🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caliber

Year:

2008

Vin Prefix:

1C4

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV / Hatchback

Target Audience:

Budget-conscious buyers seeking a versatile, practical vehicle for urban commuting and light utility.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Rogue, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson

Design Philosophy:

Unique 'fast-forward' styling, practical interior with good cargo space for its class.

Powertrain Options:

Offered with a range of 4-cylinder engines, prioritizing fuel efficiency.

Drivetrain:

Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) configurations.

📋 Manual Details

Main Coverage:

Features, controls, maintenance, service schedules, DIY activities, towing, safety

Estimated Pages:

Approx. 300-400 (typical for this era/segment)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Electronic)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, transmission basics, fuel system overview

Chassis:

Braking system operation, steering, suspension basics

Electrical:

Dashboard indicators, lighting, power outlets, basic fuse identification

Comfort Convenience:

Climate control, seating adjustments, power windows/locks, audio system basics, keyless entry

Safety Security:

Airbag system, seat belts, child restraints, anti-theft system operation

Operation:

Starting and driving, parking, operating various controls and features

Maintenance Basic:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement guides

Maintenance Scheduling:

Recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, inspections

Diy Activities:

Limited DIY tasks, likely focusing on basic fluid checks and tire pressure adjustment

Towing:

Information on towing a trailer, towing capacity limitations

Emergency Situations:

Jumper starting, changing a flat tire, emergency brake usage

Depth:

Consumer-level, focusing on operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not contain in-depth repair diagnostics or component-level disassembly instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Windows, Mac, Linux compatible

Searchability:

Typically OCR-enhanced for text search within PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for printing at home or office

Original Binding:

Dealer-purchased physical manual: Typically perfect bound or saddle-stitched

Original Paper:

Dealer-purchased physical manual: Glossy or semi-gloss paper stock

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

2.0L World Engine (GEMA)

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1998 cc)

Cylinders Configuration:

Inline 4-Cylinder (I4)

Horsepower:

158 hp @ 6300 rpm

Torque:

141 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

Optional Engine 1:

2.4L World Engine (GEMA)

Optional Engine 1 Hp:

172 hp @ 6000 rpm

Optional Engine 1 Torque:

165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Performance Engine 1:

2.0L Turbocharged (SRT-4 variant)

Performance Engine 1 Hp:

285 hp @ 5200 rpm

Performance Engine 1 Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 13.5 gallons (51 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) - Autostick capability on some trims

Cvt Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific Mopar CVT Fluid specification (e.g., Mopar CVTF 4)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (MTX)

Manual Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific manual transmission fluid (MTF) specification

AWD System:

Available AWD system, primarily front-biased with automatic engagement.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 170.1 inches (4320 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

Approx. 63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 14.6 - 19.5 cubic feet (varies by configuration)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 40.8 - 47.7 cubic feet (varies by configuration)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3000 - 3400 lbs (1360 - 1542 kg), depending on engine and drivetrain

Towing Capacity:

Typically not rated for towing, or very limited (e.g., 1000 lbs / 454 kg) for light utility trailers - consult manual for specifics.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

Good (for driver and passenger) - 2008 models

NHTSA Side Impact Test:

Good (for front and rear passengers) - 2008 models

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Acceptable

IIHS Side Impact Crash Test:

Acceptable

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS) on most models

Electronic Stability:

Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Airbags:

Front airbags, optional front side airbags, optional side curtain airbags

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants

Child Seats:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Base AM/FM/CD player, optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability.

Navigation:

Rarely offered on this model year, typically not a standard or widely available feature.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist system.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims.

Bluetooth:

Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication and audio streaming on higher trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard auxiliary audio input jack on most models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (4,800 to 8,000 km) or 3 to 6 months, depending on driving conditions (severe vs. normal). Consult manual for precise intervals and oil type.

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:

Replace approximately every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).

Transmission Fluid:

CVT: Check fluid level per manual. Fluid changes typically recommended around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) or as per severe driving conditions. Manual: Fluid changes typically around 60,000 miles (96,000 km).

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30, meeting API SN or Dexos (check specific manual for Chrysler MS-6395 specification).

Coolant:

Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (OAT) - Pink color, or equivalent G-05 compatible coolant.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.

Cvt Reliability:

Some CVT units have reported issues with longevity, particularly if fluid maintenance is neglected. Hesitation or rough shifting can be indicators.

Engine Noise:

The 'World Engine' can sometimes exhibit ticking or rattling noises, often related to the hydraulic lifters, especially on startup. Proper oil viscosity and level are crucial.

Suspension Components:

Wear on front suspension components like control arm bushings and sway bar links can occur over time, leading to clunks or rattles.

Heating System:

Occasional reports of heater core leaks or HVAC system issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Chrysler Group LLC (Dodge brand)

Introduction:

First generation introduced for the 2007 model year, positioned as a compact crossover/hatchback.

2008 Updates:

Minor package updates, potentially new exterior colors or feature availability changes. The core platform and powertrains remained largely consistent from 2007.

Discontinuation:

Discontinued after the 2012 model year, replaced by the Dodge Dart (sedan) and indirectly by Jeep models for the crossover segment.

Assembly Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA (Belvidere Assembly Plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Initial Reception:

The Dodge Caliber received mixed reviews at launch. Praised for its spacious interior and unique styling by some, criticized by others for its CVT transmission behavior and some interior material quality.