Market Position:
The Dodge Caliber was positioned as a compact crossover SUV/hatchback, aiming for affordability and practicality with a slightly more rugged appearance than traditional hatchbacks.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cobalt, and Kia Spectra.
Key Features Vehicle:
Unique styling, available all-wheel drive (R/T), flexible interior packaging (e.g., sliding rear seats, Chill Zone beverage cooler in some trims), and a range of engine options. Known for its value proposition.
Manual Value Proposition:
This comprehensive workshop manual provides in-depth technical guidance essential for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing all aspects of the Dodge Caliber from 2007-2011, offering significant cost savings over dealership service.
Engine Options:
2.0L I4 (Bilingual), 2.4L I4 DOHC (World Engine), 1.8L I4 DOHC (World Engine)
Transmission Options:
CVT2 Continuously Variable Transmission, 5-Speed Manual Transmission, 6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag DDCT)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) - specified for R/T
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, inspection), Engine electrical (ignition, fuel, emissions, cooling, lubrication), Transmission (manual and CVT, control systems, overhaul), Drivetrain (axles, differentials, driveshafts)
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear, components, alignment), Steering (power steering system, steering column, components), Brakes (hydraulic system, ABS, parking brake, components, bleeding), Wheels and Tires (specifications, mounting, rotation)
Body And Interior:
Body structure (panels, frame, corrosion protection), Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), Exterior (lighting, mirrors, bumpers, glass), Interior (dashboard, console, upholstery)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, Fuse and relay identification, Lighting systems, Instrument cluster, Audio systems, Power accessories (windows, locks, seats), Body control modules (BCM), Powertrain control module (PCM), Diagnosis of electrical faults
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tire rotation), Inspections (belts, hoses, brakes, suspension components)
Repair:
Engine overhaul, Transmission repair and rebuild, Suspension and steering component replacement, Brake system repair, Electrical component diagnosis and replacement, Body panel repair and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Symptom-based diagnostics, Electrical system testing, Mechanical system testing
Specifications:
Torque specifications, Fluid capacities and types, Component clearances, Alignment specifications, Electrical resistance values
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.0L (1998cc)
Engine 1 Type:
I4 SOHC (Simultaneous Variable Valve Timing - VVT)
Engine 1 Power Hp:
Approx. 140-156 hp (depending on specific market and tune)
Engine 1 Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 132-142 lb-ft
Engine 2 Displacement:
2.4L (2360cc)
Engine 2 Type:
I4 DOHC (World Engine, Dual VVT)
Engine 2 Power Hp:
Approx. 173 hp
Engine 2 Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 165 lb-ft
Engine 3 Displacement:
1.8L (1798cc)
Engine 3 Type:
I4 DOHC (World Engine, Dual VVT)
Engine 3 Power Hp:
Approx. 150 hp
Engine 3 Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 125 lb-ft
Fuel System Type:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane recommended)
Transmission Standard:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag)
Transmission Optional 1:
CVT2 Continuously Variable Transmission (JF010E/JF011E variants)
Transmission Optional 2:
6-Speed Manual (Getrag DDCT - Dual Dry Clutch Transmission) - Primarily on later models or specific performance trims.
Cvt Features:
Simulated gear shifts, manual mode in some versions. Requires specific CVT fluid (e.g., Mopar CVTF+4 or equivalent).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Manual transmissions typically use SAE 75W-90 GL-4 or GL-5 gear lubricant. Specific fill quantity will be in the manual.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
Generally rated 4 stars for driver and front passenger in frontal crash tests.
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Varies by year and configuration, but many received 'Acceptable' or 'Good' ratings in side impact tests.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - often optional or standard on higher trims, Traction Control (TCS).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, Side-curtain airbags, Occupant sensing system, Crumple zones, Side-impact door beams.
Infotainment System:
Available Boston Acoustics premium audio system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Uconnect voice command and Bluetooth (optional on some trims).
Navigation:
Optional in-dash navigation system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking assist sensors (optional), Cruise control.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input jack, USB port (on later models/specific trims), Bluetooth streaming.
Climate Control Features:
Manual climate control, Automatic climate control (optional), 'Chill Zone' refrigerated glove box (optional).
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendations, e.g., 5W-20 synthetic).
Air Filter Replacement Miles:
Recommended every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Miles:
Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Coolant Flush Miles:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (typically HOAT coolant).
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
20H (100,000 miles) for iridium spark plugs, common on the World Engine variants.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20, API certified, meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification (Synthetic recommended).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler specification HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant (e.g., Mopar OAT Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to specific vehicle label, typically DOT 3).
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid type 4) or equivalent power steering fluid specified by Chrysler.
Cvt Reliability:
Some CVT models experienced premature failure or hesitation, often related to fluid maintenance or control valve body issues.
Engine Mounts:
Engine mounts can wear out, leading to vibration and noise, particularly noticeable at idle.
Suspension Components:
Struts, ball joints, and control arm bushings are common wear items that can cause clunking noises or steering issues.
Electrical Gremlins:
Intermittent electrical issues, such as faulty window regulators, door lock actuators, or sensor failures, can occur.
Brand Heritage Dodge:
Dodge has a long history of producing performance-oriented vehicles and trucks. The Caliber represented a shift towards a more mainstream, practical segment for the brand.
Model Introduction:
The Dodge Caliber was introduced for the 2007 model year, replacing the Dodge Neon and intended to be a more versatile compact car.
Platform:
Based on the Chrysler PM/MK platform, shared with the Jeep Compass and Patriot.
Production Period:
2006-2012 (globally)
Manufacturing Location:
Belvidere, Illinois, USA.
Safety Awards:
The Caliber received mixed safety ratings from organizations like IIHS and NHTSA over its production run, with some trims and configurations performing better than others. This manual is crucial for ensuring safety systems are properly maintained.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Consumer reports reliability ratings varied throughout the model years, with some areas noted for potential issues (e.g., CVT, electrical components). The manual helps address these proactively.
