Dodge Caliber

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  • aladdinsanealaddinsane Member Posts: 182
    Well said, lexan. . .I couldn't agree with you more!!! :D
    Bravo. . .You're on the beam, so to speak.

    Peace! :shades:
  • neely2005neely2005 Member Posts: 70
    That article was comparing a Base Model Caliber SE to the others.

    Here are some other reviews:

    http://www.canadiandriver.com/articles/pw/07caliber.htm

    http://car-reviews.automobile.com/Dodge/review/2007-dodge-caliber-road-test/1680- /0
  • faroutfarout Member Posts: 1,609
    I have been a solid Dodge buyer. In the last 11 years we have bought 13 new DCX vehicles. We have had 3 Neons, we still have a 1996 with 188,000 miles on the original engine. Our last Neon was a 2004 which always got 29 to 32mpg. Some Texas driver hit our daughter on July 5, 06. What a bad day! Totalled the car, but our daughter was ok.
    I am so used to smooth lines and aero dynamic styling, I like it. But somehow the Caliber just looks so odd to me. That and the CVT Mexico Trans. along with this World engine just has not won me over at all. I must admit I have not driven one yet. It is clear the car is geared to younger people than me and my bride of 37 years.
    We would like to see more leg room in the back. The Neon was not intended for anyone over 4' to sit in the back and it looks the same for the Caliber. And I have read some getting as low as 18mpg and some as high as 29mpg. What do you think is a fair evaluation of what I have concerns about?

    Farout
  • lexan1965lexan1965 Member Posts: 118
    I've had around 8 DCX vehicles in the last 15 years. My last car was a neon also with 117K on it which resold nicely after I bouht my Caliber. I'm 6'-4" and fit comfortably in my Caliber but would'nt fit well in the back seat for any distance unless a midget was driving. Your concerns are valid but everybody has had different experiences with their Calibers and mine so far has been a good one. I'm also 41 years old and was not attracted to the Calibers exterior at first...it grew on me very fast.
    Some people I know get 22 mpg up to 29 as you mentioned and I don't understand the variation on mileage. I've driven 16K in my Caliber so far and get a steady 27.3 mpg. I've even stopped checking mpg because it was always the same.
    So...I guess you'll have to go test drive one and check it out for yourself ehhh?
  • daveydodgedaveydodge Member Posts: 23
    Don't have an SE..Have an SXT with 2.0L CVT...my seat adjusts vertically to sit high or low in my vehicle..no shifting problems no seat problems...good gas mileage even though it is "seriously underpowered and grossly overweight"...Just to be clear once again Matt....you are in the wrong vehicle forum..I can find pro/con reviews for virtually any vehicle...once again - lack of units on Dealer Lots and 3-4 month order times factually states the Caliber is popular and in high demand...sorry you disagree Matt...now you may go and race your Aztek to the next shop. You would look good behind the wheel of a Caliber...don't kid yourself. You have won your unsupported arguements...I throw up the white flag to such a Caliber know it-all...I have better things to do...I just hope you can like and enjoy your next new vehicle as much as I.
  • guestguest Member Posts: 770
    I inquired at Crestwood Dodge in the Metro Detroit Area about the 4 cylinder engines driving force behind the engine and was told that the engines all use a timing chain versus a timing belt. If this is true, it's good for at least 250K miles before a replacement is needed versus 60K-80K miles that is usually suggested for routine maintenance on this type of vehicle. That indeed is another good thing about this vehicle.
  • caliberdreamzcaliberdreamz Member Posts: 3
    Picked up our new Caliber SXT on Friday!! Ordered on April 21, delivered on August 24. It is everything we hoped for and more!! I love, love, love the way it drives, looks, and the color!!

    We found everyone's buying experience so useful when shopping, so here's ours:

    Caliber SXT (Sunburst Orange Pearl) w / these options:
    -2.0L 4 Cyl DOHC 16V Dual VVT Engine
    -Continuously Variable Transaxle II
    -Speed Control
    -MusicGate Power (TM) Sound System

    Final price: $16,243 (w/out tax, tag, title)

    OK, off to play with the new car now... :)
  • vir1stunnavir1stunna Member Posts: 1
    Picked up our new Caliber SXT on Friday!! Ordered on April 21, delivered on August 24. It is everything we hoped for and more!! I love, love, love the way it drives, looks, and the color!!

    I just ordered my caliber sxt cvtII with 24d package fog lights and speed control. The msrp was 17420, but I am going to pay 15912 because of employee pricing through my retired grandfather. I was wondering if you got the same discount. Also if anyone thinks this discount doesn't seem correct please respond.
  • caliberdreamzcaliberdreamz Member Posts: 3
    No, no special discounts, other than a $500 rebate, which had ended but the dealer gave us anyways because we had waited so long.

    When we started looking, we weren't in a major rush to buy, so we shopped around for the best deal - it helps that my husband is a great researchers and tough negotiator. We were pretty happy with the price, given that it seems most places aren't taking anything off on them!
  • moparfancanadamoparfancanada Member Posts: 18
    It's been just over a month since I picked up my R/T AWD. I have to honestly say that so far, I am 100% satisfied. :) I've put on about 3,000 kms (about 1800 miles) and my gas mileage was a very respectable 8.5liters per 100kms. I think thats about 34mpgs in Canadian gallons. Anyways, it is exactly what I expected. A lot better than the V8 in my Dakota.

    I've read where some people are disappointed with the power. I'm not. It's a 4 banger people! If you want power, buy a Viper and I'll see you at the pumps. :P As for those bitching about the quality, GEE! I see where Toyota has recalled over 1.8 million cars this year. :sick: SO FAR! HUM! Quality eh?

    I have absolutely no complaints with the fit and finish of my Caliber. What I would recommend to the Mopar boys next year is to improve on the tilt steering. Make it more telescopic, and place a pouch behind the driver and passenger seats so I can load my road maps in a more convenient place. I'm gonna be doing a lot more travelling and will need map space! :shades: :shades:

    Later Mopar Fans!!!
  • daveydodgedaveydodge Member Posts: 23
    Mine leaks about every other day. Anybody take their Caliber in to fix and what did they do? This was discussed earlier...I just wondered if the dealers had the solution yet. Other than this minor flaw...after 1400 miles all is well...Mobile 1 Synthetic in 600 miles!!...29.3 mpg's thus far ...Did not know there is a thermometer on the odometer trip guage for external temps. Not completely sold on tire choice for the Caliber.
  • neely2005neely2005 Member Posts: 70
    http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/aug2006/bw20060828_749458.htm?chan=aut- - os_autos+index+page
  • grayseabringgrayseabring Member Posts: 18
    Thank you for your post #1482. The auto critic fairly reflected the Caliber inside and out. I would recommend the article th anyone thinking of making a purchase. I'm happy with mine and have had many favorable comments concerning its appearance.
    ...jim.
  • dnrmerlindnrmerlin Member Posts: 5
    Anyone find the temperature for the outside a bit out of wack? I have two Calibers and both sometimes show way hotter then it is and other times way colder. Im wondering if the temp sensor is in a bad spot and if anyone knows where the temp sensor is so I can relocate?

    Thanks.
    Still love em both.
  • grayseabringgrayseabring Member Posts: 18
    My temp gage is also out a few degrees. I think it was engineered by some engineer in marketing. The same one that spends hundreds of thousands calibrating the fuel gage. I wonder why they call it the Caliber.
  • grayseabringgrayseabring Member Posts: 18
    What I meant about the Marketing division is that the calibration of gages helps sell cars. For instance: few of us dutifully record every gallon and mile that gives you an idea of performance. What you hear is someone saying "i travelled 250 miles and only used a half tank" Meanwhile those of us wonder why we so quickly need to fill up as the drive progresses. After a while you think " I better hurray and get to a gas station soon". Most people only tell their friends about the first unrecorded tank. My (2004) 2.4L Sebring is better on gas than the Caliber by quite a bit but my new one is red. I like red.
    If you think about it those engineers who can send a rocket to the moon got more money from the Marketing division when calibrating the outside temp gage. Why? What do you think?
  • callawayscallaways Member Posts: 8
    I was starting to wonder about my order....the order was accepted by the factory on 6/16 and today it still is in "D" status with no anticipated delivery date. I started thinking about canceling my order and buying the Pontiac Vibe. Maybe I'll be patient if your's took 16 weeks.
  • moparfancanadamoparfancanada Member Posts: 18
    Hey callaways. My order took almost 4 months. It will be worth the wait.

    Anyone out there having winter tire issues? I have 215/55R18's on my R/T. Do you think I can find matching winter tires? NOT! So i'm thinking I'll go down to 215/55R17's instead. I need winter rims anyways.

    I'm wondering if that's ok to go from 18's to 17's. I don't think it should be, but would like someone's honest and educated opinion.

    One other thing. I have the tire pressure sensors on my 18's. By replacing all 4 with winter tires and rims, what happens to the sensor? I know the sensors are imbedded in the valve stems of my 18's, but what about the in-dash readout? I checked the manual and did not find any reference to this. Anyone?

    Thanks all. Happy driving. By the way, my outside temp. guage is 100% accurate. :)
  • neely2005neely2005 Member Posts: 70
    When you open your Drivers Door you should see a sticker on the inside edge that tells you the acceptable Tire Sizes for the car - Every car usually has at least 2 acceptable tire sizes.
  • neely2005neely2005 Member Posts: 70
    http://car-reviews.automobile.com/news/new-dodge-caliber-is-selling-out-in-europ- e/2080/
  • moparfancanadamoparfancanada Member Posts: 18
    It wouldn't be that bad living in the north if they just would stop putting so much damn salt on the roads. They should use more sand like they do in the Prairies.

    Let me know what you find out about the TPMS Sensors. I forgot to ask my dealer when I phoned them about winter rims. By they way, going down to 17" from 18" ain't a problem as long as the bold pattern is the same. You could also probably go for a higher profile tire than the 55's on the 18"'s. Probably room for 65.
  • callawayscallaways Member Posts: 8
    Going on week 12 now and still no build date. I got tired of waiting and when I asked Dodge when it will be built, they said to ask my dealer, funny, my dealer is not the one building it. The sales rep at my dealer would NEVER return my calls so I got a manager and canceled the order and bought a Pontaic Vibe. Good luck with your Calibers, wish it would have worked out for me but the Vibe is awesome as well and I got a GOOD DEAL.
  • bigtsrbigtsr Member Posts: 149
    Well can't say you weren't in a hurry,sounds like dealer was
    apethetic or had so many calls about the delays they gave
    up.
    I waited 17 weeks,car was built June 22/06 but didn't get
    to dealer until August 10/06 duh!!!
    Good luck with the Vibe hope it meets your expectations
    and enjoy.
  • mazda6iguymazda6iguy Member Posts: 365
    In my opinion, the Caliber lacks in two areas, and I have not yet driven it yet. (1) The interior dash materials looks way too cheap!!! and (2) The view out the back is too narrow. The blind spots are too large.
  • daveydodgedaveydodge Member Posts: 23
    Put a customized Velour Mat over front dash area to reduce plastic finish look and enhance dash. Maximize side mirrors and rear view mirror while also having driver seat elevated to highest level and blind spots are minimal and relative to other trucks, vans, SUV's that you may drive. Also a steering wheel wrap/cover does wonders for dash presence as well !!
  • bigtsrbigtsr Member Posts: 149
    No but I stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night!!!!!
  • grayseabringgrayseabring Member Posts: 18
    Happy to see that you found true happiness. I compromised on my choice of options to speed delivery and am totally satisfied with my purchase. One thing that you may have overlooked........at a stoplight we sit a little higher and look down on your car of choice. Please pull your skirt down at the lights as we tire of seeing what you have.
  • moparfancanadamoparfancanada Member Posts: 18
    I've heard the complaint before that the blind spot in the Caliber is "larger" or "more" than most.

    I tend to disagree. The biggest problem I see with most drivers out there is that they do not do a Shoulder Check before changing lanes.

    A shoulder check is an amazing tool to help reduce, and in some instances, eliminate those unsightly blindspots. If you choose to just signal and move over, then thats your problem. If you rely simply on the mirrors, then make sure your insurance is paid in full. Also, using your spidey senses does not entitle you to forego the shoulder check.

    NUFF SAID!
  • commprocommpro Member Posts: 13
    I'm at 12 weeks and waiting (still in D Status). My dealer said it could be the options I chose (specifically the sunroof) that is delaying the build, and had a the nerve to ask if I had and suggestions. I can think of about 5 and none begin with the word Dodge :mad: .

    This car would be my second Dodge in 4 years, but if I don't see some indication soon that I'll have it within a month I am going to have to pull the plug. Too bad Chrysler can't get thier act together :( .
  • grayseabringgrayseabring Member Posts: 18
    After waiting 5 weeks for a steel blue metallic with sunroof, I switched to red without the sunroof and took delivery within 2 days. I am more than pleased with the comments that I am receiving concerning the appearance. I have had sunroofs in the past and now don't miss it. In fact after I had one I pretty well forgot about it except on a few days of the year.

    I hope in your list of priorities you can get all that you are looking for. If getting a sun roof means pulling the plug, then I wish you well in finding a comparable power train,audio system,color, etc.

    Stick to your guns. I am only sorry that I did not compromise sooner.
  • commprocommpro Member Posts: 13
    Funny thing, after mentioning that I have about 5 other options yesterday, I am told this morning that I am now at D1 status with the car now scheduled to ship October 3rd and delivered by the 2nd week of October. :)

    Seems funny that things would change overnight.

    I really don't want to compromise on what I've ordered because of the price point - a lot of car for a little money. Just wish they'd tell you the truth when you place an order. I was originally told 4-6 weeks.
  • neely2005neely2005 Member Posts: 70
    This happens with all popular cars from all manufacturers for Brand New Models & Newly Redesigned Models. My mom waited almost 6 months for her New Corolla when it was redesigned a couple of years ago. 2003?
  • daveydodgedaveydodge Member Posts: 23
    Good for you and your vehicle choice. Now, grow up and let me know when you reach adulthood. If you quit straddling the stickshift you would not sit so high in your vehicle of choice. Again, please grow up. I don't have a velour dashmat or wheelcover...I don't believe the dash features are that bad...I was just trying to help with ideas.
  • commprocommpro Member Posts: 13
    I finally heard somthing. Supposedly the sensors are available through parts for $65 cdn each. Hope that helps.
  • solidaritysolidarity Member Posts: 2
    I have my second Grandcaravan and my second tranny problem. They know these are bad trannys. They know their 2.7 V-6 motor is jumk and they know Intrepids have axle problems. Chrysler doesn't take care or care about their customers so good luck. See info here: http://www.daimlerchryslervehicleproblems.com/
  • neely2005neely2005 Member Posts: 70
    The problem with the Caliber is that even when you do a Shoulder Check it's still hard to see everything as the Rear Side Windows are so small. (The Rear Side Windows that are the Furthest back - Not the Rear Door Windows)
  • bigtsrbigtsr Member Posts: 149
    Every car I have owned has had some blindspots that's my
    reasoning behind placing convex spot mirrors on both side
    mirrors,I can even see the moron who pulls up 2 inches
    from my rear.
    If your unhappy about blindspots buy an old American
    Motors Pacer or learn to adapt.
  • habalanchehabalanche Member Posts: 57
    I agree completely. I have no prob. with blindspots with my Caliber.Learn how to adjust your mirrors and blidspots are a non issue.all I have to do is lean forward just a tad for a split second and I can see my so called blindspots. By the way I drive a cargo van as part of my job and if you think the caliber has blindspots,try driving a long wheelbase chevy van with no windows for a couple of days.Mirrors are there for a reason
  • 07cal07cal Member Posts: 1
    http://www.dodgeforum.com/m_560779/tm.htm
  • neely2005neely2005 Member Posts: 70
    No one is saying that you shouldn't check your mirrors and blind spots & don't get me wrong I love the Caliber but EVERY review that I've read for it mentions that it has Large Blind Spots because the Rear Side Windows are so small. It's a small flaw in an otherwise great car but denying it exists isn't going to change the fact that it does.
  • neely2005neely2005 Member Posts: 70
    You don't think that the fact that you have to "Lean Forward" shows that there is a problem?
  • PF_FlyerPF_Flyer Member Posts: 9,372
    Please check the discussion list here in the Dodge Caliber Group for the appropriate discussion to post in.

    We're moving away from these large generic discussions, and setting up smaller more focused ones. This is a work in progress, so if you don't find a discussion that fits the issue you want to talk about, please feel free to create a new one and we can adjust things later if need be.

    Thanks for your patience and assistance as we move the furniture around!
  • Karen_SKaren_S Member Posts: 5,092
    A reporter from a national news magazine is hoping to talk with consumers who have just downsized their vehicle from a SUV (preferably large) to a small, compact car. Please reply to ctalati@edmunds.com no later than Monday, December 4, 2006 with your daytime contact info.
  • youngguyyoungguy Member Posts: 2
    has anyone found any body kits the 2006 Caliber i found the 2007 Caliber Razzi 4pc Kit but nothin else :confuse:
  • youngguyyoungguy Member Posts: 2
    i made a mistakes i meant the 2007 caliber i thought it was a 2006 cuz i got it in 2006
    :confuse:
  • aladdinsanealaddinsane Member Posts: 182
    Hi...

    Will someone please inform whether or not DCX in general, or in this case Dodge in particular, requires a warranty deductible with their coverage? I've read conflicting things lately concerning Daimler/Chrysler warranties and, from what I gather, a deductble is necessary. :confuse: I would seriously consider the Caliber for purchase: the R/T AWD version, with ABS/electronic stability control/ and other goodies from the options sheet.

    Please inform. I'd appreciate it. What's the 4-1-1...? :D

    Many thanx.

    Happy Holidays!

    Peace!!<- :shades:
  • rich36rich36 Member Posts: 3
    How to make for attache a gate luggage on the roof of the sxt :confuse:
  • caliberchiccaliberchic Member Posts: 402
    I agree, I have had some sort of blind spot in all my vehicles. The over the shoulder check is something I do no matter what. If you can't remember to do that the suggestion for the mirrors is a good one.

    You can't expect a car to have everything perfect, you may sacrifice one thing for another. In the Caliber's case one of those [non-permissible content removed] for tats is the blind spots for unusual design. If you adjust a little you can still drive this car without having a major safety issue. My previous car was gas mileage for fastness! lol
  • caliberchiccaliberchic Member Posts: 402
    If you have a bumper to bumper factory warranty there shouldn't be a deductible. I took my Caliber in for a loose door panel and they replaced it without a deductible. I can check my paperwork tomorrow too and double check.
  • aladdinsanealaddinsane Member Posts: 182
    I'd appreiciate that, caliberchic. Many thanx...

    Please inform, when U have the time...

    Looking forward-

    Happy Holidays to U... :shades:

    Peace! :D
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