2004 Chrysler 300M

2004 Chrysler 300M

Overview

The 2004 Chrysler 300M, a front-wheel-drive sedan, was part of Chrysler’s premium offering, aiming to blend American comfort with European-inspired styling and handling. It was known for its distinctive design, spacious interior, and a comfortable ride. Under the hood, it typically featured a V6 engine, paired with an automatic transmission. While generally considered a solid vehicle for its time, like any car, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues over the years. This analysis focuses on common technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for prospective buyers or current owners.

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Engine

3.5L V6

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, sweet smell from engine bay.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Oil Filter Housing Leaks

• Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, low oil level, oil smell.
• Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing seal or the entire housing.
• Cost: $250 - $500

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (42LE)

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping between gears.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or full transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $500 - $2500+

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Control Arm Bushings

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of front lower control arms or individual bushings.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Strut Mount Bearing Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of the strut mount bearings.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Gremlins

• Symptoms: Power windows malfunctioning, interior lights acting erratically, dashboard warning lights illuminating without cause.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000+

Instrument Cluster

Gauge Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Speedometer, tachometer, or fuel gauge not working correctly or intermittently failing.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Exterior

Body Panels & Trim

Clear Coat Peeling

• Symptoms: Paint fading or peeling, especially on the roof, hood, and trunk lid.
• Solution: Repainting affected areas.
• Cost: $500 - $2000+

Headlight Lenses

Clouding / Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced headlight visibility, hazy appearance of the plastic lenses.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $100 - $400

Interior

HVAC System

Blend Door Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), air only coming from certain vents.
• Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator(s).
• Cost: $200 - $500

Seat Upholstery

Wear and Tear on Leather

• Symptoms: Cracking, tearing, or excessive wear on leather seats, particularly on the driver’s side bolster.
• Solution: Professional repair or replacement of seat covers.
• Cost: $300 - $800 per seat

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Summary Verdict

The 2004 Chrysler 300M offers a comfortable and stylish driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. The powertrain, particularly the transmission, can experience problems like harsh shifting. Suspension components such as control arm bushings and strut mounts are also known to wear out. Electrical gremlins related to the BCM and instrument cluster can be frustrating and costly to diagnose. Exterior paint issues like clear coat peeling and interior wear on leather seats are also frequently reported. While not overwhelmingly problematic, these areas represent the most common reliability concerns for this model.