Recalls: Chrysler LX 300C
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Chrysler LX 300C
- In September 2006, a recall was issued for 2006 Chrysler LX 300C models built before 22 June 2006 (MDH 062208). In these vehicles, a software problem in the Front Control Module could affect the correct functioning of the directional ‘telltale’ lights in the instrument cluster in the event of a failure to an external turn indicator globe. As such, the driver would not receive proper feedback when a turn indicator globe failed (PRA 2006/8740).
- In March 2007, a recall was issued for Chrysler LX 300C and 300C Touring vehicles that were manufactured from 11 October 2006 to 23 November 2006 (MDH 101100-112323). In these vehicles, the software programmed into the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) control module may cause the rear wheels to lock up under certain braking conditions (PRA 2007/9086).
- In October 2008, a recall was issued for model year 2008 Chrysler LX 300C vehicles due to rear axle hub nuts on vehicles potentially loosening and allowing the half shaft to disengage from the wheel hub; this could cause the vehicle to lose power and a loss of steering capability (PRA 2008/10354).
- In November 2009, a recall was issued for 2008-09 Chrysler LX 300C vehicles due to the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) side airbag wires being installed in the incorrect electrical connector cavities; this resulted in the incorrect and opposite deployment of side air bags under certain crash conditions (PRA 2009/11234).
- In May 2012, a recall was issued for a 2012 model year Chrysler 300C with the VIN 2C3CCANJ0CH133499. In this vehicle, the power distribution centre (PDC) could overheat, causing the ABS and ESC systems to cease functioning – in certain conditions, this could result in an accident (PRA 2012/13141).
- In November 2014, a recall was issued for 2008 LX 300C vehicles because the Frequency Operated Button Ignition Key (FOBIK) may stick between the ‘Start’ and ‘Run’ position. If this occurred, the vehicle may experience a loss of engine power, power steering assistance and/or brake booster assistance. Furthermore, the FOBIK spring back may also cause one or more of the vehicle’s safety features to be disabled, including the frontal airbags. The loss of any of these features could increase the risk of a crash and injury to vehicle occupants (PRA 2014/14440).
- In February 2015, a recall was issued for Chrysler 300C vehicles that were produced from 2005 to 2007. In these vehicles, the driver airbag inflator housing may rupture due to excessive internal pressure during normal airbag deployment events. As a result, metal fragments may strike the occupants and cause serious injury (PRA 2015/14543).
- In May 2015, a recall was issued for Chrysler 300C vehicle that were produced from 2005 to 2010. In these vehicles, the driver airbag inflator housing may rupture due to excessive internal pressure during normal airbag deployment events. As a result, metal fragments may strike the occupants and cause serious injury (PRA 2015/14742).
- In July 2016, a recall was issued for Chrysler 300Cs vehicles that were manufactured from 2005 to 2011. For these vehicles, propellant wafers within the front passenger airbag may absorb moisture over time – this could cause overly aggressive combustion on deployment such that the front passenger airbag inflator housing may rupture and disperse metal fragments through the cabin. These metal fragments posed a risk of serious injury and death (PRA 2016/15516).
Problems and faults: Chrysler LX 300C
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items identified below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Chrysler 300C 5.7L and 6.1L V8: engine stalls after refuelling
For 2005 and 2006 model year Chrysler 300C vehicles with 5.7- or 6.1-litre ‘HEMI’ V8 engines, the engine may stall after the vehicle is refuelled and when the vehicle is stationary or travelling at low speeds.
According to Chrysler’s response to the NHTSA investigation, the multifunction control valve (MFCV) fuel shut-off float that was integrated into 19-gallon fuel tanks could swell in a stuck open position, allowing the fuel tank to be overfilled. As a result of overfilling, fuel would enter into the purge line and could cause the engine to stall after refuelling. Chrysler’s investigation determined that the problem was related to dimensional changes/swelling of the float when it was exposed to fuels with high ethanol content. Chrysler and its supplier (Stant) developed new ‘fuel soak test requirements’ to prevent over-fuelling.
In the USA, Chrysler sent a letter to owners informing them that the warranty period on fuel tanks – which had to be replaced to fix the problem – was extended to lifetime coverage.
Chrysler LX 300C: Transmission Fluid Leaks
ln May 2005, Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 21-002-05 REV A was issued for 2005 Chrysler LX 300C vehicles with the NAG1 automatic transmission (sales code DGJ or DGU). In these vehicles, automatic transmission fluid (ATF) may weep or leak from the right front corner of the transmission oil pan due to failed O-rings at the electrical connector.
Despite the production years given above, it is understood that later models were also affected. Subsequent to the TSB being issued, it is recommended that the plug adapter be replaced in addition to the O-rings.
Chrysler LX 300C 3.5L V6: misfire or rough idle
In September 2006, Technical Service Bulletin 09-010-06 was issued for 2005-06 Chrysler LX 300C 3.5L V6 vehicles (engine code: EGG) due to multiple cylinder misfire or a rough idle.
Cause
The misfire may be caused by one or more of the engine’s exhaust valves which are slow to close due to a build-up of carbon on the valve stem – this may occur if the engine is not allowed to run at engine speeds above 3500 rpm. Low engine speeds and high carbon deposits are associated with short trip driving where the engine is not allowed to fully warm to normal engine operating temperatures. Furthermore, cold ambient temperatures increased engine warm-up time and increased the likelihood of carbon deposit build-up on the stem of the engine’s exhaust valves. Fuel detergent quality could also contribute to the problem.
Symptoms
In addition to the engine misfiring (or running rough), the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) may illuminate and Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0300 ‘Multiple Cylinder Misfire’ may be issued. Various single cylinder misfire DTCs may also be issued. If the frequency of the misfire was high, the powertrain control module was high, the engine may enter ‘Limp-In’ or ‘limp home’ mode.
Repair
To fix, the bulletin described the following procedure:
- The engine’s exhaust valves were to be rotated;
- The valve spring retainer locks were to be replaced with a new design that increased valve rotation at lower engine speeds;
- The MAP sensor was to be inspected and, if required, replaced; and,
- The combustion chamber was to be de-carbonised.
Chrysler LX 300C: unable to shift out of park
Chrysler issued ‘Customer Satisfaction Notification K39‘ regarding 2005-07 Chrysler LX 300C vehicles because the transmission gear shift lever interlock return spring hook could break. If the interlock return spring hook were to break, the driver may be unable to move the gear shift lever out of the ‘park’ position. To fix, the transmission shifter interlock lever was to be replaced. As per the notification letter, it was estimated that the replacement time would be about one hour.
Chrysler LX 300C: sagging rear bumper
In November 2005, Technical Service Bulletin 23-052-05 was issued for 2005-06 Chrysler LX 300C vehicles because the rear bumper may sag at the base of the tail-light. Some owners, however, report that the repair procedure described in the TSB did not fix the problem. For a discussion of this problem, see 300Cforums.com: Rear Fascia.
Chrysler LX 300C: tie rod bushings
For the Chrysler LX 300C, the tie rods are susceptible to premature wear; symptoms of worn or loose tie rods include:
- Front end clunk or snap on turns;
- Excessive free play in the steering wheel; and,
- Tyre cupping (uneven tyre wear with little scoops showing heavier wear).
The standard Chrysler replacement tie rods are the same as was originally installed and are also susceptible to premature failure. It is understood that more durable aftermarket replacements – such as those made by MOOG – are available. Please note that tie-rod wear is more prevalent on vehicles with larger wheels and lowered suspension.
Information about replacing tie-rod bushings is available at 300C Forums (inner tie rods) and LX Forums (inner and outer tie rods).
Chrysler 300C: Problems and faults
- For Chrysler 300C models with the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, the ‘oil warning’ light may illuminate or flicker due to its wire chafing on the air conditioner compressor pulley.
- The transmission solenoid/pressure switch may leak fluid, causing the ‘check engine’ light to illuminate and requiring the solenoid and electrical connector to be replaced.
- Vibrations that feel like driving over rumble strips – when driving at a steady speed – are caused by a defective transmission torque converter.
- Hot air from the air conditioner on start-up may require the manual control to be replaced.
- If the air conditioning became gradually warmer when driving in hot and humid conditions, the evaporator may ‘ice up’ and block airflow. This could be fixed by reprogramming the automatic temperature control unit.
- A software glitch could cause the air conditioning not to work on start-up when it already in the ‘on’ position, but would work when turned off and then on.
- The remote starter may not function due to a failed switch.
- Power steering additives containing Teflon could clog the filter in the fluid reservoir and should be avoided.
- The front floor may get wet due to a water leak in a cowl seam near the bonnet hinge(s).
- The ‘express up’ feature of the power windows may stop working due to defective window modules in the doors.
