2012 Dodge Caliber
Should You Buy a 2012 Dodge Caliber?
The 2012 Dodge Caliber is a compact wagon that offers a unique blend of practicality and performance. With a front-wheel-drive setup, it features a 2.0L I4 engine that delivers 158 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque, making it suitable for daily commuting and light family use. Its fuel efficiency of 27 MPG combined is competitive for its class, and the MSRP of $18,730 positions it as an affordable option for budget-conscious buyers. The spacious interior comfortably seats five, making it a practical choice for small families or those needing extra cargo space.
However, potential buyers should be aware of some safety concerns reflected in the NHTSA complaint data. The vehicle has recorded 16 crash incidents and 3 fire incidents, with airbag and seat belt issues being the most frequently reported components. Despite these concerns, the Caliber boasts a reliability score of 98.1/100, indicating that many owners have had positive experiences with the vehicle's overall performance and dependability.
The 2012 Dodge Caliber is best suited for budget-conscious individuals or small families looking for a practical and reliable daily driver.
Strengths
- +Affordable price point for a compact wagon
- +High reliability score of 98.1/100
- +Decent fuel efficiency at 27 MPG combined
- +Spacious interior with seating for five
- +Front-wheel drive offers good handling in various conditions
Weaknesses
- -Reported safety issues with airbags and seat belts
- -Some complaints about engine performance and vehicle speed control
- -Limited availability of parts due to age
- -Less refined ride quality compared to competitors
- -Lower resale value in the used car market
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 2012 Dodge Caliber has some notable safety-related complaints, particularly concerning airbag and seat belt functionality, with 17 and 13 complaints respectively. While there are no deaths reported, the presence of 16 crash incidents and 3 fire incidents suggests that buyers should proceed with caution and consider a thorough inspection before purchase. Overall, the vehicle has a high reliability score, indicating that many owners have had satisfactory experiences.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 2 L
- Cylinders
- I4
- Transmission
- Manual 5-spd
- Drive Type
- FWD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 27
- Fuel Type
- Regular Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- 173.6 in
- Width
- 68.9 in
- Height
- 60.2 in
- Wheelbase
- 103.9 in
- Curb Weight
- 2,965 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- 4
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –