What is the most common problem with Dodge Caliber?
The most commonly reported problem with the Dodge Caliber is automatic transmission trouble, including rough or delayed shifting and, in some cases, transmission failure.
Produced from 2006 to 2012, the Caliber earned praise for interior space and value but has a reliability profile that centers on the transmission in owner surveys and complaint databases. While other faults crop up in some model years, transmission issues consistently appear as the top concern among drivers and repair shops.
Reliability snapshot
Across years and configurations, the Dodge Caliber shows uneven reliability. Independent sources and safety/consumer-protection databases aggregate complaints and repair reports, with transmission problems dominating the long-running list of reported faults. This article summarizes what buyers and owners should know, based on these feedback channels and recall/TSB activity up to the mid‑2020s.
Most commonly reported problem
In owner forums, repair databases, and complaint aggregators, automatic transmission problems stand out as the leading issue for the Caliber. Symptoms include rough or shuddering shifts, delayed engagement, slipping out of gear, and, in some cases, complete transmission failure. These problems tend to be more prevalent on higher-mileage examples and can drive substantial repair costs.
Common transmission-related complaints focus on how the unit behaves under operation rather than isolated component failures, which is why many reports mention multiple symptoms within the same vehicle.
- Shuddering or rough shifting between gears
- Delayed engagement or slipping out of gear
- Transmission fluid leaks or low fluid levels
- Premature transmission failure in higher-mileage examples
These transmission concerns are the most frequently cited in reliability analyses and owner feedback, and they often prompt a closer look at the entire driveline by technicians.
Model-year patterns and contributing factors
While transmission problems can occur across the lineup, certain years show higher complaint rates, particularly models produced in the late 2000s. Contributing factors cited by technicians include wear in the valve body, torque converter issues, and the age of transmission fluid if maintenance intervals were neglected. Recalls and service bulletins in later years aimed to address specific weak points, but older Calibers remain more prone to early transmission-related trouble when not properly serviced.
Other commonly reported problems
Besides transmission issues, owners report a range of problems that appear with notable frequency, though less than the top transmission concern. Common categories include the cooling system, electrical/electronic glitches, and wear-related components.:
Before listing these common problems, note that individual experiences vary by model year, mileage, maintenance history, and driving conditions.
- Air conditioning or climate-control failures (not cooling adequately or intermittent operation)
- Engine oil leaks and/or higher oil consumption in some engines
- Electrical faults or dashboard/comfort-system glitches (alternator, sensors, intermittent warnings)
- Front-suspension wear (control arms, ball joints) leading to noise or handling changes
- Cooling system components failures (radiator or hoses showing wear or leaks)
These issues tend to appear with mileage and age and can add to the overall maintenance burden for Caliber owners.
Maintenance tips and practical steps
Owners looking to minimize risk or address existing concerns should consider proactive maintenance and early diagnosis. The following approaches are commonly recommended by independent shops and service advisories:
- Follow the manufacturer’s transmission service intervals and use the recommended ATF specification
- Have the transmission fluid and filter inspected; address burnt or dirty fluid promptly
- Check for recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the transmission and apply fixes if eligible
- Monitor for symptoms such as shudder, slipping, or hard shifts and seek a professional diagnosis early
- Maintain cooling system health to prevent overheating that can stress transmissions and engines alike
Timely maintenance and prompt attention to symptoms can help extend the Caliber’s driveline life, though some models may require expensive repairs if the transmission has already degraded significantly.
Summary
The Dodge Caliber’s most common problem is automatic transmission trouble, which tends to dominate reliability concerns across model years and mileage ranges. While owners report other issues—especially with electrical systems, cooling components, and suspension—transmission health remains the primary focus for potential buyers and current owners. Prospective buyers should review model-year reliability notes, check for recalls/TSBs, and prioritize thorough transmission maintenance and inspection. Regular, proactive service can mitigate risk, but be prepared for the possibility of transmission-related costs on higher-mileage cars.
For the most up-to-date, model-year-specific insights, consult current NHTSA complaint data, consumer reliability reports, and professional shop advisories, as these sources reflect ongoing feedback from Dodge Caliber owners in the field.
Is the Dodge Caliber a reliable vehicle?
The Dodge Caliber Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 16th out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $501 which means it has lower than average ownership costs.
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.
How long does a Dodge Caliber usually last?
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 years of Dodge Caliber to avoid?
The 2007 to 2011 Dodge Caliber years are known to have drain tube problems that require cleaning and repairs. The 2009 Caliber had the most complaints in the lineup. Don't try to fix the drain tube yourself because you might end up puncturing the material and letting water into the vehicle.
