2009 Dodge Caliber
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Dodge › Caliber › 2009
These records cover every 2009 Dodge Caliber. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
1 recall names the 2009 Dodge Caliber. Newest first.
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 and remedy
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.
Owner complaints
232 complaints13 involved a crash2 involved a fire11 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Unknown or other
Under paneling under all doors and under car rusting out completely. Falling pieces fly away anytime.
- Unknown or other
My car will not shift. It’s saying that the part that was fixed under the recall is bad. What do I do now?
- Unknown or other
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!
- Suspension
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…
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.
- Suspension
Rear subframe rotted in half, causing rear driver side tire to sit sideways and loss of rear end
- Unknown or other
Rotting/rusting subframe. Not listed as a recall for this model year, but was for the previous years.
- Unknown or other
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..
- Structure › Body
● 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…
● 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.
- Unknown or other
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.
- Structure › Body
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…
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.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Power train
The problem initially occurred in early November of 2020 when the vehicle would unpredictably stall at a stop sign or traffic light and would not immediately start for a couple minutes. After this short wait of 1 to 3 minutes it was possible to restart the car and move forward normally and the car…
The problem initially occurred in early November of 2020 when the vehicle would unpredictably stall at a stop sign or traffic light and would not immediately start for a couple minutes. After this short wait of 1 to 3 minutes it was possible to restart the car and move forward normally and the car could be driven without stalling for 2 or 3 miles when it would stall again and the engine would not start again for 2 to 3 minutes. In traffic situations this was unsafe to not be able to move the vehicle to a safe distance from heavy traffic. Finally, the problem started to occur after the vehicle was supposedly repaired and not driven for 2 -3 days and when it an attempt to start the car it would idle for 3-5 seconds and sound like it was choking before dying, and this was happening 2 weeks after it had been "repaired" by the Dodge dealer. This problem has repeatedly occurred over the two years since the original incident and has been to a Dodge dealership for unsuccessful repairs 4 different times; 11/20; 04/22 &05/22 and it is still at the dealership being inoperable. Each time the car functioned for a few miles and then broke down again. The dealer informs us that the parts that would most likely repair the car are no longer made by Dodge and the car cannot be fixed. Interestingly enough this model vehicle has had a variety of recalls starting in 2007 but never for the particular control modules that are no longer available which are The Throttle control & Power Train Control modules, which the Dealer thinks might possibly be a fix but even that is not a sure thing. The Dodge dealer that worked on the vehicle presumably would have informed me about this situation at least before they had the vehicle in for now the 4th time in 3 years with the same problem with no solution. Up to the time of these breakdowns the vehicle was well maintained and taken care of and still has low mileage of just over 69,000 miles. Is the Dodge Corporation at least partially liable?
- Forward collision avoidance › Automatic emergency braking · Service brakes · Unknown or other
The car was in park on a hill, when I turned off the engine, it rolled down the steep hill and the brakes or emergency brake would not work. I crashed through a fence across the street and into a building. The car was totaled.
- Suspension
I was driving down to road and the the k member (subframe) rusted all the way through
- Suspension · Unknown or other
Hearing noise on drivers side. Took to garage for inspection and H Frame, sub frame, is rusting out and needs to be replaced. Motor and A Arms mount to this frame. Find out this is a common problem and no recall or help from Chrysler. This is a huge safety issue! Only have 68,000 on vehicle.
- Structure
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The vehicle had previously had the front subframe replaced under an unknown TSB. The contact stated that upon inspection, her son informed her that the rear subframe was corroded. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer.…
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The vehicle had previously had the front subframe replaced under an unknown TSB. The contact stated that upon inspection, her son informed her that the rear subframe was corroded. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with NHTSA. The failure mileage was 155,946.
- Engine · Power train · Service brakes
The engine stalls when I take off more times than none I'm stuck idling in traffic almost causing accident the frame that hold motor mounts are bad I've replaced motor mounts twice in a less than a year the car heats up after 70 miles an hour I have 5o pull over and let it cool off this happens 3…
The engine stalls when I take off more times than none I'm stuck idling in traffic almost causing accident the frame that hold motor mounts are bad I've replaced motor mounts twice in a less than a year the car heats up after 70 miles an hour I have 5o pull over and let it cool off this happens 3 to 4 times a week with the engine stalling and overheating didn't find out til after I leased the car from AtoZ auto on gen McMullen and it's financed through car financial services I believe they knew the car was damaged I got scammed and have to pay 425 dollars a month on a car that can't be fixed I've spent a lot trying to fix the car
- Power train
My PCM failed car stopped on the highway in traffic without warning. I could have die or caused a death. My car is available . I’ve owned that vehicle for going on three months the first issue that I’ve had. After Car felt the check engine light came on I took it to be for a diagnostics test which…
My PCM failed car stopped on the highway in traffic without warning. I could have die or caused a death. My car is available . I’ve owned that vehicle for going on three months the first issue that I’ve had. After Car felt the check engine light came on I took it to be for a diagnostics test which read the PCM was the issue. My car is a 2009 Dodge caliber just recently charged 81,000 miles I pay $6000 for a car I just don’t believe that [XXX] dealer didn’t know I am fearful of dry driving it but what choice do I have. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
- Air bags
Car was involved in an accident that resulted in a total loss . Air bags did not deploy. Car is currently at a towing company and can be inspected. No warning lights were on.
- Air bags · Seats · Steering
Air bags didn't not deploy during a single car accident which ended in a head on crash into side of mountain then rolled over onto the roof. Speed about 30-35 mph. When tow truck turned car back over the driver's seat wasn't connected. Also prior to this accident problems with alignment, esp rear.
- Structure › Frame and members › Underbody shields · Suspension
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated that upon taking her vehicle to an independent mechanic for a state inspection, she was informed that the rear subframe was severely corroded. The contact was informed that the corrosion had caused a significant hole to form on the rear…
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated that upon taking her vehicle to an independent mechanic for a state inspection, she was informed that the rear subframe was severely corroded. The contact was informed that the corrosion had caused a significant hole to form on the rear subframe which could cause a severe failure while driving. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that she would receive a callback. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 64,049.
- Exterior lighting
UNKNOWN Passenger side headlight will not come on Not a bad bulb
- Suspension
The front sub frame rusted out and almost killed everyone in the car the wheels turned out and lost all steering was really scary is there any way we can get this fixed by dodge this should be a recall I’ve looked at 6 calibers and all of them are rusted out
- Structure › Frame and members › Underbody shields
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the steering wheel started vibrating. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the failure was caused by a corroded K-frame on the vehicle. The dealer…
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the steering wheel started vibrating. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the failure was caused by a corroded K-frame on the vehicle. The dealer was not made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist as the vehicle was not included in the 10-year extended warranty due to the manufacture on date. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.
- Suspension › Front › Control arm › Lower arm · Suspension › Subframe/mounting bracket
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated while coming to a stop, there was a loud banging sound heard. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the front passenger’s side wheel had detached due to a fractured lower control arm. The contact indicated that the failure was caused by…
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated while coming to a stop, there was a loud banging sound heard. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the front passenger’s side wheel had detached due to a fractured lower control arm. The contact indicated that the failure was caused by severe rusting and corrosion of the subframe. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 109,000.
- Power train · Service brakes · Vehicle speed control
When the vehicle reaches 3,000 RPMs the temperature light comes on and the vehicle seems like it wants to go into neutral The engine light comes on the antilock brake system light comes on.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10248509Connector kit Before ordering this connector repair kit 68018957A$, check it in the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website to confirm part number and applicability. There is an error with the wiring diagrams in Service Library that is causing the incorrect repair kit part number to populate. Please use the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website until this issue is resolved.
- 10244348Connector kit Before ordering this connector repair kit 68018957A$, check it in the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website to confirm part number and applicability. There is an error with the wiring diagrams in Service Library that is causing the incorrect repair kit part number to populate. Please use the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website until this issue is resolved.
- 10223599Part Description: Valve Body Assembly Issue Description: Valve body design was changed between 2010MY and 2011MY applications. To prevent mix matching valve bodies and solenoid packs the connectors are color coded.~ Valve bodies with a white connector can be used on 2010, 2009, 2008..., model years. Valve bodies with a gray connector can only be used on 2011, 2012, 2013..., model years.~ Solenoid packs with a white connector are used with 2010, 2009, 2008..., model years. Solenoid packs with a gray connector are used with 2011, 2012, 2013..., model years.
- 10223512THROTTLE BODY For clarification, only use 68414676A$ on 2010 & earlier vehicles as supply is limited.
- 10223509TRANSMISSION, 5 Speed On replacing OE transmission 05106567A$/68042567A$ with reman transmission R8142074A$ replace with new Hydraulic Clutch Tube 05273429A$ to avoid interference with shift lever
- 10221097Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA Vehicles built after on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. All 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the vehicle you are repairing has a crack in the flex plate or failed pump bushing inspect and confirm that both (2) dowel pins are present in the engine block, which align the transmission center line to the crank shaft centerline and visually inspect the dowel alignment holes in the transmission case. If the holes are damaged or elongated the transmission should be replaced to prevent further damage to the transmission/flexplate or pump bushing due to the inability to properly align the engine to the transmission during the repair. 3. All 62TE equipped vehicles. If pump bushing is scored or damaged and the dowel pin alignment holes are ok, replace the pump assembly as opposed to complete transmission. 4. All 62TE equipped vehicles. If vehicle is jerking/slipping with MIL code(s) P0740 or P2764, check TCC Solenoid operation. If TCC Solenoid is ok, the codes are indicative of a torque converter failure. Replace the torque converter.
- 10220101Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
- 10220099Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
- 10220098Authentic Mopar Glass Replacement This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the recommended usage of Authentic Mopar Glass.
- 10220097Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
- 10217559Front And Rear Crossmember Corrosion (X69 Warranty Extension) This bulletin involves inspecting the front and rear crossmembers for perforation/rust through and if necessary, replacing the crossmember(s). Customers may describe a vibration at the steering wheel or may have been informed by a technician or state vehicle inspection that the front and/or rear crossmember is severely corroded.If the customer describes the symptom/condition listed above, perform the Diagnostic Procedure.
- 10216395Gasoline Engine Diagnostic Inspection Procedure This bulletin provides a procedure to determine repair versus replacement of a gasoline long block engine assembly. This procedure is to be used prior to conducting any engine related repairs or removal of engine components.
- 10191460Valve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
- 10177457THROTTLE BODY For clarification, only use 68414676A$ on 2010 & earlier vehicles as supply is limited.
- 10177454TRANSMISSION, 5 Speed On replacing OE transmission 05106567A$/68042567A$ with reman transmission R8142074A$ replace with new Hydraulic Clutch Tube 05273429A$ to avoid interference with shift lever
- 10175743Disinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19
- 10175735Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
- 10169249Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
- 10169247Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
- 10169245Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
- 10166537RADIO [RES] - New and/or Service Exchange For RES radio concerns. Use the wiTECH 2.0 and inspect the radio part number and serial number under the Radio/ECU Details tab. Please verify that the radio part number and/or serial number is not "FFFF". If either field shows "FFFF", please contact Mike Wielgat at 248-576-6696 or Rohan Negandhi at 248-421-9608 If no response in 15 minutes, proceed with repair.
- 10140065Gasoline Engine Diagnostic Inspection Procedure This bulletin provides a procedure to determine repair versus replacement of a gasoline long block engine assembly. This procedure is to be used prior to conducting any engine related repairs or removal of engine components.
- 10140027Front And Rear Crossmember Corrosion (X69 Warranty Extension) This bulletin involves inspecting the front and rear crossmembers for perforation/rust through and if necessary, replacing the crossmember(s). Customers may describe a vibration at the steering wheel or may have been informed by a technician or state vehicle inspection that the front and/or rear crossmember is severely corroded.If the customer describes the symptom/condition listed above, perform the Diagnostic Procedure.
- 10139985Restraints Information Sheet (I-Sheet) has been added to Star Parts. Print I-Sheet for technician use.
- 10139978Restraints Remove I-Sheet from packaging. Correct information sheet (I-Sheet) has been added to Star Parts. Print I-Sheet for technician use.
- 10138987Gasoline Engine Diagnostic Inspection Procedure This bulletin provides a procedure to determine repair versus replacement of a gasoline long block engine assembly. This procedure is to be used prior to conducting any engine related repairs or removal of engine components.
- 1012900882212076, 82203694 - Fabric Cleaner This "fabric cleaner" is not intended for sale in California, the otc states (Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington dc), and some ladco states (Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio). Mopar offers an alternative product (82213192) which is a water based product approved for sale in the aforementioned states.~ ~ Please inform the customer & your prep dept that spraying excessive amounts of the fabric protector on load floors will result in the breaking down of the adhesive (glue) that is used to create the bond between the fabric (carpet) and the load floor. This will apply to any vehicles equipped with rear load floors such as WK, WD, PM, MK, KA, KK. The carpet will appear to be loose, wrinkly, or bunch up~
- 10128948Gasoline Engine Diagnostic Inspection Procedure This bulletin provides a procedure to determine repair versus replacement of a gasoline long block engine assembly. This procedure is to be used prior to conducting any engine related repairs or removal of engine components.
- 10121927NAG1 (5A580) Valve Body As per Warranty Bulletin D-13-22, please use R2108213A$ valve body for all Warranty (W), Mopar (M) and Mopar Vehicle Protection (F) claims.~ Assembly also includes Filter (52108325AA) and Gasket (52108332AA).~
- 10064501Summary to be provided on a future date.
- 10034545Dodge: fuel gauge fluctuation. Fuel gauge IS not accurate or fluctuates at 3/4 of a tank or above. This bulletin involves replacing the fuel sending unit, clocking the fuel module and installing a fuel jumper hose.
- 10031764Chrysler/jeep: rear stabilizer bar end link nut torque. Vehicles were shipped with rear stabilizer bar end link nuts incorrectly torques.
- 10028793Chrysler: wire harness tie strap not secured. The strap provides strain relief for the harness connectors.
- 10028690Dodge service campaign: see document search button for owner letter. Caliber SRT4 has an incorrect vehicle emission control information (veci) label that was inadvertently installed. Csc letter was received.
- 10026829Chrysler: lower control arm to crossmember mounting bolts. Vehicles were shipped with front lower control arm to crossmember mounting bolts that may not be tightened to specification.
Every Dodge Caliber model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.