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2009 Dodge Caliber problems

The most common problem on the 2009 Dodge Caliber is transmission and drivetrain, typically around 67,800 miles. It has 1.4 times the complaints of a typical Caliber model year.

Typical year1.4x the typical complaints
Year score
63/100
Owner complaints
232
Recalls
1
Service bulletins
35
Worst area
Transmission
Fuel economy
22-27mpg

The worst 2009 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 2009 Dodge Caliber

Stalling 20Ball joint 19Overheating 16Check engine light 12Won't shift 7Transmission failure 6Harsh shifting 5Loss of power 5

Recalls 1

Power train: automatic transmission: control module (TCM/PCM/tecm)Reported October 9, 2008 · 712 vehicles affected
What is wrong
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.
Risk
This can cause the engine to stall and cause a crash without warning.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the PCM free of charge. The recall began on november 10, 2008. Owners may contact chrysler at 1‑800‑853‑1403.

Recall number 08V528000 · Recall details

See all 1 recalls for the 2009 Dodge Caliber

Technical service bulletins for the 2009 Dodge Caliber 35

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

See all 35 bulletins for the 2009 Dodge Caliber

2009 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‑cylFWD243027
2.4L 4‑cylFWD19-2325-2922-25
2.0L 4‑cylFWD232724

What 2009 Dodge Caliber owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Mar 31, 2026 · IN

Under paneling under all doors and under car rusting out completely. Falling pieces fly away anytime.

Filed Feb 11, 2026 · MI

My car will not shift. It’s saying that the part that was fixed under the recall is bad. What do I do now?

Filed Jun 13, 2024 · PA

Check frame - known rot concerns Hole has started to open up center rear of engine subframe on the weld line. Subframe doesn’t appear to be in immediate failure, but will not pass inspection. Called dealer and was told parts aren’t available! No incident just getting inspected!

Filed Nov 27, 2023 · Suspension · NH

My spouse and I owned this vehicle from day one. Front subframe assembly was rotting and was replaced by manufacturer under a recall but rear subframe assembly was not included. The rear subframe assembly is now rotted to the point where it needs to be replaced before vehicle becomes unsafe as it has for others. Vehicle barely has 72,000 miles on it and was garaged for the first 12 years of its life. Image of repaired front subframe assembly included for posterity.

Filed Aug 21, 2023 · Suspension · WI

Rear subframe rotted in half, causing rear driver side tire to sit sideways and loss of rear end

Filed Jan 22, 2023 · IA

Rotting/rusting subframe. Not listed as a recall for this model year, but was for the previous years.

Filed Dec 16, 2022 · NE

The transmission doesn't shift so if I am on the interstate doing 65 to 70 miles per hr.the transmission fluid heats up .Dodges answer to this is slow down or pull off interstate @ wait till it cools down then continue on your way,so in 50 miles I had to pull over 3 times my opinion not safe..

Filed Dec 15, 2022 · Body · NY

● Component failed: Front and Rear Subframe. ● Safety at risk: Rotting Subframe. The front subframe had a recall which expired a couple years ago, which I was never notified about. I have replaced this part because it could have fallen out of my car due to the rotting. Now, the rear subframe is now rotting and unstable/unfit to drive. I have 88,000 miles on it and keep in the garage when possible. ● The vehicle and component has been inspected by the manufactorer as well as Monro Auto Service, Jiffy Lube and L&M Motors in Upstate New york regularly. ● No.

Filed Oct 28, 2022 · MA

Brought 2009 Caliber with 34,000 original miles to have breaks checked, the owner showed me there is not a brake issue, but the Sub Frame was extremely rotted and needed to be attended to as it could cause a serious accident. I had a Lifetime Added Care Plus warranty, but of course wasn't covered. I have been the only driver since vehicle was purchased.

Filed Sep 17, 2022 · Body · IL

It started as a popping noise while driving which evolved into a louder sound and I was able to feel it click with my feet as I was driving, and I couldn't pinpoint exactly what was causing the issue at first. After going to a mechanics and having them look at it the subframe of the car was absolutely covered in rust to the point where it was falling apart and I could see inside. The air conditioning unit was badly designed, and the residual water from that caused the entire thing to rust. They advised that it was only going to get worse and could lead to the front axle essentially just falling out and totaling the car anyways. I drive everyday to and from work so having this issue is severely affecting my daily life and quite possibly my safety if anything happens while driving it.

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Questions about the 2009 Dodge Caliber

Is the 2009 Dodge Caliber reliable?

Owners have filed 232 complaints about the 2009 Dodge Caliber, 1.4 times a typical Caliber model year.

What is the 2009 Dodge Caliber year score?

The 2009 Dodge Caliber scores 63 out of 100 (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 2009 Dodge Caliber?

Transmission and drivetrain, with 64 complaints, typically around 67,800 miles. Next is suspension (61).

How many recalls does the 2009 Dodge Caliber have?

1 recall, covering power train.

What gas mileage does the 2009 Dodge Caliber get?

Official estimates for the 2009 Dodge Caliber range from 22 to 27 mpg combined. The most efficient version (1.8L 4-cyl, FWD) gets 24 city and 30 highway.

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