2012 Dodge Caliber

Vehicle Introduction:

The 2012 Dodge Caliber is a compact hatchback that offers a blend of affordability, practicality, and sporty handling. It is available with a range of engine and transmission options, including:

• 1.8L Tigershark I4 (148 hp, 163 lb-ft)
• 2.0L World Gasoline I4 (158 hp, 174 lb-ft)
• 2.4L World Gasoline I4 (172 hp, 165 lb-ft)
• 5-speed manual transmission
• 6-speed manual transmission
• Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Drivers appreciate the Caliber’s spacious interior, user-friendly controls, and agile performance. However, it has received criticism for its mediocre fuel economy and lack of advanced safety features.

Engine

1.8L Tigershark I4

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, rough idling, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from engine, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace timing belt tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300

2.0L World Gasoline I4

• No Issues Found

2.4L World Gasoline I4

• PCV Valve Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Increased oil consumption, engine smoking
  • Solution: Replace PCV valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $150

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Gear Selector Linkage Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace gear selector linkage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Issues Found

CVT

• Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, rough shifting, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace TCM
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from front suspension, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace front strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or noise from rear suspension, misalignment
  • Solution: Replace rear trailing arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery fails to hold charge, difficulty starting vehicle
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors fail to lock or unlock properly
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or noise from dashboard area
  • Solution: Identify and secure loose components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Climate Control Knobs Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Knobs become loose or inoperable
  • Solution: Replace climate control knobs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250

Summary

The 2012 Dodge Caliber has a range of potential issues that vary in severity and cost. Engine and transmission issues can be expensive to fix, while suspension and electrical problems are typically less costly. Interior issues tend to be minor and have affordable solutions. Overall, the Caliber has received mixed reviews for its reliability, with some owners reporting major problems while others have had relatively few issues.