🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caliber

Trim Level:

SXT RT

Model Years:

2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011

Platform:

Chrysler JS platform

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV/Hatchback

Target Audience:

Budget-conscious consumers seeking practicality, versatility, and a stylish design.

Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5.

Design:

Distinctive exterior styling with a bolder grille and more upright stance compared to typical hatchbacks. Often lauded for its youthful appeal.

Interior Versatility:

Flexible seating arrangements, available fold-flat front passenger seat for extended cargo length, and ample cabin space for its class.

Performance Variants:

Availability of a sportier RT (Road/Track) package, often featuring enhanced suspension and engine options.

Value Proposition:

Offered a competitive price point with a good balance of features and practicality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Levels:

Comprehensive Workshop Service and Repair

Total Pages:

> 5800

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, given file size)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full overhaul procedures, component replacement, timing systems, lubrication, cooling, emissions controls, engine diagnostics.

Engine Performance:

Fuel delivery, ignition system, turbocharging (if applicable), engine control module (ECM) operation and diagnostics.

Transmission Manual:

Maintenance, repair, and overhaul of manual transmissions, clutch systems, and related components.

Transmission Automatic:

Maintenance, repair, and overhaul of automatic transmissions (e.g., CVT), torque converters, and transmission control modules (TCM).

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) systems, axles, CV joints, differentials, driveshafts, and associated components.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and alignment procedures.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, and associated components.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, EBD, brake calipers, rotors, pads, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting systems, ignition system, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay layouts, component testing.

Body Electrical:

Power windows, door locks, mirrors, seats, interior/exterior lighting, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, and body control modules (BCM).

HVAC System:

Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control systems, refrigerant handling, component diagnosis and replacement.

Body And Frame:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, and structural components.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt mechanisms, occupant restraint systems, and related diagnostics.

Infotainment And Navigation:

Audio systems, navigation systems, Uconnect integration (if applicable), and related diagnostics.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations, brake inspections.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, circuit testing, component testing, diagnostic tool usage.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and repair for all major vehicle systems.

Overhaul Procedures:

Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including connector views and pinouts.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Systematic flowcharts for diagnosing common and complex vehicle problems.

Depth:

Extensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine/transmission overhauls and advanced diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF (Portable Document Format)

File Size:

113 MB

Readability:

High, suitable for screen viewing and printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Text Search:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

Various Dodge Caliber models featured different engines. The SXT RT trim often came with the 1.8L (e.g., 1.8L DOHC 16V I4 - GEMA engine family) or the 2.4L (e.g., 2.4L DOHC 16V I4 - GEMA engine family). Specific engine availability may vary by market and exact sub-trim.

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 148 hp to 173 hp, depending on the engine option.

Torque Range:

Approximately 125 lb-ft to 165 lb-ft, depending on the engine option.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline.

Cooling Method:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric fan.

Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific SAE viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 5W-20 or SAE 0W-20) and API service classification (e.g., API SN).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (often on base models or specific variants).

Transmission Type:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - commonly known as CVTC (Continuously Variable Transaxle Clutch).

FWD Layout:

All-wheel-drive (AWD) was not a common option for the Caliber, predominantly Front-Wheel Drive (FWD).

Cvtf Fluid:

Specific CVT fluid (e.g., Mopar CVT Fluid NS-2 or equivalent) required. Refer to manual for exact part numbers and specifications.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 170.7 inches (4336 mm)

Width:

Approximately 68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

Approximately 64.2 inches (1631 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 14.0 cubic feet (rear seats up), 48.0 cubic feet (rear seats folded).

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine and trim, typically ranging from 3,000 to 3,300 lbs.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to VIN plate for exact GVWR.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Generally good to acceptable ratings during its production run.

IIHS Side Impact:

Generally acceptable ratings.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most trims.

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS).

Electronic Stability Control:

Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Electronic Stability Program (ESP).

Airbags:

Standard front airbags, available front side airbags and side curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio systems, with available premium Boston Acoustics sound systems and SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

Navigation:

Optional touch-screen navigation system available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most models.

Bluetooth:

Available Uconnect Hands-Free Communication system with Bluetooth connectivity on some models.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to the manual for specific recommendations.

Transmission Fluid Interval:

CVT fluid replacement interval is critical for longevity. Consult the manual for specific mileage recommendations (e.g., every 60,000 - 100,000 miles), as neglect can lead to transmission failure.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving environment.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary by spark plug type; platinum or iridium plugs often last 100,000 miles.

Engine Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically pink or orange. Refer to manual for exact type and mixture ratio (50/50).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Refer to manual for specific DOT requirement.

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific fluid type (e.g., Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent).

Cvt Reliability:

The CVT transmission, while offering fuel efficiency, has been a reported area of concern for some owners, particularly regarding premature failure if maintenance is neglected or if fluid is not changed at recommended intervals.

Suspension Wear:

Like many vehicles in its class, front suspension components (e.g., ball joints, struts, bushings) can experience wear over time, leading to knocking noises or alignment issues.

Door Lock Actuators:

Some reports of failing door lock actuators, affecting central locking operation.

Engine Oil Leaks:

Minor oil leaks, often from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gaskets, can occur with age and mileage.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Legacy:

Dodge has a long history of producing robust vehicles, often with a focus on performance and aggressive styling.

Caliber Introduction:

The Dodge Caliber was introduced for the 2007 model year as a replacement for the Dodge Neon and Chrysler PT Cruiser's role in the compact segment.

Design Philosophy:

Positioned as a sportier, more aggressive alternative to conventional compact cars and SUVs, blending hatchback utility with SUV-like styling cues.

Facelift:

Received a minor facelift for the 2009 model year, which included updated interior materials and some exterior styling tweaks.

Production Period:

2006-2012 (model years 2007-2011 are covered by this manual).

Manufacturing Plant:

Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Illinois, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

While not a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, it aimed for competitive safety ratings for its class.

Fuel Economy Ratings:

EPA ratings varied by engine and transmission, generally competitive within the compact crossover segment, especially with the CVT.

Emissions Standards:

Designed to meet prevailing emissions standards for its model years (e.g., EPA Tier 2 Bin 5).