Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan / Performance Sedan
Target Audience:
Performance enthusiasts, owners seeking detailed DIY repair information, professional mechanics.
Key Competitors:
Cadillac DTS, Lincoln Town Car, BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class (though STR8 positioned as a higher-performance, more accessible option).
Performance Focus:
The 'STR8' designation signifies the SRT (Street and Racing Technology) performance variant, focusing on a powerful engine and sport-tuned chassis.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge to maintain and repair the high-performance aspects of the Chrysler 300 STR8, empowering owners and technicians.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair, timing, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system, turbocharging/supercharging (if applicable, though not for STR8), engine management (ECM/PCM)
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (e.g., NAG1/W5A580), manual transmission (if offered), transfer case (if applicable), driveshaft, differentials, axles
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake, ABS, traction control, stability control
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering column, power steering system, alignment specifications
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, power windows, power locks, climate control, instrument cluster, infotainment, body control module (BCM)
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, ventilation, blower motor, climate control module
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, trim, sunroof (if equipped)
Body Interior:
Seating, dashboard, interior trim, airbags, seatbelts, headliner
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilding, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system service
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing specific faults, including electrical testing
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing individual components within all major systems
Specifications Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, alignment angles, fluid capacities
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8 HEMI
Displacement:
6.1 Liters (370 cubic inches)
Engine Code Hpm:
6.1L SRT HEMI (typically identified by its larger bore and stroke compared to standard HEMIs)
Horsepower:
425 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximately, varies slightly by model year)
Torque:
420 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (approximately)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (W5A580, also known as NAG1)
Manual Transmission:
Not typically offered for the STR8 variant; focus was on the performance automatic.
Transmission Features:
Performance-tuned shifting, manual shift mode (AutoStick).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+4 or equivalent (refer to specific manual for exact Mopar part number, e.g., 05013457AA)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) with torque converter replacement.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and passenger, based on available data for the LX platform)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for most models tested in this era)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (ESP - Electronic Stability Program)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Airbags:
Front advanced multi-stage airbags, front side airbags, available side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front pretensioners with load limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Infotainment System:
Chrysler MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System (optional, depending on trim and options). Features could include HDD navigation, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth connectivity.
Advanced Features:
Rear park assist (optional), adaptive cruise control (optional).
Audio Input:
Auxiliary audio input jack (standard on most models).
Gauge Cluster:
Performance-oriented gauge cluster with SRT branding, often including additional gauges like oil pressure and temperature.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). May vary based on oil type and driving habits. Refer to manual for severe service intervals.
Transmission Service Interval:
Fluid and filter change recommended every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or as per the manual's specific recommendations.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (for long-life iridium plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (API SN or equivalent certified for Chrysler MS-10850)
Engine Oil Capacity:
7 quarts (6.6 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT, or equivalent (e.g., Mopar P/N 05050892AA for the correct purple color/type)
Common Complaints Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket), piston slap on cold start (less common on SRT8), exhaust manifold leaks.
Common Complaints Transmission:
Harsh shifting, delayed engagement (can be due to valve body issues or fluid degradation).
Common Complaints Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rods leading to clunking noises and steering looseness.
Common Complaints Electrical:
Window regulator failures, climate control blower motor issues, CAN bus communication errors.
Chrysler Heritage:
Chrysler has a long history of producing large, luxurious, and powerful American sedans.
Chrysler 300 Generation:
Second generation (2005-2010), based on the LX platform, drawing inspiration from the original 1950s Chrysler 300 letter cars and a distinctive modern interpretation.
Srt Development:
The SRT8 variant was developed by Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology division to offer a high-performance, muscular version of the 300.
Manufacturing Location:
Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada
Production Years:
2005-2010 (LX platform)