2008 Dodge Caliber: problems, recalls and reliability

“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.”Owner report · Steering · Dec 2021

“The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated while taking the vehicle into a local state inspection, he was notified that the vehicle did not pass inspection due to the K-frame of the undercarriage was fractured due to corrosion and rust. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 159,000.”Owner report · Structure · Sep 2021

“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!”Owner report · Unknown Or Other · Sep 2021

“Took vehicle in for maintenance, technician told us the front crossmember is rusted throughout and needs replacement. Technician advised it's a safety issue and this model was given extended warranty under x69 notice, however warranty may have already expired. I contacted chrysler representative and they advised the vehicle was part of the x69 notice but was beyond the extended warranty that expired in june 2018. I am the second owner of vehicle band never received notice of the issue from chrysler/dodge. The crossmember rust issue appears to be a common problem with this model. I am requesting an investigation and recall for this part.”Owner report · Unknown Or Other · Dec 2020

“I have had my 2008 dodge caliber since 2009. Since then I have replaced both tie rods 4 times. I just had them done again about 1 1/2 years ago and they are broken again. I have changed the ball joints as well.. This is ridiculous and should have been recalled I read a lot of forums and everybody complains about the same thing.”Owner report · Suspension · Sep 2020

“While driving my car speed lowered and the trans temp light and esp light and traction control and etb module light came car won't go over 40 and remains in limp mode even after taking it to the shop”Owner report · Power Train · May 2020

“Luckily, I was on a city street. The vehicle lost power and slowed significantly, almost stopping completely and began to reboot as if it were just being started. I am complaining because I do not feel it to be safe for consumers on any road. I have a 3 year old son and I would very much like dodge to fix this problem before my, or anyone else's family, gets whiplash from a rear collision. I'm reaching out to NHTSA because, I lack the tools and knowledge to fix it myself, and don't find it fair that I pay for a mistake that dodge made in making the car. *tr”Owner report · Electrical System · May 2020