Why did they stop making the Dodge Caliber?
The Dodge Caliber was discontinued after the 2012 model year as part of a broader restructuring of Chrysler and its Dodge lineup. A combination of weak sales, aging design, and a strategic shift toward more conventional compact cars and SUVs led Dodge to replace it with the Dodge Dart and refocus its product lineup.
Caliber in context
Launched for the 2007 model year, the Caliber was Dodge’s compact hatchback/crossover aimed at filling a gap between small cars and traditional SUVs. Built on a shared platform with Jeep products, it offered practicality but drew mixed reviews on its design, interior quality, and driving dynamics. A rare performance version, the SRT4, added to its lore but did little to alter its market trajectory.
Reasons for discontinuation
Below are the main factors that contributed to ending the Caliber’s production.
- Weak and aging sales performance as the model grew older and competitors tightened their grip on the compact segment.
- Critical reception of interior quality and overall refinement compared with rival compact hatchbacks and sedans.
- Chrysler’s restructuring under Fiat after the 2009 bankruptcy, which prioritized cost control and a leaner, more profitable model lineup.
- A shift in Dodge’s strategy toward more mainstream sedans and SUVs, reducing emphasis on niche hatchbacks like the Caliber.
- Introduction of the Dodge Dart (2013 model year) as a more conventional, better-aligned compact offering, signaling a clean replacement path for the Caliber’s market niche.
In short, the discontinuation was driven by market performance and corporate strategy rather than a single flaw in the vehicle itself.
What came after
Following the Caliber’s demise, Dodge rolled out the Dart as its primary compact offering in the early 2010s. The Dart aimed to provide a more traditional packaging, better interior quality, and updated technology, aligning with Dodge’s refreshed brand image under Fiat’s ownership. The Caliber’s platform lineage continued in some Jeep models, but the Caliber itself was retired from the lineup by 2012.
The SRT4 footnote
Among the Caliber’s more memorable variants was the limited-run SRT4, a high-performance version with turbocharged power and all-wheel drive. Produced in small numbers, it remains a rare footnote in the model’s history and did not influence the decision to discontinue the standard Caliber lineup.
Summary
The Dodge Caliber’s end was the result of sagging demand, mixed perceptions of quality, and a corporate shift toward more profitable, mainstream models. Its replacement, the Dodge Dart, reflected Dodge’s strategy to offer a more conventional compact and to align with the broader realignment of Chrysler under Fiat. With changing consumer tastes and a focus on SUVs and crossovers, the Caliber’s niche simply did not persist in Dodge’s long-term plans.
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.
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 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 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.
