🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caliber

Model Years Covered:

2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

Body Style:

Compact Crossover SUV

Platform:

Chrysler JS Platform

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Dodge Caliber was positioned as an affordable and practical compact crossover, often marketed as an alternative to traditional sedans and smaller SUVs. It aimed to offer a blend of hatchback utility and SUV-like styling.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles such as the Toyota Matrix, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, and other compact hatchbacks and small crossovers of its era. Its key selling points were its interior space for its size, available AWD on certain trims, and a more rugged appearance compared to some competitors.

Key Features:

Spacious interior for its class, available all-wheel drive (AWD) on some models, distinctive styling, a range of engine options, and a relatively accessible price point. Some models featured a 'Chill Zone' glove box designed to keep drinks cool.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

North America, Europe, and other global markets where the Dodge Caliber was sold.

Page Count:

Extensive (specific page count not provided, but typical for comprehensive service and body repair manuals covering multiple years).

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual and Body Repair Manual

Language:

English (implied by product description and target market)

Format:

PDF (primarily), potentially HTML/PDF hybrid programs.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Lubrication and Maintenance, Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Brakes, Clutch, Cooling System, Audio System, Chime/Buzzer Systems, Electronic Control Modules (ECMs), Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints (Airbags/Seatbelts), Speed Control (Cruise Control), Vehicle Theft Security System, Wipers/Washers, Navigation/Telecommunications, Wiring Diagrams, Engine Mechanical, Exhaust Systems, Frame and Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering System, Transmission and Transfer Case, Tires/Wheels, Body Systems, Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Emissions Control, Body Repair.

Procedures Included:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, step-by-step repair instructions, maintenance schedules, component removal and installation, torque specifications, electrical system analysis, body panel repair, alignment procedures, fluid specifications and capacities, and diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic DIY maintenance tasks (e.g., changing lights, brakes) to in-depth mechanical and electrical repairs, including engine rebuilds, transmission service, and advanced bodywork.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Adobe Acrobat PDF, potentially with HTML components for interactive features.

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital files suitable for printing, with clear text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format, no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format, no physical paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L World Gasoline Engine (GEMA) I4

Engine Options:

Available engines typically included: 1.8L World Gasoline Engine (GEMA) I4 (approx. 148 hp), 2.0L World Gasoline Engine (GEMA) I4 (approx. 158 hp), 2.4L World Gasoline Engine (GEMA) I4 (approx. 173 hp), and a 2.0L CRD Turbodiesel (in European markets).

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), 6-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., on SRT models or later revisions).

Transmission Features:

CVT models may feature simulated gear shifts. AWD models typically paired with specific transmissions. The SRT variant featured a more robust powertrain and potentially different transmission options.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Dimensions:

Approximate dimensions: Length (2007 model) - 174.9 inches, Width - 69.1 inches, Height - 62.3 inches, Wheelbase - 103.7 inches. (Note: Minor variations may exist across model years).

Interior Dimensions:

Offers competitive passenger volume for its class, with ample headroom and legroom for front occupants. Rear seating can be snug for adults on longer journeys. Cargo space is practical, especially with rear seats folded.

Cargo Capacity:

Rear seats up: approximately 19.3 cubic feet. Rear seats down: approximately 39.4 cubic feet. (Note: Figures can vary slightly by measurement method and year).

Curb Weight:

Curb weight typically ranges from approximately 3,045 lbs to 3,475 lbs depending on engine and drivetrain configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Achieved mixed safety ratings in its time. NHTSA frontal crash test ratings were generally good, but side impact and rollover ratings varied. IIHS ratings were also mixed, with some improvements made over its production run. Specific ratings should be confirmed for individual model years.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) (often optional or standard on higher trims), Traction Control System (TCS) (often standard on AWD models).

Passive Safety Features:

Front driver and passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear, often standard), active head restraints, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models featured a standard AM/FM/CD audio system. Optional upgrades included SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Boston Acoustics premium audio systems, and later models offered Uconnect infotainment systems with touchscreens, Bluetooth, and auxiliary inputs.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited driver assistance features in early models. Available features typically included cruise control. More advanced systems were not common for this segment at the time of its release.

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary audio input jacks were common. Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming became available on higher trims or with optional Uconnect systems in later model years.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months for synthetic blend oil, or 10,000 miles/12 months with full synthetic oil and specific driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise intervals based on oil type and usage.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SN or newer, SAE 0W-20 (preferred for fuel economy) or SAE 5W-20. Consult manual for specific engine variant recommendations.

Coolant Specification:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) or OAT based on the specific formulation. Use a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Specification Cvt:

Chrysler/Mopar CVTF +4 or equivalent specified fluid for CVT transmissions. Do not use conventional ATF.

Transmission Fluid Specification Automatic:

Chrysler/Mopar ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) or equivalent for conventional automatic transmissions.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Always use fresh, sealed fluid.

Common Issues:

CVT transmission issues (hesitation, judder, failure), oil cooler line leaks (especially on turbocharged models), suspension component wear (struts, ball joints), HVAC system problems (blower motor, blend doors), EGR valve issues (diesel models), and occasional electrical gremlins. Early models also had some reports of interior trim rattles.

Tire Rotation Interval:

Recommended every 7,500 to 10,000 miles to ensure even tire wear.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Varies by engine. Typically around 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped spark plugs, but consult the manual for specific recommendations based on engine type.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a brand of Stellantis (formerly Chrysler Group LLC), has a long history of producing robust and often performance-oriented vehicles, though the Caliber represented a shift towards more practical and budget-friendly segments.

Model Evolution:

The Dodge Caliber was introduced in 2006 as a 2007 model year vehicle, replacing the Dodge Neon. It underwent minor updates and powertrain revisions throughout its production life, including the introduction of the more potent Caliber SRT4 with a turbocharged engine. It was discontinued after the 2012 model year, succeeded by the Dodge Dart (sedan) and later indirectly by the Jeep Compass and Patriot in the compact SUV space.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Illinois, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the Dodge Caliber was a volume seller and met the needs of many consumers, it did not receive a significant number of major automotive awards compared to more premium or performance-focused vehicles. Its strengths were generally in value and practicality.