Market Position:
The Dodge Caliber was positioned as a budget-friendly compact crossover, offering SUV-like styling and practicality at a more accessible price point.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles such as the Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cobalt, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Nissan Sentra in its class, but with a distinct crossover appeal.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized a bold exterior design, spacious interior for its class, and affordability. Offered a range of engine options to cater to different needs.
Target Audience:
Appealed to younger buyers, families looking for a practical and economical vehicle, and those seeking a stylish alternative to traditional sedans.
Primary Coverage:
Body Repair and Structural Integrity
Secondary Coverage:
Exterior Body Panels, Frame, Chassis, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Trim
Manual Type:
Body Repair Manual
Body Structure:
Unibody construction, structural components, front and rear impact beams, side impact protection.
Exterior Panels:
Hood, fenders, doors, quarter panels, liftgate, roof panel, rocker panels, bumpers.
Glass And Seals:
Windshield, side glass, rear glass, sunroof (if equipped), seals, weatherstripping.
Trim And Accessories:
Exterior moldings, grilles, emblems, exterior lighting components related to body fitment.
Panel Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing all exterior body panels.
Structural Repair:
Guidelines for repairing damaged structural members, frame straightening, and welding procedures.
Glass Replacement:
Procedures for replacing windshields, side windows, and rear glass, including sealant application.
Alignment And Fitment:
Instructions for ensuring proper panel alignment, gaps, and overall fitment after repairs.
Fastener Details:
Specifications for bolts, nuts, clips, rivets, and adhesives used in body assembly.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Focuses on identifying collision damage, structural issues, and proper repair methodologies.
Repair Methodologies:
Detailed procedures for straightening, cutting, welding (MIG, TIG), adhesive bonding, and rivetting.
Measurement Systems:
Includes body alignment specifications and reference points for accurate structural repairs.
Material Specifications:
Information on steel types, aluminum components, and composite materials used in the body structure.
Engine Options:
1.8L, 2.0L, and 2.4L DOHC I4 gasoline engines; 1.8L and 2.0L VW-derived TDI diesel engines (Europe).
2.0L I4 (Gema):
Horsepower: 148 hp @ 6300 rpm, Torque: 140 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (approximate)
2.4L I4 (World Engine):
Horsepower: 173 hp @ 6000 rpm, Torque: 165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines.
World Engine Variant:
GEMA (Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional Transmission:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) 'Autostick' (simulated gears), 4-speed automatic transmission (for certain engines/trims)
Cvtf Fluid:
Specific CVT fluid required, consult manual for type (e.g., Mopar CVTF +4).
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4 stars (driver and passenger)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Acceptable
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes (standard); optional 4-wheel disc with ABS.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags; optional front side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Audio System:
Optional Boston Acoustics premium sound system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Navigation:
Optional navigation system available on some trims.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional on lower trims, standard on higher trims.
Auxiliary Input:
Auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external devices.
Interior Features:
Optional 'Chill Zone' beverage cooler in the glovebox.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to owner's manual for specific recommendations).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or annually.
Engine Oil:
Refer to owner's manual. Commonly 5W-20 or 5W-30 for gasoline engines (check API classification).
Coolant:
Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically pink or orange color (e.g., Mopar 05189003AA).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Cvt Reliability:
Some CVT transmissions experienced premature failure or hesitation; proper fluid maintenance is crucial.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine mounts leading to vibrations.
Suspension Components:
Potential for early wear of struts, shocks, and suspension bushings.
Dodge Legacy:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing robust and often performance-oriented vehicles, evolving into a brand known for its bold styling and American muscle.
Caliber Introduction:
The Dodge Caliber was introduced for the 2007 model year, replacing the Dodge Neon as Chrysler's compact offering and marking Dodge's entry into the compact crossover segment.
Assembly Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.
Production Years:
2006-2012 (Model Years 2007-2012 for North America).
Initial Reception:
Received mixed reviews upon launch, praised for its distinctive styling and practicality but criticized for its interior materials and powertrain refinement.
Fuel Economy:
EPA estimates varied by engine and transmission, generally in the range of 20-28 MPG city and 26-35 MPG highway.
Emissions Standards:
Meets relevant EPA emissions standards for the model year.
