Chrysler 200 Problems: 4 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2011-2017 model years · Based on 1,130+ owner reports · Last updated March 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,130+ owner reports, the 2011-2017 Chrysler 200 has 4 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical by the Au7o research team. The most serious are ZF 9-Speed Transmission Shifting Problems ($0-$6,000 repair), 2.4L Tigershark Excessive Oil Consumption ($0-$8,500 repair) and 62TE 6-Speed Transmission Failure (Gen 1) ($300-$4,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is ZF 9-Speed Transmission Shifting Problems with 350 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $8,500. Full technical analysis and DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 4 Known Issues
The ZF 9HP48 9-speed automatic transmission suffers from harsh shifting, delayed engagement, lurching forward, and unexpectedly shifting into neutral while driving. A terminal crimping issue in sensor cluster harness assemblies caused wiring defects. 2015 models are worst; 2016+ have improvements after FCA built transmissions in Kokomo, Indiana. Recall S55 (NHTSA 16V529000) issued.
Common Symptoms
- Hard shifts between 2nd and 3rd gear
- Transmission unexpectedly shifts into neutral
- Lurching forward after downshift
- Delayed engagement when shifting from Park
- Service Transmission warning light
How to Fix
Contact dealer for Recall S55 (NHTSA 16V529000) - provides free PCM/TCM reprogramming and transaxle range sensor wire harness replacement if needed. If ordering 2015 replacement transmission, the system automatically provides improved 2016 unit. Regular transmission fluid services every 60,000 miles.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 350+ owners who fixed this issue
- NoteAvoid 2015 model year entirely if possible - 2016-2017 have significant improvements after FCA took over transmission manufacturing in Kokomo, IN
- TipRecall S55 (NHTSA 16V529000) provides free PCM/TCM reprogramming and harness replacement - check status at safercar.gov
- TipRegular transmission fluid services every 60,000 miles help significantly with shifting quality
The first-generation Chrysler 200 (rebadged Sebring) uses the 62TE 6-speed automatic which suffers from solenoid pack failures, valve body issues, and worn sealing rings. Hard shifting, slipping, and complete failure are common, often before 100,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
- Hard shifting or jerking between gears
- Transmission slipping under load
- Delayed engagement from Park
- Stuck in 3rd gear (limp mode)
- Transmission overheating
How to Fix
Solenoid pack replacement (68376696AA) for early symptoms. Full transmission rebuild or replacement for severe cases. Use ONLY Mopar ATF+4 fluid (68218058AC). Change fluid every 30,000 miles.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 280+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipSolenoid pack 68376696AA is often sufficient if caught early - $300-$600 vs $2,500+ for full rebuild
- NoteUse ONLY Mopar ATF+4 (68218058AC) - substitutes cause premature failure. Change every 30,000 miles, never follow 'lifetime' interval
The 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir II engine has defective piston rings that allow oil into the combustion chamber. Owners report consuming 1 quart of oil every 500-1,000 miles. Engine can seize without warning if oil drops too low. Class-action settlement (Wood, et al. v. FCA US, LLC) reached. FCA extended powertrain warranty to 7 years/100,000 miles under CSN W80.
Common Symptoms
- Oil consumption of 1+ quart per 1,000 miles
- Low oil pressure warning light
- Blue smoke from exhaust
- Engine stalling or seizing without warning
- Rough idle or misfires
How to Fix
Contact FCA dealer for oil consumption test under CSN W80 warranty extension. If test fails, engine long block replacement under extended warranty (7 years/100,000 miles). PCM/TCM reprogramming may reduce consumption in some cases. File claim at fcatigersharksettlement.com if eligible. Use full synthetic 0W-20 oil.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 300+ owners who fixed this issue
- NoteCheck oil every 500 miles - do NOT rely on dashboard warning. Engine can seize without warning if oil drops too low
- TipCSN W80 warranty extension covers 7 years/100,000 miles. File claim at fcatigersharksettlement.com. Document all oil purchases with receipts
- TipUse only full synthetic 0W-20 oil. PCM/TCM reprogramming at dealer may reduce consumption in some cases
The second-generation 200 suffers from parasitic battery drain caused by modules not going to sleep properly. The Body Control Module and UConnect system are common culprits. Battery can die in 2-3 days of sitting.
Common Symptoms
- Dead battery after sitting 2-3 days
- Needing jump starts frequently
- Interior lights staying on after exiting
- Door lock/unlock cycling on its own
How to Fix
Request latest BCM software update from dealer. Check for aftermarket accessories causing draw. Disconnect negative battery terminal if parking for more than 3 days. Replace battery with AGM type for better cold-weather performance.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 200+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipAsk dealer for latest BCM software update - often resolves the module sleep issue for free
- TipDisconnect negative battery terminal if parking for more than 3 days to prevent drain
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Chrysler 200 problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,130+ owner reports, the 2011-2017 Chrysler 200 has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: ZF 9-Speed Transmission Shifting Problems, 2.4L Tigershark Excessive Oil Consumption, 62TE 6-Speed Transmission Failure (Gen 1). Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Chrysler 200 reliable?
The 2011-2017 Chrysler 200 has 4 known issues documented across 1,130+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: ZF 9-Speed Transmission Shifting Problems and 2.4L Tigershark Excessive Oil Consumption and 62TE 6-Speed Transmission Failure (Gen 1). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Chrysler 200 problems?
Repair costs for known Chrysler 200 issues range from $0 to $8,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, ZF 9-Speed Transmission Shifting Problems, typically costs $0-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Chrysler 200 is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Chrysler 200. Based on owner reports, issues are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2011-2017 Chrysler 200 with 4 documented issues from 1,130+ owner reports.
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