Market Position:
The Chrysler 300M and Concorde represented Chrysler's foray into the premium large sedan segment, aiming to blend American luxury with European driving dynamics. They competed with established models like the Buick LeSabre/Park Avenue, Oldsmobile Aurora, and front-wheel-drive Cadillac models.
Competitive Analysis:
These vehicles offered a distinct style and a comfortable ride, often praised for their spacious interiors and powerful engines. The 300M, in particular, was marketed as a more performance-oriented and upscale version of the Concorde, featuring unique styling cues and a more driver-focused interior.
Key Features Value:
Distinctive styling, roomy interiors, V6 engine power, comfortable ride, and available premium features for the era.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine diagnosis, overhaul, timing belt service, component replacement (e.g., pistons, rings, bearings, valves, camshafts, cylinder heads)
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, ignition system, emission control systems (EGR, PCV, evaporative emissions), cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission Automatic:
42LE transmission: diagnosis, overhaul, component replacement, hydraulic controls, torque converter, fluid service
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, power assist, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and component replacement, parking brake, brake pad and rotor replacement
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, bushings), power steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting systems (headlamps, taillamps, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II)
Body Interior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, interior trim, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system diagnosis and repair
Comfort Convenience:
Power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, power seats, mirrors, climate control systems
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, tire rotation
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (DTCs), component testing, electrical circuit analysis
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs, diagnostics, and component overhauls. Includes detailed specifications and torque values.
File Format Details:
High-resolution PDF, searchable text, optimized for digital viewing and printing. May include bookmarks for easy navigation.
Print Quality:
Excellent, clear diagrams, sharp text, suitable for professional printing if desired.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Displacement Hp:
3.5L (3500cc) V6 24-valve SOHC E.G.C. (Engine-Generating Control) - 253 hp @ 6400 rpm (300M); 214 hp @ 6000 rpm (Concorde) (Approximate figures, may vary slightly by model year/calibration)
Engine Torque:
255 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (300M); 221 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (Concorde) (Approximate figures)
Engine Code Designation:
EGW (3.5L High Output), EGZ (3.5L Standard Output)
Compression Ratio:
9.4:1 (Typical for 3.5L V6)
Bore X Stroke:
3.82 in x 3.19 in (97.0 mm x 81.0 mm)
Fuel Induction:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (Minimum)
Fuel Capacity:
18.0 gallons (68.1 Liters)
Cooling System Capacity:
Approximately 11.3 quarts (10.7 Liters) with heater
Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30 (API Certified)
Transmission Type:
42LE Automatic Transmission
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, four-speed with overdrive. Features include a torque converter lock-up for improved fuel economy at cruising speeds.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent specification)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 11.5 pints (5.4 Liters) for dry fill; 8.0 pints (3.8 Liters) for fluid change with filter.
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (1999 models, based on available data for the platform).
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags, if available).
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (optional on some trims).
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side impact door beams, LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
Cassette/CD player, AM/FM stereo, optional Infinity premium sound system, climate control display.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, available steering wheel audio controls, automatic climate control, optional HomeLink universal transceiver.
Connectivity Features:
Keyless entry, power accessory controls (windows, locks, mirrors).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil. Check owner's manual for severe driving conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles or 48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Change fluid and filter every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as recommended by severe service schedule.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped plugs: replace at 100,000 miles (160,000 km). Check manual for exact type and interval.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Non-interference engine, but replacement recommended every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 7 years. Critical for preventing catastrophic engine damage if belt fails.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Formula 1 (Blue) or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Common Issues:
Head gasket failures (especially on earlier 3.5L engines), radiator leaks, transmission solenoid issues (42LE), power window motor failures, ABS sensor failures, PCM (Powertrain Control Module) issues, interior trim creaks and rattles.
Engine Performance Issues:
Carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection and PCV system design, potential for oil consumption on higher mileage units.
Brand Heritage Context:
Chrysler has a long history of producing large, comfortable sedans, dating back to models like the Imperial and New Yorker. The LH platform was a significant evolution for the brand, introducing a more modern, front-wheel-drive architecture.
Model Evolution Description:
The 300M and Concorde were part of the second-generation LH platform, launched for the 1998 model year. The 300M was introduced for 1999 as a more luxurious and performance-oriented variant, effectively replacing the Chrysler LHS. Both models featured updated styling, improved interiors, and revised powertrains compared to their predecessors.
Production Location:
Bramalea, Ontario, Canada
Production Years:
1999-2001 (for these specific models)
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The Chrysler LH platform cars (including the Concorde) were frequently recognized by automotive publications like Car and Driver, often appearing on '10 Best' lists for their class and value.
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Praised for their comfortable ride, spacious interiors, and stylish, European-influenced design, especially the 300M.
