2003 Chrysler 300M

The 2003 Chrysler 300M is a full-size luxury sedan known for its sleek styling, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. The only engine option for this model year is a 3.5L 24-Valve High Output V6 engine, producing 250 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission (42LE). Owners generally appreciate the car’s comfortable seating and smooth ride, but some dislike its age-related maintenance issues and potential for electronic glitches.

Engine

3.5L 24-Valve High Output V6

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall, run rough, or fail to start. The check engine light will illuminate, often with a P0340 or P0344 code.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Plenum Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leaks can cause rough idle, poor performance, and a check engine light. Often accompanied by codes related to lean fuel mixtures.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold plenum gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Temperature Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate temperature readings can lead to poor engine performance, overheating, and incorrect fuel mixture.
  • Solution: Replace the coolant temperature sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (42LE)

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, or harsh shifting. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to shift solenoids.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, poor fuel economy, and stalling. Can also cause whining noises.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Reduced ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument cluster, including gauges and lights.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not moving up or down, slow or jerky movement.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Timer Module (CTM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical problems, including interior lights staying on, alarm system malfunctions, and remote key fob issues.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the CTM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses become cloudy or yellowed, reducing visibility at night.
  • Solution: Clean and polish the headlight lenses or replace the headlight assemblies.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Automatic Climate Control Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent or incorrect temperature control, blower motor issues, or failure to switch between modes.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty components (e.g., blower motor resistor, blend door actuator).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Chrysler 300M, while a comfortable and stylish sedan, can suffer from age-related issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The engine and transmission, though generally reliable, are susceptible to sensor failures, gasket leaks, and solenoid issues. Electrical problems, particularly with the instrument cluster and CTM, can also be costly to address. Suspension components also wear, and cause issues with the ride. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to more serious repairs, with costs varying from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the specific problem.