Years Covered:
2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
Platform:
Chrysler JS platform (based on Mitsubishi GS platform)
Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers seeking a versatile, practical vehicle with a stylish exterior and a range of engine options.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Tucson.
Design:
Distinctive, SUV-like exterior styling with a tall roofline and hatchback utility, differentiating it from more conventional sedans.
Interior:
Spacious cabin for its class, versatile seating arrangements, available features like a chilled glove box and enhanced audio systems.
Powertrain Options:
Wide range of engines, including fuel-efficient base options and more powerful choices, catering to various driving needs.
Coverage:
All mechanical, electrical, body, and maintenance aspects for the specified Dodge Caliber model years.
Page Count:
Comprehensive (estimated 2000+ pages, typical for full factory service manuals)
Manual Type:
Full Repair and Service Manual (Factory Service Manual equivalent)
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, potentially with searchable capabilities)
Powertrain:
Engine (2.0L, 2.4L, 1.8L, 1.8L Diesel), Transmission (CVT, 5-speed Manual, 6-speed Manual), Drivetrain (FWD).
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson strut, rear multi-link/independent), Brakes (ABS, front discs, rear drums/discs), Steering (power rack and pinion).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, power windows, mirrors, audio systems, instrument cluster, body control modules (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
Body And Trim:
Interior trim, exterior panels, bumpers, doors, glass, seats, airbags.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and resolution, electrical system diagnostics.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, exhaust system repair, cooling system service.
Installation:
Component replacement procedures, timing belt/chain replacement, accessory installation.
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and torque specifications.
File Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual. Contains clear diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital format, but if printed, typically coil-bound or perfect-bound for usability)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.0L (1998 cc)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine 1 Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Power:
Approximately 140-158 hp @ 6000-6500 rpm (depending on specific variant and market)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approximately 130-140 lb-ft @ 4500-5000 rpm (depending on specific variant and market)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.4L (2360 cc)
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, World Engine (GEMA family)
Engine 2 Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 2 Power:
Approximately 172 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approximately 165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 3 Options:
1.8L (1798 cc) Inline 4-cylinder (Chrysler/Global Engine Alliance), 1.8L CRD Turbodiesel (for European markets).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for performance variants), Diesel (for CRD models).
Compression Ratio:
Varies by engine; e.g., 2.0L approx. 9.5:1, 2.4L approx. 9.5:1
Transmission 1 Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag / Chrysler T350)
Transmission 2 Type:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - Jatco JF011E (marketed as AutoStick by Dodge)
Transmission 3 Type:
6-speed Manual (Getrag / Chrysler NS35T5, typically with 2.4L engine)
Cvt Features:
Simulated gear changes in some later models, front-wheel drive only.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MS-9070 (or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil)
Cvt Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler CVTF (Jatco NS-2 specification) - requires specific CVT fluid, NOT regular ATF.
Length:
Approximately 168.4 - 170.9 inches (4275 - 4340 mm) depending on model year and trim.
Width:
Approximately 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approximately 60.4 inches (1535 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 103.7 inches (2634 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 95-98 cubic feet (2689 - 2775 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approximately 14.0 - 21.1 cubic feet (396 - 597 liters) depending on configuration.
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approximately 49.4 - 53.1 cubic feet (1400 - 1504 liters)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3050 - 3400 lbs (1383 - 1542 kg) depending on engine and driveline.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (2007 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (2007 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat Occupant:
Good (2007 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat Occupant:
Good (2007 model year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable (2007 model year), Marginal (later model years tested differently or not tested)
ABS:
Standard on most trims; Antilock Braking System (ABS) available with Brake Assist.
Traction Control:
Available (TCS), often part of stability control systems in later models.
Stability Control:
Available (ESC/ESP - Electronic Stability Program) on many models, especially those with CVT or higher trims.
Airbags:
Standard multi-stage front airbags, available front side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all occupants.
Audio System:
Available Boston Acoustics premium audio system with subwoofer, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Uconnect multimedia system (late models).
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system available on higher trims.
Parking Sensors:
Available rear parking assist system.
Bluetooth:
Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system available on later models and as an option.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control options, available heated seats.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, optional fog lights, interior dome and map lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations and synthetic oil use).
Engine Air Filter:
Recommended replacement every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter:
Recommended replacement every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Varies by engine; typically 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for Iridium plugs, 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for platinum or copper plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
CVT fluid: Lifetime fill recommended by some, but regular inspection and replacement every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) is prudent. Manual transmission fluid: Inspect periodically, replace every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-20 or SAE 5W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific engine and temperature recommendations). MS-6395 compliant.
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Pink/Orange coolant. MS-9769 specification. Do NOT mix with OAT or IAT coolants.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Transmission Cvts:
Early CVT models were prone to valve body issues, solenoid failures, and torque converter problems, often leading to shuddering or loss of drive. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts can lead to excessive vibration and clunking noises.
Suspension:
Front suspension components (struts, ball joints) and rear suspension bushings can wear out, leading to noise and poor handling.
Cv Axles:
Outer CV joints can wear out, causing clicking noises during turns.
Power Steering:
Some models experienced issues with power steering pump or electric power steering (EPS) systems, leading to stiffness or noise.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Group LLC (then owned by Cerberus Capital Management, later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles).
Facelift Year:
A minor refresh occurred for the 2011 model year, primarily with updated interior materials, new wheel designs, and revised option packages. No significant mechanical redesign.
Production End Year:
2012 (for North American market), 2013 (global markets and final production year).
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA; also other plants globally for different markets.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received average to below-average reliability ratings from Consumer Reports over its production run, particularly concerning the CVT transmission.
Kbb Value:
Resale value is typically in the lower to mid-range for its class, reflecting market reception and reliability perceptions.
