🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caliber

Year:

2012

Platform:

JS (Chrysler's compact car platform)

Chassis Code:

PM49

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV / Hatchback

Target Audience:

Budget-conscious buyers seeking practicality, versatility, and a higher seating position than a traditional car.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Chevrolet Equinox, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage.

Distinctive Elements:

Distinctive styling (for its time), practical interior space for its class, availability of All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

Manual Advantage:

This manual provides the exact, vehicle-specific information needed by professional technicians, ensuring accurate and efficient repairs, unlike generic online guides.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Estimated Pages:

2000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, oil pump, timing system, lubrication, cooling system, intake and exhaust manifolds.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, fuel injection system (ECM), emissions control, sensors, actuators, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 285), Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - Jatco JF010E (in some markets/configurations), automatic transmission (in specific markets), torque converter, clutch assembly, transmission control module (TCM).

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, drive shafts, CV joints, differential, hub assemblies.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake lines, master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (multi-link independent), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.

Body Chassis:

Body construction, frame, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, weatherstripping, body panel repair, corrosion protection.

Electrical Harness:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay assignments, lighting system, power windows, door locks, mirrors, horn, wiper/washer system.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant types, system diagnostics, climate control panel.

Infotainment Electronics:

Audio system, navigation system (if equipped), Uconnect system (if equipped), instrument cluster, warning lights, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Maintenance Tasks:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, tire rotation.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, live data stream analysis, component testing.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component R&I, electrical component replacement.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, clearances, alignments, pressures, electrical resistance values.

Special Tools:

Identification of required special tools and equipment for specific procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Searchable PDF, allowing for quick navigation and text extraction. High-resolution scans of original factory documentation.

Quality:

Excellent, designed for clarity of diagrams, schematics, and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

2.0L World Engine (GEMA)

Displacement 1:

1998 cc

Cylinders 1:

4

Configuration 1:

Inline (I4)

Horsepower 1:

158 hp @ 6400 rpm

Torque 1:

141 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

Fuel System 1:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Valve Train 1:

DOHC, 16 valves

Engine Code 2:

2.4L World Engine (GEMA)

Displacement 2:

2360 cc

Cylinders 2:

4

Configuration 2:

Inline (I4)

Horsepower 2:

172 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 2:

165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel System 2:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Valve Train 2:

DOHC, 16 valves

Engine Options Availability:

Market and trim dependent, 2.0L is standard, 2.4L is optional on higher trims.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane minimum recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 285)

Type Optional 1:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - Jatco JF010E (often paired with 2.4L engine)

Type Optional 2:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (40TE / 41TE - less common for this year in many markets)

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD - typically with 2.4L engine and CVT/Automatic).

Cvt Details:

CVT uses a belt and pulley system for continuously variable gear ratios. Requires specific CVT fluid (e.g., Mopar CVTF+4).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.5 inches (4432 mm)

Width:

69.1 inches (1755 mm)

Height:

63.7 inches (1618 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approximately 97.6 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approximately 21.0 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approximately 53.1 cu ft

Curb Weight Min:

3,175 lbs (1440 kg) (2.0L FWD Manual)

Curb Weight Max:

3,549 lbs (1609 kg) (2.4L AWD)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

4/5 stars

IIHS Front Crash Rating:

Good

IIHS Side Crash Rating:

Good

IIHS Roof Strength Rating:

Good

ABS:

Standard

Traction Control:

Standard

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (all standard).

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants, 3-point seatbelts for rear occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with 4 or 6 speakers. Optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system available.

Uconnect System:

Optional Uconnect Voice Command and Bluetooth connectivity available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Keyless Entry:

Standard on most trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard auxiliary audio input jack.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 to 7,500 miles (9,650 to 12,070 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil meeting API SN and SAE viscosity.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with Iridium-tip spark plugs (e.g., Champion Iridium).

Transmission Fluid Cvt:

Check level regularly. Replacement interval varies; consult manual, typically around 60,000 miles (96,500 km) for severe use. Use Mopar CVTF+4 or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Check level. Replacement typically at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or as specified by manufacturer. Use appropriate manual transmission fluid (e.g., Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant).

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check manual for specific engine/climate), API SN or higher.

Coolant:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant, P/N 05010017AA (Purple) or equivalent HOAT. Mixture: 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid, P/N 05120012AA or equivalent.

Cvt Reliability:

Some CVT models have reported issues with durability, including hesitation, slipping, or failure, often related to fluid degradation or solenoid issues. Regular fluid changes are crucial.

Suspension Noise:

Reports of knocking or rattling from front suspension components, often attributed to worn strut mounts or sway bar links.

Heater Core Leaks:

Some models have experienced premature heater core leaks, leading to coolant loss and a sweet smell inside the cabin.

Window Regulator Failure:

Power window regulators can fail, leading to windows not operating or dropping down.

Engine Mounts:

Worn engine mounts can lead to increased vibration felt in the cabin, especially at idle.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Context:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history of producing robust and often performance-oriented vehicles. The Caliber represented their entry into the compact crossover segment.

First Generation:

The Dodge Caliber was introduced for the 2007 model year, replacing the Dodge Neon as Chrysler's compact car offering. It was presented as a crossover-style hatchback.

2012 Model Year Updates:

For 2012, the Caliber received minor cosmetic updates and equipment shuffling. It was the penultimate model year before its discontinuation, being replaced by the Dodge Dart (sedan) and ultimately the Fiat 500X crossover in North America.

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.

Production Years:

2007 - 2012

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Achieved 'Good' ratings in IIHS front, side, and roof strength tests, indicating solid safety performance for its class and era.

Practicality Awards:

While not a major award winner, its practicality and versatile interior space were often cited as key strengths by automotive reviewers.

Emissions Certification:

Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for the 2012 model year.