🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caliber

Years Covered:

2007-2008

Internal Product Code:

DODGECALIBER0708WSM

Oem Manual Reference:

Likely based on Chrysler/Dodge official service documentation

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV / Sport Compact

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester.

Unique Selling Points:

The Dodge Caliber was marketed as a versatile, fuel-efficient, and affordable compact crossover with a distinctive styling and a spacious interior for its class. It offered an attractive alternative to traditional sedans and hatchbacks.

Primary Demographic:

Young families, urban commuters, and budget-conscious buyers looking for practicality and style in a compact vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Regions:

North America (USA, Canada, Mexico), Europe, and other markets where the Caliber was sold.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1500-2500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual (WSRM)

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

File Format Details:

High-resolution PDF with searchable text, allowing users to quickly find specific information. Designed for digital viewing and printing.

Print Quality:

Designed for clear printing with sharp text and legible diagrams. Illustrations are typically line drawings, schematic diagrams, and photographic images.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download - PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostic, repair, and overhaul procedures for all gasoline engines offered in the 2007-2008 Caliber, including the 1.8L I4 (DOHC, 16-valve, 156 hp), 2.0L I4 (DOHC, 16-valve, 148 hp), and 2.4L I4 (DOHC, 16-valve, 173 hp).

Transmission:

Coverage for manual transmissions (e.g., Getrag NV1500) and Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT) with detailed inspection, repair, and fluid service procedures.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, including axle shafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, and differential components.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), including inspection, pad and rotor replacement, caliper and wheel cylinder service, hydraulic system bleeding, ABS system diagnostics and repair.

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (MacPherson strut), rear torsion beam axle, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, and wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric depending on specific model/market), steering gear, steering column, and tie rod ends.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, and diagnostic procedures for electrical faults.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, structural components, and anti-corrosion measures.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant service, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), blower motor, and climate control unit diagnostics.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter replacement procedures, and evaporative emissions (EVAP) system diagnostics.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, cooling fans, and coolant capacity and specifications.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes, and oxygen sensor replacement.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnostics and repair, seat belt mechanisms, and related safety control modules.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed maintenance schedules covering oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections, and other routine services.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and common problem diagnosis.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for removing, inspecting, repairing, and installing virtually all major vehicle components and sub-assemblies.

Diagnostic Tests:

Procedures for performing specific diagnostic tests using factory scan tools (e.g., StarSCAN, wiTECH) and general diagnostic equipment, including DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and clearing.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, electrical specifications, and critical measurement data.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, color-coded electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, allowing for efficient troubleshooting of electrical issues.

Depth Of Coverage:

Full mechanical and electrical repair and diagnostic coverage. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools:

References common diagnostic tools, scan tools, and specialized equipment required for certain repairs and diagnostics.

Special Tools:

Identifies and describes any special tools required for specific procedures, along with their part numbers or descriptions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Variant:

2.0L DOHC 16-Valve I4 (World Engine)

Engine 1 Displacement:

1998 cc (122 cu in)

Engine 1 Horsepower:

148 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

145 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 2 Variant:

1.8L DOHC 16-Valve I4 (World Engine)

Engine 2 Displacement:

1798 cc (110 cu in)

Engine 2 Horsepower:

156 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

141 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm

Engine 3 Variant:

2.4L DOHC 16-Valve I4 (World Engine - optional on some trims)

Engine 3 Displacement:

2360 cc (144 cu in)

Engine 3 Horsepower:

173 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 3 Torque:

165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, Oxygen sensors (O2S), Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed manual transmission (Getrag NV1500 or similar)

Transmission Type Optional 1:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT - 'Autostick' functionality on some models)

Transmission Type Optional 2:

4-speed automatic transmission (available on select 1.8L and 2.0L models in certain markets)

Cvt Features:

Provides seamless gear ratio changes for optimal fuel economy and performance. May include simulated gear shifts for a more traditional driving feel.

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Approx. 174.5 inches (4432 mm)

Overall Width:

Approx. 69.3 inches (1760 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 61.0 inches (1550 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 97.2 cu ft (2752 L)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 14.6 cu ft (413 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 55.1 cu ft (1560 L)

Curb Weight Start:

Approx. 3063 lbs (1389 kg) for 1.8L manual transmission models.

Curb Weight End:

Approx. 3289 lbs (1492 kg) for 2.4L CVT models.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Typically around 4200-4400 lbs (1905-2000 kg), depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for 2007 model)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2007 model)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

5 Stars (for 2007 model)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

5 Stars (for 2007 model)

NHTSA Rollover:

4 Stars (for 2007 model)

IIHS Front Crashworthiness:

Good (for 2007 model)

IIHS Side Impact Crashworthiness:

Good (for 2007 model)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability:

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

Airbags Front:

Standard front advanced multi-stage airbags for driver and front passenger.

Airbags Side:

Optional front seat-mounted side airbags.

Airbags Curtain:

Optional full-length side curtain airbags for front and rear occupants.

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 capability, and optional SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Some models featured Boston Acoustics premium audio systems.

Navigation:

Optional navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking assist sensors available on some trims.

Bluetooth:

Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external media devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving may require more frequent changes.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

For 1.8L and 2.0L engines, typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped plugs. For 2.4L, may vary.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km), depending on climate and usage.

Transmission Fluid Service Manual:

Refer to manual for specific intervals, typically around 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Service Cvt:

Critical for CVT longevity. Manual recommends checking and changing at specified intervals, often more frequent than traditional automatics, around 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20, meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for 1.8L/2.0L engines, 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) for 2.4L engine, with filter.

Coolant Type:

Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) may also be specified. Refer to manual for exact specification (e.g., MS-9769 or MS-12106).

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 gear oil. Refer to manual for exact specification.

Transmission Fluid Type Cvt:

Specific CVT fluid. Refer to manual for exact Mopar fluid part number or equivalent specification (e.g., NS-2).

Power Steering Fluid:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901) or equivalent.

Common Problems Engine:

Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan, carbon buildup on intake valves for direct injection variants (though less common on 2007-2008 models which primarily used port injection), potential PCV system issues.

Common Problems Transmission:

CVT hesitation, slipping, or failure, particularly if fluid maintenance is neglected. Manual transmissions are generally more robust but can experience clutch wear.

Common Problems Suspension Steering:

Worn front suspension components (struts, ball joints), premature wear of front wheel bearings, potential for power steering pump whine or leaks.

Common Problems Brakes:

Premature wear of brake pads and rotors due to vehicle weight and driving conditions. ABS sensor issues.

Common Problems Electrical:

Issues with power window motors, HVAC blower motor resistor, and occasional sensor failures (e.g., O2 sensors).

Common Problems Body:

Water leaks around sunroof (if equipped) and door seals, interior trim fitment issues, and potential for rust on underbody components in certain climates.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand Legacy:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler, has a long history of producing performance-oriented and rugged vehicles, often targeting a younger demographic or those seeking value and distinctive styling.

Caliber Introduction:

The Dodge Caliber was introduced at the North American International Auto Show in January 2006 as a 2007 model year vehicle, replacing the Dodge Neon in the compact segment.

Design Philosophy:

It was designed to offer a blend of hatchback versatility, SUV-like stance, and sedan comfort, positioned as a more stylish and practical alternative to traditional compact cars.

Manufacturing Plant:

Belvidere Assembly Plant, Illinois, USA.

Production Years:

2006 (for 2007 model year) - 2012.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

While not consistently a 'Top Safety Pick' in these specific years, its safety ratings were competitive within its segment at the time of its release.

Kes Quality Ratings:

Initial quality ratings from organizations like J.D. Power varied, with some areas of strength and others needing improvement, common for a new model introduction.

Epa Fuel Economy City 20L Cvt:

Approx. 24 MPG (US)

Epa Fuel Economy Highway 20L Cvt:

Approx. 32 MPG (US)