Vehicle Segment:
Compact Crossover SUV / Hatchback
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers seeking a versatile and practical vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Chevrolet Equinox.
Design Philosophy:
The 2011 Dodge Caliber was designed to offer a blend of hatchback utility and SUV practicality at an affordable price point.
Interior Versatility:
Offered flexible seating arrangements and a reasonably spacious cargo area for its class.
Instrument Cluster:
Includes explanation of gauges, warning lights, and indicator symbols.
Entertainment Systems:
Covers audio system operation, radio functions, and potentially Uconnect system (if equipped).
Climate Controls:
Details operation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, including manual and automatic climate control.
Lights:
Explains operation of headlights, taillights, interior lighting, and auxiliary lighting controls.
Driver Controls:
Covers steering wheel functions, pedal operation, and other driver-centric controls.
Locks And Security:
Details power door locks, keyless entry, remote start (if equipped), and vehicle security system operation.
Seating And Safety Restraints:
Covers seat adjustment, seat belt usage, airbag system explanation, and child seat installation.
Engine Compartment:
Identifies key components in the engine bay, such as fluid reservoirs and fuses.
Maintenance And Specifications:
Provides crucial information on routine maintenance and vehicle specifications.
Fuel Information:
Details fuel type recommendations and fuel economy information.
Lubricant Specifications:
Lists recommended oil viscosity grades, coolant types, and other fluid specifications.
Accessories:
Information on optional accessories and their operation.
Routine Maintenance:
Step-by-step instructions for tasks like checking fluids, changing air filters, and tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Guidance on identifying and addressing common vehicle issues.
Fluid Checks:
Instructions on how to check and top off engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid.
Tire Maintenance:
Information on checking tire pressure, tread wear, and recommended tire rotations.
Bulb Replacement:
Guidance on replacing common exterior and interior light bulbs.
Fuse Replacement:
Instructions for locating and replacing blown fuses.
Wiper Blade Replacement:
Guidance on replacing windshield wiper blades.
Child Seat Installation:
Detailed instructions for properly installing child safety seats using LATCH or seat belts.
Cleaning Procedures:
Recommendations for interior and exterior cleaning and care.
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive owner-level information with clear, step-by-step instructions and diagrams.
Visuals:
Numerous pictures and diagrams to aid understanding.
Skill Level:
Suitable for all skill levels, from novice to experienced DIY enthusiasts.
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Good
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Passenger Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
Good
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4-star (out of 5)
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Score:
Good
IIHS Rear Impact Score:
Good
IIHS Roof Strength Score:
Acceptable
Brakes Type:
Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Drums (standard on SE/SXT); Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Discs (optional on SXT, standard on R/T)
ABS:
Standard (All-Season Traction control optional)
Airbags Front:
Standard advanced multi-stage front airbags.
Airbags Side Curtain:
Standard front and rear side-curtain airbags.
Airbags Seat Mounted:
Standard front seat-mounted side airbags.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Audio System Options:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system.
Uconnect Availability:
Available Uconnect hands-free communication and entertainment system (Bluetooth, voice recognition).
Navigation System:
Optional navigation system (likely Garmin-based for this era).
Cruise Control:
Standard.
Traction Control:
Optional All-Season Traction control.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack.
Usb Port:
Available USB port for music playback and device charging (often part of Uconnect or upgraded audio).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (9,600 to 12,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact detail based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs (specific type in manual).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (API Certified)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
Approx. 5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Green (MS-9769 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Cvt:
Specific Mopar CVTF (Continuously Variable Transmission Fluid) or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent (check manual for specific type, some models may have electric power steering).
Common Complaints:
CVT transmission issues (hesitation, whining), minor electrical problems, interior trim rattles, potential for oil leaks on higher mileage vehicles.
Warranty Recall Info:
The manual contains information on reporting safety defects, and general warranty information. Specific recalls for the 2011 Caliber would need to be checked against NHTSA or manufacturer records.