system service.
Extensive and detailed, covering basic maintenance to complete vehicle overhaul and complex body repair procedures. Includes detailed diagrams, schematics, and torque specifications.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format Details:
Digital PDF format, optimized for clarity and searchability. All pages are printable.
Print Quality
Diagram Quality:
Top quality diagrams and instructions, ensuring clarity for repairs.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system available with the 2.4L engine and CVT.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
174.9 inches (4443 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
60.7 inches (1542 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.7 inches (2634 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Min:
Approx. 3100 lbs (1406 kg) for 2.0L manual
Curb Weight Max:
Approx. 3400 lbs (1542 kg) for 2.4L AWD CVT
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Driver: 5 Stars, Passenger: 5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact:
Front Passenger: 4 Stars, Rear Passenger: 4 Stars
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
IIHS Side Impact:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all wheels.
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models.
Electronic Stability:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) available on some models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, available front and rear side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats, 3-point seat belts for rear seats.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Navigation:
Optional Uconnect Navigation system with touchscreen interface.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard Speed Control (Cruise Control) on most trims.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
2.0L & 2.4L: Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Iridium spark plugs. Check manual for specific plug type.
Coolant Flush:
First flush at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (API SN/SM/SL certified). Consult manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate.
Transmission Fluid Type Cvt:
Chrysler/Dodge ATF+4 (Mopar CVTF+4) or equivalent. Exact specification required for CVT longevity.
Coolant Type:
OAT (Organic Additive Technology) type coolant, Mopar 5 Year / 100,000 Mile Formula or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Problems:
CVT transmission issues (slipping, shuddering), premature strut and suspension component wear, minor electrical gremlins, occasional HVAC blower motor failure.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Parent Company:
Chrysler Group LLC (formerly DaimlerChrysler)
Model Evolution
Introduction:
The Dodge Caliber was introduced for the 2007 model year, replacing the Dodge Neon as Dodge's compact car offering.
Platform Development:
Based on Chrysler's Global Engine Modular Architecture (GEMA) platform, shared with Mitsubishi and Hyundai.
Production
Production Years:
2007-2012
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards:
While the Caliber received mixed reviews, some configurations were noted for their value and practicality in their segment. Specific major awards are not widely documented for this model year.