Read somewhere that some parts are Mitsubishis, then it should be easy to find. True, or are the parts difficult to find and expensive?
Pontiac Vibe, another alternative. Twin with Toyota Matrix, all Toyota Corolla parts... Great!
Any input/experiences on what to buy and not to buy?
DR Mpe:
The 2007 Dodge Caliber is the worst of all the Dodge Calibers. The problems identified over the years include, suspension, brakes, cooling, climate system (think A/C). The Caliber is not a very well designed vehicle and the 2007 was the worst.
I would avoid it.
The vibe has a much better track record...perhaps because of its Toyota drivetrain. If those were my only two choices, it would be the vibe by a wide margin.
Clarifying a bit more about Japanese vehicles in the DR, it is the Japanese vehicles made for the Japanese market that are considered less valuable. The reason for this is the right hand drive conversion that needs to take place before they can be driven in the DR. There was a ban on importing all Japanese right hand drive vehicles, but it may have been lifted.
To further clarify, there are two types of American market Japanese cars. Those actually made in the US, for the US market, and those made in Japan for the US market. By way of example, the Toyota Corolla is built in Japan for the US market and shipped here. Toyota also makes the Camry, and other models in the US, to be sold in the US.
DR dealers will pay less for an import vehicle made in Japan and also originally sold there, the right hand drive being the reason....but there are other subtle differences in control placement, interior room, etc.
Respectfully,
Playacaribe2