Dodge Caliber (2007–2012) Fault Codes & Service Schedule | TroubleAtlas

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Dodge Caliber (2007–2012)
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DODGE CALIBER (2007–2012) — Verified Specs, Fluids & OBD2

By TroubleAtlas Technical Team · Updated 3 July 2026 · Cross-checked against 3 independent sources
Built 2007–2012 · all production years covered on this single page

2.0L I4 • Gasoline

Dodge Caliber (2007–2012)

© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA

5 Common problems View details →
14 OBD2 codes View details →
8 Recalls / TSB View details →
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Dodge Caliber (2007–2012) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliability
n/a
Safety & recalls
n/a
Repair cost
6.3
Parts & repairability
7.8
Maintenance & durability
n/a
Documentation & support
3.6
★ How we calculate this → Methodology
TROUBLEATLAS · SCOREINDEPENDENT · VERIFIED★★TA5.9/10
Independent · Verified · Never for sale

Every figure on this Dodge Caliber (2007–2012) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.

The Dodge Caliber (2007–2012) uses Mopar 5W-20 Synthetic Blend engine oil. Its battery is group 34 (BCI), rated at 600A cold-cranking amps. It is powered by a 2.0L I4 engine. Its OEM tyre size is 215/55 R16. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.

⚠️Common problems 🔧Common repairs 💧Fluids & lubricants 🔋Battery 🔌Fault codes (OBD2) 🔴Dashboard lights 🛒Parts comparator 🔧Accessories & tools 🛞Tyres 📋Recalls & TSB 📢Complaints 📍Workshops nearby
⚠️ COMMON PROBLEMS
Transmission fault signal (TCM)MODERATE

The transmission module detected a fault — check separate transmission codes.

Related codes: P0700

Misfire / Loss of cylinderMODERATE

Rough running, idle vibration, power loss.

Related codes: P0300

Thermostat: coolant temperature lowLOW

Thermostat stuck open — engine does not reach operating temperature.

Related codes: P0128

Battery/system voltage lowLOW

System voltage below 10V — check alternator, battery or wiring.

Related codes: P0562

P0011LOW

Check with an OBD2 scanner.

Related codes: P0011

🔧 COMMON REPAIRS
🔧
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.8h
€56 – €72
🔧
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Easy
0.9h
€63 – €81
🛢
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.3h
€21 – €27
🔧
ABS Module
Difficulty: Medium
2.0h
€140 – €180
💰 AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS

Prices may vary by area and workshop.

🔧
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
🛑
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
⚡
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
📊
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
⏱️ OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)

Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.

Brakes8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
ABS Module2.0h€ 90–€ 150
ABS Pump2.5h€ 112–€ 187
ABS Tone Ring1.5h€ 67–€ 112
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front0.8h€ 36–€ 60
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Brake Bleed - All Four1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Brake Booster2.5h€ 112–€ 187
Brake Booster Check Valve0.3h€ 13–€ 22
Cooling8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Coolant Bypass Pipe1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Coolant Flush1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Coolant Reservoir0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Coolant Temperature Sensor0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Cooling Fan Assembly1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Cooling Fan Motor1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Cooling Fan Relay0.3h€ 13–€ 22
Engine Oil Cooler2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Electrical8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Airbag - Driver1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Airbag - Passenger1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Airbag - Side2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Airbag Module/Computer1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Alternator1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Alternator Belt0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Amplifier1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Antenna0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Engine8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Camshaft Position Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Camshaft R&R8.0h€ 360–€ 600
Connecting Rod Bearings15.0h€ 675–€ 1125
Crankshaft Position Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Crankshaft R&R20.0h€ 900–€ 1500
Cylinder Head R&R6.0h€ 270–€ 450
Cylinder Head Resurface8.0h€ 360–€ 600
Engine Mount - Front1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Exhaust8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Air Injection Check Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Catalytic Converter - California1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Catalytic Converter - Universal2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Downpipe2.0h€ 90–€ 150
EGR Cooler3.0h€ 135–€ 225
EGR Tube1.5h€ 67–€ 112
EGR Valve1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Fuel system8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Charcoal Canister1.0h€ 45–€ 75
EVAP Purge Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
EVAP Vent Valve0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Fuel Cap0.1h€ 4–€ 7
Fuel Filler Neck1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Fuel Filter0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Fuel Filter - In-Tank2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Fuel Injector - Single1.0h€ 45–€ 75
HVAC8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
AC Accumulator1.5h€ 67–€ 112
AC Clutch Coil1.5h€ 67–€ 112
AC Compressor2.5h€ 112–€ 187
AC Compressor Clutch2.0h€ 90–€ 150
AC Compressor Oil Add0.5h€ 22–€ 37
AC Condenser2.5h€ 112–€ 187
AC Evaporator6.0h€ 270–€ 450
AC Expansion Valve (TXV)4.0h€ 180–€ 300
Steering8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Center Link/Drag Link1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Electric Power Steering Module1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Electric Power Steering Motor2.5h€ 112–€ 187
Idler Arm1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Pitman Arm1.2h€ 54–€ 90
Power Steering Fluid Flush0.5h€ 22–€ 37
Power Steering Gear Box3.5h€ 157–€ 262
Power Steering Hose - High Pressure1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Suspension8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Air Line1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Air Spring/Air Bag1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Air Suspension Compressor1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Air Suspension Height Sensor1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Air Suspension Valve Block2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Ball Joint - Lower1.8h€ 81–€ 135
Ball Joint - Upper1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Ball Joints - Upper and Lower3.0h€ 135–€ 225
Transmission8 operations
OperationLabour hours (OLP)Est. labour cost
Kickdown Cable0.8h€ 36–€ 60
Neutral Safety Switch1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Overdrive Solenoid2.0h€ 90–€ 150
Shift Cable1.5h€ 67–€ 112
Shift Linkage1.0h€ 45–€ 75
Shift Solenoid - Single3.6h€ 162–€ 270
Shift Solenoids - All7.8h€ 351–€ 585
Torque Converter6.0h€ 270–€ 450
💵 WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY

Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.

🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
Engine oil
Engine oil
Mopar 5W-20 Synthetic Blend
With filter change
4.5 L
Coolant
Coolant
Mopar OAT Coolant (Purple)
Use pre-mixed or mix 50/50 with distilled water
7.5 L
Brake fluid
Brake fluid
Mopar DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Replace when moisture content exceeds 3% or every 2-3 years
Automatic transmission fluid
Mopar ATF+4
10.0 L
Power steering fluid
Mopar ATF+4
1.0 L
Washer fluid
Windshield Washer Fluid
Refill as needed. Use winter-rated in cold climates.
3.5 L
📋 RECALLS & TSB (8)
NHTSA 06V493000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip › Control Unit/Module
Date: 29/12/2006
ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) CONTROL MODULE SOFTWARE MAY CAUSE THE REAR BRAKES TO LOCK UP DURING CERTAIN BRAKING CONDITIONS.
NHTSA 17V824000
Equipment
Date: 21/12/2017
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. Th…
NHTSA 16V668000
Seat Belts › Pretensioner
Date: 15/09/2016
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. The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air …
NHTSA 10V197000
Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch
Date: 11/05/2010
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.
NHTSA 08V528000
Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module (Tcm/Pcm/Tecm)
Date: 09/10/2008
CHRYSLER IS RECALLING 712 MY 2009 SEBRING, DODGE CALIBER, AVENGER, JOURNEY, JEEP PATRIOT, AND COMPASS VEHICLES. A NEW ADHESIVE USED IN THE POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) MANUFACTURING PROCESS CAN CAUSE THE PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD TO BREAK.
NHTSA 11V315000
Steering › Column
Date: 08/06/2011
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. SOME OF THESE VEHICLE…
NHTSA 07V196000
Wheels › Hub
Date: 07/05/2007
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH REAR DISC BRAKES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD (FMVSS) NO. 135, "LIGHT VEHICLE BRAKE SYSTEMS." THE LENGTH OF THE REAR WHEEL HUB MOUNTING BOLTS MAY PREVENT ACTUATION OF THE PARK BRAKE.
NHTSA 10V234000
Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal
Date: 03/06/2010
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 ACCELERA…
🔴 DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE

53 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.

Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
!BRAKE
Brake System WarningBrakes
K
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
+−
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
!BRAKE
ABS WarningBrakes
!BRAKE
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
!BRAKE
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
!
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
S
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
N
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
!
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
?
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
L
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
L
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
AC
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
A
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
L
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
A
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
A
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
A
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
A
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
!
Door Open WarningBody
!
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
📢 REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)

1938 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Dodge Caliber across model years 2007–2012. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.

121 crash reports 32 fires 95 injuries 4 deaths
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 2007958
Model year 2008377
Model year 2009232
Model year 2011165
Model year 2010157
Model year 201249
Most reported components (all years)
Suspension506
Structure336
Electrical System330
Power Train215
Vehicle Speed Control186
Engine173
Sample reports
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 DODGE CALIBER. WHILE DRIVING LONG DISTANCES, THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED AND THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. AFTER WAITING THIRTY MINUTES, THE VEHICLE OPERATED AS DESIGNED. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER… (MY 2009)
A NOISE WAS HEARD THAT SEEMED TO COME FROM THE FRONT SUSPENSION WHILE DRIVING. INSPECTION LATER SHOWED THAT THE FRONT CROSSMEMBER WAS BADLY RUSTED AND HAS HOLES IN IT. BOTH THE FRONT AND REAR CROSSMEMBERS ON THIS VEHICLE ARE BADLY RUST… (MY 2008)
WE'VE BEEN TOLD WE NEED A FUSE BOX AT A COST OF $1025. I SEE MANY OTHER PEOPLE ARE HAVING THIS SAME PROBLEM. WHY ISN'T CHRYSLER FIXING THIS? WE'RE ON SOCIAL SECURITY, WE CAN'T AFFORD THIS. *TR (MY 2007)
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 DODGE CALIBER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STARTING THE VEHICLE, IT JERKED VIOLENTLY. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT ACCELERATION POWER WAS REDUCED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE THE FAI… (MY 2008)

Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 2007–2012.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Dodge Caliber have any safety recalls?

Yes — 8 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: EQUIPMENT, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL, WHEELS:HUB. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.

What does fault code P0300 mean on the Dodge Caliber?

Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

What does fault code P0128 mean on the Dodge Caliber?

Coolant temperature below thermostat regulating temperature — thermostat stuck open or faulty This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

What does fault code P0011 mean on the Dodge Caliber?

A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1) This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.

Are steering problems common on the Dodge Caliber?

Yes — 252 of 1894 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the steering. One owner reported: “I was informed on 09/29/2025 by my Chrysler dealer that a second critical component of my 2007 Caliber frame had rusted to the point that it broke. The first critical component was reported in my com…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

Are engine problems common on the Dodge Caliber?

Yes — 402 of 1894 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “Vehicle tipm shut off transmission while driving an cause a traffic jam on a busy intersection caused the transmission system to go in limp mode an no breaks. Was very dangerous lucky I had a hand bre…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

Are electrical problems common on the Dodge Caliber?

Yes — 573 of 1894 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “Vehicle tipm shut off transmission while driving an cause a traffic jam on a busy intersection caused the transmission system to go in limp mode an no breaks. Was very dangerous lucky I had a hand bre…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.

What tyres does the Dodge Caliber (2007–2012) use?

The original OEM tyre size for the Dodge Caliber (2007–2012) is 215/55 R16. Compatible alternative sizes: ["215/55R18", "215/60R17", "245/45R19", "205/70R15", "225/45R19"]. See the Tyres section on this page to compare offers from the main suppliers.

What is the right battery for the Dodge Caliber (2007–2012)?

The battery specified for the Dodge Caliber (2007–2012) is group 34 (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 600A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.

What engine oil should I use on the Dodge Caliber (2007–2012)?

The engine oil specification for the Dodge Caliber (2007–2012) is Mopar 5W-20 Synthetic Blend. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.

Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Dodge Caliber (2007–2012)?

Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.

How often should the Dodge Caliber (2007–2012) be serviced?

Routine maintenance for the Dodge Caliber (2007–2012) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.

Have a specific fault code on your Dodge Caliber (2007–2012)? Search the code in the OBD2 section of this page or use the full TroubleAtlas DTC database. Need tyres? Compare prices and compatible sizes in the TroubleAtlas comparator.

More Dodge modelsCompare tyresSearch OBD2 code
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