What are the most common problems with the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

The primary ownership concern is the occupant restraint system, including airbags and seat belts, which are the subject of a significant recall and frequent complaints.

How many recalls does the 2012 Dodge Caliber have?

The 2012 Dodge Caliber currently has 3 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Dodge Caliber a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The primary ownership concern is the occupant restraint system, including airbags and seat belts, which are the subject of a significant recall and frequent complaints. Inspect the vehicle's suspension and steering components thoroughly for premature wear, as these are common complaint areas. Evaluate the structural integrity of the subframe and frame for rust, a critical safety issue that can lead to component detachment. The vehicle speed control system, including throttle body issues, requires attention due to reported power loss and erratic behavior. While offering decent fuel economy, the Caliber's below-average reliability and potential for costly repairs should be factored into the purchase decision. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2012 Dodge Caliber.

2012 Dodge Caliber Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The primary ownership concern is the occupant restraint system, including airbags and seat belts, which are the subject of a significant recall and frequent complaints.
Inspect the vehicle's suspension and steering components thoroughly for premature wear, as these are common complaint areas.
Evaluate the structural integrity of the subframe and frame for rust, a critical safety issue that can lead to component detachment.
The vehicle speed control system, including throttle body issues, requires attention due to reported power loss and erratic behavior.

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Overview

2012 Dodge Caliber

The 2012 Dodge Caliber offers a practical, if uninspiring, compact car experience. While its EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined is adequate, its below-average reliability verdict and a substantial number of owner complaints, particularly concerning safety systems, warrant careful consideration for used car shoppers. The vehicle has a 3-star overall NHTSA safety rating, with 4 stars for frontal and rollover impacts but only 3 for side impacts. With 79 complaints and 3 recalls, potential buyers should be aware of recurring issues.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate issues with airbag deployment, often linked to the Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) module. This is a critical safety system that requires immediate attention if any warning lights appear.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Air Bags17

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing initial affordability over long-term reliability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a dependable, worry-free daily driver.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Dodge Caliber Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Hatchback
EPA Combined MPG: 24

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Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 17 reports

2. Seats

Usage: 13 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

3 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2012 Dodge Caliber reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Dodge Caliber is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 79.

How practical is the 2012 Dodge Caliber for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Dodge Caliber is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Dodge Caliber?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Occupant Restraint Control (OCR) Module (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What engine is in the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2012 Dodge Caliber use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Dodge Caliber, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Dodge Caliber, body style is hatchback.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Dodge Caliber use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Dodge Caliber, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 3/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 3/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

Top complaint category: air bags (17 reports, 21.5% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Dodge Caliber?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Honda Civic and 2012 Toyota Corolla.