🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caliber

Model Years Covered:

2007 onwards

Chassis Code:

PM

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV / Hatchback

Key Competitors:

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

Design Philosophy:

Dodge Caliber offered a unique blend of hatchback practicality and SUV styling, aiming for affordability and a distinctive appearance in the compact segment.

Unique Selling Points:

Spacious interior for its class, optional all-wheel drive, distinctive styling, available premium audio system (Boston Acoustics), infotainment options, good cargo versatility.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostic information for all Dodge Caliber models from 2007 onwards, including detailed procedures for all mechanical, electrical, and body systems.

Page Count Estimated:

2000+

Manual Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, turbocharging (if applicable).

Transmission Systems:

Manual transmission, automatic transmission (CVT/CVT2), transaxle, clutch, driveline, axles, CV joints.

Brake Systems:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS, EBD, parking brake, brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension, struts, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, power steering system, steering column.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control modules, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, mirrors.

HVAC Systems:

Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigerant handling, blower motor, climate control module, A/C compressor.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hoods, liftgates, interior trim, bumpers, frame, structural components, sound deadening.

Infotainment And Electronics:

Audio systems, navigation (if equipped), Bluetooth connectivity, driver information display, keyless entry.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), spark plug replacement, belt replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing, electrical circuit diagnosis.

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair, interior component replacement.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Step-by-step troubleshooting for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Engine Repair Procedures:

Engine assembly/disassembly, piston and ring replacement, valve train service, cylinder head removal/installation, timing belt/chain service (if applicable), turbocharger repair (if equipped).

Transmission Repair Procedures:

CVT clutch pack replacement, valve body diagnosis, seal replacement, torque converter service, manual transmission gear set replacement, clutch assembly replacement.

Electrical Diagnostic Procedures:

Detailed wiring diagrams for all circuits, component location charts, diagnostic flowcharts for specific electrical symptoms, resistance and voltage testing procedures for sensors and actuators.

Chassis Repair Procedures:

Wheel bearing replacement, hub replacement, steering rack and pinion service, power steering pump replacement, suspension arm bush replacement, alignment specifications.

Technical Depth Level:

Full Factory Workshop Manual Level

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Diagnostic scan tools (e.g., OBD-II scanner), multimeters, specialized automotive tools.

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Detailed step-by-step illustrations, exploded views, wiring diagrams, diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Searchable PDF, allowing for quick navigation and keyword searches.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.0L I4 DOHC 16V (158 hp @ 6400 rpm, 141 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm), 2.4L I4 DOHC 16V (173 hp @ 6000 rpm, 165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm). Diesel options (2.0L CRD) were available in some markets.

Horsepower Range:

158 - 173 hp

Torque Range:

141 - 165 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) or GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) depending on engine variant.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Regular 87 octane recommended, Premium 91+ octane for optimal performance/efficiency)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT or CVT2)

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available on select models/trims.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 170.5 inches

Width:

Approx. 69.4 inches

Height:

Approx. 61.6 inches

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.7 inches

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 97.1 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

Approx. 19.6 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

Approx. 49.4 cubic feet

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3131 - 3443 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

4 stars (Driver), 5 stars (Passenger)

IIHS Top Safety Pick Eligibility:

Varies by year; generally good ratings in frontal and side impact tests for its era.

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - standard on later models and optional on earlier ones.

Passive Safety Features:

Frontal airbags, side-curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, active head restraints.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Options:

Available Uconnect infotainment system with touchscreens, Bluetooth, USB input, and optional navigation. Boston Acoustics premium audio system was a popular upgrade.

Driver Assistance Features:

Basic driver aids like ABS, TCS, ESC. No advanced radar-based adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist systems were typically offered in this segment for this model.

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth hands-free calling, audio streaming, USB media playback on Uconnect systems. SiriusXM Satellite Radio availability.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 6,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using recommended synthetic or synthetic blend oil.

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or annually.

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 100,000 miles or 5 years for initial service, then every 60,000 miles or 5 years.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-20 (API SN or newer) for 2.0L and 2.4L engines.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Specification:

MOPAR OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769) or equivalent - typically a pink color.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (MS-9073) or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-4 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Type Cvt:

CVT Fluid (refer to specific Mopar or equivalent for CVT2 - often a specific ATF/CVTF blend).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid.

Common Issue Cvt:

CVT transmission reliability concerns, especially with premature wear or failure of the belt/pulley system.

Common Issue Suspension:

Premature wear of front suspension components like control arm bushings, ball joints, and struts/shocks.

Common Issue Electrical:

Issues with power window regulators, door lock actuators, and sometimes intermittent electrical faults related to body control modules.

Common Issue Engine 2.4L:

Some reports of oil consumption or premature wear on the 2.4L World Engine (4A/4B series), though generally reliable with proper maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Dodge Brand Context:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (now Stellantis), has a long history of producing American muscle cars and practical family vehicles. The Caliber was part of Dodge's strategy to broaden its appeal in the compact segment.

First Generation Introduction:

Introduced for the 2007 model year, replacing the Dodge Neon.

Mid-Cycle Refresh:

Received a minor refresh for the 2009 model year with updated styling, interior materials, and suspension tuning.

Production Period:

2006 - 2012

Manufacturing Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Ratings Summary:

Received mixed reviews from automotive publications and consumers, often praised for its practicality and value but criticized for interior materials and certain powertrain/suspension characteristics.

Fuel Economy Estimates Mpg City:

Approx. 20-22 MPG (for 2.0L/2.4L FWD with automatic).

Fuel Economy Estimates Mpg Highway:

Approx. 28-30 MPG (for 2.0L/2.4L FWD with automatic).