2010 Dodge Caliber

Introduction

The 2010 Dodge Caliber is a compact hatchback that offers a spacious and versatile interior. It is available with several engine and transmission options, including a 2.0L 4-cylinder rated at 158 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque, a 2.4L 4-cylinder rated at 172 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder rated at 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Owners of the Dodge Caliber appreciate its roomy interior, affordability, and sporty handling. However, it has also been plagued by a number of issues, including engine problems, transmission problems, and suspension problems.

Engine

2.0L 4-Cylinder

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include rough idling, decreased engine power, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise from the engine, especially at idle.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4L 4-Cylinder

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include rough idling, decreased engine power, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and unusual noises from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, soft clutch pedal, and fluid leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch master cylinder.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, shuddering, or overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT

• CVT Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shuddering, slipping, or overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the CVT transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, reduced ride comfort, and impaired handling.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, excessive tire wear, and impaired handling.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per ball joint
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly even when the vehicle is parked.
  • Solution: Inspect the vehicle’s electrical system for parasitic drains.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, flickering dashboard lights, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tail Light Leakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the tail lights, causing them to fog up or malfunction.
  • Solution: Replace the tail light gaskets or reseal the tail lights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handles Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Exterior door handles breaking or becoming difficult to operate.
  • Solution: Replace the door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150 per door handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sun Visor Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Sun visors sagging or drooping.
  • Solution: Replace the sun visors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heater Core Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of heat from the heater, fogging inside the vehicle, and coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replace the heater core.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Dodge Caliber has been riddled with a number of significant issues, including engine problems, transmission problems, and suspension problems. These issues can range from minor annoyances to major safety hazards. While the vehicle offers a spacious interior and affordable price, it is important to weigh the potential costs of repairs before purchasing one.