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Dodge · Known Issues

2010 Dodge Caliber Problems: 4 Known Issues

2010 model year · 680+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 680+ owner reports, the 2010 Dodge Caliber has 4 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Jatco CVT Overheating and Premature Failure ($2,000-$4,500 repair) and Engine Overheating - Multiple Causes ($100-$800 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Jatco CVT Overheating and Premature Failure with 280 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Caliber Transmission1
  • Caliber Cooling1
  • Caliber Electrical1
  • Caliber Brakes1
  • Recalls4
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Transmission1
  • Cooling1
  • Electrical1
  • Brakes1
  • Recalls4
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS201220112010200920082007
Community reported
280 owners

On the 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber, the Jatco CVT has an inherent overheating design flaw, especially during extended highway driving. Expected CVT lifespan only ~75,000 miles. ATF aeration compounds problems. Transmission shutdown can occur during highway driving in hot weather, leaving vehicle stranded.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300M, Chrysler Cirrus

Common Symptoms

  • Transmission overheating warning light
  • Transmission shutdown during highway driving
  • Slipping and whining noise
  • Shuddering during acceleration
  • Complete loss of drive

How to Fix

Fill transmission to absolute lowest acceptable mark to reduce aeration. Check cooling fan relay (fan failure causes CVT overheating). CVT fluid change every 30,000 miles using Mopar CVTF+4 (NOT ATF+4). Consider adding external CVT cooler for highway driving.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Mopar 5191184AB CVTF+4 continuously variable transmission fluid

    Required fluid for a correctly diagnosed JF011E/CVT service or level correction Fitment: 2007-2012 Caliber equipped with the Jatco CVT; CVTF+4 is not ATF+4 and must not be used in manual or conventional automatic transmissions $55.20 sho…

  • Mopar 5191890AA transmission oil filter

    Internal filter branch when the exact CVT service procedure calls for pan/filter service Fitment: OEM page lists the 2.0L/2.4L CVT application; verify the installed transmission, gasket/seal requirements and any external cooler-return fi…

  • Mopar 68025160AA auxiliary transmission oil cooler

    Replacement/retrofit-evaluation branch for the exact early Caliber application after a transmission specialist confirms the existing plumbing and required installation hardware Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2007-2010 Caliber 2.0L/2.4L …

    Mopar Parts Giant
  • Mopar 68053218AA five-pin mini relay

    Cooling-fan relay branch only after the vehicle fuse/relay map and an electrical test identify this serviceable relay in the fan-control circuit Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2008-2012 Caliber; the page identifies a generic mini relay …

    Mopar Parts Giant

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$2,000 - $4,500

Research This Issue

Based on 280 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified280 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jul 2024Reviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
220 owners

On the 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber, calibers are prone to overheating from radiator fan failure, thermostat sticking, water pump failure, and radiator clogging. Same cooling system shared with Jeep Compass/Patriot (PM/MK platform). Fan relay failure is the most common single cause.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300, Chrysler Cirrus, Chrysler Pacifica

Common Symptoms

  • Temperature gauge climbing above normal at idle
  • A/C compressor disengaging from high temps
  • Coolant leak
  • Steam from engine bay
  • CVT overheating simultaneously

How to Fix

Check fan relay first, then fan motor, thermostat, water pump, and radiator. Engine cooling and CVT cooling are interconnected - overheating engine can cause CVT overheating and vice versa.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Mopar 68053218AA five-pin mini relay

    Fan-control relay branch only after the exact TIPM cavity/function and failed electrical test are confirmed Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2008-2012 Caliber; 2007 uses a different relay family and remains VIN/fuse-map confirmation only …

    Mopar Parts Giant
  • Dorman 621-029 dual radiator cooling fan assembly without controller

    Fan-motor/module branch after commanded-fan, power, ground and current-draw tests confirm the complete assembly is faulty Fitment: Manufacturer application for the Caliber platform; compare connector and A/C/fan configuration, especially…

  • Mopar 55111016AC primary engine coolant thermostat

    Thermostat branch only after temperature testing confirms a stuck thermostat rather than airflow, pump, radiator or combustion-gas trouble Fitment: Live fitment covers 2007-2012 Caliber 1.8L/2.0L/2.4L; verify whether the repair also requ…

    Mopar Parts Giant
  • Mopar 68046026AA engine water pump

    Water-pump branch when pressure testing, bearing inspection or circulation testing confirms pump failure Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2007-2012 Caliber 1.8L, 2.0L and 2.4L including SRT-4; pump only, so check gasket/pulley requirement…

    Mopar Parts Giant
  • Mopar 68004049AB engine cooling radiator

    Radiator branch after flow, temperature-drop, pressure and external-fin inspection confirm restriction or leakage Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2007-2012 Caliber 1.8L/2.0L/2.4L across non-SRT trims; SRT-4 is not shown and remains exclu…

    Mopar Parts Giant

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $800

Research This Issue

Based on 220 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified220 owner reportsLast reported by owners Aug 2024Reviewed Aug 2026
Community reported
180 owners

On the 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber, same TIPM design flaw as other Chrysler/Dodge products. Fuel pump relay failure, random electrical activations, and stalling. Can cause both engine and CVT issues through electrical malfunction.

This issue also affects: Alfa Romeo Giulia, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, Chrysler 300

Common Symptoms

  • Vehicle stalls or won't start
  • Random electrical malfunctions
  • Fuel pump issues
  • Warning lights on dashboard

How to Fix

TIPM rebuild service (UpFix, Circuit Board Medics, MAKS TIPM) at $200-$400 most cost-effective. External fuel pump relay bypass cable available. New TIPM from dealer $800-$1,200.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • GoECM remanufactured TIPM 04692207 / 04692207AA

    Exact-module replacement branch after power, ground, load, wiring and output diagnosis proves a matching TIPM failure Fitment: 2007 Caliber 2.0L/2.4L with matching 04692207-family module; VIN supplied for programming/calibration and core…

    goecm
  • Circuit Board Medics send-in Caliber TIPM repair service

    Repair of the customer's original module only when its part number and failed headlamp/turn-signal output match the vendor's list Fitment: Part-number families 4692207, 4692169, 68028007, 4692333 and 4692555, but only the listed high/low…

  • MAKS rebuilt 68028007-family TIPM

    Later exact-part-number replacement branch after VIN/options and original module label match Fitment: Only Calibers carrying the 68028007 family; do not use for other 2008-2012 suffix/build variants without vendor confirmation Live direc…

    tipmrebuilders

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $1,200

Research This Issue

Based on 180 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerified180 owner reportsLast reported by owners May 2024Reviewed Aug 2026

On the 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber, rear brake calipers seize due to corroded slide pins, causing uneven pad wear and pulling during braking. The integrated parking brake mechanism in the rear calipers is especially prone to sticking.

Common Symptoms

  • Vehicle pulls to one side when braking
  • Uneven rear pad wear
  • Burning smell from rear brakes
  • Parking brake will not hold or release

How to Fix

Rebuild or replace rear brake calipers. Clean and lubricate caliper slide pins with silicone brake grease. Replace pads and rotors if unevenly worn. Exercise the parking brake regularly to prevent the mechanism from seizing.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Mopar 5191268AA rear-right disc brake caliper assembly

    Passenger-side replacement branch after confirming caliper or integrated parking-brake seizure Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2007-2012 Caliber, passenger side; rear-disc equipment confirmation is mandatory $88.23 plus $20 core and Add …

    Mopar Parts Giant
  • Mopar 5191247AA disc-brake guide/slide pin kit

    Rebuild/slide-hardware branch when the pins or boots are corroded or damaged but the caliper remains serviceable Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2007-2012 Caliber; rear-disc-equipped vehicles only $12.47 and Add to Cart when checked

    Mopar Parts Giant
  • Mopar 68028671AA rear disc brake pad kit

    Pad replacement branch when wear is uneven, below specification, heat-damaged or contaminated Fitment: Live OEM fitment lists 2007-2012 Caliber; rear-disc vehicles only $53.59 and Add to Cart when checked

    Mopar Parts Giant
  • Mopar 5105515AA rear brake rotor

    Rotor replacement branch only when thickness, runout, scoring, cracking or heat damage fails inspection Fitment: 2007-2012 rear-disc Caliber application; quantity one, normally serviced by axle pair $89.72 and Add to Cart when checked

    Mopar Parts Giant
  • Permatex 24129 silicone ceramic extreme brake-parts lubricant, 0.5 oz

    Rubber-safe slide-pin lubricant after pins and bores are cleaned and confirmed reusable Fitment: Universal brake-service consumable; apply only to specified contact/slide surfaces and keep off friction material Live direct US product pag…

    Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026
NHTSA Recalls4 recalls

SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chrysler 200, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010-2012 Dodge Caliber and 2010-2014 Jeep Patriot, Compass and Dodge Avenger vehicles. The Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module may short circuit, preventing the frontal air bags, seat belt pretensioners, and side air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.

Campaign #16V66800015/09/2016

STEERING:COLUMN

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011DODGE JOURNEY, JEEP WRANGLER, CHRYSLER 200, CHRYSLER 200 CONVERTIBLE, DODGE AVENGER, DODGE NITRO, JEEP LIBERTY, DODGE CALIBER, JEEP COMPASS, JEEP PATRIOT, DODGE GRAND CARAVAN AND CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH A MISSING OR INCORRECTLY INSTALLED STEERING COLUMN PIVOT RIVET.

Campaign #11V31500008/06/2011

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Dodge Caliber problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 680+ owner reports, the 2010 Dodge Caliber has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Jatco CVT Overheating and Premature Failure, Engine Overheating - Multiple Causes, TIPM Electrical Module Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Dodge Caliber reliable?

The 2010 Dodge Caliber has 4 known issues documented across 680+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Jatco CVT Overheating and Premature Failure and Engine Overheating - Multiple Causes. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Dodge Caliber problems?

Repair costs for known Dodge Caliber issues range from $100 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Jatco CVT Overheating and Premature Failure, typically costs $2,000-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber Jatco CVT Overheating and Premature Failure?

The Jatco CVT has an inherent overheating design flaw, especially during extended highway driving. Expected CVT lifespan only ~75,000 miles. ATF aeration compounds problems. Transmission shutdown can occur during highway driving in hot weather, leaving vehicle stranded. Repairs typically run $2,000-$4,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber Engine Overheating - Multiple Causes?

Calibers are prone to overheating from radiator fan failure, thermostat sticking, water pump failure, and radiator clogging. Same cooling system shared with Jeep Compass/Patriot (PM/MK platform). Fan relay failure is the most common single cause. Repairs typically run $100-$800. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 680+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #08V52800009/10/2008

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH

CHRYSLER IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 DODGE CALIBER VEHICLES. SOME VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH AN INCORRECT DOOR LOCK ROD IN THE RIGHT FRONT DOOR.

Campaign #10V19700011/05/2010

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber TIPM Electrical Module Failure?

Same TIPM design flaw as other Chrysler/Dodge products. Fuel pump relay failure, random electrical activations, and stalling. Can cause both engine and CVT issues through electrical malfunction. Repairs typically run $200-$1,200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber Rear Brake Caliper Seizure and Premature Pad Wear?

Rear brake calipers seize due to corroded slide pins, causing uneven pad wear and pulling during braking. The integrated parking brake mechanism in the rear calipers is especially prone to sticking. Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: medium.