DODGE CALIBER (2008)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 648 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,057
£171/month
MOT Pass Rate
64%
Below Avg
Road Tax
£265
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 18-32
1968cc Diesel
Proceed With Caution
64% pass rate, £2057/year to run. 18 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~48 mpg
Based on 1968cc
Higher estimate due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Below average reliability. Budget extra for maintenance and repairs. That's 18 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the DODGE brand average of 84%.
At 18 years old, 64% of DODGE CALIBERs from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 648 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 93,965 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
93,965
Average miles
133,200
Expected for age
The average 2008 DODGE CALIBER has 93,965 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2006 model with a 66% MOT pass rate, while the 2007 model has the lowest at 62%. The 2008 sits between the two at 64%.
DODGE CALIBER by Year
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About the 2008 DODGE CALIBER
The 2008 DODGE CALIBER is a family car with a 1968cc diesel engine. 648 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 96% of 2008 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 93,965 miles at 18 years old, DODGE CALIBER owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2008 DODGE CALIBER Fuel Costs
The 1968cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2008 DODGE CALIBER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,057 (£171/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £265 road tax, £55 MOT, and £700 predicted repairs. The higher repair estimate reflects the 64% MOT pass rate. Cars in this bracket tend to need work on suspension, brakes, and emissions components.
DODGE CALIBER Reliability Trend
The DODGE CALIBER has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 1 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 DODGE CALIBER
At 18 years old, the DODGE CALIBER is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2006 model has the highest pass rate at 66%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2008 DODGE CALIBER's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Watch outDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Medium riskWith an average of 94k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Higher Than Average Failure Rate
Watch outWith a 64% MOT pass rate, this model fails more often than most. Budget for unexpected repairs and get a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2008 DODGE CALIBER stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DODGE CALIBER(2008) | 64% | £1037 | £265 | Grp 18-32 | £2057 |
| VAUXHALL ASTRA(2010) | 74% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1727-£330 |
| VOLKSWAGEN GOLF(2010) | 77% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1727-£330 |
| VOLKSWAGEN POLO(2010) | 74% | £905 | £135 | Grp 12-25 | £1595-£462 |
| HONDA CIVIC(2007) | 72% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £2050-£7 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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