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2013 Dodge Caliber Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2013 Dodge Caliber has zero reported recalls or consumer complaints, a rare data point that warrants careful consideration regarding data completeness.
  • While official data shows no issues, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial to uncover any potential mechanical wear or hidden problems.
  • The Caliber offers practical space and utility, making it a potentially budget-friendly choice for basic transportation.
  • Fuel economy figures are unavailable, which is a significant data gap for cost-conscious buyers.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Dodge Caliber

The 2013 Dodge Caliber offers a practical, if unexciting, option in the compact car segment. Its design prioritizes utility, with a spacious interior for its class and a versatile cargo area. Powertrain options range from a standard four-cylinder to more potent turbocharged variants, paired with manual transmissions or a CVT. However, its appeal is tempered by a somewhat dated interior and less refined driving dynamics compared to some rivals. For used car shoppers, the Caliber's appeal hinges on its potential value and the surprising lack of reported issues in official safety and reliability databases.

Critical Failure Risk

CVT transmissions can experience issues related to fluid degradation, solenoid failures, or belt wear. Regular fluid changes are critical. The lack of specific complaint data makes precise failure prediction difficult.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
148–172HP
Torque
168–224 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
18-26 mpg combined
Published range
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.6/ 10

Practicality

6.5/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers seeking basic, no-frills transportation.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing cutting-edge technology or refined driving dynamics.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Dodge Caliber Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Dodge Caliber.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects

Limited reliability records are available for this model year.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
148-172 hp
Torque
168-224 lb-ft
Transmission
5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, CVT
Drivetrain
FWD/AWD
Body Style
Sedan
MSRP Range
$6,490 – $9,130

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Most Common Issues

1. CVT Transmission Issues

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Suspension Component Wear

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $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
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Dodge Caliber reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Dodge Caliber is 9.6/10. Reliability score is 9.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2013 Dodge Caliber for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.5/10. Seating capacity is 5. 5 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 352 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Dodge Caliber?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Dodge Caliber is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 9.0/10. Practicality 6.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Dodge Caliber?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-20 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-20 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: CVT Transmission (typical at 90,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $3,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2013 Dodge Caliber?▾

MSRP range is $6,490 – $9,130.

What engine is in the 2013 Dodge Caliber?▾

Engine specs list Inline-4. Output is 148-172 hp • 168-224 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2013 Dodge Caliber use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Dodge Caliber, transmission is 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, CVT. The paired drivetrain is FWD/AWD.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Dodge Caliber?▾

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

What is the fuel economy range for the 2013 Dodge Caliber?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Dodge Caliber, fuel economy range is 18-26 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2013 Dodge Caliber?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Dodge Caliber, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2013 Dodge Caliber?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Dodge Caliber, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Dodge Caliber use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Dodge Caliber, drivetrain is FWD/AWD. Transmission is 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, CVT.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Dodge Caliber?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Honda Civic and 2013 Toyota Corolla.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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