Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, individuals seeking versatile utility in a compact package.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Chevrolet Equinox.
Unique Selling Points:
Hatchback-like utility, distinctive styling, variety of powertrain options including a performance-oriented SRT4 variant and diesel option in some markets.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the in-depth knowledge required to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Dodge Caliber across its entire production run, saving time and money.
Engine Options Covered:
1.8L I4, 2.0L I4 (Volkswagen FSI), 2.4L I4 (World Engine), 1.8L I4 CRD Diesel
Transmission Options Covered:
5-speed Getrag manual (NV1500/NV3500), Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) (JF011E) with AutoStick, 6-speed Getrag manual (MPS6)
Trim Levels Covered:
SE, SXT, SLT, SRT4
Estimated Page Count:
2000+
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (all variants), Fuel system, Exhaust system, Engine electrical, Ignition system, Emission controls, Turbocharger system (SRT4), Automatic and Manual Transmissions, Drivetrain (FWD, AWD options)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), Steering system (power, manual), Brakes (ABS, RWD, EBD), Wheels and Tires
Body And Interior:
Body panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Windows, Mirrors, Interior trim, Seats, Climate control system (HVAC), Restraint systems (Airbags), Lighting (exterior and interior)
Electrical And Electronics:
Battery, Charging system, Starting system, Lighting, Wipers and washers, Horn, Instrumentation, Audio systems, Power accessories (windows, locks), Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Cruise control
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-offs, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspections and replacement
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine disassembly and assembly, Transmission removal and installation, Brake caliper and rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement, Steering rack replacement, HVAC system repair, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, Body panel repair and replacement
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) interpretation, Symptom-based troubleshooting charts, Electrical circuit diagrams, Component testing procedures, Fuel system pressure testing, Ignition timing checks
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Engine 1 8L Gema:
DOHC 16-valve inline-4, Displacement: 1.8L (1798 cc), Bore x Stroke: 83 mm x 83 mm, Horsepower: 148 hp @ 6500 rpm, Torque: 125 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm.
Engine 2 0L Fsi:
DOHC 16-valve inline-4 (Volkswagen direct injection), Displacement: 2.0L (1984 cc), Bore x Stroke: 82.5 mm x 92.8 mm, Horsepower: 156 hp @ 6000 rpm, Torque: 140 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm.
Engine 2 4L World Engine:
DOHC 16-valve inline-4, Displacement: 2.4L (2360 cc), Bore x Stroke: 88 mm x 97 mm, Horsepower: 172 hp @ 6000 rpm, Torque: 165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm.
Engine 1 8L Crdi Diesel:
DOHC 16-valve inline-4 turbo-diesel, Displacement: 1.8L (1798 cc), Horsepower: 140 hp @ 4000 rpm, Torque: 243 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm (approximate).
Srt4 Engine:
2.4L DOHC turbocharged inline-4 (World Engine based), Horsepower: 285 hp @ 6400 rpm, Torque: 265 lb-ft @ 2200 rpm.
Fuel Induction:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for 1.8L GEMA and 2.4L World Engine; Direct Injection (FSI) for 2.0L VW engine; Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) for diesel.
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (1.8L, 2.0L, 2.4L); Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel (1.8L CRD).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission (NV1500/NV3500) on most base models.
Optional Transmission:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with AutoStick (JF011E) on many models; 6-speed Manual Transmission (MPS6) on some higher trims and AWD models.
Cvt Features:
Simulated gear shifts (AutoStick function), adaptive shift logic.
AWD System:
Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system on select models, often paired with the 2.4L engine and CVT or 6-speed manual.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (2007 models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2007-2009 models)
Braking System:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (standard); optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control (TCS) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) on some models.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side curtain airbags, optional front seat-mounted side airbags.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) available on some trims.
Audio Options:
Base AM/FM/CD, optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio readiness.
Navigation:
Aftermarket navigation systems were common; factory navigation was not a widespread feature.
Parking Assist:
Rear parking assist sensors were an available option on higher trims.
Power Ports:
12V power outlets for accessory charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Engine Air Filter:
Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Iridium spark plugs: 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Copper spark plugs (if used): 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 Synthetic (check owner's manual for specific engine requirements). API certified.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF), e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MS-9224) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Cvt:
CVT Fluid, e.g., Mopar CVTF (NS-2) or equivalent (CRITICAL: Use only specified fluid).
Coolant:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Orange Antifreeze/Coolant, Chrysler Specification MS-9769 or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Cvt Reliability:
Some CVT transmissions experienced premature wear or failure, particularly in early models or if fluid maintenance was neglected.
Engine Mounts:
Engine mounts can wear out, leading to vibration and clunking noises, especially under acceleration.
Radiator Fan Assembly:
Cooling fan motors or assemblies have been reported to fail.
Suspension Components:
Sway bar links and bushings can wear, causing clunking over bumps.
Dodge Lineage:
Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history of producing durable and performance-oriented vehicles, often with a focus on value.
Caliber Introduction:
Introduced for the 2007 model year as a replacement for the Neon and SX 2.0. Positioned as a compact crossover/hatchback with SUV-like styling and practicality.
Mid-Cycle Refresh:
Received minor styling updates and feature revisions for the 2009 model year, including a revised grille and interior enhancements.
Production Plant:
Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.
Production End:
Production ceased after the 2011 model year, replaced by the Dodge Dart (sedan) and later the Jeep Compass/Patriot in the compact crossover segment for Dodge.
Automotive Press Reviews:
While not a recipient of major awards, the Caliber was generally praised for its value proposition, cargo flexibility, and distinctive styling within its segment. SRT4 variant received recognition for its performance for the price.
Fuel Economy Estimates:
Varies by engine/transmission: 1.8L manual typically around 24 MPG city / 30 MPG highway. 2.0L CVT around 23 MPG city / 28 MPG highway. 2.4L CVT AWD around 22 MPG city / 27 MPG highway. Diesel offered better fuel economy.
