🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Dodge

Model:

Caliber

Model Years Covered:

2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011

Platform:

Chrysler JS platform

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Compact hatchback/crossover, aimed at value-conscious buyers seeking practicality and versatility. Competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and Ford Focus.

Competitive Analysis:

The Caliber offered a unique styling and a spacious interior for its class, but faced strong competition from established Japanese and American rivals known for reliability and refinement. Its strength lay in its aggressive pricing and optional AWD on certain models.

Key Features:

Distinctive exterior styling, versatile interior with fold-flat rear seats, available all-wheel drive (AWD), optional premium audio with rear speakers that swing down from the tailgate, and a range of engine options including a diesel in some markets (not covered in this specific manual).

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Introduction, Lubrication & Maintenance, Suspension, Differential & Driveline, Vehicle Quick Reference, Brakes, Clutch, Cooling, Audio/Video, Chime/Buzzer, Electronic Control Modules, Engine Systems, Heated Systems, Horn, Ignition Control, Instrument Cluster, Lamps, Message Systems, Power Systems, Restraints, Speed Control, Vehicle Theft Security, Wipers/Washers, Navigation/Telecommunication, Wiring, Engine, Exhaust System, Frame & Bumpers, Fuel System, Steering, Transmission and Transfer Case, Tires/Wheels, Body, Heating & Air Conditioning, Emissions Control, Component and System Index, DTC Index, Service Manual Comment Forms

Page Count:

Estimated 2000-3000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Workshop Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical and electrical diagnostics, transmission (manual and automatic), braking systems (ABS, EBD), steering, suspension, HVAC, body electrical, safety systems (airbags, seatbelts), fuel, emissions, exhaust, chassis, interior and exterior components, infotainment systems.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled service, component removal and installation, diagnostic procedures (including DTC interpretation), wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides, repair specifications, overhaul procedures, technical service bulletins (TSBs) integration.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical system diagnostics, and body panel repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Printable, allowing users to print specific pages or sections as needed. High-resolution illustrations and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF), no physical binding

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.8L World (GEMA)

Engine Options:

1.8L World, 2.0L World, 2.4L World (all GEMA family engines)

Performance 1.8L:

Approx. 148 hp @ 6500 rpm, 125 lb-ft torque @ 4300 rpm

Performance 2.0L:

Approx. 158 hp @ 6500 rpm, 141 lb-ft torque @ 4300 rpm

Performance 2.4L:

Approx. 172 hp @ 6000 rpm, 165 lb-ft torque @ 4400 rpm

Fuel System:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI), returnless fuel system architecture.

Engine Management:

Chrysler's NGC (Next Generation Controller) or similar integrated powertrain control modules.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (Getrag Getrag PT545) for 1.8L and 2.0L engines.

Optional Transmission:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) - specifically a simulated 6-speed CVT (Autostick) for 2.0L and 2.4L engines.

Cvt Fluid Specification:

Refer to manual for specific Mopar CVT Fluid or equivalent (e.g., NS-3 type, but always verify with manual).

Manual Transmission Fluid Specification:

Refer to manual for specific manual transmission fluid viscosity grade and type (e.g., API GL-4).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 174.2 inches (4425 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69.5 inches (1765 mm)

Height:

Approx. 61.5 inches (1562 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.7 inches (2634 mm)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

Approx. 14.6 cu ft (413 liters)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 37.2 cu ft (1053 liters)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3065 lbs (1390 kg) for 1.8L base model

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 3454 lbs (1567 kg) for 2.4L AWD model

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

Good (2007 model)

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

Good (2007 model)

NHTSA Side Driver Impact:

Good (2007 model)

NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:

Good (2007 model)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Good (2007 model)

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control System (TCS) (standard or optional depending on trim and year).

Passive Features:

Frontal airbags, front-side airbags, curtain airbags (front and rear), active head restraints, pretensioner seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system with tailgate-mounted speakers (MyGIG infotainment system available on later models with navigation and hard drive).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, optional stability control (ESP) on some models. Limited driver assistance features compared to modern vehicles.

Connectivity Features:

Auxiliary audio input jack. Uconnect hands-free communication system optional on some trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Extended intervals may apply with synthetic oil, refer to manual.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-20 is common for 1.8L and 2.0L engines. SAE 5W-30 may be specified for the 2.4L or in certain climates. Always verify with the manual.

Coolant Specification:

Mopar OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent, typically a pink or orange color. Do NOT mix coolant types. Capacity: Approx. 6.7-7.1 quarts (6.3-6.7 liters) depending on engine.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Refer to manual for specific type. Capacity: Approx. 0.8 quarts (0.75 liters).

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or Mopar ATF+4 (check specific year/model recommendation in manual). Capacity: Approx. 1.5-2.0 quarts (1.4-1.9 liters).

Known Issues Engine:

CVT transmission issues (jerking, premature failure), ignition coil failures, oil leaks from valve cover gasket, potential piston slap noise from the 2.4L engine when cold. Exhaust manifold cracks on some models.

Known Issues Suspension:

Premature wear of front struts and control arm bushings, rear axle bushings. Rattles from suspension components.

Known Issues Electrical:

Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, radio display problems, ABS sensor failures.

Known Issues Other:

Interior trim quality concerns, HVAC blower motor failures, water leaks into cabin through firewall grommets.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Dodge, a division of Chrysler (later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles), has a long history of producing practical, often performance-oriented, American vehicles. The Caliber represented an attempt to enter the compact crossover/hatchback segment with distinctive styling.

Model Evolution:

The Dodge Caliber was introduced for the 2007 model year, replacing the Dodge Neon. It was available globally, with some variations in engine and feature availability by region. It received a mild facelift for the 2009 model year, improving interior materials and features. The Caliber was discontinued after the 2011 model year in North America, replaced by the Dodge Dart sedan. Its successor in the compact segment globally was the Jeep Compass and Patriot, which shared some underpinnings.

Production Location:

Belvidere, Illinois, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While not a recipient of major automotive awards, the Caliber was recognized for its value proposition and spacious interior by some consumer publications. Often noted for being an affordable entry into the compact SUV/hatchback market.