Chrysler 300 II (LX2) (2011 – 2023)

Reliability score : 7.8/10

The second-generation Chrysler 300 (LX2) is a large American executive sedan, a technical cousin of the Dodge Charger. Launched in 2011 and facelifted in 2015, it is based on an evolution of the LX platform (whose origins date back to the DaimlerChrysler era). In continental Europe, it was briefly marketed under the name Lancia Thema (2011-2014), while it retained the Chrysler badge in the UK and Oceania. A true dinosaur of the modern automobile, it survived until 2023 by relying on its mafia/executive design, its ride comfort, and its large naturally aspirated engines. According to data from J.D. Power and the TÜV, its overall mechanical reliability is in the upper average of its segment, although it suffers from some finish shortcomings and electronic bugs.

✅ Strengths

Remarkable reliability of the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and the 8-speed ZF gearbox
General robustness of the 5.7L HEMI V8 block
High-level ride comfort and soundproofing
Intuitive and responsive Uconnect infotainment system
Generous interior space
Efficient and trouble-free all-wheel drive (AWD)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Quality of some interior plastics (hard and scratch-prone)
Minor electronic bugs (Uconnect screen freezing)
High fuel consumption of the V8 engines
Imposing size poorly suited to European roads
Hit-or-miss reliability of the 3.0 CRD diesel engine (Lancia Thema)
Almost non-existent maintenance network in Europe (requires a US specialist)

🎯 Verdict

The Chrysler 300 (Gen II) is an endearing sedan that offers an unbeatable price/performance/looks ratio on the used market. Mechanically, the gasoline versions are very solid, especially the Pentastar V6 coupled with the 8-speed ZF gearbox, which is the most rational and reliable choice. The HEMI V8 is robust but requires rigorous oil maintenance to preserve its lifters. The main black mark of the model lies in the astronomical amount of recalls (electronics, airbags, alternator): it is imperative to verify via the VIN that all fixes have been applied. Avoid the diesel engine (Lancia Thema) due to hit-or-miss reliability and prohibitive repair costs.

Common issues

Défaillance du TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 800 – 1 500 €

Vérifier les rappels et les symptômes électriques (démarrage, pompe à carburant) avant achat.

Fuite de la pompe à eau (moteurs 3.6L Pentastar) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 130 000 km

💶 400 – 700 €

Surveiller le niveau de liquide de refroidissement et la température moteur régulièrement.

Fuite du refroidisseur d'huile moteur (moteurs 3.6L Pentastar) Medium

🔧 90 000 – 160 000 km

💶 500 – 900 €

Inspecter régulièrement sous le véhicule pour des traces de fuites d'huile.

Usure des poussoirs et/ou arbres à cames (moteurs 5.7L Hemi) High

🔧 100 000 – 200 000 km

💶 2 000 – 4 000 €

Écouter attentivement le moteur pour tout cliquetis ou tic-tac anormal, surtout à froid.

Usure prématurée des composants de suspension (rotules, bras, bagues) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 120 000 km

💶 300 – 800 € par essieu

Tester la suspension sur route dégradée et vérifier l'usure des pneus.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 140
Timing chain	£600 – 1 200 (si remplacement nécessaire)
Complete brakes	£300 – 600
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.