Positioning:
The Chrysler 300 (and its upscale 300C variant) represented Chrysler's bold return to rear-wheel-drive luxury and performance in the modern era. It targeted buyers seeking a distinctive American sedan with a blend of aggressive styling, comfortable interiors, and potent powertrain options.
Competitors:
Competed against established luxury and near-luxury sedans such as the Cadillac DTS/STS, Lincoln Town Car/LS, Mercedes-Benz E-Class (shared platform), and domestically, the Buick Lucerne. It also attracted buyers looking for a more distinctive alternative to mainstream sedans.
Styling:
Iconic, retro-inspired styling reminiscent of the Bentley Continental GT and classic American land yachts. Available in RWD and AWD configurations.
Powertrain Options:
Offered a range of V6 and powerful V8 HEMI engines, providing a balance of efficiency and performance.
Engine:
2.7L V6 (EER), 3.5L V6 (EGJ), 5.7L V8 HEMI (EZB, EZH).
Transmission:
42RLE (4-speed automatic), NAG1 (5-speed automatic).
Chassis:
Suspension (front/rear), steering, brakes (front/rear disc, ABS, ESP), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Powertrain control, body control modules (BCM), instrument cluster, lighting, audio systems, HVAC controls, power accessories, safety systems.
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, airbags, structural components.
Climate Control HVAC:
Operation, diagnosis, and repair of A/C system, heater core, blower motor, control heads, and refrigerant handling.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, evaporative emissions system (EVAP).
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converters, mufflers, pipes, and oxygen sensors.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks/changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, tire rotation.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, circuit testing, component testing.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine repair, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Recalibration Procedures:
Procedures for recalibrating sensors (e.g., steering angle sensor, tire pressure monitoring system) after component replacement.
Body Panel Alignment:
Information on checking and adjusting body panel gaps for proper fit and finish.
Interior Trim Removal:
Step-by-step guides for removing various interior trim pieces for access to components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians, but also detailed enough for advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine 3.5L V6:
3.5L SOHC 24-valve V6 (EGJ). Horsepower: approx. 250 hp @ 6400 rpm. Torque: approx. 250 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm. Bore x Stroke: 96.0 x 81.0 mm. Compression Ratio: 9.6:1.
Engine 5.7L V8 Hemi:
5.7L OHV 16-valve V8 HEMI (EZB/EZH). Horsepower: approx. 340-360 hp @ 5000-5200 rpm. Torque: approx. 390-400 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm. Features Multi-Displacement System (MDS).
Acceleration 0 60 Mph:
Varies by engine and drivetrain. 5.7L HEMI RWD: approx. 5.5 - 6.0 seconds.
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for V6 and V8 engines.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, premium recommended for 5.7L HEMI.
Standard Transmission:
42RLE 4-speed automatic transmission (typically with 2.7L and 3.5L V6 engines).
Optional Transmission:
Mercedes-Benz sourced NAG1 (W5A580) 5-speed automatic transmission (typically with 5.7L HEMI, and as an option for 3.5L V6).
Drive Modes:
Driver-selectable modes (e.g., AutoStick manual shifting) available on certain transmissions.
Transmission Fluid 42Rle:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Specification MS-9602).
Transmission Fluid Nag1:
MB-Approval 236.10 / 236.12 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1 or equivalent).
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
5-star (driver and passenger) for 2005 models.
IIHS Side Crash Rating:
Good (for vehicles tested).
Traction Control:
Standard on most models, often integrated with Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Electronic Stability Program Esp:
Standard on most models for enhanced vehicle stability during evasive maneuvers.
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Standard on all models.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, and optional side-curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Audio System:
Optional Boston Acoustics premium sound system. Available CD player, satellite radio (SiriusXM).
Navigation:
Optional in-dash navigation system available on higher trims.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear park assist sensors.
Phone Integration:
Optional Uconnect hands-free communication system (Bluetooth).
Climate Control:
Available dual-zone automatic climate control.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Refer to manual for severe conditions.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or as per manual recommendations, especially for the NAG1 transmission.
Coolant Flush:
Typically at 100,000 miles for the initial change, then every 50,000 miles thereafter.
Engine Oil 5.7L Hemi:
SAE 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic blend (meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification).
Engine Oil 3.5L V6:
SAE 5W-20 synthetic or synthetic blend (meeting Chrysler MS-6395 specification).
Coolant:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent (often pink/orange color).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for certain systems).
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can wear over time, leading to clunks and steering issues.
Power Steering Pump:
Some models may experience noisy or failing power steering pumps.
Hemi Mds Lifter Tick:
The Multi-Displacement System (MDS) can sometimes lead to lifter tick or noise if not properly maintained or if solenoids fail.
Transmission Clunking:
The 42RLE transmission can occasionally exhibit clunking on shifts, sometimes related to worn mounts or solenoid issues.
Heritage Connection:
The Chrysler 300 nameplate has a long and storied history in American automotive design, dating back to the iconic 'letter series' cars of the 1950s and 60s, known for their power and style.
Second Generation Lx:
The 2005 model marked the debut of the second generation, built on the rear-wheel-drive LX platform, co-developed with Mercedes-Benz (sharing components with the W211 E-Class). This was a significant departure from the previous front-wheel-drive platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada.
Production Years Lx Platform:
2005-2010 (for this generation).
North Carolina Auto Journalism Award:
The 2005 Chrysler 300 was recognized for its design and value by various automotive publications upon its release.
Popular Mechanics Car Of The Year:
While specific year awards vary, the 300 series consistently received accolades for its bold styling and strong performance, particularly the HEMI models.
