Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV / Hatchback
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical, stylish, and versatile vehicle with a hatchback utility.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester
Differentiators:
Distinctive styling, available AWD, a range of engine options, and competitive pricing compared to some rivals.
Vehicle Type:
Compact crossover SUV with a prominent hatchback design.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized a more car-like driving experience and a sportier aesthetic than traditional SUVs, with a prominent grille and sculpted lines.
Covered Years:
2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific manual, typically 1500-3000+ pages for comprehensive factory service manuals.
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (2.0L, 2.4L, 1.8L Diesel), Transmission (CVT, Manual, Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD, AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front Struts, Rear Multilink), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Brakes (ABS, Front Disc/Rear Drum or Disc), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio Systems, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Exterior Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Interior Trim, Seats, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities and types
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full mechanical and electrical system overhauls, including detailed diagnostic charts and component removal/installation instructions.
Searchability:
Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval
Resolution:
High-resolution, ensuring clarity of diagrams, schematics, and text
Printable:
Printable pages for on-the-job use
Digital Format:
N/A (Digital Download)
Digital Format:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine 1 Name:
2.4L World Engine (GEMA)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2358 cc (2.4 Liters)
Engine 1 Configuration:
Inline-4 (I4), DOHC, 16 Valves
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 172 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine 2 Name:
2.0L World Engine (GEMA)
Engine 2 Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Engine 2 Configuration:
Inline-4 (I4), SOHC, 16 Valves
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 140 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 137 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 3 Name:
1.8L VW TDI Diesel (Available in some markets, particularly Europe)
Engine 3 Displacement:
1968 cc (2.0 Liters) - Note: Often marketed as 1.8L due to smaller bore.
Engine 3 Configuration:
Inline-4 (I4), Turbocharged Diesel, Common Rail Injection
Engine 3 Horsepower:
Approx. 140 hp @ 4000 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
Approx. 236 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended for 2.0L/2.4L), Diesel (for TDI)
Fuel Delivery Gasoline:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Delivery Diesel:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)
ECU Type:
Chrysler (or Mitsubishi-derived) Engine Control Module (ECM)
Transmission 1 Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission 2 Type:
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - J at
Transmission 3 Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (less common, often paired with 2.0L)
AWD Availability:
Available on select models, typically with the 2.4L engine, often utilizing a CVT.
Cvt Fluid Type:
Chrysler/Dodge CVT Fluid (e.g., ATF+4 compatible or specific CVT fluid - refer to manual for exact spec)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity)
Length:
Approx. 174.9 inches (4443 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.9 inches (1775 mm)
Height:
Approx. 63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 103.7 inches (2634 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 97.1 cubic feet (2749 L)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 14.9 cubic feet (422 L)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approx. 41.8 cubic feet (1184 L)
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 3000 - 3300 lbs (1361 - 1497 kg) depending on configuration
Towing Capacity:
Not typically rated for towing
NHTSA Frontal Driver Side:
Good (2007)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Side:
Good (2007)
NHTSA Side Driver Seat:
Good (2007)
NHTSA Side Rear Seat:
Good (2007)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (2007)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2007)
Traction Control:
Available on some models
Electronic Stability Control:
Available on some models
Airbags Side Curtain:
Standard
Airbags Side Impact Front:
Standard
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear, pretensioners
Audio System:
Available AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with SiriusXM satellite radio capability. Premium Boston Acoustics audio system optional on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional navigation system available on select models.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist system.
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth Uconnect hands-free communication system on later models.
Keyless Entry:
Standard or optional keyless entry system.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors standard on most trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months with conventional oil; 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months with synthetic oil (consult manual for specific recommendation and severe service conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs: 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Consult manual for specific engine.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (preferred) or SAE 5W-30. Refer to manual for specific viscosity and API service classification (e.g., API SN/SM).
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT or equivalent (e.g., HOAT 50/50 mix).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for precise specification).
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type (often ATF+4 or a specific power steering fluid).
Cvt Reliability:
Some CVT models have reported issues with shuddering, premature failure, or requiring specific fluid maintenance to prevent problems.
Suspension Wear:
Front suspension components (struts, ball joints) and rear suspension bushings can experience wear over time.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket leaks are not uncommon on the World Engine.
Climate Control Issues:
Blend door actuators and blower motor issues can affect HVAC performance.
Electrical Gremlins:
Intermittent electrical issues or warning lights can sometimes occur, often related to wiring or module faults.
Parent Company:
Chrysler Group LLC (later FCA, now Stellantis)
Platform Basis:
Chrysler's 'C' platform, a derivative of Mitsubishi's GS platform (shared with vehicles like Mitsubishi Lancer).
Major Updates:
Minor styling refreshes and equipment adjustments throughout its production run, but no major redesign until its discontinuation.
Production Years:
2007-2012
Manufacturing Location:
Mexico (Toluca Assembly Plant)
Discontinuation:
Discontinued after the 2012 model year, replaced by the Jeep Compass/Patriot models as Dodge shifted its focus.
Awards List:
While the Caliber did not win major industry awards like 'Car of the Year', it was often recognized for its value proposition and styling within its segment.
Fuel Economy Est 2.4L FWD:
Approx. 20 MPG city / 25 MPG highway (may vary with transmission and driving conditions).
Fuel Economy Est 2.0L FWD:
Approx. 22 MPG city / 27 MPG highway (may vary with transmission and driving conditions).
Fuel Economy Est 1.8L Tdi:
Significantly higher, often exceeding 30 MPG city and 40 MPG highway in European markets.
Epa Certification:
EPA certified for emissions standards in the US market.