Generations
LX — First Generation
2005–2021
3.0 V6 CRD, 5.7 V8 HEMI
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Chrysler 300 C problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Major
Parking brake system failure
The electronic parking brake system on diesel variants shows exceptionally high failure rates, with MOT data indicating efficiency failures at 27.8 times the fleet average and complete inoperative failures at 12.3 times average. The system uses electric actuators on the rear brake callipers which seize due to corrosion and lack of use. This is compounded by inadequate brake fluid changes allowing moisture ingress into the electronic control module and actuator mechanisms.
What happens if ignoredMOT failure is certain if the system cannot hold the vehicle or shows poor efficiency. Complete system replacement including actuators and control module typically costs £800-1,500. The car may fail to release the parking brake, requiring recovery.
Independent garage
£400–£800
Specialist
£600–£1,200
Main dealer
£800–£1,500
Parts only
£300–£600
Major
Front suspension ball joint wear
The front steering ball joints show premature wear at 10 times the fleet average failure rate, particularly affecting diesel variants which carry additional weight from the V6 engine and associated cooling systems. The ball joints are integral to the lower control arms and cannot be replaced separately, requiring complete arm replacement. Wear is accelerated by the vehicle's weight and soft suspension setup designed for comfort rather than durability.
What happens if ignoredWorn ball joints affect steering precision and tyre wear patterns. Severe wear can lead to complete separation and loss of steering control. MOT failure is certain once excessive play develops. Complete lower arm replacement is required on both sides.
Independent garage
£300–£500
Specialist
£400–£650
Main dealer
£600–£900
Parts only
£150–£300
Major
Rear wheel bearing failure
The Chrysler 300C's rear wheel bearings can fail due to inadequate sealing and contamination from road salt and moisture, particularly affecting diesel variants between 2005-2021 around 60,000-120,000 miles. Symptoms typically include rumbling noise from the rear when cornering, vibration through the seat, and uneven tyre wear patterns. If ignored, bearing failure may lead to wheel wobble, increased braking distances, and potential loss of wheel control. This fault can result in MOT failure under suspension and steering checks, making early detection crucial. Professional inspection including road testing and wheel movement checks is recommended when purchasing any used 300C in this mileage range.
What happens if ignoredFailed bearings cause increasing noise, vibration, and potential wheel detachment if collapse occurs. MOT failure is certain once excessive play develops. The hub assembly requires replacement and wheel alignment afterwards.
Independent garage
£200–£350
Specialist
£250–£450
Main dealer
£400–£650
Parts only
£80–£150
Minor
Suspension component wear (LX)
Multiple suspension bushes and joints show accelerated wear at 10.8 times the fleet average, with dust cover deterioration at 7.8 times average. The Mercedes-derived platform uses numerous rubber components in the multi-link rear suspension which degrade due to the vehicle's weight and UK road conditions. Front and rear anti-roll bar links are particularly prone to failure, along with rear subframe bushes.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components cause poor ride quality, imprecise handling, and premature tyre wear. MOT failure occurs when wear becomes excessive. Multiple components often require replacement simultaneously due to similar wear rates.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£300–£600
Main dealer
£450–£800
Parts only
£100–£250
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.
Check a Chrysler 300 C →MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Chrysler 300 C fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Parking brake efficiency less than 50% of the r...
Brakes · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 28x the fleet average
Sample: 766 tests
Suspension joint dust cover severely deteriorated
Suspension · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 15x the fleet average
Sample: 183 tests
ABS fault
Brakes · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 15x the fleet average
Sample: 375 tests
Wheel with a loose or missing wheel nut, bolt o...
Wheels · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 12x the fleet average
Sample: 341 tests
Subframe bushes or mounts worn
Suspension · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 11x the fleet average
Sample: 577 tests
Track rod ends worn
Steering · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 10x the fleet average
Sample: 309 tests
Buying a Chrysler 300 C?
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Related
Chrysler 300 C reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Chrysler 300 C?
The Chrysler 300 C has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Parking brake system failure and Front suspension ball joint wear.
Is the Chrysler 300 C reliable?
The Chrysler 300 C has 0 dangerous and 3 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.
How much does it cost to fix Chrysler 300 C problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Parking brake system failure) costs £400–£800 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.