Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan, competing with domestic and import rivals of its era.
Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria/Mercury Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Lumina/Lumina APV, Buick LeSabre/Park Avenue, Oldsmobile Aurora, Lincoln Continental, Toyota Avalon.
Design Philosophy:
European-inspired styling, spacious interior, and a focus on comfortable long-distance cruising.
Trim Levels:
Available in base, ES, LXi, and the sportier Concorde GTC (on Concorde) and 300M Special (on 300M).
Diagnostic Coverage:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems, including OBD-II fault codes and their resolutions.
Repair Coverage:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical, HVAC, and body components.
Maintenance Coverage:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid change procedures, filter replacement guides, and general upkeep recommendations.
Type:
Full Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
All aspects of the 3.5L V6 engine, including disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and tuning.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for the 4-speed automatic transmission (42LE), including removal, installation, and internal component servicing.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service, including rotor and pad replacement, caliper repair, and bleeding procedures. ABS system diagnosis.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, steering system diagnosis and repair.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse/relay identification, power distribution, lighting, instrument cluster, and body electrical systems.
HVAC:
Air conditioning and heating system servicing, refrigerant handling, component diagnosis (compressor, evaporator, heater core), and controls.
Body:
Body panel repair, interior trim removal, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and exterior trim.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections and replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues.
Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission component rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances.
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing individual components like alternators, starters, fuel pumps, radiators, and more.
Depth:
In-depth technical information suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using specialized diagnostic tools and scan equipment for accurate fault identification.
Engine Type:
3.5L SOHC V6 (V6 Magnum)
Displacement:
3497 cc (213.4 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 81.0 mm (3.78 in x 3.19 in)
Horsepower:
255 hp @ 6400 rpm (300M Special), 250 hp @ 6400 rpm (300M/Concorde)
Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (300M Special), 245 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (300M/Concorde)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug
Type:
4-speed automatic transaxle (42LE)
Shift Modes:
Driver-adaptive electronic control with multiple modes (e.g., Normal, Sport/AutoStick on some models).
Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler Mopar)
Capacity Quarts:
Approximately 4.5 quarts (dry fill), check dipstick for level.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Good (2001 model year testing)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Good (2001 model year testing)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Available side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Audio System:
Premium Infinity audio system with cassette and CD player options. Steering wheel mounted audio controls.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Rear parking assist sensors available on some models.
Tele Aid:
Optional Chrysler Tele-Aid emergency assistance service.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Transmission Fluid:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change fluid and filter as needed or recommended by severity of use.
Coolant Flush:
Every 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with original coolant; check manual for specifics.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs recommended for 100,000 mile (160,000 km) service interval.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 API Certified (preferred) or SAE 10W-30.
Coolant:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant, typically purple or Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant (MS-9769).
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 or equivalent power steering fluid (check specific model variant).
Headliner Sagging:
Common issue with headliner fabric detaching due to aging adhesive.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
Potential issues with valve body or solenoid pack in the 42LE transmission, often resolved with fluid/filter change or solenoid replacement.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window regulators and motors can occur with age.
Evaporator Core Leaks:
HVAC system leaks, often requiring dashboard removal for replacement of the evaporator core.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure can lead to no-start or stalling issues.
Chrysler Legacy:
Chrysler's history of producing large, comfortable, and distinctive American sedans.
Lh Platform:
These models are part of the second generation of the LH platform, sharing many components with the Dodge Intrepid and Eagle Vision.
300M Introduction:
The 300M was introduced for the 1999 model year as a more luxurious and performance-oriented version of the Concorde.
Concorde Positioning:
The Concorde served as Chrysler's flagship full-size sedan, known for its spacious interior and smooth ride.
Manufacturing Location:
Bramalea, Ontario, Canada
Production Years:
Chrysler Concorde: 1993-2004; Chrysler 300M: 1999-2004
Car And Driver 10Best:
Chrysler 300M was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run.
Motor Trend Car Of Year Nominee:
The LH platform cars, including the 300M and Concorde, were often considered strong contenders in their segments.