Why did Dodge stop making calibers?
Dodge discontinued the Caliber compact car in 2012 due to declining sales and a shift in consumer preferences towards larger, more fuel-efficient vehicles. The Caliber was not able to compete effectively in the increasingly competitive compact car market.
The Rise and Fall of the Dodge Caliber
The Dodge Caliber was introduced in 2006 as a replacement for the Dodge Neon. It was designed to be a more practical and versatile compact car, with a hatchback body style and available all-wheel drive. The Caliber was initially well-received, with sales reaching over 100,000 units in 2007.
However, the Caliber's popularity began to wane in the late 2000s as consumers increasingly favored more fuel-efficient and refined compact cars, such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. The Caliber's boxy styling and underpowered engine options also contributed to its declining sales.
Reasons for Discontinuation
- Declining Sales: Caliber sales dropped from a high of 103,000 units in 2007 to just 37,000 units in 2011, a decline of over 60%.
- Shift in Consumer Preferences: Consumers were increasingly drawn to more fuel-efficient and refined compact cars, which the Caliber struggled to compete with.li>
- Outdated Design: The Caliber's boxy styling and underpowered engine options made it less appealing to consumers compared to newer, more modern compact car designs.
- Increased Competition: The compact car market became increasingly competitive, with established players like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla offering more attractive options.
In the end, the Dodge Caliber's inability to keep up with changing consumer preferences and the increasingly competitive compact car market led to its discontinuation in 2012.
Why did Dodge discontinue the Magnum?
Dodge discontinued the Magnum due to low sales, market shifts towards SUVs and crossovers, and competition from the more popular Dodge Charger sedan. The company's financial difficulties and a company executive's dislike for the model also contributed to its cancellation in 2008, following its last major redesign.
This video explains the reasons for the discontinuation of the Dodge Magnum: 1mThis Old CarYouTube · Oct 11, 2025
- Low sales: Despite efforts, the Magnum consistently sold poorly, with sales declining after its introduction.
- Market trends: The market was rapidly moving away from station wagons toward SUVs and crossovers, which offered higher seating positions and the perception of more utility.
- Competition: The revived Dodge Charger shared the same platform and many components as the Magnum but offered a more popular four-door sedan style, which significantly overshadowed the Magnum in sales.
- Company factors: The decision to end production occurred during a period of financial hardship for Chrysler, which also led to the cancellation of other models. Additionally, some reports suggest an unnamed executive actively pushed for the Magnum's termination.
What happened to the Dodge Caliber?
Discontinuation. The 2010 Caliber was the last model sold in Europe. The 2011 model ended production on 23 November 2011, in United States, with the remainder being sold as the 2012 model year Caliber in both U.S. and Canada.
What is the problem with the Dodge Caliber engine?
2. Engine Problems. The Dodge Caliber's 2.0L and 2.4L engines are generally reliable, but they can encounter issues like engine misfires, rough idling, or excessive oil consumption. These problems can be caused by faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, oxygen sensors, or a worn-out timing chain.
What years of Dodge Caliber to avoid?
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.
