2012 Chrysler 300

The 2012 Chrysler 300 is a full-size sedan that offered a blend of luxury and performance at a relatively accessible price point. Engine options included a 3.6L Pentastar V6 (292 hp, 260 lb-ft torque), a 5.7L Hemi V8 (363 hp, 394 lb-ft torque), and a 3.0L V6 diesel in some markets. All engines were paired with either a 5-speed or 8-speed automatic transmission, depending on the engine and trim level. People liked the 300 for its spacious interior, bold styling, and available V8 power. Common dislikes included its fuel economy (especially with the V8), some lower-quality interior materials, and occasionally reported electrical glitches.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Oil Filter Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the plastic oil filter adapter housing. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil spots under the vehicle, and the smell of burning oil.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter adapter housing with an updated design, preferably one made of aluminum instead of plastic.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

• Hemi Tick (Lifter Failure)
  • Description/Symptoms: A distinct ticking or tapping sound coming from the engine, often most noticeable at idle or low speeds. This is often due to a failing or collapsed hydraulic lifter. In some cases, it can be caused by broken exhaust manifold bolts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected lifters and potentially the camshaft if it has been damaged. Replacing exhaust manifold bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ for lifters/cam; $300 - $800 for manifold bolts.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken exhaust manifold bolts leading to exhaust leaks. This can cause a ticking noise, reduced fuel economy, and a noticeable exhaust smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of broken exhaust manifold bolts, typically with upgraded bolts to prevent future failures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear, or slipping during acceleration. Can be caused by worn clutches, valve body issues, or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified mechanic, which may involve a transmission fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic (specifically models equipped with it)

• Erratic Shifting/Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Random hard shift and erratic shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings. This can result in clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and poor handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension components with quality aftermarket or OEM parts. Regular inspection and lubrication of suspension components can help prevent premature wear.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+, depending on the components needing replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: A wide range of electrical problems, including intermittent starting issues, fuel pump failure, power window malfunction, and erratic operation of various accessories.
  • Solution: Replacement of the TIPM with a new or remanufactured unit. Programming by a qualified technician may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• UConnect Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The radio screen freezes, goes black, or restarts itself.
  • Solution: Update the UConnect software to the latest version, or replace the radio.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,200

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof malfunctions such as getting stuck, not opening/closing properly, or leaking.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a technician, which may involve repairing the sunroof motor, track, or seals, or replacing the entire sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Chrysler 300 has several common issues to be aware of. The engine is prone to oil leaks and lifter failure, particularly with the Hemi V8. The transmissions can experience rough shifting or slipping. Electrical problems related to the TIPM are a recurring concern. Suspension components are prone to premature wear. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor to potentially costly engine and transmission repairs. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle, check for any signs of these issues, and obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic.