CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2007 Dodge Caliber has all kinds of suspension problems at relatively low mileage: typically 40-50,000 miles.
The most commonly reported problems are with ball joints & control arms going bad. Tie rods & leaking struts are also reported failing in the same mileage range.
Unfortunately all the suspension problems means some owners only find out after they notice their tires are ruined.
We've given the 2007 Caliber our worst rating because these problems happen at such low mileage, & it involves a wide range of apparently defective parts. With most other cars, major suspension work is pretty rare under 50,000 miles.
We have owned this vehicle since new. Some time ago my new tires wore out on the toe inside of the rear. I took it to a steering specialist and was told my entire rear suspension and frame needed to be replaced. The cost of that repair was 900.00 plus tax.
I recently had to replace the clutch and while it was in, my mechanic advised me my front crossmember was rotten. I had received a notice from Dodge that they would replace the crossmember if it needed at no cost to me.
I took it to JJ Stewart's Motors in Norwood On. A new crossmember was installed and I was told I needed an alignment which wasn't included under warranty. I stated the repair wasn't complete without an alignment. My steering wheel is sideways and the car pulls badly.
I refuse to pay for an alignment as it should be part of the repair. Chrysler is a nickel and dime company that does nothing for its customers unless they have to.
The Caliber is now discontinued. Wonder why? Do not buy this car. It is unsafe, and a money pit. I also own a 2010 Ram. I will not buy another Chrysler product. Ever.
Car was making a very load noise in the front suspension. Sounded like a spring breaking. When I put it on the hoist and turned the front wheel from left to right and back again, it makes a very loud noise like metal bending. The engine cradle had rotted through in multiple places. I am going to the salvage yard to find parts tomorrow. I can't believe that a 5 year old car could be rotted through a suspension piece so bad.
- matchew30,
Fowler, MI, US
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
We have owned this vehicle since new. Some time ago my new tires wore out on the toe inside of the rear. I took it to a steering specialist and was told my entire rear suspension and frame needed to be replaced. The cost of that repair was 900.00 plus tax.
I recently had to replace the clutch and while it was in, my mechanic advised me my front crossmember was rotten. I had received a notice from Dodge that they would replace the crossmember if it needed at no cost to me.
I took it to JJ Stewart's Motors in Norwood On. A new crossmember was installed and I was told I needed an alignment which wasn't included under warranty. I stated the repair wasn't complete without an alignment. My steering wheel is sideways and the car pulls badly.
I refuse to pay for an alignment as it should be part of the repair. Chrysler is a nickel and dime company that does nothing for its customers unless they have to.
The Caliber is now discontinued. Wonder why? Do not buy this car. It is unsafe, and a money pit. I also own a 2010 Ram. I will not buy another Chrysler product. Ever.
- Rich W., Port Hope, Ontario, canada