Dodge Caliber or alternative....
06-05-2009, 07:12 PM
#1
Suzuka Master
Thread Starter
Dodge Caliber or alternative....
So, g/f badly needs a car and am clueless about buying, etc... She has a 99 Subaru Forester with 110k and has a gasket leak somewhere. Kelly BB says fair condition is $2,900 but I think if they offer $1,500 in trade she will be lucky.
So, I have been looking and trying to figure out how to help her. She has limited funds and while I would like for her to buy a new Forester, that would cost her $20k and payments.
Alternatively, am looking at cars from $8k to $12k and the Dodge Caliber keeps coming up. I found one at a dealer off Craigslist and it has 27k miles and they are asking $11,000. Do any of you guys have experience with this car. From some research, they say this car is a slug and I can see why since it only has 172hp.
Help.
So, I have been looking and trying to figure out how to help her. She has limited funds and while I would like for her to buy a new Forester, that would cost her $20k and payments.
Alternatively, am looking at cars from $8k to $12k and the Dodge Caliber keeps coming up. I found one at a dealer off Craigslist and it has 27k miles and they are asking $11,000. Do any of you guys have experience with this car. From some research, they say this car is a slug and I can see why since it only has 172hp.
Help.
06-05-2009, 07:47 PM
#3
Senior Moderator
How about an Outback?
06-05-2009, 07:51 PM
#5
E92
Caliber? NO. There was a thread just like this, check it out...
https://acurazine.com/forums/car-talk-5/2008-dodge-caliber-thoughts-728153/
A used Forester would probably be good for her. My mom has an 07 and it's solid as a rock
https://acurazine.com/forums/car-talk-5/2008-dodge-caliber-thoughts-728153/
A used Forester would probably be good for her. My mom has an 07 and it's solid as a rock
06-05-2009, 09:08 PM
#6
Registered but harmless
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Caliber? NO. There was a thread just like this, check it out...
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=728153
A used Forester would probably be good for her. My mom has an 07 and it's solid as a rock
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=728153
A used Forester would probably be good for her. My mom has an 07 and it's solid as a rock
Would the dog fit in the back of a Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe or Mazda 3?
Those are probably better choices than the Caliber.
06-05-2009, 09:51 PM
#7
E92
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06-05-2009, 10:42 PM
#9
Someday, an RS6 Avant+
Isn't an Aztek better than a Caliber? 
06-05-2009, 11:51 PM
#10
Nooooooooo Caliber.
Depends on how much room she needs for the dog, but...
Used Forester if she really wants another (I know new is too expensive)
Used Legacy/Outback wagon
Mazda 3
Toyota Matrix (would need seats folded to fit any kind of dog)
Used Mazda 6 wagon (although I wouldn't want one - just throwing it out there)
Scion XB
Kia Soul (available already here, at least)
Kia Rondo
Pontiac Vibe (although I hate them, she might get a good deal)
A used CUV/SUV
Depends on how much room she needs for the dog, but...
Used Forester if she really wants another (I know new is too expensive)
Used Legacy/Outback wagon
Mazda 3
Toyota Matrix (would need seats folded to fit any kind of dog)
Used Mazda 6 wagon (although I wouldn't want one - just throwing it out there)
Scion XB
Kia Soul (available already here, at least)
Kia Rondo
Pontiac Vibe (although I hate them, she might get a good deal)
A used CUV/SUV
06-06-2009, 12:38 AM
#11
Suzuka Master
Thread Starter
I am glad I asked here. OK. No Caliber. The more I research, the more it is a bad idea. I guess there is a reason why there are so many for sale and why the price is so good. I think we will go with another Forester. CRVs are pricey. She did not like the Matrix when she tried it. I think Matrix > Forester, but that is her choice.
Thanks guys!
Thanks guys!
06-06-2009, 12:57 AM
#12
Moderator Alumnus
wtf? There is nothing wrong with the Caliber. I bought my wife an R/T brand new and she loves it. It's fully loaded but it isn't AWD.
Don't know why so many people bash on that car when they've never owned/driven a new one. Don't base your opinions on rental cars please. :shakehead
Don't know why so many people bash on that car when they've never owned/driven a new one. Don't base your opinions on rental cars please. :shakehead
06-06-2009, 07:11 AM
#13
Senior Moderator
wtf? There is nothing wrong with the Caliber. I bought my wife an R/T brand new and she loves it. It's fully loaded but it isn't AWD.
Don't know why so many people bash on that car when they've never owned/driven a new one. Don't base your opinions on rental cars please. :shakehead
Don't know why so many people bash on that car when they've never owned/driven a new one. Don't base your opinions on rental cars please. :shakehead
My wife's aunt has one that we used for a bit while in Florida. And with all due respect to you and your wife, it's truly a piece of crap. I would absolutely rather have ANY other car in its segment....including a Cobalt.
I actually think the Neon was a step up.That said, to each his or her own.
06-06-2009, 10:05 AM
#14
06-06-2009, 10:06 AM
#15
06-06-2009, 11:53 AM
#17
Suzuka Master
Thread Starter
I looked at Mazda 3s and they were pricey. We are looking at $10-14k and hoping to get a decent amount for trade. Her Forester has a leaking gasket somewhere in Kelly BB says $2,900 in fair condition. I would be ectactic if they offer $2,500 on the trade.
The reason I was honing in on the Caliber is because they are selling for around $17k used.
BigLizard... no offense but I guess the car is pretty hefty in size and does not come with much of a powerplant. 2.0L with 158 hp.
I think if we go used, I may have to front the money and then have her refi the car. But I will not tell her that as I would rather her talk with her Bank first. Looking like interest is running around 5-6% on used if we are lucky.
The reason I was honing in on the Caliber is because they are selling for around $17k used.
BigLizard... no offense but I guess the car is pretty hefty in size and does not come with much of a powerplant. 2.0L with 158 hp.
I think if we go used, I may have to front the money and then have her refi the car. But I will not tell her that as I would rather her talk with her Bank first. Looking like interest is running around 5-6% on used if we are lucky.
06-06-2009, 06:15 PM
#18
Someday, an RS6 Avant+
You won't be wrong with a used Forrester. Just get one with a turbo so you can have a little fun.
06-07-2009, 05:57 AM
#20
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used forester would be the best choice, BUT after searching there are some 80-100k mdx's and cadillac srx's that may fit the price range also.
older rx300, the nissan murano's are pretty inexpensive also with average miles.
It looks as if there are a lot of options and lower mileage foresters out there. that would make the most sense.
older rx300, the nissan murano's are pretty inexpensive also with average miles.
It looks as if there are a lot of options and lower mileage foresters out there. that would make the most sense.
06-07-2009, 07:39 AM
#21
GEEZER
Mazda 3 Hatch FTW! We fit both our dogs in the back of my wifes 3 Hatch.
06-07-2009, 08:52 AM
#22
The A/C in the Mazda 3 is terrible. When we were looking for a new '08, we drove 3, 2 sedans and 5 door. It was a hot and humid day in Jersey and after 20 minutes in each with the air on high and recirculate, the car still hadn't cooled off much. We crossed that car off our list in a hurry. Got back into the Jeep to get cooled down.
06-07-2009, 10:06 AM
#23
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No one suggested it, but how about a used Mazda 6 five-door? I have an 04 Mazda 6 sedan and have had a great experience with it. It handles very well for a family sedan and has had nearly perfect reliability. I've had my 6 in Texas during August and never had a problem with the AC.
06-07-2009, 11:45 AM
#24
Suzuka Master
Thread Starter
will research that one too. I think she will go with the Forester.... I have seen some Tribecas and I know she likes that one too. She would have to dig deeper in her pocket for the Tribeca though.
06-07-2009, 11:54 AM
#25
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get the forester fixed and call it a day. 110k on a subie is nothin. But if you insist on gettin somethin newer, get a used 2nd gen wrx wagon
06-07-2009, 12:49 PM
#26
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wtf? There is nothing wrong with the Caliber. I bought my wife an R/T brand new and she loves it. It's fully loaded but it isn't AWD.
Don't know why so many people bash on that car when they've never owned/driven a new one. Don't base your opinions on rental cars please. :shakehead
Don't know why so many people bash on that car when they've never owned/driven a new one. Don't base your opinions on rental cars please. :shakehead
go with the mazda 3.
06-07-2009, 04:22 PM
#28
Someday, an RS6 Avant+
ODUB is paraphrasing from the other "Caliber" thread. But the point is somewhat valid:
I bought a Volvo for my wife when we were in Europe. I drove a Chrysler LHS. It was the safest thing to have over there, and her and the kids heath was #1. Money was not a concern ($500 plus a month payments). I didn't care.
I bought a Volvo for my wife when we were in Europe. I drove a Chrysler LHS. It was the safest thing to have over there, and her and the kids heath was #1. Money was not a concern ($500 plus a month payments). I didn't care.
06-07-2009, 06:41 PM
#29
Fahrvergnügen'd
The A/C in the Mazda 3 is terrible. When we were looking for a new '08, we drove 3, 2 sedans and 5 door. It was a hot and humid day in Jersey and after 20 minutes in each with the air on high and recirculate, the car still hadn't cooled off much. We crossed that car off our list in a hurry. Got back into the Jeep to get cooled down.
I owned a Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 and had no problems at all with A/C in the mid-Atlantic.
I always put the windows down to let the hotter air escape the car and then roll them back up as the A/C cranks up.
06-08-2009, 02:25 PM
#30
GEEZER
The A/C in the Mazda 3 is terrible. When we were looking for a new '08, we drove 3, 2 sedans and 5 door. It was a hot and humid day in Jersey and after 20 minutes in each with the air on high and recirculate, the car still hadn't cooled off much. We crossed that car off our list in a hurry. Got back into the Jeep to get cooled down.
06-08-2009, 02:26 PM
#31
GEEZER
there is something wrong there or you are mr. And mrs. Fussypants
i owned a mazda3 and mazdaspeed3 and had no problems at all with a/c in the mid-atlantic.
I always put the windows down to let the hotter air escape the car and then roll them back up as the a/c cranks up.
i owned a mazda3 and mazdaspeed3 and had no problems at all with a/c in the mid-atlantic.
I always put the windows down to let the hotter air escape the car and then roll them back up as the a/c cranks up.
06-08-2009, 03:19 PM
#32
The sizzle in the Steak
Caliber 
06-08-2009, 03:51 PM
#34
Senior Moderator
06-09-2009, 07:29 AM
#35
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Pros of the Caliber.. You can get a hell of a deal on one right now. probably 50% off MSRP on a new one.
Cons I tis a Dodge Caliber
I would just go for a forrester or a Impreza wagon. I Love my wrx, and AWD is awsome!!!
Cons I tis a Dodge Caliber
I would just go for a forrester or a Impreza wagon. I Love my wrx, and AWD is awsome!!!
06-09-2009, 08:45 AM
#36
There is something wrong there or you are Mr. and Mrs. Fussypants
I owned a Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 and had no problems at all with A/C in the mid-Atlantic.
I always put the windows down to let the hotter air escape the car and then roll them back up as the A/C cranks up.
I owned a Mazda3 and Mazdaspeed3 and had no problems at all with A/C in the mid-Atlantic.
I always put the windows down to let the hotter air escape the car and then roll them back up as the A/C cranks up.
With a quick check on Google, looks like I’m not alone:
http://www.mazda3forums.com/index.ph...c=25618.0;wap2
http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/archi...p/t-70049.html
http://reviews.cnet.com/sedan/2005-m...-31352569.html
http://autos.msn.com/research/userre...?modelid=12309
http://www.glocktalk.com/forums/show....php?t=1058252
The HVAC system in that car is terrible. Just check Google and you’ll see that people need to keep the system on high to keep it cool. Nothing wrong with the cars I tested as I drove a new ’07 sedan, a used ’07, then a used ’07 5 door. All stink.
I’m not against Mazda as we have a modified RX7 Turbo we purchased new, that’s why we went to see the Mazda3 first, but that was quickly removed from our list.
06-09-2009, 10:45 AM
#37
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I had a Caliber as a rental for 2 days and was relieved to get my own car back when the time came. The Caliber was very sluggish to merge, the interior was cheap, and blind spots were bad because of the shape of the rear windshields. I can't believe this car replaced the Neon in Dodge's lineup.
Being a 2007 Forester owner, I'm a little biased, but if you can get a used one at discount, that might be the way to go. The 2004 through 2008 generation is a pretty solid, with nothing too different mechanically. Visibility is great with really no blind spots and plus you'll have AWD, which you can't get in a Mazda3 or some of the other FWD hatchbacks (besides the Matrix and Vibe, but AWD is difficult to find with those). The Limited editions have leather interiors with heated seats. The Sport X's also had heated seats up to the 2007 model year, but no leather. Insurance is also relatively cheap if your GF is on a budget.
Just word of warning if you're looking into an XT (turbo model), they take premium gas and drink it up quickly. The tank is supposed to hold 15.9 gallons, but it never seems that way when I'm filling up. I'm usually full at 12 gallons when I fill up and the gas light is on. Aside from that, the Turbo is a lot of fun and can hold all your dogs
Being a 2007 Forester owner, I'm a little biased, but if you can get a used one at discount, that might be the way to go. The 2004 through 2008 generation is a pretty solid, with nothing too different mechanically. Visibility is great with really no blind spots and plus you'll have AWD, which you can't get in a Mazda3 or some of the other FWD hatchbacks (besides the Matrix and Vibe, but AWD is difficult to find with those). The Limited editions have leather interiors with heated seats. The Sport X's also had heated seats up to the 2007 model year, but no leather. Insurance is also relatively cheap if your GF is on a budget.
Just word of warning if you're looking into an XT (turbo model), they take premium gas and drink it up quickly. The tank is supposed to hold 15.9 gallons, but it never seems that way when I'm filling up. I'm usually full at 12 gallons when I fill up and the gas light is on. Aside from that, the Turbo is a lot of fun and can hold all your dogs
06-09-2009, 11:49 AM
#39
Suzuka Master
Thread Starter
thanks guys! Have narrowed it down some with all your help.
have found a Forester off Ebay that is about 1 hr drive. He is asking $13k and I doubt he will get any bidders. If g/f wants to go that way, we can wave $11.5k under his nose.
alternatively, I searched the Subaru dealers in the area and Auburn Subaru has Imprezas for $17k new.
if we find time this weekend, we will do some looking.
have found a Forester off Ebay that is about 1 hr drive. He is asking $13k and I doubt he will get any bidders. If g/f wants to go that way, we can wave $11.5k under his nose.
alternatively, I searched the Subaru dealers in the area and Auburn Subaru has Imprezas for $17k new.
if we find time this weekend, we will do some looking.
06-09-2009, 11:56 AM
#40
Senior Moderator
Once you score one, please post pics.