2021 Chrysler 300

The 2021 Chrysler 300 is a full-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available V8 power. Engine options include a 3.6L Pentastar V6 producing 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque (300 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque in the 300S) and a 5.7L HEMI V8 producing 363 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque. All engine options are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the 300 for its classic styling, smooth ride, and powerful engine options. Common dislikes include its aging platform, fuel economy (especially with the V8), and some interior materials.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Tick or Knocking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a ticking or knocking noise coming from the engine, especially at idle or low speeds. This can be caused by worn lifters, rocker arms, or other valvetrain components.
  • Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified mechanic is required. Replacement of faulty lifters or rocker arms is a common repair. Sometimes even replacing the engine is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The plastic oil filter housing on some 3.6L engines can crack or warp, leading to an oil leak. This is often noticeable as oil dripping onto the ground or a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing with an updated part, preferably one made of aluminum.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L HEMI V8

• HEMI Tick
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the V6, the HEMI engine can also develop a “HEMI tick,” a noticeable ticking sound, often attributed to exhaust manifold leaks, lifter issues, or rocker arm problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the source. Replacing the exhaust manifold, lifters, or rocker arms as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The AFM system, designed to improve fuel economy by deactivating cylinders, can sometimes cause issues like rough running, vibrations, or decreased performance.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine if the AFM system is malfunctioning. Repair or replacement of AFM components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (All Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported harsh or jerky shifting, especially during low-speed maneuvers or when shifting between certain gears. Hesitation when accelerating is also reported.
  • Solution: Start with a transmission fluid flush and software update. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay or a pause when shifting from Park or Neutral into Drive or Reverse.
  • Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. Perform a transmission flush and filter change. Diagnosis by a professional.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Uconnect Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The Uconnect infotainment system can freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Software updates are typically the first step. If the problem persists, replacement of the Uconnect module may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the battery draining prematurely, especially if the vehicle sits for an extended period.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the parasitic drain. Replacement of the battery, alternator, or faulty wiring as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters fail to heat or overheat.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2021 Chrysler 300, while offering a comfortable and stylish ride, does have some potential issues. Engine problems, particularly related to valvetrain components and oil leaks, are present in both the V6 and V8 options. Transmission issues like harsh shifting can also be a concern across both engine options. Electrical issues, particularly with the Uconnect system, can be frustrating. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to more substantial repairs, with costs potentially ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Buyers should be aware of these potential problems and have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic.