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2008 Dodge Caliber problems

The most common problem on the 2008 Dodge Caliber is suspension, typically around 102,000 miles. It has 2.2 times the complaints of a typical Caliber model year.

Year to avoid2.2x the typical complaints
Year score
47/100
Owner complaints
360
Recalls
0
Service bulletins
51
Worst area
Suspension
Fuel economy
22-26mpg
Typical repair
$1,800

The worst 2008 Dodge Caliber problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

Problems by type

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

Specific symptoms reported on the 2008 Dodge Caliber

Ball joint 46Stalling 29Loss of power 20Jerking 13Wipers 11Grinding brakes 9Check engine light 9Headlights 9Airbag light 8No deployment 8Harsh shifting 7Adaptive cruise 6ABS 5Knocking 5Misfire 5Won't start 5

Recalls

No recalls on record for this model year.

Technical service bulletins for the 2008 Dodge Caliber 51

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

See all 51 bulletins for the 2008 Dodge Caliber

2008 Dodge Caliber fuel economy

Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.

EngineDriveCityHighwayCombined
1.8L 4‑cylFWD242926
2.4L 4‑cylFWD19-2325-2922-25
2.0L 4‑cylFWD232724
2.4L 4‑cyl4WD212422

What 2008 Dodge Caliber owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Aug 2, 2023 · Engine, Steering · OH

My vehicle has created a rotten subframe that holds my engine

Filed Jan 18, 2023 · Engine, Steering · 120,000 miles · CA

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds in the rain, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the power steering became inoperable. The battery warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that an unstated computer needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but no additional assistance was provided. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000. The contact stated that the vehicle is unsafe to drive and the mechanics has not found a resolution to the problem yet.

Filed Jan 16, 2023 · CA

My car shuts down while driving These cars recalled July10 2008 Mine was made April18 2008 but has the same issue It could cost lives

Filed Dec 11, 2022 · Suspension · PA

Rear subframe rusted right through control rods snapped rear end of car dropped down. Upon researching they know that this is bad and unsafe even gave a 10 year extended warranty for front and rear subframe so how long will and how many complaints before this is an actual recall. I see here in your complaints that there is a large number of complaints on this issue. How are they getting away with this and nothing being done. I will have photos also police had said if this happened while it was on interstate would have crashed and could have been fatal. The tire would have ripped right off. So not only was my safety but the safety of the others being jeopardized cause everyone just keeps looking away at this issue. I would love to know how many of these subframes have had to be replaced I bet if you do research there is not one of them out there that either should be replaced have been replaced or will need to be replaced. Stop allowing these car companies to use sub standard parts. I am sure this will fall to the wayside along with the other 100 complaints. I will try my hardest to make sure everyone knows this is a problem that the car company is fully aware of and nobody has done anything about and keep researching on how many more this has happened to and try to get everyone to file a complaint. There was NO WARNING SIGN just broke loose passenger side of car was practically on the ground the broken control arm is what held everything up. Please can we really check into this if there is a recall at least people will know the problem exist.

Filed Dec 8, 2022 · Acceleration, Engine · OH

I’ve only had the car since Aug. Im the second owner, it drove just fine. Then I got an oil change. Then the car began to rev down hill and struggled to make it uphill. Then my exhaust became excessively loud. Then the wheel became loose ,and started pulling ALOT. I was on my way to get an alignment this morning and the whole front end began to buckle not even a minute down the road. I tmade it in back the driveway before the front end collapsed completely

Filed Nov 24, 2022 · Body, Electrical · NC

The entire underneath of my car is rusted out. I was driving to work one day when someone pulled out in front of me and I had to hit the brakes. That resulted in the subframe and front drivers axel to break as I’m driving! The sunroof leaks when it rains and half the time the electricity doesn’t work on the sunroof button. My doors have completely stopped auto locking and my hazards will randomly start flashing without pushing the button. Steering is absolutely terrible, it feels like you’re skidding on ice or hydroplaning the entire drive.

Filed Nov 12, 2022 · Suspension · IA

Rear crossmember/ subframe rusted thru and broke. Replaced front several years ago. Car has always been garaged.

Filed Jul 7, 2022 · MN

2008 Dodge Caliber with approx. 135,000 miles on it. Rotted subframe and rusted crossbar. Vehicle started swerving as if driving on ice (in the summertime!). Took it to a reputable mechanic and he wouldn't even put it on a lift. He said it was too much of a risk. I understand this is common on this vehicle, it's dangerous and should be recalled! NO more Dodge vehicles for me, ever!

Filed Apr 15, 2022 · Body · NJ

Subframe rusted front and rear Was driving tire axel/rod broke entire underneath rusted rotted

Filed Jan 12, 2022 · Steering, Suspension · MO

I was informed at inspection that the main front cross member has a huge hole in the center of it and is rusting out badly. At 162,356 miles this car will not pass safety inspection. This car is not safe for me or my family. No warning lamps or messages. I was told that one bad bump could do us in. We were told to contact the dealership and found out about the extended warranty that had already passed during the previous owners time. This should have been a recall, but what else can you expect from dodge.

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Questions about the 2008 Dodge Caliber

Is the 2008 Dodge Caliber reliable?

Owners have filed 360 complaints about the 2008 Dodge Caliber, 2.2 times a typical Caliber model year. It is one of the years we flag to avoid.

What is the 2008 Dodge Caliber year score?

The 2008 Dodge Caliber scores 47 out of 100 (below average). The score compares it with the other model years of the Dodge Caliber: 75 is a typical year, 50 means twice the usual complaints, and serious complaints and recalls lower it.

What is the most common problem with the 2008 Dodge Caliber?

Suspension, with 113 complaints, typically around 102,000 miles. Next is body (87).

How many recalls does the 2008 Dodge Caliber have?

No recalls on record.

What gas mileage does the 2008 Dodge Caliber get?

Official estimates for the 2008 Dodge Caliber range from 22 to 26 mpg combined. The most efficient version (1.8L 4-cyl, FWD) gets 24 city and 29 highway.

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