Chrysler 300

Overview

The Chrysler 300 is a full-size sedan sold across multiple generations from 2005-2023, marketed as an affordable rear-wheel-drive alternative to German luxury sedans. With 5,724 classified complaints spanning nearly two decades, the data reveals chronic problems with electronic systems, airbag components, and transmission behavior—issues that appear consistently across model years and tend to surface between 65,000 and 90,000 miles.

What Breaks

The most reported problem involves airbag and restraint systems (1,172 complaints), where the airbag warning light illuminates due to faulty clockspring connectors or occupant sensors, typically around 82,000 miles. About 10% of these cases involve airbags failing to deploy in crashes or deploying unexpectedly, making this a critical safety concern.

Body control module failures (805 complaints) cause erratic electrical behavior—doors locking/unlocking randomly, gauges going haywire, and starting problems—usually appearing around 75,000 miles. Repair costs run $500-1,200 for module replacement.

Transmission shift quality issues (505 complaints) manifest as hard shifts, delayed engagement, or shuddering during gear changes around 70,000 miles. While these rarely leave drivers stranded immediately, they often precede costlier transmission failures if ignored.

Charging system failures (487 complaints) at 65,000 miles typically involve the TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) preventing the alternator from charging the battery properly, resulting in no-start conditions. This is a known design flaw requiring TIPM replacement at $800-1,500.

Engine stalling (411 complaints) occurs around 90,000 miles, often caused by throttle body carbon buildup or failing crankshaft position sensors. Stalling while driving represents a significant safety hazard.

Safety Recalls

The 300 has 27 recall campaigns on file. Three recalls address Takata airbag inflators that can rupture and spray metal fragments—these are do-not-drive issues until repaired. Three alternator-related recalls involve fire risk from overheating or electrical faults. Tire pressure monitoring system failures (3 campaigns) mean drivers may not receive low-pressure warnings. Two transmission recalls address shifters that don't properly indicate gear position, allowing drivers to exit with the vehicle not in Park.

Warranty Extensions and TSBs

Chrysler issued 840 technical service bulletins for the 300, but specifics on warranty extensions are not detailed in the provided data. The sheer volume of TSBs indicates recurring issues that dealerships see regularly—particularly around transmission programming updates, TIPM software patches, and airbag sensor recalibrations. Owners should ask dealers to check for any outstanding TSBs during service appointments.

Owner Watch-Outs

• Before buying: Have the airbag system scanned for fault codes and verify the clockspring and occupant sensors have been replaced if the light is on—this is not a "minor electrical gremlin."
• TIPM failures: If you experience intermittent starting issues, dead battery despite new alternator, or fuel pump cutting out, suspect the TIPM—a common failure that dealers know well.
• Transmission: Test-drive in stop-and-go traffic and note any harsh shifts or shuddering between 2nd and 3rd gear; these symptoms worsen over time.
• Clockspring replacement: Budget $300-600 for this repair if the airbag light is on and steering wheel controls are intermittent.
• Check recall status: With 27 campaigns, verify every recall has been completed—especially Takata airbag and alternator fire-risk recalls.

Data Notes

This analysis covers 5,724 complaints filed with NHTSA for Chrysler 300 vehicles from 1970-2023, though the vast majority apply to the 2005-2023 model years. NHTSA has 28 open investigations into various 300 issues, indicating ongoing scrutiny. The complaint data skews toward vehicles that experienced problems, so these failure modes do not affect every 300—but they occur frequently enough to warrant buyer awareness.