According to Au7o's analysis of 15,920+ owner reports, the 2018 Chrysler 300 has 14 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are HEMI 5.7L MDS Lifter and Camshaft Failure ($2,000-$6,000 repair), Water Pump Failure and Cooling Leaks ($500-$900 repair), ABS Module Internal Failure ($300-$1,200 repair), Starter Motor Failure ($300-$700 repair), 2018 Chrysler 300 Included in the U87 Powertrain Control Module Recall (18V524000) and Chrysler 300 Cruise Control May Not Shut Off (Recall 18V332000). The most commonly reported issue is EVAP System Small Leak (P0456) with 2,800 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $20 to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Challenger vehicles. The parking brake may be improperly adjusted, which can result in a vehicle roll away. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Campaign #24V11200015/02/2024
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 212, "Windshield Mounting."
Campaign #21V51600008/07/2021
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.
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According to Au7o's analysis of 15,920+ owner reports, the 2018 Chrysler 300 has 14 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: HEMI 5.7L MDS Lifter and Camshaft Failure, Water Pump Failure and Cooling Leaks, ABS Module Internal Failure. Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Chrysler 300 reliable?
The 2018 Chrysler 300 has 14 known issues documented across 15,920+ owner reports. 6 issues are rated critical: HEMI 5.7L MDS Lifter and Camshaft Failure and Water Pump Failure and Cooling Leaks and ABS Module Internal Failure and Starter Motor Failure and 2018 Chrysler 300 Included in the U87 Powertrain Control Module Recall (18V524000) and Chrysler 300 Cruise Control May Not Shut Off (Recall 18V332000). 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 300 problems?
Repair costs for known Chrysler 300 issues range from $20 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, HEMI 5.7L MDS Lifter and Camshaft Failure, typically costs $2,000-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 HEMI 5.7L MDS Lifter and Camshaft Failure?
The 5.7L HEMI V8 suffers from MDS lifter design defect where needle bearings are undersized. Lifters can be starved of oil during idle, causing seizure and catastrophic camshaft wear leading to engine failure. Repairs typically run $2,000-$6,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 Water Pump Failure and Cooling Leaks?
Water pumps fail prematurely due to bearing and seal wear. Air pockets frequently form in cooling system after repairs. The 300 is difficult to properly bleed air from cooling system. Repairs typically run $500-$900. Severity: high.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
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When Issues Typically Appear
Control Arm Bushing Premature Wear
20K-40K
Rear Differential Whine and Bearing Failure
40K-60K
ZF 8-Speed Transmission Harsh Shifting
45K-150K
038K75K113K150K mi
Community reported
890 owners
On the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300, starter motors fail prematurely or intermittently. Grinding noise during starting indicates worn starter gear. Electrical issues including corroded battery terminals, failed neutral safety switch, and bad starter relay contribute to no-start.
Common Symptoms
Grinding noise when trying to start
Clicking sound but engine doesn't crank
No sound when turning key (silent)
Intermittent starting - works sometimes, fails others
How to Fix
Replace starter motor with updated unit. Before replacement, clean battery terminals and check battery voltage (12.4V+). Test neutral safety switch. Check starter relay and all wiring connections for corrosion.
Medium ConfidenceVerified890 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 2018 Chrysler 300, nHTSA recall 18V524000 reaches the 2018 Chrysler 300. On the recalled cars the powertrain control module may be built with a voltage regulator chip in its circuit board that can fail. A failure of that chip leaves the sedan either stalling on the road or unable to start. NHTSA's filing places the defect in the front underhood electrical wiring category and identifies the safety consequence as the crash risk created by a stall. Chrysler's internal recall number for the campaign is U87.
Common Symptoms
Engine stalls unexpectedly
Car will not start
How to Fix
The remedy is a free powertrain control module replacement performed by a Chrysler dealer. Owner notification began October 2, 2018. Check your 300's VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls — if 18V524000 / U87 still shows as open, book the dealer visit; there is no cost to the owner. Chrysler customer service is at 1-800-853-1403.
On the 2014-2018 Chrysler 300, the 2014-2018 Chrysler 300 is among the vehicles covered by FCA recall 18V332000. The recalled condition is a cruise control system that may not disengage. If a short circuit develops within the car's wiring while cruise control is engaged, the driver may be unable to cancel it — pressing the brake pedal does not stop it, and turning the system off manually does not stop it either. The 300 then maintains its set speed or possibly accelerates. NHTSA describes the resulting consequence as an increased risk of a crash. Because the 300 is a highway cruiser whose owners use cruise control often, the campaign's advice to stop using the system until the update is applied matters here.
Common Symptoms
Cruise control does not cancel when the brake is applied
Cruise control cannot be manually switched off
Car continues at set speed or accelerates with cruise engaged
How to Fix
The recall repair is free at a Chrysler dealer, who inspects the software and performs a software flash on the engine or powertrain control module. The campaign began June 4, 2018; the FCA customer service line is 1-800-853-1403. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm coverage and completion — an unperformed 2018 recall is common on a car this age. Until the flash is done, do not use cruise control. If the system will not disengage while driving, brake firmly and steadily, shift the transmission to neutral, and put the car in park once it has stopped.
On the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300, power window regulators and motors fail frequently, particularly rear doors. Cable in regulator breaks or motor burns out. Window stuck in down or up position. Motor and regulator sold as assembly, cannot be separated.
Replace window motor and regulator assembly. TSB #08-011-07 REV. A addresses front window issues requiring door module replacement. Check fuse first. Verify window switches functioning before replacing regulator.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Window Motor
Cross-ref42-6004
Fitment confirmed against the ShowMeTheParts catalog for this vehicle's year and engine.
High ConfidenceVerified1,550 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
2,400 owners
On the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 5.7L HEMI V8, the 5.7L HEMI V8 suffers from MDS lifter design defect where needle bearings are undersized. Lifters can be starved of oil during idle, causing seizure and catastrophic camshaft wear leading to engine failure.
Replace all lifters, camshaft, and rocker arms as assembly. Use only OEM or high-quality lifters. Some owners disable MDS system. Use only SAE 5W-20 oil and maintain strict 3,000-5,000 mile oil change intervals.
High ConfidenceVerified2,400 owner reportsLast reported by owners Aug 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
1,800 owners
On the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 3.6L V6, the plastic oil filter housing develops cracks and gasket failures due to heat cycling. Chrysler discontinued original plastic part but never issued recall despite widespread problem.
Replace with Dorman aluminum aftermarket housing (recommended by mechanics). OEM replacement is still plastic and will fail again. Complete coolant and oil system flush recommended.
High ConfidenceVerified1,800 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
350 owners
On the 2005-2023 Chrysler 300 5.7L HEMI V8, the 5.7L HEMI is notorious for exhaust manifold bolts breaking, especially on the passenger side. Thermal cycling causes bolts to become brittle and snap. Creates a ticking noise at cold startup that partially diminishes as engine warms but never fully goes away. Broken bolts can be extremely difficult to extract if snapped flush with the cylinder head.
Noise diminishes as engine warms but doesn't fully disappear
Visible exhaust soot around manifold flanges
Failed emissions inspection
Exhaust smell in engine bay
How to Fix
Extract broken bolts using ProMAXX drill template tool kit (PMXA200PROP) to safely extract without damaging cylinder head. Replace with upgraded Grade 8 double-ended studs and nuts instead of bolts. Apply anti-seize compound on new hardware. Consider Hooker Blackheart stainless replacement manifolds for a permanent upgrade on high-mileage vehicles.
High Confidence350 owner reportsLast reported by owners Nov 2025Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
1,650 owners
On the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300, water pumps fail prematurely due to bearing and seal wear. Air pockets frequently form in cooling system after repairs. The 300 is difficult to properly bleed air from cooling system.
Coolant leak from front of engine or below water pump
Engine overheating or running hot
Temperature gauge fluctuating
Whining or grinding noise from water pump
How to Fix
Water pump replacement with new gaskets. Replace thermostat simultaneously per TSB. Complete coolant flush and proper bleeding essential. Use purge valve in front of upper intake manifold.
High ConfidenceVerified1,650 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jul 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
1,300 owners
On the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300, aBS control module suffers internal failures due to short circuits in main circuit board. Prevents proper ABS operation and stores fault codes. While regular braking functions, vehicle loses anti-lock capability, traction control, and stability control.
Common Symptoms
ABS warning light constantly illuminated
BAS warning light
Traction control warning
U0121 code (lost communication with ABS)
No ABS function during hard braking
How to Fix
ABS module replacement or professional rebuild service. Check all wheel speed sensors and wiring before replacement. Many specialty shops offer rebuild for $300-500 with warranty. OEM module requires programming to VIN.
High ConfidenceVerified1,300 owner reportsLast reported by owners Dec 2022Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
1,400 owners
On the 2012-2023 Chrysler 300, the ZF 8-speed automatic develops harsh shifting, especially in 2nd gear. Valve body is primary failure point. Cold shifting particularly problematic. Chrysler states "sealed for life" but failures occur before 150,000 miles.
Dealer must replace transmission valve body under warranty if applicable. Ensure TCM updated to latest software. Perform Quicklearn procedure after work. Use only ZF-approved fluid.
High ConfidenceVerified1,400 owner reportsLast reported by owners Apr 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
1,100 owners
On the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300, oEM control arm bushings fail prematurely around 20,000-40,000 miles instead of typical 100,000+ lifespan. Bushings press-fitted into arms and cannot be replaced separately on most applications, requiring full control arm replacement.
Replace lower/upper control arms as complete assemblies. Aftermarket polyurethane bushings (Prothane, Energy Suspension) offer longer life but harsher ride. Alignment required after replacement.
High ConfidenceVerified1,100 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
680 owners
On the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300, rear differential develops whining from failed pinion bearing or ring/pinion wear. LX platform differentials have inherent whine, but excessive noise indicates bearing failure. Front differentials on AWD fail at 40,000-60,000 miles.
Common Symptoms
Whining noise from rear during acceleration
Humming or roaring that increases with speed
Clunking during low-speed turns
Vibration from rear axle area
Dark fluid with metal shavings
How to Fix
Differential rebuild or replacement for severe cases. Drain differential fluid and inspect for metal shavings. Change fluid every 30,000-40,000 miles. Use proper limited-slip fluid if equipped. Pinion bearing replacement if caught early.
Medium ConfidenceVerified680 owner reportsLast reported by owners Oct 2022Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
2,800 owners
On the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300, evaporative emission control system develops small leaks triggering P0456 code. Most commonly failed gas cap, chaffed EVAP purge pipe harness, or failed purge solenoid. Triggers check engine light and prevents emissions testing pass.
Common Symptoms
Check engine light with P0456 code
"Gas cap" warning even with cap tight
Fuel smell near vehicle
Failed emissions test
No performance or drivability issues
How to Fix
Start with gas cap replacement ($20-40). If code returns, smoke test EVAP system to locate leak. Common fixes: replace purge solenoid, repair chaffed wiring harness, or replace cracked EVAP hoses.
High ConfidenceVerified2,800 owner reportsLast reported by owners Sep 2023Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 2005-2023 Chrysler 300, the Chrysler 300 uses Chrysler's proprietary natural-vacuum leak detection hardware instead of a conventional pressure-based leak detection pump. On 2005-2006 cars this is the NVLD (Natural Vacuum Leak Detection) valve/solenoid; from 2007 onward it is the ESIM (Evaporative System Integrity Monitor), a small spring-and-diaphragm switch mounted on or next to the charcoal/vapor canister on the left underbody ahead of the fuel tank. Both work the same way: as the sealed EVAP system heats and cools, natural pressure/vacuum changes trip an internal switch the PCM reads to confirm the system is sealed. The diaphragm seal inside the NVLD/ESIM is a well-documented high-failure item — it stiffens, sticks, or loses its seal with age, so the PCM can no longer verify integrity and falsely reports a leak. The result is a check-engine light with P0456 (small leak, ~0.020 in.), P0455 (large leak), or P0457 (interpreted as loose/missing cap), even when the fuel system is actually sealed. Because the code wording points at the gas cap, this is very commonly misdiagnosed: owners and shops replace the cap (and often the purge valve and canister) repeatedly before discovering the NVLD/ESIM itself is the culprit. One 2012 300 SRT owner reported eight dealer visits — the ESIM and its seal replaced twice, plus a new filler neck, purge valve, and charcoal canister — before the leak code was resolved. The fault is an emissions/MIL issue only: it does not affect drivability or engine longevity, but it will fail an emissions/smog inspection and on some model years can disable remote start until cleared. A faint fuel-vapor smell is occasionally reported when an actual leak is present.
Check engine light / MIL on with no drivability change
Stored EVAP leak codes P0455, P0456, and/or P0457
Dashboard or message-center warning that the gas cap is loose/off even when it is tight
Repeat check-engine light after replacing the gas cap
Failed state emissions / smog inspection
Remote start disabled until the code is cleared (some model years)
Occasional faint fuel-vapor smell near the tank/filler when an actual leak is present
How to Fix
Always start with the cheapest checks: tighten the fuel cap fully (listen for clicks), inspect the cap's O-ring seal, and replace a cracked/old cap with a genuine Mopar cap, then clear the code and drive several drive cycles. If the code returns, have a shop perform an EVAP smoke test — but note the small-leak verification monitor can fail even when a smoke test passes (some hairline EVAP-line cracks only open under vacuum, sealing under the positive pressure of a smoke machine). Inspect the EVAP lines and the purge valve/solenoid for cracks. If the cap, lines, and purge valve are good, replace the NVLD valve (2005-2006) or the ESIM (2007+); the ESIM is the common Mopar service part (e.g., P/N 4861959AD), typically about $40-$60 OEM ($20-$50 aftermarket), and unbolts from the canister with a few hand tools — a DIY-friendly job. On early cars where the NVLD/ESIM is integrated and sold only with the charcoal canister assembly, expect a higher parts cost. After replacement, clear the codes and complete the EVAP drive-cycle/monitor before re-testing for emissions. Total at a shop generally runs from roughly $150 (ESIM swap with labor) up to the $417-$476 range if a full vapor/charcoal canister assembly is needed.
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor battery may fail prematurely and cause the sensor to become inoperative. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
Campaign #22V50400014/07/2022
TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor battery may fail prematurely and cause the sensor to become inoperative. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
What is the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 ABS Module Internal Failure?
ABS control module suffers internal failures due to short circuits in main circuit board. Prevents proper ABS operation and stores fault codes. While regular braking functions, vehicle loses anti-lock capability, traction control, and stability control. Repairs typically run $300-$1,200. Severity: high.
What is the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 Starter Motor Failure?
Starter motors fail prematurely or intermittently. Grinding noise during starting indicates worn starter gear. Electrical issues including corroded battery terminals, failed neutral safety switch, and bad starter relay contribute to no-start. Repairs typically run $300-$700. Severity: high.
What is the 2018 Chrysler 300 2018 Chrysler 300 Included in the U87 Powertrain Control Module Recall (18V524000)?
NHTSA recall 18V524000 reaches the 2018 Chrysler 300. On the recalled cars the powertrain control module may be built with a voltage regulator chip in its circuit board that can fail. A failure of that chip leaves the sedan either stalling on the road or unable to start. NHTSA's… Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2018 Chrysler 300 Chrysler 300 Cruise Control May Not Shut Off (Recall 18V332000)?
The 2014-2018 Chrysler 300 is among the vehicles covered by FCA recall 18V332000. The recalled condition is a cruise control system that may not disengage. If a short circuit develops within the car's wiring while cruise control is engaged, the driver may be unable to cancel it —… Severity: high.
What is the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 Pentastar 3.6L Oil Filter Housing Leak?
The plastic oil filter housing develops cracks and gasket failures due to heat cycling. Chrysler discontinued original plastic part but never issued recall despite widespread problem. Repairs typically run $400-$900. Severity: medium.
What is the 2012-2023 Chrysler 300 ZF 8-Speed Transmission Harsh Shifting?
The ZF 8-speed automatic develops harsh shifting, especially in 2nd gear. Valve body is primary failure point. Cold shifting particularly problematic. Chrysler states "sealed for life" but failures occur before 150,000 miles. Repairs typically run $800-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 Control Arm Bushing Premature Wear?
OEM control arm bushings fail prematurely around 20,000-40,000 miles instead of typical 100,000+ lifespan. Bushings press-fitted into arms and cannot be replaced separately on most applications, requiring full control arm replacement. Repairs typically run $280-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 Rear Differential Whine and Bearing Failure?
Rear differential develops whining from failed pinion bearing or ring/pinion wear. LX platform differentials have inherent whine, but excessive noise indicates bearing failure. Front differentials on AWD fail at 40,000-60,000 miles. Repairs typically run $600-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2005-2023 Chrysler 300 5.7L HEMI Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure?
The 5.7L HEMI is notorious for exhaust manifold bolts breaking, especially on the passenger side. Thermal cycling causes bolts to become brittle and snap. Creates a ticking noise at cold startup that partially diminishes as engine warms but never fully goes away. Broken bolts can… Repairs typically run $400-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 EVAP System Small Leak (P0456)?
Evaporative emission control system develops small leaks triggering P0456 code. Most commonly failed gas cap, chaffed EVAP purge pipe harness, or failed purge solenoid. Triggers check engine light and prevents emissions testing pass. Repairs typically run $20-$500. Severity: low.
What is the 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 Window Regulator and Motor Failure?
Power window regulators and motors fail frequently, particularly rear doors. Cable in regulator breaks or motor burns out. Window stuck in down or up position. Motor and regulator sold as assembly, cannot be separated. Repairs typically run $250-$600. Severity: low.
What is the 2005-2023 Chrysler 300 EVAP Leak Detection (NVLD/ESIM) Failure Triggers P0455/P0456 — Often Misdiagnosed as a Bad Gas Cap?
The Chrysler 300 uses Chrysler's proprietary natural-vacuum leak detection hardware instead of a conventional pressure-based leak detection pump. On 2005-2006 cars this is the NVLD (Natural Vacuum Leak Detection) valve/solenoid; from 2007 onward it is the ESIM (Evaporative System… Repairs typically run $40-$476. Severity: low.
