11 problems related to frame rust have been reported for the 2009 Dodge Caliber. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2009 Dodge Caliber based on all problems reported for the 2009 Caliber.
Sub frame rusted out and lost control of vehicle , almost wrecked.
Tl- the contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 mph, the contact noticed vehicle was making a abnormal noise, in addition the steering shifted pulling vehicle to the left hand side of the lane. No warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was driven to a independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and inform that the sub frame was rusted and about to detach. The contact called Chevrolet ( 1800 853-1403) and was inform the problem was not part of a recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000. As.
Rusted through subframe.
Attempted to get a wheel alignment on 12/19/2016 and was informed that the frame/subframe is extremely rusted/corroded and needs repair.
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. While the vehicle was at the dealer for routine inspection, the technician noticed that the subframe was rusted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 66,150.
While making a left hand turn the vehicle right front collapsed forcing me off the road. Fortunately because I was traveling at a very low speed I was able to stop on the shoulder. Had I been traveling on a multiple lane highway, passing another car or at a higher rate of speed there would have been a serious accident. Upon inspection I found that the front frame had rusted completely through and collapsed the suspension. It is quite apparent that the frame is poorly designed or constructed. Possibly both. At any rate this is a very dangerous condition that should be addressed. I notified Chrysler in July and other than an acknowledgement have not heard from them. Kindly advise me if there is any action that your organization can take. Sincerely, wilfred rymar.
Heard a loud noise that sounded like a broken spring on my car and took it to my mechanic, where I found out my engine cradle is completely rotted and broken in several places. I drive 30 miles to work on a major freeway, doing 70 - 80 mph 5-7 days a week. If this engine cradle had broke completely during my commute, I would have crashed or flipped my car!! this is beyond a safety concern. I recently got rid of a 1998 vehicle that didnt have even 1/10th this amound of rust on its frame. I undercarriage flush-carwash my car every week minimum during the winter months to avoid longterm salt exposure. And my car is garage parked all the time at home. I transport my small children in this car, and am seriously considering finding a lawyer for a class action suit on this matter. There are a ton of complaints online regarding this issue. A 6 year old car should not be this rotted!!!! I.
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The contact stated that while parked and servicing the vehicle, there was severe corrosion noticed on the front and rear sub frame. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the front and rear sub frame was rusted through and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 154,000.
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. When the vehicle was taken to a local dealer for service, the technician noticed that the entire frame was rusted and needed to be replaced. There was no warning indicator. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and offered to cover the cost of the part only. The VIN was unknown. The failure mileage was 85,000.
The contact owns a 2009 Dodge Caliber. When attempting to drive above approximately 20 mph, the transmission failed and the vehicle was not able to move from first gear. The check engine light illuminated. The contact stated that the k- frame was rusted. The contact took the vehicle to a certified mechanic who advised that the contact needed to locate a dealer to have the vehicle repaired. The certified mechanic cleared all the codes for the transmission; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 171,180.
Extreme rust on front subframe. Part is weakened and integrity is doubtful. Mounts lower control arm. Failure would affect suspension, drive train, brakes and result in loss of steering, brakes and power to drive wheels.