The 2007 Dodge Caliber is a front-engine, front-wheel-drive, five doors compact hatchback vehicle manufactured and marketed by Chrysler’s Dodge division. The 2007 Dodge Caliber was modeled to replace the Dodge Neon and the Chrysler Cruiser. The vehicle was a big deal when it first came into the market but it had lots of problems. The 2007 Dodge Caliber problems were expensive to repair. This led to the vehicle becoming infamous since things started going downhill very quickly.
It isn’t surprising that the 2007 Dodge Caliber had many problems associated with it. The 2007 model was the first model year for the marque and it is obvious that new vehicles have lots of problems associated with them.
The fact that the 2007 Dodge Caliber had numerous problems was reflected by the number of complaints made by the vehicles’ owners on Carcomplaints.com.
This article is going to let the new and current owners of the 2007 Dodge Caliber vehicles be aware of the types of problems they will be facing with this type of vehicle.
With all the useful information, new enthusiasts will be able to make decisions about whether to go for this vehicle and the already owners of this vehicle will be ready to deal with the problems associated with this particular vehicle.
Contents of this article entail;
- 1. Suspension Problems
- 2. Transmission Issues
- 3. Engine-Related Woes
- 4, Paint & Bodywork Faults
- 5. Steering Complaints
- 6. Brake Problems
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
2007 Dodge Caliber
The 2007 Dodge Caliber vehicle attracted many enthusiasts for its small size which helps to provide a good fuel economy.
This vehicle is a five-passenger, five-door hatchback. It offers a choice of four-cylinder engines and a choice of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive makes it a capable winter vehicle.
Its front seats are comfortable, with a good deal of headroom and a large area for cargo space. The 2007 Dodge Caliber is described as the first model of the Dodge Caliber generation that came with poor interior and handling dynamics. Its price is $13,985, which is $410 less than the Dodge Neon model.
2007 Dodge Caliber Suspension Problems
This was the biggest problem reported by the 2007 Dodge Caliber owners. The owners were faced with a suspension problem that fell apart at low mileage.
Most suspension issues for many drivers were as a result of the ball joints, tie rods, control arms going bad, and leaking struts that came too soon than expected at low mileage.
Generally, suspension problems are known to be seen when the vehicle has sustained a good deal of wear and tear. Unlike other vehicles, the 2007 Dodge Caliber seems to have an entirely faulty suspension from the start. Most vehicles’ parts start falling apart over a thousand miles and it’s usually one part that fails if it happens at all.
The suspension problems were a recurring problem for some owners since they had to replace them more than once.
1. Front Ball Joint and Control Arms Bad
The Dodge Caliber is known to have suspension problems which are commonly caused by a faulty ball joint and control arms. These problems occur in all Dodge Caliber years, but in the 2007 Dodge Caliber model, the problem was very common.
Most of the owners of the 2007 Dodge Caliber have reported the issues with their Caliber’s bouncy suspension, which led to uneven tire wear, and the control arms prevented the front-end alignment. Some owners had to replace their control arm more than once. This suspension problem cost them about $870 to replace.
2. Broken Suspension
The 2007 Dodge Caliber owners complain of having to replace the broken suspension more than once. This makes the vehicle unsafe to drive. The cost of replacing and fixing such kind of transmission problem is about $1,470. The issue was reported at about 67,000 miles by most vehicles.
3. Front Struts Leakage
This is another problem associated with the 2007 Dodge Caliber suspension problems. Some owners complained about it occurring mostly in vehicles at around 50,000 miles. The cost of replacing the front struts goes for around $980.
4. Coil Spring Broke
The owners of the 2007 Dodge Caliber also faced a broken coil spring. This suspension problem occurs in vehicles at about 60,000 miles.
5. Excessive Noise While Driving
This suspension problem is associated with the tie rod. The strange noise occurs in the vehicle at around 60,000 miles.
Driving with a bad suspension part can lead to accidents and loss of life, so these components should be replaced immediately after they have been noticed.
2007 Dodge Caliber Transmission Problems
A car’s transmission carries power from the engine to the wheels to allow drivers to drive at the speed they desire. Since it has to translate the desired amount of power for the desired speed, even a little transmission problem should not be ignored. A transmission problem is a car problem that is easy to notice.
Transmission failure is a common issue with the 2007 Dodge Caliber. Some of the issues related to transmission problems are transmission hesitation, loss acceleration, and cooler lines leaking.
1. Transmission Failure
Most 2007 Dodge Caliber drivers experience a transmission failure. The average mileage for this to happen is around 85,000 miles, and the average cost to fix this is over $2,500.
2. Transmission Fluids Overheats
This is also an additional issue. The transmission fluid is heated until the transmission lights come on.
Some 2007 Dodge Caliber drivers experienced a remarkably loud and endless sound from the continuously variable transmission system. The endless noise starts when you start to drive and keep going for the entire journey. The 2007 Dodge Caliber’s transmission problem can present itself as;
- Shifting hesitations
- Jumping or grinding during acceleration
- Shaking on the road
- Burning smell
- Whistling noises
2007 Dodge Caliber Engine Problems
Engine problems are some of the problems associated with the first-year model of the 2007 Dodge Caliber and it is the most expensive repair compared to other repair issues. There are many possible causes for the 2007 Dodge Caliber’s low acceleration.
The Dodge Caliber engine problems are associated with engine stalling, losing power, making strange noises, and check engine light appears frequently.
1. Engine Stalls/Shuts Off While Driving
Most owners reported that their vehicle’s engine would stall instantly without showing any warning signs.
A dirty or clogged fuel injector, for example, can affect the amount of fuel delivered to the engine, causing your car to slow down. This problem can be solved by using fuel injection cleaning, replacing the alternator, or replacing the integrated power module.
Another problem can be a failed catalytic converter, which may also have the same impact on your vehicle’s acceleration. Change in back pressure created by a failed catalytic converter causes the engine to run hotter than usual
Engine problems are known to be costly. On average, most 2007 Dodge Caliber owners used an approximate $570 to get the problem resolved.
2. Engine Losing Power While Driving
Other 2007 Dodge Caliber owners reported resentment from the engine losing power. To solve this problem, the starter, the throttle body, and the battery should be replaced several times.
The issue costs $490 to deal with. At around 70,000 miles, which is considered very early, the issue of the engine losing power was reported.
3. Loud Humming/ Whining Noise
Some 2007 Dodge Caliber owners reported the problem of hearing humming or whining noises.
This strange noise was reported by vehicles at around 85,000 miles. The problem can be resolved by replacing the alternator for around $300.
4. Check Engine Light On
A group of owners reported that their vehicles keep getting an illuminating check engine light.
This problem can be resolved by replacing a blown gasket or a catalytic converter. Replacing these components can be very costly and pricey.
2007 Dodge Caliber Paint Problems
The 2007 Dodge Caliber owners reported in a large number that the car’s paints started peeling off by themselves. The peeling off of paint which came too early than expected indicates the poor paint quality.
The front bumper had to be repainted, and it cost approximately $2,500.
Rusting is also one of the problems associated with the 2007 Dodge Caliber body. Rust existing underneath a Dodge Caliber could be so extensive that can lead to suspension ceasing to function and repairing a rusted-out subframe could cost you around $700 to $1,400.
The massive pillar inside the car is another problem associated with the 2007 Dodge Caliber body. The Dodge Caliber’s blind spot turned out to be a real standout that made driving risky and unsafe.
2007 Dodge Caliber Electrical System Problems
Electrical system problems are also associated with the 2007 Dodge Caliber vehicle. These problems are an alternator failure, pulley noises, and power loss. Many electrical problems were reported regarding the 2007 Dodge Caliber.
The owners of the 2007 Dodge Caliber reported that their car’s alternator failed despite the good maintenance. The alternator failed mostly in the vehicle at around 80,000 miles.
The alternator causes strange weird noises to the alternator pulley. Replacing the pulley costs approximately $350 to take care of the weird noise.
Electrical systems could, in some cases, cause power loss. Some owners also complained that their electronic throttle went out when entering the highway. When you have these signs in your car, then you should know that your vehicle has electrical system problems and should be taken care of immediately after they are noticed.
- TIPM stops working
- The engine won’t turn over
- Mice eat soy-based wire insulation
- The starter arbitrarily engages while driving
2007 Dodge Caliber Steering Problems
Dodge Caliber owners have reported various steering-related problems. The steering problem can be the most dangerous issue with your car and once the problem is noticed, action should be taken immediately.
The steering problems reported by the 2007 Dodge Caliber owners were associated with the tie rod, the lower control arm, or the rack and the pinion. At around 50,000 miles, the owners of this car reported that they had a difficult time steering due to issues with the tie rod and the ball joints.
Other enthusiasts also noted the problem with their power steering pump. The power steering pump can also go bad. If it is not pumping fluid to the Caliber’s rack. The power steering lines can’t be pressurized and there will be no steering assistance.
They have also complained about a broken tie rod. They had to pay for it with their own money because it was not included in the warranty and this made it more frustrating. Replacing it costs about $360.
2007 Dodge Caliber Light Problems
Don’t be surprised being a 2007 Dodge Caliber owner when you replace a burned headlight more than once in a row.
1. The Headlight Problem
You may be wondering what might be wrong with your headlights and what might be the cause of them not working when all other lights are working.
This problem has been reported by the 2007 Dodge Caliber owners and they have to replace their bulbs several times. The problem can be caused by the two fuses supplying power to the headlight, which should be regularly checked or it can also be caused by a faulty headlight power module.
It isn’t so common for it to be a wiring problem or faulty bulb as many drivers may think. Bulbs do fail, but not at the same time.
2. Rear Lights Or Tail Lights
One of the most important safety features in your vehicle is the rear light or the tail light, mostly when driving at night. The rear light signals other drivers and lets them know you are on the road and also indicates where and when you are braking.
When the light fails, it becomes very dangerous not only for you but also for other drivers because it can cause fatal accidents and whenever the issue is noticed, then it should be checked immediately.
Here are some of the reasons for the rear or tail lights to stop working.
- Blown fuse – When a fuse blows, it prevents the circuit from completing.
- Bad relays – When a relay fails, the connection between it and the battery is unable to be completed since it is the relay that transfers from the battery to the light itself.
- Bad brake light switch – If the rear light turns on but does not become brighter when breaking, then your brake light switch may not be functioning.
- Burned-out bulbs – When your rear light appears to be out, this is always caused by a burned-out bulb.
2007 Dodge Caliber Airbags/ Seat Belt Problems
Airbags are designed to work with seat belts to reduce the chance of your upper body or head striking the interior of the vehicle during a crash.
Some Dodge Caliber owners have reported many seat belts and airbag problems. In the 2007 Dodge Caliber, the owners complained of having their seat belts detached from the rear support of the vehicle. The problem of seat belts detaching themselves is because there is something stuck in the seat belt buckle.
Some owners also complained that their seat belts don’t stay latched and sometimes, the seat belt unfastens and won’t fasten back.
Other owners of this vehicle also reported that the airbags in the vehicle fail to deploy and the seat belts fail to detract.
In the 2007 Dodge Caliber, vehicles also have the problem of airbags disarming randomly at the passenger’s side and the driver’s seat belts come undone.
2007 Dodge Caliber Brakes Problems
Being the owner of the 2007 Dodge Caliber, you might face some squeaking sounds when braking and brakes not working properly in general.
It is always important to get your car’s brakes inspected or checked regularly. When you hear weird and abnormal sounds, smell foul odors coming from the tire, or feel pulsations when braking at high speed, then you should get your brakes inspected.
Here are some signs that your 2007 Dodge Caliber has brake problems.
- Screening, Squealing, and Grinding – These are some of the main signs warning you that your brake pads should be inspected before expensive parts wear down due to metal-on-metal grinding.
- Vibration Moving From Your Brake Pedal to The Steering Wheel – When you hear vibration or shaking when you brake, then your brake system is giving you some hints of its worn-down condition.
- Braking Requiring More Brake Pedal Pressure – If you are pressing your brake pedal more than usual to stop your vehicle, then your brake pad is wearing.
- Your Brake Warning Light is on – if your brake warning light appears, then you need to get your brakes inspected.
2007 Dodge Caliber Fuel System Problems
This is one of the worst problems that can happen to your car. Fuel pump problems have been reported by the owners of the 2007 Dodge Caliber owners. The most common signs of a bad fuel are;
- Whining Noises – This one is the most common symptom that a fuel pump is going bad.
- Sputtering Under Acceleration – This is also one of the ways you will get to know that your vehicle’s fuel pump is going out.
- Challenge When Starting the Engine – This happens because there is not enough fuel pressure to atomize the fuel properly.
- Engine Won’t Start – The engine won’t start at all if the fuel pump has completely failed.
Fuel pump system problems can also be caused by your Caliber’s fuel filter. A fuel pump that is going out is going to feel the same as a bad fuel filter.
2007 Dodge Caliber Exhaust System Problems
An exhaust leak is one of the most common automotive problems. A leaking exhaust can be smelly, loud, and dangerous and if your 2007 Dodge Caliber has a leaking exhaust system, then it should be inspected immediately.
1. Signs of a leaking exhaust
- Smell – When your 2007 Dodge Caliber has a leaking exhaust, it will smell terrible. Fixing an exhaust is vital and if you smell your exhaust leaking, you need to open your windows and get fresh air.
- Check Engine Lights – the exhaust oxygen and catalytic converters have many trouble codes related to them. The oxygen sensors are going to pick up a trip with the check engine light to give you a trouble code if the exhaust is leaking badly enough.
- Poor Fuel Economy – This is another sign of an exhaust leak. If your 2007 Dodge Caliber goes a short distance from filling up, it is an indication that there is a problem with your exhaust.
- Loud Rumbling Sound – This is the most obvious sign that your vehicle has an exhaust leak.
Exhaust leaks can be caused by;
- Rusted out exhaust
- Cracked manifold
- Manifold to exhaust gasket
- Exhaust manifest gasket
2007 Dodge Caliber AC System Problems
If your 2007 Dodge Caliber AC won’t blow cold air, then it has an AC problem.
This problem can be caused by;
- Lack Of Refrigerant – Your car’s AC won’t work if the refrigerant has disappeared because of a leak.
- Bad Condenser – The coolant can not transform if your car’s condenser has been clogged up.
- Blower Motor – Your blower motor is at fault if there is no air blowing from your Caliber.
- Blend Door- If your blend door is locked up, your car can’t respond to the temperature changes since it is the blend door that controls the amount of heated and conditioned air that enters the cabin.
2007 Dodge Caliber Starting Problems
A number of the 2007 Dodge Caliber owners reported that their engines would not start on ignition.
There are several reasons why your 2007 Dodge Caliber won’t start. They include;
- Dead battery
- An alternator problem
- Failed starter
2007 Dodge Caliber Life Expectancy
Your car’s life expectancy will depend on how you take care of your vehicle and all other factors that can limit or extend the lifespan of your vehicle.
If you do the maintenance routine as scheduled and check out and change your oil frequently, then your car will surely have a long lifespan.
With all the problems associated with the 2007 Dodge Caliber, from suspension problems to transmission problems and all others, the lifespan of this vehicle can not be as long as other models’ lifespan.
Facts about 2007 Dodge Caliber Problems:
- The Dodge Caliber was a five-door hatchback sedan made by Dodge from 2007 to 2012, intended to replace the Dodge Neon and the Chrysler PT Cruiser.
- The 2007 Dodge Caliber is known for its numerous problems, making it one of the worst cars in recent memory and one of the worst cars Dodge ever made.
- The biggest problem with the 2007 Dodge Caliber was the suspension, with ball joints, control arms, tie rods, and leaking struts being the most common issues that occurred at low mileage.
- The typical repair cost for the suspension issue was around $870, and there was no recall issued for this problem.
- Transmission problems were less prominent than the suspension issues, with the average mileage for the transmission failure being around 85,000 and the average cost to fix it being over $2,500.
- Starting problems were frequent, often related to electrical problems, and could be fixed by replacing the ignition fuse at a cost of around $100 at a mechanic.
- Engine problems included stalling or stopping entirely while driving, speed control issues, and a range of noises and grinding sounds.
- Unusual problems that plagued the 2007 Dodge Caliber included leaking issues from damaged sunroof drain tubes and subframe rust that could cause extensive suspension failure.
- There were four recalls for the 2007 Dodge Caliber, but none of them addressed the major issues most drivers had with the vehicle.
- Given the remarkable number of problems that the 2007 Dodge Caliber faced, the life expectancy of one of these cars was not as long as it might have been for a more well-built model, and it is not recommended to buy one as it is unlikely to run without major problems at this point.
2007 Dodge Caliber: In Conclusion…
Now that you know about the 2007 Dodge Caliber and the problems associated with it, you can see that it was one of the vehicles that were considered worst among all the Dodge models.
If you are planning to buy a used car in the market, do not go for it. It doesn’t matter how good-looking it is since there is no chance you won’t have any problems associated with it even if it has a low mileage.
The 2007 Dodge Caliber isn’t worth investing any amount in since it has proved itself to be a poorly made car with many problems with a high repair cost.
This article will help you make a good decision on whether to go to the 2007 Dodge Caliber or not if you were planning to purchase it.
2007 Dodge Caliber: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some popular frequently asked questions (and their answers) about the 2007 Dodge Caliber problems…
Is Dodge a Good Car
Dodge is a well-known American brand that has been producing vehicles for over a century. The quality of a Dodge car can vary depending on the model and the year. Some Dodge models are known for their reliability and performance, while others have been reported to have various issues. It’s always recommended to check the reviews and reliability ratings of a specific Dodge model before making a purchase.
Are Dodge Calibers Good Cars
The Dodge Caliber, specifically the 2007 model, has been reported to have several issues. Many owners have reported problems with the suspension, engine, and transmission. It is also rated below average in terms of reliability by several automotive experts. Therefore, it may not be considered a good car when compared to others in its class.
How Much is a 2007 Dodge Caliber Worth
The value of a 2007 Dodge Caliber can vary based on its condition, mileage, location, and whether it has any aftermarket modifications. As of writing, the average price range for a used 2007 Dodge Caliber is between $1,500 and $4,000. It’s always a good idea to check online marketplaces or used car dealerships for the most current prices.
How Many Miles Can a Dodge Caliber Last
The lifespan of a Dodge Caliber can vary greatly depending on how well it has been maintained. Some owners have reported their Caliber lasting over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. However, due to the common issues associated with this model, many Calibers experience problems well before reaching that milestone.
What is the Most Common Problem with Dodge Caliber
The most common problems reported by 2007 Dodge Caliber owners include suspension issues, specifically with the control arms and ball joints. Other common issues include CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) failure, engine stalling, and electrical problems.
How Many MPG Does a 2007 Dodge Caliber Get
The 2007 Dodge Caliber’s fuel efficiency varies depending on the engine and transmission options. The base model with a 1.8L engine and manual transmission is estimated to get around 28 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg in the city. The 2.0L engine with CVT transmission is estimated to get around 27 mpg on the highway and 23 mpg in the city.
How Many Miles Does a Dodge Caliber Last
The longevity of a Dodge Caliber depends on various factors like maintenance, driving habits, and the overall condition of the vehicle. Some Dodge Caliber owners have reported their vehicles lasting over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. However, due to the common problems associated with the 2007 model, many Calibers experienced significant issues before reaching that milestone.
How Much is a 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT Worth
The 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT is one of the higher trim levels available for this model. The value of a 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT can vary based on its condition, mileage, location, and any aftermarket modifications. As of writing, the average price range for a used 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT is between $2,000 and $4,500. It’s always recommended to check online marketplaces or used car dealerships for the most current prices.
