2012 Dodge Caliber
The 2012 Dodge Caliber is a compact hatchback that offered a mix of practicality and affordability. The base engine was a 2.0L inline-4 cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque. An optional 2.4L inline-4 cylinder engine produced 172 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual transmission and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Owners often appreciate the Caliber’s spacious interior and cargo area for its class. However, common complaints revolve around the CVT’s performance, the engine’s lackluster power, and overall build quality. The Caliber was discontinued after 2012 and replaced with the Dodge Dart.
Engine
2.0L I4
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket and/or oil pan gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Engine Misfires
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can occur due to faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, and the check engine light illuminating.
- Solution: Replace faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
2.4L I4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption. Symptoms include needing to add oil frequently, blue smoke from the exhaust, and a potential low oil warning light.
- Solution: In severe cases, piston ring replacement or engine rebuild might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Engine Knocking/Pinging
- Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking or pinging, especially under load, can be caused by carbon buildup, low-octane fuel, or a faulty knock sensor.
- Solution: Try using higher-octane fuel, cleaning the fuel injectors, or replacing the knock sensor. A carbon cleaning service may also be beneficial.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
- CVT Failure/Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The CVT is a known weak point in the Caliber. Symptoms include slipping, jerking, hesitation, whining noises, and a complete loss of drive. The check engine light may also illuminate.
- Solution: In many cases, a full CVT replacement is required. A rebuild might be possible but is not always reliable.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Overheating
- Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include the vehicle losing power at high speeds and the vehicle jerking or stuttering
- Solution: Transmission may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+
- Recalls: None Found
- CVT Cooler Line Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: CVT fluid leaks are common. Symptoms include low transmission fluid levels, transmission slipping and the vehicle not shifting into gears correctly.
- Solution: Replace CVT cooler lines and replenish CVT fluid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Struts/Shocks
- Description/Symptoms: Worn struts and shocks can lead to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
- Solution: Replace the worn struts and shocks.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Damaged/Worn Sway Bar Links
- Description/Symptoms: Symptoms include a rattling or clunking noise coming from the front end, especially when going over bumps or turning.
- Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The TIPM can cause a variety of electrical problems, including fuel pump relay failure (leading to no-start conditions), intermittent starting problems, and malfunctioning accessories.
- Solution: Replacement of the TIPM or fuel pump relay bypass.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate correctly. The window may become stuck in an open or closed position.
- Solution: Replace the window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Liftgate
- Description/Symptoms: Rust and corrosion on the lower area of the liftgate.
- Solution: Removal of rust and paint or replacement of the entire liftgate.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Loose/Damaged Exterior Trim
- Description/Symptoms: Exterior trim pieces such as bumpers, side skirts, and fender flares that have become loose, cracked, or completely detached.
- Solution: Reattach or replace the damaged trim pieces, using new clips, adhesives, or fasteners as necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Headliner Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: The headliner material can start to sag and detach from the roof of the car.
- Solution: Re-glue or replace the headliner.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Loose/Broken Interior Trim
- Description/Symptoms: Plastic trim pieces inside the car, such as door panels, dashboard components, and center console pieces, can become loose, cracked, or broken due to age and wear.
- Solution: Replace the damaged trim pieces.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2012 Dodge Caliber has a variety of issues, with the most concerning being CVT failure, followed by electrical issues related to the TIPM, and engine oil leaks. The CVT issue is the most expensive to fix, often requiring a full replacement. While other issues like worn suspension components and interior trim problems are common, they are generally less severe and costly to repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchasing.