Embodiments of methods and means for calibrating a linearization characteristic within an RF transceiver system are provided. Such embodiments generally include extracting a portion of an output signal and frequency shifting or translating that signal by a predetermined value. The frequency shifted signal is then summed or otherwise introduced into a receiver signal pathway where it is analyzed by digital signal processing or other means to determine if linearization distortion is present. Linearization calibration of a power amplifier, a low-noise amplifier and/or other functionality within the system can then be performed in an automatic, reliable and ongoing manner.