Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Demographic:
Buyers seeking a blend of American luxury, performance, and front-wheel-drive practicality.
Key Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Chevrolet Impala, Buick LeSabre, Oldsmobile Aurora, Lincoln Continental, Cadillac DeVille.
Distinctive Styling:
Bold, distinctive styling that set it apart from other Chrysler sedans of the era.
Performance Oriented:
Positioned as a more performance-oriented, European-influenced luxury sedan.
Interior Appointments:
High-quality interior materials and a comfortable, spacious cabin.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the Chrysler LH platform, sharing components with models like the Dodge Intrepid and Eagle Vision.
Engine:
Yes (including diagnostics, repair, disassembly, assembly, specifications)
Transmission:
Yes (including diagnostics, repair, disassembly, assembly, specifications)
Brakes:
Yes (including ABS, hydraulic system, components, diagnostics)
Suspension Steering:
Yes (front and rear suspension, steering system, alignment)
Electrical System:
Yes (wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostics, lighting, charging, starting)
Body Exterior:
Yes (body panels, doors, bumpers, glass, trim, rust repair)
Body Interior:
Yes (trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC controls, sound deadening)
HVAC:
Yes (heating, ventilation, air conditioning system components and diagnostics)
Fuel System:
Yes (fuel pump, injectors, lines, tank, evaporative emissions)
Exhaust System:
Yes (catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers)
Cooling System:
Yes (radiator, thermostat, hoses, water pump, fan)
Driver Information Systems:
Yes (instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights)
Maintenance:
Yes (scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks)
Troubleshooting:
Yes (diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting)
Repair:
Yes (step-by-step repair instructions for all major components)
Disassembly Assembly:
Yes (detailed procedures for component removal and installation)
Cleaning:
Yes (procedures for cleaning specific components)
Reinstalling:
Yes (detailed reinstallation guidance)
Diagnostics:
Yes (OBD-II diagnostics, specific system fault codes)
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Target Audience:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Length:
Approximately 195.7 inches
Width:
Approximately 73.1 inches
Height:
Approximately 56.1 inches
Wheelbase:
Approximately 113.0 inches
Front Headroom:
Approximately 39.2 inches
Front Legroom:
Approximately 41.9 inches
Rear Headroom:
Approximately 37.7 inches
Rear Legroom:
Approximately 36.4 inches
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 16.0 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3500-3700 lbs (depending on options)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4 Stars (Front and Rear Passengers)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional (TCS) on some models
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front and rear side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Available Infinity Gold premium audio system with CD player and cassette.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone temperature settings available.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on some models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry system.
Phone Integration:
No integrated Bluetooth or advanced smartphone connectivity available from the factory for this era.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (check owner's manual or manual for specific recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (recommended for platinum or iridium plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years.
Engine Oil Type Capacity:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher) - 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change.
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Headliner Sagging:
Common issue where the fabric on the headliner detaches from the backing.
Transmission Slipping:
The 42LE transmission can exhibit slipping or delayed engagement, often related to fluid condition or solenoid issues.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window motors and regulators.
Idler Pulley Bearing:
The bearing in the serpentine belt idler pulley can fail, causing noise.
Climate Control Actuators:
Malfunctioning climate control mode door actuators can lead to incorrect air distribution.
Oil Cooler Leaks:
Leaks from the transmission oil cooler lines or fittings.
Brand Positioning:
Chrysler aimed to position the 300M as a premium, performance-oriented luxury sedan, drawing inspiration from European luxury cars.
Platform Basis:
Second generation of the LH platform.
Design Influence:
Designed at Chrysler's Advanced Amorphous Metals (AAM) facility in Detroit, with a focus on a more aggressive and upscale appearance.
Production End Year:
2004
Assembly Location:
Bramalea, Ontario, Canada
Production Volume:
Approximately 115,000 units produced over its lifespan.