Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan (Chrysler 300M, Concorde) and large sedan (Dodge Intrepid)
Competitors 2002 2004:
Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala, Buick Park Avenue, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima
Powertrain Platform:
Front-wheel drive, V6 engine orientation
Interior Space:
Known for spacious interiors and comfortable ride quality
Design Philosophy:
American-style large sedans, with the 300M offering a more premium and performance-oriented image
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, exhaust system
Transmission Systems:
42LE Automatic Transmission (mechanical and electrical aspects)
Drivetrain Systems:
Driveline components, transaxle, CV joints, differential
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, brake system (hydraulic, mechanical, ABS)
Electrical Systems:
Power distribution, lighting, horns, instrument cluster, audio/video systems, chime/buzzer, clock, message systems, heated systems, speed control, vehicle theft security, wipers/washers, wiring diagrams
Body Chassis Comfort:
Frame, bumpers, body panels, interior trim, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belts
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), circuit testing, component testing
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems and components
Overhaul Procedures:
Engine and transmission overhaul specifications and procedures
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing parts such as sensors, actuators, ECUs, major assemblies
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component locations, and troubleshooting flowcharts
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Diagnostics:
Includes detailed diagnostic strategies for all electronic modules and powertrain components
Specifications:
Provides all necessary torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, and diagnostic parameters
Quality:
OEM digital factory manual with perfect resolution and quality, not scanned or copied low resolution
Searchability:
Fully indexed and bookmarked for easy navigation and searching
Compatibility:
Works on Windows and Mac systems with Adobe Reader version 6 or newer
Installation:
No installation required, straight forward PDF
Printability:
Printable pages for specific sections or the entire manual
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Format)
Engine Code:
EGD (for 3.5L High Output)
Engine Type:
3.5L V6 SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) - 24 Valve
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3518 cc)
Horsepower:
Approximately 250-255 hp (depending on specific application/trim)
Torque:
Approximately 250-255 lb-ft (depending on specific application/trim)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 Octane (Minimum)
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 81.0 mm (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
9.6:1 (approximate)
Transmission Type:
42LE Automatic Transmission
Optional Transmissions:
None for this powertrain configuration
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual; typically a 3.55 final drive ratio
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) for refill; 10.5 quarts (9.9 liters) for total capacity (refer to manual for exact specification)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 113.0 inches (2870 mm)
Length:
Approximately 198.0 - 201.0 inches (5029 - 5105 mm) (model dependent)
Width:
Approximately 74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
Approximately 57.5 - 58.0 inches (1460 - 1473 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3700 - 3900 lbs (1678 - 1769 kg) (model dependent)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration; typically around 4800 lbs
Standard Wheel Size:
16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size:
P225/60R16, P225/55R17, or P245/45R18 (model/trim dependent)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Good (for 2002-2004 models in frontal impact tests where available)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Good (for 2002-2004 models in frontal impact tests where available)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable to Good (depending on specific test year and model)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Brake Assist:
Available Brake Assist (BAS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners, load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Audio System Options:
Various AM/FM stereo systems with CD player, optional Infinity or Boston Acoustics premium sound systems, optional CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some models.
Cruise Control:
Standard speed control (cruise control)
Remote Keyless Entry:
Standard or optional remote keyless entry system.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, power adjustable seats (driver and passenger).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-100,000 miles (48,000-160,000 km), depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for precise interval based on usage).
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years for initial service, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 1 year thereafter (refer to manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
At 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for original equipment platinum-tipped plugs.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter (refer to manual for exact capacity).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Orange)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or equivalent
Common Problems Powertrain:
Transmission solenoid issues (42LE), occasional oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan, potential for head gasket issues on some 3.5L engines (less common on 2002+ models but still possible).
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power mirror motor issues, occasional HVAC blower motor failures, dashboard display dimming or pixelation issues.
Common Problems Suspension Steering:
Front suspension clunks (worn sway bar links, ball joints), power steering pump whine.
Common Problems Body:
Rust in common areas (fender lips, rocker panels), interior trim creaks and rattles.
Chrysler Legacy:
Chrysler has a long history of producing large, comfortable American sedans.
Lh Platform Second Gen:
These models are part of the second generation of Chrysler's LH platform, which debuted in 1998.
Intrepid Facelift 2000:
The Dodge Intrepid received a significant facelift for the 2000 model year, with styling cues carrying through to the 2002-2004 models.
Concorde 300M Positioning:
The Concorde was the more mainstream luxury sedan, while the 300M was positioned as a sportier, more upscale variant with a more powerful engine option and premium features.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Brampton, Ontario, Canada
Production Years For These Models:
Chrysler 300M (1999-2004), Chrysler Concorde (1993-2004), Dodge Intrepid (1993-2004)
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Chrysler 300M was frequently included on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists in its earlier years, recognizing its blend of performance, luxury, and value.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings varied; generally good for driving dynamics and comfort, with some concerns about reliability for specific components in earlier model years.