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2018 Chrysler 300

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By Research the Car 5 min read

Here is a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2018 Chrysler 300, organized by category and engine/transmission option. The 2018 Chrysler 300 is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available V8 power. It offers a blend of classic American styling and modern features. The base engine is a 3.6L Pentastar V6 producing 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque (300 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque on 300S models). An optional 5.7L Hemi V8 delivers 363 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the 300’s smooth ride, quiet cabin, and bold styling. Some common complaints revolve around fuel economy, especially with the V8, and the size of the car making it difficult to park.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

  • Engine Misfires
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, check engine light illuminated. Often caused by faulty ignition coils or spark plugs.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s) and/or spark plugs. Diagnosis with a scan tool is recommended to pinpoint the affected cylinder(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on how many coils or spark plugs need to be replaced.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket. Oil spots on the driveway or garage floor. Burning oil smell.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking valve cover gasket(s) or oil pan gasket. Clean up any oil residue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the location of the leak and labor costs.
    • Recalls: None Found

5.7L Hemi V8

  • “Hemi Tick”
    • Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking sound, especially at idle and low speeds, often described as coming from the top of the engine. It may not always affect the engine’s performance, but it can be concerning. This is believed to be caused by rocker arm or lifter issues.
    • Solution: In some cases, using a specific oil additive might reduce the tick. In more severe cases, rocker arm or lifter replacement might be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (oil additive) to $1000 - $3000+ (rocker arm/lifter replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breaking
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise that gets louder on cold starts and may diminish as the engine warms up. Exhaust leaks may be noticeable, and fuel economy may decrease.
    • Solution: Replace the broken exhaust manifold bolts. If the exhaust manifold is warped or cracked, it should also be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, hesitation when accelerating, or difficulty finding the correct gear. This can be due to low transmission fluid, contaminated fluid, or issues with the valve body.
    • Solution: Check and replace the transmission fluid, and address the fluid leak. In more severe cases, a valve body replacement may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (fluid change) to $800 - $2000+ (valve body replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Fluid Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Visible transmission fluid leaks, often near the transmission pan or where the driveshaft connects to the transmission. Reddish fluid on the ground.
    • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak. This may involve replacing the transmission pan gasket, seals, or the transmission itself if the leak is severe.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+ depending on the severity of the leak and the parts needing replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Sway Bar Link Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Reduced handling stability.
    • Solution: Replace the worn or broken sway bar links.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per sway bar link replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Premature Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or groaning noises from the suspension, particularly when going over speed bumps or rough roads. Vague steering feel and potential tire wear issues.
    • Solution: Replace the worn bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, strut mount bushings).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on which bushings need replacement and labor costs.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Uconnect System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, or Glitches, Uconnect is the infotainment system that controls various in-car features. Owners have reported instances of it freezing, crashing, or exhibiting glitches. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other functionalities.
    • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In severe cases, the Uconnect module may need to be replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) to $500 - $1500+ (module replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sensor Failures (Various)
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light or other warning lights illuminated. Symptoms depend on the failed sensor (e.g., O2 sensor, ABS sensor, TPMS sensor).
    • Solution: Diagnose the failed sensor using a scan tool and replace it.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor replacement, depending on the type of sensor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Door Handle Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Door handles may become loose, difficult to operate, or break entirely.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty door handle(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door handle replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Seat Heater Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters failing to function properly or not heating at all.
    • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the seat heater element or the related wiring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make unusual noises during operation, or leak water.
    • Solution: Lubricate the sunroof tracks, repair or replace damaged components, or reseal the sunroof.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the severity of the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Chrysler 300 has a mix of potential issues, ranging from relatively minor electrical and interior problems to more significant engine and transmission concerns. The “Hemi tick” and exhaust manifold bolt issues on the V8, as well as transmission problems common to both engines, can lead to costly repairs. Uconnect issues are common but may be resolved with software updates. While not every 2018 Chrysler 300 will experience all of these problems, potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and factor them into their purchasing decision. Having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.

Chrysler, 300
Chrysler 300 2018
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