Positioning:
The Chrysler 300M, Concorde, and Intrepid of this era represented Chrysler's push towards more upscale, front-wheel-drive sedans, competing in the near-luxury segment. They offered a blend of comfort, performance, and distinctive styling.
Competitors 2004:
Competed with vehicles like the Ford Taurus, Mercury Sable, Chevrolet Impala, Buick LeSabre, and import sedans such as the Toyota Avalon and Honda Accord.
Vehicle Platform:
These models were based on the Chrysler LH platform, known for its front-wheel-drive layout and spacious interiors.
Design Philosophy:
Characterized by distinctive American styling with aggressive lines, particularly the 300M's sportier persona.
Covered Models:
Chrysler 300M, Chrysler Concorde, Chrysler Intrepid
Estimated Page Count:
Substantial (implied by detailed coverage, exact number not specified)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine Systems:
Detailed coverage including fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine mechanicals, cooling, and lubrication.
Driveline And Transmission:
Comprehensive coverage of driveline components, transaxle (automatic), and associated systems.
Suspension And Steering:
Detailed repair procedures for suspension components, steering system, and wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Complete brake system diagnosis and repair, including ABS.
Electrical And Electronics:
Extensive coverage of wiring diagrams, electronic control modules (ECMs), audio/video, instrument cluster, lighting, power systems, and more.
Body And Frame:
Includes body repairs, frame, bumpers, doors, windows, and interior components.
HVAC And Emissions:
Detailed diagnostics and repair for heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and emissions control systems.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid changes, and general upkeep procedures.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides and diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues.
Repair And Rebuild:
Comprehensive repair procedures, from minor adjustments to complete component disassembly and reassembly.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, covering complete disassembly and reassembly.
Engine Type 300M Concorde:
3.5L (215 cu in) SOHC V6 (EGG)
Engine Type Intrepid:
2.7L (167 cu in) DOHC V6 (EAR) and 3.5L (215 cu in) SOHC V6 (EGG)
Horsepower 300M Concorde:
250 hp @ 6400 rpm (EGG engine)
Torque 300M Concorde:
250 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm (EGG engine)
Horsepower Intrepid:
200 hp @ 5800 rpm (EAR engine)
Torque Intrepid:
190 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (EAR engine)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Code 3.5L Sohc:
EGG
Engine Code 2.7L DOHc:
EAR
Transmission Type 300M Concorde:
42LE 4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Type Intrepid 2.7L:
41TE 4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Type Intrepid 3.5L:
42LE 4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Features:
Includes electronic shift control, likely with a 'Performance' or 'Winter' mode.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid, Type 9602)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (for the era, specific model may vary slightly)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (for the era, specific model may vary slightly)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for the era, specific model may vary slightly)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional or standard depending on trim and model (TCS)
Airbags Front:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional or standard front seat-mounted side airbags and/or side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts for all occupants, pretensioners for front seats.
Audio System:
Factory premium audio systems often available, including Infinity brand sound systems with multiple speakers and amplifier. Cassette/CD players and radio functionality.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation systems were available on some trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system (Speed Control).
Parking Assistance:
Rear parking assist sensors were an option on higher trims.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Standard remote keyless entry system.
Telematics:
Optional Uconnect or similar early telematics systems might have been available on later production runs or specific trims.
Service Intervals Oil Change
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for precise recommendation based on driving conditions).
Service Intervals Tire Rotation
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API certified)
Engine Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent. Often a pink or orange color.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler/Dodge Power Steering Fluid (Mopar or equivalent)
Common Issues Powertrain:
Premature wear on camshaft position sensors, intake manifold gaskets (plastic), and potential transmission solenoid issues in higher mileage vehicles. Timing belt replacement on 2.7L engine is critical.
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn sway bar links, ball joints, and control arm bushings. Power steering pump noise or leaks can occur.
Common Issues Electrical:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure, intermittent power window issues, and potential failure of the Body Control Module (BCM) or similar electronic modules.
Chrysler Legacy:
Chrysler has a long history of producing comfortable, feature-rich, and often stylish American sedans, with the 'LH' platform cars being a significant part of its modern identity.
300M Positioning:
The 300M was positioned as the premium, performance-oriented model within the larger LH-platform family, inheriting the '300' performance nomenclature.
Model Evolution Concorde Intrepid
Concorde Intrepid Design:
The Concorde and Intrepid shared a common platform and design language, with the Concorde typically featuring more luxury-oriented appointments and the Intrepid offering a sportier or more value-focused approach depending on the trim level.
Lh Platform Production:
The LH platform debuted in the early 1990s and evolved through several generations, with the 2004 model year representing a late stage of the second-generation LH vehicles.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The Chrysler 300M and its LH-platform siblings were often lauded for their ride quality, interior space, and value, though direct '10 Best' mentions for this specific year might vary. The LH platform generally received positive reviews in its segment.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Varying ratings depending on the specific model and year, often citing average reliability for domestic vehicles of this era, with some consistent issues noted (as per 'known_issues').
