2005 Chrysler 300

2005 Chrysler 300

Overview

The 2005 Chrysler 300, a full-size sedan known for its distinctive styling and rear-wheel-drive platform, offered a range of powertrains designed to balance performance and comfort. Available with a choice of V6 and V8 HEMI engines, and both automatic and manual transmissions (though manual was rare), it aimed to appeal to a broad market. While generally considered a solid vehicle for its era, like any car, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical problems, excluding routine maintenance, to provide a clearer picture of its long-term reliability.

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Engine

2.7L V6

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil puddles under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $300 - $700

Overheating

• Symptoms: Temperature gauge rising to hot, steam from engine bay, coolant loss.
• Solution: Thermostat replacement, radiator flush, or radiator replacement.
• Cost: $200 - $600

3.5L V6

Timing Chain Issues

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup; check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil puddles under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $300 - $700

5.7L HEMI V8

Cylinder Deactivation (MDS) Issues

• Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, check engine light, loss of power.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of MDS solenoids, lifters, or related components.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil puddles under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $300 - $700

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (W5A580)

Harsh Shifting / Slipping

• Symptoms: Jerking during gear changes, delayed engagement, slipping out of gear.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or full transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $400 - $2500+

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, whining noise.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $700 - $1500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Ball Joints and Control Arms

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, uneven tire wear, vague steering feel.
• Solution: Replacement of ball joints and control arm bushings.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Premature Strut/Shock Wear

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll, reduced handling.
• Solution: Replacement of struts and shocks.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Electrical

Body Control Module (BCM)

Intermittent Electrical Failures

• Symptoms: Power windows not working, interior lights flickering, door locks malfunctioning, dashboard warning lights.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement of the BCM.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Alternator

Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, dead battery.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Exterior

Standard Body

Paint Peeling/Fading

• Symptoms: Clear coat peeling, especially on the roof and hood; fading of paint color.
• Solution: Repainting affected areas.
• Cost: $500 - $2000+

Headlight Haze/Yellowing

• Symptoms: Reduced light output, poor visibility at night.
• Solution: Headlight restoration kit or replacement of headlight assemblies.
• Cost: $50 - $300

Interior

Standard Cabin

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or air only on highest setting.
• Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
• Cost: $150 - $400

Seat Heater Malfunction

• Symptoms: One or both seat heaters not working.
• Solution: Replacement of seat heating elements or wiring.
• Cost: $200 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2005 Chrysler 300, while offering a compelling package, exhibits some common reliability concerns typical for its age and class. Engine issues, particularly oil leaks across all variants and specific problems like timing chain wear on the 3.5L and cylinder deactivation faults on the 5.7L HEMI, are notable. The automatic transmission can also develop shifting problems and torque converter issues. Suspension components like ball joints and struts may require replacement due to wear. Electrical gremlins, often stemming from the BCM or alternator, are also reported. Exterior paint and interior comfort features like HVAC and seat heaters can also be sources of repair. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to early symptoms are crucial for mitigating these potential issues.