What did the Dodge Caliber replace?
The Dodge Caliber was a compact car that replaced the Dodge Neon in the early 2000s. It was introduced in 2006 as a 2007 model year vehicle, serving as Dodge's entry-level offering in the small car segment.
Replacing the Dodge Neon
The Dodge Neon had been a staple of the Dodge lineup since the mid-1990s, but by the early 2000s, it was starting to show its age. Dodge decided it was time to replace the Neon with a more modern and versatile compact car. The Dodge Caliber was designed to fill this void.
Key Features of the Dodge Caliber
The Dodge Caliber was a departure from the traditional sedan design of the Neon. It featured a hatchback body style, which gave it a more practical and versatile interior. Some of the key features of the Caliber included:
- Available all-wheel drive, a feature not offered on the Neon
- A range of engine options, including a 1.8-liter, 2.0-liter, and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines
- A more spacious interior than the Neon, with increased cargo capacity
- Available features like a sunroof, heated seats, and a premium audio system
The Caliber was designed to appeal to a wider range of buyers than the Neon, offering more utility and flexibility.
Reception and Sales
The Dodge Caliber was met with mixed reviews when it was first introduced. While some praised its practical features and versatile design, others criticized its uninspired driving dynamics and cheap interior materials. Sales of the Caliber were initially strong, but they declined over time as the car failed to maintain its initial popularity.
Despite its mixed reception, the Dodge Caliber served as a bridge between the Neon and Dodge's later compact car offerings, such as the Dart. It helped Dodge transition to a more modern and competitive lineup in the small car segment.
What replaced the Dodge Caliber?
The 2013 Dodge Dart replaced the Dodge Caliber as the compact vehicle in Dodge's lineup. Discontinued after the 2012 model year, the Caliber's successor was the new compact sedan, the Dart. The Caliber was discontinued due to a lack of market success, and the Dart was introduced to fill its place.
You can watch this video to learn about the history and flaws of the Dodge Caliber: 55sMarspeedYouTube · Aug 7, 2019
- The Dodge Dart: The Dart was an all-new compact sedan introduced for the 2013 model year.
- Platform: The Dart was based on a platform shared with the European-market Alfa Romeo Giulietta.
- Reason for replacement: The Caliber was discontinued after a 2012 model year because of poor sales and performance in the compact market compared to competitors like the Chevy Cruze and Ford Focus.
What year to avoid Dodge Caliber?
You should avoid Dodge Caliber years from 2007 to 2009, and potentially 2011, as they are known for several common and significant problems. Issues include poor build quality, weak suspension components that can fail, and the 2009 model is particularly criticized for control arm failures. Other common problems across these years include electrical issues like battery drain from the radio, transmission problems with the CVT automatic and general engine and suspension issues, as well as poor interior quality.
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems with a used Dodge Caliber: 46susedYouTube · Mar 1, 2024
Years to avoid
- 2007, 2008, 2009: These years are frequently cited as having poor reliability and build quality.
- 2009: This specific model year is often singled out for having the most complaints.
- 2007-2008: These years are noted for having poor interiors and high rates of mechanical issues.
- 2011: This model year also had specific issues, such as no-start problems related to the theft system wireless control module and a battery drain from the radio.
Specific problems to watch for
- Transmission: The automatic CVT transmission is prone to failure.
- Suspension: The suspension is a weak point, with complaints of control arms ripping out of the body or subframe and worn-out bushings, especially on the 2009 model.
- Rust and corrosion: The undercarriage is prone to rust, particularly in areas that use road salt.
- Electrical issues: Problems include a battery drain from the radio and no-start issues linked to the theft system.
- Poor interior quality: The interior is made with cheap, hard plastics that can feel flimsy.
When did they discontinue the Dodge Caliber?
2012
| Dodge Caliber | |
|---|---|
| Model years | 2007–2012 |
| Assembly | United States: Belvidere, Illinois Venezuela: Valencia, Carabobo |
| Designer | Mike Nicholas (2005) |
| Body and chassis |
How much is a 2007 Dodge Caliber worth today?
The value of a 2007 Dodge Caliber typically ranges from about $3,000 to $7,000, though it can be lower depending on its condition, mileage, and trim. Kelley Blue Book lists a resale value of around $2,025 and a trade-in value of $486, while other sources show average listing prices around $5,116.
- Average asking price: Around $5,116, with listings on sites like Autotrader ranging from approximately $1,900 to $9,000.
- Resale and trade-in value: Kelley Blue Book estimates a resale value of about $2,025 and a trade-in value of $486 for a typical 2007 model.
- Value factors: The specific value is highly dependent on the vehicle's condition, mileage, trim level (like SE, SXT, or R/T), and the seller.
- Depreciation: The vehicle has depreciated significantly over time, with the resale value decreasing by about 22% in the last three years.
