Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2007 Dodge Caliber
The 2007 Dodge Caliber has notable issues with suspension, electrical systems, and vehicle speed control, as evidenced by high complaint numbers and multiple recalls. Cautious inspection and test drive are advised to uncover potential problems before purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2007 Dodge Caliber has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 884 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #17V824000 Fire Extinguisher May Be Clogged or Inoperable NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #10V234000 STICKING OR BINDING ACCELERATOR PEDALS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #07V196000 REAR WHEEL HUB MOUNTING BOLTS/FMVSS 135 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06V493000 ABS CONTROL MODULE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Suspension 255 complaints
- Electrical System 197 complaints
- Structure 158 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 104 complaints
- Steering 98 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 93 complaints
Of the 884 complaints on file, 54 report a crash and 18 a fire; across all 884 complaints, owners report 38 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent issues and noise
How to check: Inspect suspension for wear or squeaking sounds.
System failures and defects
How to check: Check all electronic functions and dashboard lights.
ABS-related rear brake lockup
How to check: Test brakes for unusual locking or feel.
Accelerator pedal binding
How to check: Press accelerator for smooth operation without sticking.
Structure complaints
How to check: Look for rust or alignment issues in body panels.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Loud knocking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check dashboard for warning lights or messages.
Red flag: Persisting warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Feel for smooth suspension over bumps.
Red flag: Excessive bouncing or noise
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure firm but smooth pedal response.
Red flag: Sticky or hesitant pedal
- 05
Braking
What to check: Observe brake response and any locking sensation.
Red flag: Unusual firmness or lockup
- 06
Turning
What to check: Listen for steering noise or stiffness.
Red flag: Grinding or tight steering
- 07
Parking
What to check: Ensure handbrake holds car securely.
Red flag: Parking brake fails to hold
- 08
Shutting off
What to check: Look for power-down anomalies or noises.
Red flag: Electrical failures on shutdown
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the suspension been repaired?
- Any electrical issues in the past?
- Are the brakes original or replaced?
- Have you experienced accelerator issues?
- Has the vehicle been in accidents?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history records
- Recall repair confirmations
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2007 Dodge Caliber at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2007 Dodge Caliber? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.