Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 49 | −75% | 1 | Airbag | Good |
| 2011 | 165 | −20% | 2 | Engine | Average |
| 2010 | 157 | −28% | 2 | Electrical | Average |
| 2009 | 232 | 1.3× | 1 | Transmission | Average |
| 2008 | 377 | 2.2× | — | Suspension | Avoid |
| 2007 | 958 | 5.1× | 4 | Suspension | Avoid |
* Complaints compared with the median Caliber year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Dodge Caliber problems
Latest Dodge Caliber recalls
Equipment
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling various Dodge, Chrysler, and RAM vehicles equipped with Kidde Plastic-Handle or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. A list of the affected trailer models is available at: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17V824-0103.pdf.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners instructing them to contact Kidde for a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began February 14, 2018.
Air bags
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCR, free of charge. Interim letters informing owners that parts are not available yet were mailed on October 26, 2016. The recall began on August 15, 2017.
Steering › Column
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2011dodge journey, Jeep wrangler, Chrysler 200, Chrysler 200 convertible, Dodge avenger, Dodge nitro, Jeep liberty, Dodge caliber, Jeep compass, Jeep patriot, Dodge grand caravan and Chrysler town & country vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect for rivet presence and alignment and repair the steering column pivot as required, free of charge. The safety recall began on July 4, 2011. Owners May contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Vehicle speed control › Accelerator pedal
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2007 Dodge caliber and Jeep compass passenger vehicles manufactured from March 7 through May 19, 2006. The pivot bushings in vehicles with oversized accelerator pedal bearing pockets May become dislodged and potentially cause the accelerator pedal to bind or stick.
Remedy: Chrysler will notify owners and dealers will inspect and replace all affected accelerator pedal assemblies free of charge. The safety recall began on June 29, 2010.
Latches/locks/linkages › Doors › Latch
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2010 Dodge caliber vehicles. Some vehicles May have been built with an incorrect door lock rod in the right front door.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the front right door lock rod as required free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during June 2010. Owners May contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Dodge Caliber should you avoid?
2007 and 2008 — these years have the most complaints relative to other Caliber years at the same age, led by suspension problems in the 2007.
What is the best year for the Dodge Caliber?
2012 has the fewest complaints compared with other Caliber years at the same age, followed by 2010 and 2011. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Dodge Caliber problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the suspension (521), electrical system (357) and body & structure (345). Suspension complaints peak in the 2007 model year.
How many recalls has the Dodge Caliber had?
8 recalls across 2007–2012. The model year with the most is 2007. See all Dodge Caliber recalls by year.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.