What year was the last Dodge Caliber made?
The last Dodge Caliber was made in 2012.
The Dodge Caliber, a compact hatchback/crossover introduced for the 2007 model year, was produced by Chrysler until the end of the 2012 model year. It stood as Dodge’s practical compact offering for several years before being retired as the brand pivoted toward newer designs, including the Dodge Dart in the following years.
Production years at a glance
The following timeline highlights the key production milestones for the Caliber.
- 2006: Production began for the 2007 model year at Dodge’s North American plants.
- 2007–2012: The Caliber was sold as model years 2007 through 2012.
- 2012: The final Dodge Caliber rolled off the assembly line, ending its production run.
Together, these points outline the Caliber’s entire production span from launch to retirement.
Background and market context
The Caliber was positioned as an affordable, roomy compact with hatchback practicality. It offered a straightforward package for buyers seeking cargo versatility and a higher seating position, but it faced mixed reviews on interior quality and performance. Its retirement reflected Dodge’s shift toward newer designs and platforms in the early 2010s.
Design and features
Distinctive for its tall, boxy silhouette aimed at maximizing cargo space, the Caliber offered a choice of two four-cylinder engines and, in some markets, all-wheel drive. Its styling was polarizing, but it provided a practical alternative in the compact segment during its run.
What came after
After the Caliber was discontinued, Dodge redirected its compact-car focus to the Dodge Dart, which arrived for the 2013 model year as part of a broader brand refresh and a shift toward more modern architectures and styling.
Summary
The Dodge Caliber’s production ended in 2012, with the model spanning the 2007–2012 model years. It remains a notable part of Dodge’s early-2010s lineup as the brand moved toward newer compact offerings.
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.
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.
What year did they stop making Dodge calibers?
2012
The Dodge Caliber is a compact hatchback manufactured and marketed by Chrysler's Dodge division from the 2007 through 2012 model years, replacing the Dodge Neon and Chrysler PT Cruiser.
What car 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.
