Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan, with a performance-oriented SRT (Street and Racing Technology) variant.
Competitors 2005:
BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, Cadillac STS, Lincoln LS, Lexus GS.
Performance Focus:
The STR8 variant is distinguished by its powerful 6.1L HEMI engine, upgraded suspension, brakes, and aggressive styling cues.
Design Language:
Retro-inspired styling with a bold grille, distinctive silhouette, and a muscular stance.
Engine:
6.1L SRT HEMI (Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine electrical).
Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic (W5A580) - Service, overhaul, diagnosis, torque converter, control systems.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshafts, differentials, axles, bearings.
Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), brake system diagnostics, hydraulic components, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shocks, struts, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, linkages.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, body control modules (BCM), fuse and relay layouts, wiring diagrams.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, climate control module.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, doors, hood, trunk.
Chassis:
Frame and body structure, underbody components.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt systems, crash sensor diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including component specifications and tolerances.
Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Detailed wiring diagrams and troubleshooting flows for electrical circuits.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Length:
Approx. 196.1 inches (4981 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.5 inches (1892 mm)
Height:
Approx. 58.4 inches (1483 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 120 inches (3048 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4150 lbs (1882 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to manual for exact GVWR.
Towing Capacity:
Not generally recommended or specified for STR8 models due to performance focus.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (for driver and front passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test:
5-Star (for front and rear passengers)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control (TCS)
Braking:
Performance-tuned ABS with large diameter vented front and rear discs (often Brembo on STR8).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles depending on oil type and driving conditions. Consult manual for exact recommendation based on severe/normal usage.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles. Crucial for longevity, especially under performance driving. Refer to manual for precise interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 100,000 miles for modern plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (Chrysler MS-10798 or equivalent). Capacity approx. 7 quarts.
Coolant Type:
OAT (Organic Additive Technology) HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) - Always use Mopar OAT or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769. Capacity approx. 12.8 quarts.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to cap/manual for specific requirement).
Water Pump Leaks:
Common at higher mileage due to seal degradation.
Transmission Shifts:
Some early models experienced rough shifting; software updates or valve body service may be required. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Can occur on the HEMI engines due to heat cycling; requires replacement.
Drive Shaft Universal Joints:
Can wear out, leading to clunking noises or vibration.
Chrysler Legacy:
Chrysler has a long history of producing large, comfortable sedans, with the 300 series being a significant part of that heritage.
Second Generation Lx:
The 2005 Chrysler 300 marked the debut of the second-generation LX platform, a rear-wheel-drive architecture developed in partnership with Mercedes-Benz (which owned Chrysler at the time).
Srt Introduction:
The SRT8 variant was introduced in 2005 as a high-performance halo model for the new 300 lineup, featuring the potent 6.1L HEMI.
Assembly Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.
