2007–2012 Dodge Caliber
By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026
Save $63 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $120
Quick answer: Engine Oil & Filter Change on a 2007–2012 Dodge Caliber is rated Moderate and takes about 30-60 minutes. You'll need 2 tools for this job, and parts cost about $57. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil (5W-20) | — | $45.00 | |
| Correct engine oil filter and drain-plug washer for 2007-2012 Dodge Caliber | — | $12.00 |
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Follow these steps carefully
The 2.0L takes 4.5 quarts of 5W-20 with a filter change (SRT-4 2.4L differs). Buy a spin-on filter (Fram PH10060 or equivalent) and a drain-plug washer; it sits in front of the oil pan, right of the alternator, pointing down.
Idle 2-3 minutes so the oil warms, then shut off. Slide a drain pan under the oil pan and spot the filter from below. Confirm your wrench fits before draining, and remove the filler cap to vent the crankcase.
Loosen the drain plug by hand, drain to a drip, then reinstall with a NEW washer torqued to 30 ft-lbs. Spin off the old filter with a rag draped below it to keep oil off the alternator.
Oil and alternators don't mix — it gets into the windings and shortens their life. I put a rag under the downward-pointing filter; it's the difference between a clean job and a comeback six months later.
Funnel 4 quarts of 5W-20 in first, then the final half quart after a minute — staged filling prevents overfilling. Refit the cap, lower the car to level ground, and wipe spilled oil off the filter area and alternator.
That staged-fill trick matters more than people think. Pour all 4.5 at once and the dipstick reads high until the oil settles — I've seen people drain out fresh oil they never needed to.
Wait 2-3 minutes, then check the dipstick twice — pull, wipe, reinsert, read — level at full, never above. Idle 30-60 seconds, check for drips at the plug and filter, then recheck. A 5,000-mile interval suits the Caliber.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
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