I don't think you have much to worry about, this was something new introducted last year. It seems to be a natural fit for the Caliber when you examine the target market and pre-built holder designed into the vehicle.
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Install Diagram
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Q. When can I connect or disconnect the iPod from the vehicle?
A. It can be connected or disconnected at any time. It is recommended that
the driver not disconnect (or connect) an iPod unit while the vehicle is in
motion.
Q. I turn off my vehicle and my iPod indicates it is still being charged.
A. The interface module will charge the iPod for 10 seconds after the vehicle or accessory mode has been turned off.
Q. Can the iPod Integration Kit be used with other audio devices?
A. Yes, using the auxiliary port, you can connect any audio device that outputs a stereo line level signal. However, you will not be able to operate these devices through the factory radio controls.
Q. Which iPod devices are compatible?
A. Any iPod device equipped with a docking interface and the latest iPod firmware is compatible. This includes iPod, iPod Mini, iPod Photo, iPod Nano and iPod Video. The iPod Shuffle will use the auxiliary input connector.
Q. My iPod battery is completely discharged. Does it need to be charged to connect it to the interface?
A. No. However, if the iPod is completely discharged, there may be a delay in accessing the iPod (which could be several minutes). Also, the iPod mode may need to be reselected from the radio once the iPod turns on.
Q. If I turn off my vehicle while my iPod is playing, do I have to turn my
iPod off separately?
A. No. All iPods tested (3G, 4G, Mini, Photo, 40G, Nano and iPod Video) shut down within three (3) minutes of removal of ignition voltage from the radio.
Q. Does my iPod charge when I listen to the radio or CD?
A. Yes, the iPod charges whenever the iPod is connected to the interface cable and the key is turned to the "ignition," "accessory" or "on" mode.
Q. How long does dealership installation take?
A. Dealer install times will vary by model, but installation takes approximately one hour.
Q. On my premium radio, information on the display or some characters on the display do not appear, or appear then disappear, or are blank.
A. At times, due to variables in the software of audio hardware, you may experience an interruption in the display of song title, artist, etc. This is not an indication of problems with either the radio, iPod or the iPod Integration Kit interface module. It is simply a normal response to the interaction of two software programs originating from different programming sources. No fix is currently available.
Q. How is the Mopar iPod Installation Kit different from those offered by other domestic vehicle manufacturers.
A. Mopar is the first, and currently the only, domestic manufacturer to offer an iPod Installation Kit to its customers.
Q. When I first plug in my iPod, or when I first start my vehicle, I can’t immediately start browsing my iPod playlists, artists, albums or genre. Why?
A. After first connecting your iPod, or when first starting your vehicle, you must allow enough time for all lists to be sorted and stored before invoking any browse mode functions. This could take 30 seconds or more, depending on file size and number of tracks stored on the iPod.
Q. How is the Mopar iPod Installation Kit different from aftermarket kits?
A. The Mopar iPod Installation Kit is specifically engineered to interface with Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep vehicle electronics. The design provides increased functionality over aftermarket kits, such as iPod function manipulation via the radio controls and multifunction steering wheel controls, as well as the ability to view iPod data (song title, artist, etc.) on the radio faceplate. Because the vehicle electronics system does not recognize the iPod unit as a CD changer, you can still use both the CD changer and the iPod unit without sacrificing one for the other (as is the case with most aftermarket kits). Also,
unlike aftermarket kits, the Mopar iPod Installation Kit is covered under the new car vehicle warranty.
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Now don't go running off to your dealership just yet. I don't believe these are available for the Caliber but I do not expect this option to be far off.
Dan