Used 2008 Dodge Caliber Wagon Consumer Reviews
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Worse vehicle I've ever had
The suspension on these cars are garbage. Mine is a manual. Shifting is terrible. Control arms, wheel barrings, shocks, everything I've replaced 2-3 times and now my sub frame is wrecked. The first thing to go was the master cylinder. I would never recommend this car to anyone. Money pit 100%
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My new caliber
I have only had my caliber a short time (1 week) but i love it. Driving it is great.
Most Ridiculous Car Ever Made
I can't believe this car was ever made. It's utterly ridiculous. First and foremost, the acceleration is practically non existent. The harder you push down the acceleration pedal, the slower the car accelerates. I think the issue is more with the automatic transmission than the actual torque, though, because it often feels like the car is starting from second gear and then realizes it's not supposed to do that and jerkily downshifts to first. The suspension is a sort of princess and the pea situation with every little bump in the road translating into a spleen-rattling affair. From the outside, the Caliber looks like a spacious family car, but the inside is fully taken up with the dashboard, which is roughly the size of an eight-seat dining room table. The front seats have a fair amount of leg room underneath the dashboard, but any backseat passengers don't fare as well. And good luck fitting more than one kid's car seat back there. You would think they could have taken a couple of feet out of the dash to provide more room for the back seats. I can only assume the engineer responsible for the Caliber's design envisioned serving a large meal on the dashboard. There can be no other reason for that design. I have only two good things to say about this car. First, we have had to do no major repairs on it since we got it. But I think that's about to change. I believe the suspension and transmission will be requiring repairs before long. Second, the storage space is pretty decent, especially when you lay down the back seats. Overall, I wouldn't wish this car on anyone. Its two small perks do not compensate for a host of design failures and automotive mishaps. This car is actually really funny when you give it much thought. It's like the engineers planned it as a practical joke.
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sxt
Only bought this car because we needed reliability and room for our newborn, which it excels at! Besides that the gas mileage of the 2.0l and CVT is horrible, as bad as my last v8. The CVT is very smooth, great for a sleeping baby. However, it causes a frighteningly slow throttle response time, especially noticeable when pulling out into traffic. Also has bad blind spots and makes a horrible drumming noise when you roll down a back window going any over 30 mph
Absolutely a must NOT buy
I purchased, much to my present chagrin, a 2008 Dodge Caliber SXT. And I must say, I hate it. I bought it because I got it cheap and needed to get out of my 97 Tahoe, but I'd of rather bought a used Gremlin now. First off: no anti lock brakes, thats an optional extra. But you do get a chintzy glove box that cools drinks (when the AC is on) and illuminated cup holders. Really? That's my consolation, I get an icebox in a car and some lights instead of anti-lock brakes? Second: the engine and transmission fail me all the time. Apparently some former SUV owners like them here on the reviews, but real car people are used to better than this. The engine has no drive, and the transmission whine...
Love at first, but then....
Got this car for ease of getting child in & out of car seat. Worked great for that & love the comfort and look of. Once 40,000 miles hit, the problems began. Started hearing loud clanking noise when driving on highway. I read numerous complaints about the Caliber having suspension problems. I panicked & took it right in. I didn't want to worry about my child riding in this car. Today they tell me they cannot find what is causing it... said the suspension is tight BUT suspect it is the bushings. They didn't want to take a part yet so has to get worse. AND my oxygen sensor quit so paid to get that fixed. I was not expecting all this so soon. Now I will continue to worry.
Terrible customer service
I liked my Dodge for the first 18 months then started having problems first it needed a strut for the front end but that didn't fix problem now back shocks are making noise, so took to dealer and he said he cannot find problem, close to warranty ending, my last doge ever.
Wish I never bought Caliber!
I bought my caliber in December of 07, since then, I've had to replace my gas gauge (and it's still messed up), my tire pressure light goes on and off whenever if wants, MY BRAKES are horrible! dodge won't do anything about it, they squeak, they get stuck, and it makes the car shake when I brake. Dodge uses cheap materials to make their cars. If I could go back I would definitely not have even looked into this car.
Jody's review
Just purchased it and I absolutely love it. I love the chilled compartment for your drinks and the gas mileage is great. I got the burnt orange color and I love it. Great car
Problems with 2008
We have not had a good experience with our 2008 Caliber. We were told it had air-conditioning and told the salesman how important it was we had air- conditioning in California. Didn't have it. Now the Clutch Cylinder has went out twice since we have purchased it.We have only had this car not even 2 years and what a problem..The cheap plastic features inside are falling of and scratch so easy. Will never by another Dodge due to the problems we have had and the dealers not helping with the Air conditioner problems. We could put one in ourselves for $ 2,000 And the salesman admitted telling us it had air!!we signed the papers and thats how we were treated. Oh they would trade it but for $8,000.
Love 2008
Back in January I purchased a used 2007 sxt with 36,000 km. Three weeks later I had an accident and it was written off. I received a payout from insurance and then decided to go new. I was not really happy with the cvt trans so I went to manual. My new 2008 is the best vehicle I have owned ever. Having driven a 98 std neon for 10 years it's a dream compared to that little car. I would highly recommend that standard trans Caliber. The mileage improvement over the 2007 is much better. I just love the 2008 totally .
great car for money
This is one great car for the money! Rides and drives great with comfortable seating. I had read these reviews before purchasing and having driven and owning this vehicle, I agree that there is a good bit of road noise, but all of the small cars in this price range did as well. Real world driving all around has resulted in 26 MPG with straight HWY MPG at 28 which could be better. Another thing about some of the reviews at this site state that this car doesn't ride, drive, and handle as well as their Accord or one are Camry, nor is as quiet, the last time I checked, these cars are thousands more in price than the Caliber but none have a higher safety rating. Apples to Apples this is a great c
Replaced Jeep GC 4x4
Not sure why so many national reviewers are giving this vehicle so much grief. I have the RT with the 2.4L 5spd Manual. Coming from a V6 SUV, I think this car has a lot of pep. Love the color options, my model is Black ext with black and red accents interior. Very roomy in the front. Although, I wish they narrowed steering column. Having short legs I have to be a little closer to the steering wheel. My legs scrape getting in and out.
Not sure why Edmunds hates this car!
I bought this car for my wife; she drives mainly in the city and the mileage is around 22-23. The car has the 2.0 automatic and, contrary to what Edmunds claims, it has plenty of get up an go. Hey, if I wanted something that REALLY moved, I'd spend three times the money and by a 300C with a Hemi! It is more than adequate for this vehicle class. Our car is a base model, but has many options (power everything and side airbags) keeping the price below the SXT. We love the car. I don't care how Edmunds rates it, they can keep this car a secret for all I care!
Pretty good machine.........
I have had this car for a year now and I must say I am pretty impressed. Although I have had a few little issues (fuel pump replaced to correct a rough idle in wet weather, front swaybar bushings and rear swaybar links replaced, some dirt in rear brakes cleaned up, fuel guage reprogrammed), overall this car is reliable, it now has 40 000 kms on it. Rides great, gets between 25-30 mpg overall driving, handles well. CVT transmission is a great setup and the 2.0 engine has planty of power. Nice sound when full throttle.
A good bit-little car
Moved into Caliber from minivan and am impressed. Hard plastic interior panels make for easy cleaning after the kids. Driver seat crank makes for more customized feel. Fit of all body pieces and interior trim pieces is smooth and feels sleek. Solid thud is heard when doors close, never a question if it is or isn't shut. Slight rattle when radio is up too loud...good factory sound system! 2X trip meter and outside temp display is nice. Plenty of leg room for passenger and driver seat doesn't sit ON the floor. Easy to enter/exit because chassis rides tall. Good handling with 17" tires. I'm eager to take a road trip to test it in the long-run.
Good Gas Mileage with CVT
2.0 with CVT trans. Great mileage if you're light on the pedal. Up to 32 mpg on hwy at 65mph. 25-26 around town. Synthetic oil, Nitrogen in wheels at 39pds and K&N air filter. Trans is smooth! Interior is hard plastic, for which some reviews give it a bad rating. Slap a Honda logo on it and make it a box on wheels and the critics give it a 10!..Go figure. Sheet metal is a bit thin, easily dents if you try to push the door shut without using the handle. Great headlights, really covers a wide area. Comfortable seats. Like the partial reclining rear seats. Only mechanical problem was a clicking front bushing when it got wet outside. Rear brakes also need to be cleaned frequently.
Good in crash
This car was great to drive, comfortable and affordable. No one wanted to test the crash test rating, but we did. We were rear-ended on the freeway going very fast. I think the car did a great job absorbing the impact and the fact that my husband, my dog and myself are still around is the testimony.
Nice Improvement from 2007
I bought my '08 Caliber after totaling my '07 Caliber in a deer collision. the deer actually got hit into me from a vehicle going the other way and it caused quite a bit of damage (airbags and all), nobody was hurt though. I liked my '07 so I went to the dealer and bought an '08 for about 500 dollars more. I couldn't be happier. What I lost in gas mileage (approx 5mph) I gained in comfort and ride. The 08's come with dark grey interiors which are much easier to keep clean. The 6 speed auto transmission is alot quieter. The whole car seems smoother and stabler on the road. It cruises smoothly and quiet. It handles the snow with no problems. Gas mileage was 27mph on my last tank. Great car!
Very nice and priced great
We just got this car last weekend. We looked at a bunch of different cars. It impressed us with the room and comfort it offered. Plenty of power and rides great. Fuel mileage is very impressive.
Vehicle just purchased
I had to give up my Suburban for a more economical vehicle and plus a lower monthly payment. Caliber was not my first choice but my only choice cuz the dealership were out of vehicles due to the clunkers for cash. I have been driving this vehicle for a few days and it is not no bad it does have room for our two kids and a nice family vehicle.
Love driving this car
My first new car since my 98 Grand Caravan. This car impressed me right from the test drive. The reviews mention a slow response of the CVT. Hogwash,the 2.0L w/CVT moves like a jack rabbit. My previous Mopars had lousy headlights, backup lights, and brakes. All are improved on this car. I can finally see the road on a rainy night. The SXT model is nicely equipped. Great car to take back and forth to work everyday. Very comfortable.
Pleasure to Drive
I was looking to trade my Truck for a fuel efficient car, but I did not want to pay a lot, nor did I want to have an ugly car, so I was pleasantly surprised with the sporty look of my Caliber SE Plus. In Addition it is getting great gas Mileage, I am averaging around 28 to 30 miles per gallon. I strongly recommend this car if you are looking to save money with out sacrificing a fun ride.
It's fun!!!!!!!!!!!
This is my second Caliber...I have 8,950 on the clock and it is running great..It does need a little gas of the lights but once it gets going it's great.feels solid.no bodyroll in the corners.The driving view is good.except the large front pillars..you need to really check.they are quite intrusive..and do obstruct the view.i found adjusting the height in my seat to be better.The interior seems better than my 2007 model.everything is within easy reach no annoying digital readouts.easy to drive.the gearbox is good.bit slow at start but flies on motorway.good power for overtaking and the car seems solid whilst making quick maneuvers..all in all the Caliber is fun to drive.no problems
I have 2.0L SXT
I'm also not sure why Edmunds hates this car! I have a SXT 2.0L CVT trans - red with black & red sport seats & red around the stereo. I LOVE MY CAR!! In my opinion, & also that of those who've been in my car, the interior DOES NOT look cheap. I took this car on a small road trip to go camping the day after I took it home & it was perfect for that. The seats were comfortable on the drive, it fit everything in it that we needed, we didn't even notice any road noise with the awesome stereo on (oh & to those of you complaining about not being able to see title & names on the radio/Sirius all you have to do is press the "info" button & it shows that stuff)...all in all this is a great car
Sweet Ride
I purchased my 08 Caliber in Feb. loving it so far! It's so much fun to drive, and people are constantly taking second looks. I don't see that many on the road. It fits our family of three perfectly. I wish that the cruise control was lighted when the lights come on.
Would buy all over again
This is a great family vehicle. Reliable, comfortable, safe, and economical. The gas mileage is great and it handles well. Highly recommend the 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Beyond Expectations
We did the internet search and looked at every make and model out there. I drive 100 miles to and home from work everyday. I wanted something that made me feel safe and could handle the weather and make the drive itself fun. This was the first car we test drove. And it was the one we compared everything else against. We got ours in Sunburst Orange. It drives like a dream. Be careful on the highway. Ours rides so smoothly you do not realize how fast your really going. I don't mind the interior... Plastic? My '94 Shadow had more... It held up and didn't crack. (This is the replacement for the Shadow) I hope this car lasts as long!
It's OK
I bought a 2008 Dodge Caliber last October within a month of purchasing it I had it in the shop. The transmission is horrible. Anytime I got to stop or start it jolts and spudders like it is about to stall. Called Dodge apparently some Calibers have this problem others do not. Also they said there is no fix! Than went back to have front struts replaced and to look and trans again and again no fix! Now the problem seems to happen when in reverse. I'm really not happy with this vehicle.
great value
The caliber is a fun car to drive. I'm still getting used to the CVT instead of a transmission. The body style really impresses me, it's like a wannabe Magnum on a Geo budget. So far I'm well pleased with the decision to buy it. Like a lot of people have said, it is loud on the road. Dodge would do well to correct that fault. I highly recommend the caliber to small families and commuters, a lot of value for the price.
Love It
Drove a rental for a weekend and fell in love with the red insert seats and chill zone. Ride is very good on the highway and cvt2 trans is not as bad as some of the other people said and the road noise is there but is not bad. Overall a good car
Great Value/Design
We looked at several hatchback models, and for the price, none can compare. VERY SATISFIED!!!
I have the 2.0L w/CVT Tranny
I love this car. The CVT shifts seamlessly, and this car takes off like a rocket!!! If you keep your foot off the floor, it gets excellent gas mileage. I've got almost 38k miles on this car, and it still runs like it did when it was new. The steering system is tight! It corners like a compact, and has a lot of power for a four-cylinder. Go Dodge!!!
All's good that ends good
My wife and I test drove a number of vehicles. For the money, gas, and all around quality of a vehicle Dodge was hands down the best. The Caliber was the only one that my wife really responded to as far as the looks and design. While she test drove this one and many other calibers she could find no complaints. I have no idea what the future brings for this car but Dodge obviously does because they have a lifetime powertrain warranty. These reviews are very helpful, but please just try one for yourself. Not only fuel efficient but all around affordable. Thank you.
Great Car
I love my new Caliber. It is fun to drive. I avg. 30 miles per gallon on the first 2 tanks of gas. The only neg. is the road noise you hear inside. I think the Firestone tire are very aggressive, causing the noise.
2008 Caliber R/T 5 SP
We were looking for something my 5 year old daughter would be comfortable in, in the back seat, and this filled the bill. We bought our Caliber R/T this past winter. I was worried about the tires in the snow. They did pretty good, though I am planning on snow wheels and tire for this winter. Salt and aluminum wheels don't like each other. I drove a base model with the CVT and didn't like it. So we opted for the R/T with the 2.4L with the 5 speed. I love it, so far. Average fuel mileage is 27 mpg. On the highway, should be able to hit 30 mpg. Well, maybe not. ( : I just needed a car to get around in, and we sold a '94 Eclipse, so this was a car to replace that one.
my new caliber
I like my caliber very much. Lots of room in the front, back has as much room as larger cars. Firm secure ride-- takes bumps well, seats are comfortable, and sit high. great gas mileage, good pick-up. Would buy this car again-no problem.
Purchased used
I bought mine used with 24,000 miles on it for a good price just over 11,000. I drive alot and this has been a great car with a few exceptions. The original seasonal tires are not good for NH weather. I will need to replace them soon for the winter. But the car is comfortable to drive, it shifts well (I own automatic) and I see myself owning it for a long time.
Dodge Caliber
I just bought my 2008 Dodge Caliber April 28,2008 and I will tell you this car is the smoothest car I have ever driven in. Seating is very comfortable I drove 40 miles and my gas needle didn't budge at all wow! This car is great very roomy in the front kind of tight in the back but hey I'm happy with it though.
A good little car
I bought a Caliber SE Plus, with 17' wheels and 215/60/17 Firestone tires and the Touring suspension. It has A/C with the Chill-Zone Glovebox chiller. I installed a K&N Air Filter and the around town mileage runs 26 mpg, while on the highway, it gets between 34 and 37 MPG. I'm coming from a 1990 Plymouth Voyager minivan with a 2.5 L 4 cylinder/ AT. The Caliber rides on a slightly longer wheelbase than the van did. It is a very nice cruiser - it rides well and gets good mileage, and looks good too. The Surf Blue Pearl paint job looks really good with the black trim and gets lots of compliments. I plan to keep this car as long as they still sell gas.
used purchase
I recently bought my caliber earlier this month.I love the gas the mileage,the 4 doors because im used to having 2 and the speakers. The music sounds very clear when turned up high. On the down side i hate the plastic interior,i dont like how far the back floor is from the seat. Also the drive is not smooth i can feel every bump on the road and i wish it had more pick up and go.
trouble starting
I bought an 08 Dodge caliber sept. 07 and ever since it's been nothing but trouble! I have had shorts in my speakers and problems starting the car, it's been in the shop several times for this problem and now Dodge is avoiding me because they don't want to deal with the problems they sold to me. Is there anyone else having this problem or any suggestions on what to do I'm so frustrated and don't know what to do anymore! If you're looking to get a caliber they're nice but I strongly recommend you do not get one and look into something else
Excellent Safety!
My husband recently purchased a Caliber in July and then rear-ended a 1990s model car that was at a complete stop. No one had a scratch on them. The 3 front airbags deployed, with minimal airbag burn and the seat belts worked perfectly. Even the car's frame held up, though the insurance company ended up totalling the car due to engine damage. My 5 year old son was in a booster seat in the back and didn't even know what had happened. I would definitely buy another one of these cars - great value and safety!
Happy Caliber Owner!
Have had my Caliber nearly 2 yrs and am very happy with the car. Previously drove a '01 Dakota which was totaled in an accident and replaced it with the Caliber. I have the SXT with the 2.0 and CVT and I average 28-32mpgs. Have taken several long trips and was comfortable riding and driving. Love the exterior styling and do not have any complaints on the interior. Many people from all age groups ask me about the car. Most love the color. Surf Blue Pearl. Seeing a lot more of them since I bought mine. Have had only one minor problem with it since I bought it. Had to replace the horn last winter. All in all I would buy this car again. I bought this one sight unseen.
better off w/ a hoopty
I love my vehicle but I have been having problems with it since 9850 miles. I took it to the dealership more than ten times and they tell me there is nothing that they can do. I also have problems with the acceleration, the signal light went out at about 12,000 miles, the brakes squeek, the head lights dim when I use the inside controls, and the fuel door light stayed on for a day. The tires were not at the correct inflation level once and I fixed the problem by putting more air, y is there not a system that tells me why my car wont start some times. The people at the dealership treat me bad wish that they would have treated me like this when I was going to purchase my car.
RIP Caliber
Recently wrote off my Cali with 37000kms on it. Snowy road, skidded out, flipped over the snowbank, hit 3 trees and landed on the passenger side. Passenger and I got out without a scratch or bruise. Definitely SAFE! I loved this car, amazingly comfortable on long road trips which we took 3-4x/yr and my friends were always surprised that all the luggage fit. 4 snowboards and 4 people with their bags was easy. CVT is so fuel efficient, smooth, and easy to drive in traffic. Averaged 33 MPG (7.1L/100km) mixed hwy/city. Really a car that fits into your life. Only because we do a lot of winter driving, I'm looking to replace it with a Subaru Impreza for the AWD, but I know I'll miss some features.
In Love with My Caliber
I would have to say im impressed with its room for me and my three kids. The gas mileage is great, especially in today's economy we need a car good on gas. It could be a little more stylish inside maybe a ipod connection like some cars are doing, there are some blind spots but over all I am a happy Dodge Caliber owner.
Good Vehicle for the Price
I recently purchased a 2008 Dodge Caliber to help me with my new career. I went from working for a Dodge dealer to an outside salesman with a differant company. I bought the car because I new the data about the vehicle and so far am very impressed with it. I put about 3,000 miles a month on and have averaged between 29 to 34 mpg. I have owned Jeeps for most of my life but with this new job I needed fuel milage and the Caliber did not sit low to the ground like a car which was really appealing to me.
Good for what it is
Bought this vehicle to replace a guzzling ram. My price out the door with tax was $14,700 plus $2.99 gas offer. Although only a $750 rebate is mentioned, the dealer magically pulled an additional $1000 worth of bonus cash out of the air. I am an employee, so I know they were just knocking this off of MSRP. I am not sure why the vehicle gets such nasty reviews. PROS: Roomy, looks ok, good value (read: cheap), more cargo space than I thought. Rides and handles nice. CONS: The 1.8 L is a little weak and the manual is a little stiff. I am not sure why a vehicle this size and with this engine gets only 28 mpg.. should get 35 mpg! Chill zone is kinda lame, doesn't really work.
Stick Shifty
Bought a 2008 SXT manual trans with traction control/ABS, after years of being Honda customer. Last Honda (95) 245,000 mi. with original clutch! This new car with 13,000 mi. lost third gear! I am short and love seat height but the car feels more cramped than little Civic coupe. The fit and finish is sub par but lots of nooks and crannies. The car is slow, noisy and doggy for a manual trans. Love the sound system but controls are confusing, especially on steering wheel. Astounded at the depreciation after 9 months: nearly half of the value lost.