Are Dodge calibers reliable vehicles?
The Dodge Caliber, produced from 2007 to 2012, is not widely regarded as a reliable choice in the compact-car segment. Across its production years, reliability surveys and owner reports tend to place it below average, with recurring issues in powertrain, electronics, and interior quality that can raise maintenance costs over time.
Reliability track record
In one glance, here are the common reliability concerns cited by owners and reviewers over the Caliber’s lifespan.
- Powertrain and transmission issues: Many owners report transmission problems, rough shifts, and, in some cases, failures, particularly in earlier automatic configurations and specific engine-transmission pairings.
- Electrical issues and dashboard gremlins: Frequent complaints include faulty sensors, degraded instrument clusters, and intermittent electrical glitches.
- Interior wear and component reliability: Rattles, trim failures, and accelerated wear on upholstery and components are common as the car ages.
- Braking and suspension maintenance: Brake wear and suspension noises or squeaks are regularly noted as routine maintenance concerns.
- Engine performance and oil consumption concerns: Some 2.4L engines have shown higher oil consumption and occasional misfires or rough idle in certain years.
These recurring issues contribute to a perception of reliability that lags behind many peers in its class. Buyers should approach with careful pre-purchase inspection and a solid maintenance history when considering a Caliber.
Reliability ratings from independent sources
What the major reliability evaluators say about the Caliber helps frame its overall trustworthiness for buyers.
- Consumer Reports and similar trackers often rate the Caliber’s reliability as below average within its class, reflecting a higher incidence of repairs and owner-reported problems.
- Industry quality surveys from the era of the Caliber’s production show Dodge-brand models to be average to below average for reliability, with the Caliber singled out for maintenance and repair needs rather than standout long-term endurance.
- Owner sentiment and recall history over the years reinforce reliability challenges, especially in early- to mid-production years.
Tooled together, these sources outline a reliability profile that is not competitive with many peers from the late 2000s and early 2010s. Prospective buyers should weigh potential maintenance costs against the vehicle’s price and features.
What to consider if you’re looking at a used Caliber
If you’re evaluating a used Dodge Caliber today, use these precautions to reduce risk.
- Obtain a complete maintenance and recall history, and verify that open recalls have been addressed.
- Have a trusted mechanic inspect the powertrain and transmission for wear, slipping, or leaks; listen for unusual noises during startup and under load.
- Check electrical systems, sensors, climate control, and dashboard components for faults or recurring failures.
- Inspect brakes, suspension components, tires, and the undercarriage for wear that exceeds typical use for the car’s age and mileage.
- Evaluate total ownership costs, including potential insurance, fuel economy, and parts availability given that the model is discontinued.
With diligent inspection and reasonable expectations, a well-maintained Caliber from late production years may still serve as a budget-friendly option, but reliability remains its weak point in the market.
Conclusion
In the landscape of compact cars, the Dodge Caliber is generally considered less reliable than many rivals. It offers practical space and budget pricing but at the risk of more frequent repairs and higher maintenance costs over time. For buyers prioritizing long-term dependability, alternatives in the same price range or newer used vehicles may be prudent choices.
Summary
The Dodge Caliber’s reputation for reliability is mixed at best and tends toward below average. Common issues involve powertrain/transmission, electrical systems, and interior wear. Independent reliability ratings corroborate a higher risk of ownership costs compared with many peers from the era. If you own or buy one, thorough inspection, complete service history, and careful budgeting for potential repairs are essential.
Are Dodge calibers expensive to fix?
The estimated cost to maintain and repair a Dodge Caliber ranges from $105 to $2063, with an average of $309.
What is the life expectancy of a Dodge Caliber?
These factors contribute to the Dodge Caliber's 7.2 out of 10 reliability rating. The Dodge Caliber has an average lifespan of 113,310 miles or about 7.4 years. The Caliber's predicted lifespan is derived from over 300 million data points iSeeCars analyzed to determine this model's average lifespan.
What is the most common problem with Dodge Caliber?
Common Dodge Caliber Problems
- Transmission Issues. One of the most common complaints about the Dodge Caliber is transmission problems.
- Engine Problems.
- Suspension and Steering Problems.
- Electrical Issues.
Is a Dodge Caliber a good vehicle?
RepairPal.com gave the Dodge Caliber a high reliability rating of 4 out of 5 despite the vehicle's many flaws. Some owners have reported several issues with their vehicles, including faulty transmission systems, engine problems, bad suspension components, and water leaks.
