2000 Chrysler 300M

The 2000 Chrysler 300M is a full-size, front-wheel-drive sedan known for its sleek styling and comfortable ride. It was offered with a single engine option: a 3.5L SOHC 24-valve V6 engine producing 253 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. The sole transmission choice was a 4-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the car’s distinctive appearance and spacious interior. Common criticisms include relatively poor fuel economy for a V6 and some reliability concerns, especially with electrical components.

Engine

3.5L SOHC 24-valve V6

• Intake Manifold Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold, often made of plastic, can crack or warp over time. Symptoms include vacuum leaks, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light (often with codes related to lean conditions or misfires).
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold. It’s often recommended to replace the intake manifold gaskets and potentially other related components like the PCV valve and hoses at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Belt Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing belt tensioner can fail, leading to premature timing belt wear or even complete belt failure. A failing tensioner may cause a rattling or squealing noise from the engine. Complete timing belt failure can cause significant engine damage (bent valves, etc.).
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and water pump as a preventative measure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, often from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, or the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine or ground, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the location and severity of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (42LE)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, leading to shuddering during acceleration, stalling, or complete loss of drive.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. It is generally recommended to replace the transmission fluid and filter at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping and Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission can experience slipping between gears, harsh or erratic shifting, or difficulty engaging certain gears. This can be caused by worn clutch packs, solenoid failure, or valve body issues.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush may temporarily alleviate the issue, but often a rebuild or replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) / $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The front strut mounts can wear out, leading to clunking noises over bumps, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts and potentially the struts themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear suspension can sag over time, especially if the vehicle is frequently loaded. This can affect handling and ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace the rear springs or add helper springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience intermittent or complete failure, leading to inaccurate readings or a blank display.
  • Solution: Replacement of the instrument cluster, or repair of the existing cluster by a specialized shop.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power window regulators can fail, causing the windows to be inoperable or move slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handles, especially on the driver’s side, are prone to breakage.
  • Solution: Replace the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (depending on whether you do it yourself)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Automatic Climate Control (ATC) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic climate control system can experience issues with temperature control, mode selection, or blower motor function.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty component, which could be a blend door actuator, temperature sensor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2000 Chrysler 300M, while stylish and comfortable, has several potential issues owners should be aware of. Engine problems, particularly intake manifold leaks and timing belt tensioner failure, can be costly to address. Transmission issues, though not universally experienced, can also be significant. Electrical problems such as instrument cluster and power window failures are also relatively common. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like transmission rebuilds, can be quite expensive. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the car for these common problems and factor the potential cost of repairs into their purchase decision.