Dodge Caliber Shocks & Struts
The Dodge Caliber is a compact hatchback vehicle marketed and sold between 2007 and 2012 with many cars still available as pre-owned or used models. The Calibers ride is governed by its taut suspension system that makes use of front MacPherson struts and rear multilink options to prevent excessive bounce while giving optimum performance. There are a number of Dodge Caliber shocks and struts replacement options designed to replicate the original parts or add an extra performance boost.
What are shocks and struts for the Dodge Caliber?The Dodges suspension parts keep the car from excessive jiggling or bouncing when you drive over rough roads, cobblestones, potholes or other difficult road conditions. These are part of the system that gives the Dodge an enjoyable, taut ride while protecting its undercarriage from damage caused by scraping or impact with the roadway. These parts use pistons and hydraulic fluid in conjunction with springs to manage the cars response to roadway issues.
These components of the Dodge Caliber must be regularly replaced as they become worn with use. Both types of parts accumulate wear over time with repeated impacts with potholes and other roadway damage. When replacing the components, you should replace both the front struts or the rear pair at the same time. Replacing a full pair of dampers prevents excessive or uneven wear caused by replacing only one at a time. These parts include the following:
- Struts - Struts are an integrated part of the vehicles suspension system; they are bolted to the Dodge Calibers chassis and include both shock-absorbing technology and a coil spring. The Dodge Caliber makes use of MacPherson struts on the front end.
- Shocks - Shock absorbers connect to coil springs and use hydraulic fluid and pistons to manage impacts and bounce as the car moves over roadway obstacles.
The vehicles dampers wear out over time with repeated use. Its important to inspect your vehicle approximately every 50,000 miles in order to make sure that the parts are in good condition and do not yet require replacement. There are also some signs that you can take note of as you drive that can indicate that your struts need replacement. Some of these can include:
- Fluid leaks - Dripping fluid below your dampers can indicate that your Dodge Calibers suspension parts are worn out and require replacement.
- Cupping tires - Uneven, patchy wear and stripped tread from your tires can mean that the Dodge Calibers dampers need to be replaced.
- Dipping and diving - If the Caliber dips in the front when accelerating or dives in the rear when braking, this can indicate worn parts in the front or rear, respectively.
- Bouncing on the road - Struts are dampers for bounce and movement. Excessive bouncing can indicate worn parts.