2008 Dodge Caliber

The 2008 Dodge Caliber is a compact hatchback known for its distinctive styling and affordability. It was offered with several engine and transmission options. Engine choices included a 1.8-liter inline-4 (148 hp, 125 lb-ft of torque), a 2.0-liter inline-4 (158 hp, 141 lb-ft of torque), and a 2.4-liter inline-4 (172 hp, 165 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options were a 5-speed manual or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Owners often appreciate the Caliber’s unique look and spacious interior, while common criticisms include its unrefined driving experience, subpar fuel economy for the class, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

1.8L Inline-4

• No Issues Found

2.0L Inline-4

• No Issues Found

2.4L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: The repair involves replacing the piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: This is the most reported issue. Hesitation, jerking, or complete failure of the CVT transmission. Often preceded by warning lights or unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the CVT unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Overheating
  • Description/Symptoms: The CVT transmission is prone to overheating, especially under heavy load or in hot weather. This can lead to reduced performance or complete transmission failure. Symptoms include a warning light, sluggish acceleration, and transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Some owners have had success installing an aftermarket transmission cooler. In severe cases, transmission replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ for a cooler installation; $3,000 - $5,000+ for transmission replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Sway Bar Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of the rear sway bar bushings, leading to clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacement of the sway bar bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• WIN Module Failure (Wireless Ignition Node)
  • Description/Symptoms: The WIN module can fail, causing issues with starting the vehicle, remote keyless entry, and the alarm system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the WIN module and reprogramming of the keys.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• TIPM Failure (Totally Integrated Power Module)
  • Description/Symptoms: The TIPM can fail, causing a wide range of electrical issues, including the vehicle not starting, fuel pump issues, and lighting problems.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Wiper Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear wiper motor is prone to failure, resulting in the rear wiper not functioning.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard material is prone to cracking, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, which is a costly repair, or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ for dashboard replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner adhesive can fail, causing the headliner to sag.
  • Solution: Re-glue the existing headliner or replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Dodge Caliber, while offering a unique style and affordable price point, is plagued by several reliability issues. The most significant concern is the high failure rate of the CVT transmission, which can be a very costly repair. Electrical issues, particularly with the WIN and TIPM modules, are also common. While some issues, such as sway bar bushings and the rear wiper motor, are relatively inexpensive to fix, others like the dashboard cracking are more cosmetic and might be ignored. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the potential cost of repairs when considering purchasing a 2008 Dodge Caliber, especially those equipped with a CVT.