general problems of the 2008 Dodge Caliber

2008 Dodge Caliber. Consumer writes in regards to vehicle sub-frame corrosion repair issues, requests for financial assistance was denied and extended warranty for same premature corrosion was issued for 2007 Dodge Caliber. The consumer stated the vehicle failed inspection.

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Caliber. While driving 40-45 mph, the lower a-arm on the front passenger side separated from the subframe of the vehicle. The contact stated that the sub frame showed excessive corrosion. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 118,000.

2008 Dodge Caliber. Consumer writes in regards to vehicle repair work necessary to pass state inspection. Consumer states repairs should have been covered under previous year model vehicle recall notice. According to the invoice, the front cradle was rusted.

The contact owns a 2008 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated that while having maintenance performed, the technician noticed that the engine cradle was corroded and holes had developed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 87,607.

My complaint is not focused on the auto manufacturer. It is directed toward the auto insurance industry, and in particular nationwide insurance based in columbus, OH. I was recently involved in an auto accident, and a nationwide client rear-ended my new 2008 Dodge Caliber. It was less then 1 week old at the time of the accident, and had fewer then 300 miles on it. Nationwide promptly agreed to repair the vehicle by replacing the bumper. However, it has come to my attention that the company's policy is to replace the bumper with a refurbished part, or a part made by a company that may not be licensed or represent mopar, the parts company that supplies Dodge replacement parts. I am very concerned not only about losing value for my brand new car, but also that my safety and the safety of my passengers could be potentially compromised by the use of possibly inferior products. I understand that there is a governing body for these types of parts known as capa, but I also understand that not every part is certified by capa, nor could I find a certified part listed for the rear bumper of a 2008 Dodge Caliber. This is simply not acceptable, and nationwide must replace my bumper (and any unseen damaged parts) with genuine mopar-supplied parts to restore my vehicle to its original, safe, operating condition as it was prior to the accident. The vehicle's engine hasn't even been fully broken-in yet.