2012 Chrysler 300 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
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Quick Facts · 2012 Chrysler 300
- Has 9 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal:passenger side:inflator module.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2011 Chrysler 300 earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: electrical system (tipm) (major severity).
The 2012 Chrysler 300 at a glance
- Is the 2012 Chrysler 300 reliable?
- Autojunket rates the 2012 Chrysler 300 72/100 (grade C+), categorized as moderate risk. A comfortable, stylish sedan that requires careful consideration and proactive maintenance to mitigate known trouble spots.
- Should I buy a used 2012 Chrysler 300?
- Autojunket recommends reading the full reliability report before buying a 2012 Chrysler 300. The 2012 Chrysler 300 offers undeniable appeal with its striking looks, comfortable ride, and powerful engines, but it's not a set-it-and-forget-it vehicle. You can enjoy reliable ownership if you are proactive about its known electrical and suspension weaknesses, understand the maintenance demands, and budget for p…
- Which Chrysler 300 years are the most reliable?
- Best model years to buy: 2012 (V6 with 8-speed), 2015-2017 (later models with refinements). Years to avoid: 2005-2007 (early 1st generation had more prevalent issues, particularly with interior quality and some mechanicals).
- What are the most common problems with the 2012 Chrysler 300?
- The top failure points on the 2012 Chrysler 300 are Electrical System (TIPM) (typically around 60,000-100,000 miles), Front Suspension Components (typically around 40,000-80,000 miles), Transmission (Early 8-speed & 5-speed) (typically around 70,000-120,000 miles). Autojunket's full report includes repair-cost ranges and inspection checklists for each.
- At what mileage do problems start on the 2012 Chrysler 300?
- The first major mileage danger zone for the 2012 Chrysler 300 is around 30,000. Low Risk Zone — Primarily routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. Early electrical gremlins might show up if they're going to, often related to software.
Every answer is generated from real repair, recall, and ownership data — full breakdown in the report.
Read the full free reportShould You Buy the 2012 Chrysler 300?
The 2012 Chrysler 300 offers an intriguing blend of style, comfort, and performance for the money, but it demands an owner who is proactive with maintenance and aware of its inherent electrical and suspension vulnerabilities. While generally a solid platform, don't mistake its luxury pretensions for bulletproof reliability, as certain components can lead to frustrating and moderately expensive repairs if neglected. It's a capable cruiser, but requires diligent care to truly be a reliable long-term companion.
The 2012 Chrysler 300 offers undeniable appeal with its striking looks, comfortable ride, and powerful engines, but it's not a set-it-and-forget-it vehicle. You can enjoy reliable ownership if you are proactive about its known electrical and suspension weaknesses, understand the maintenance demands, and budget for p…
Best Model Years
2012 (V6 with 8-speed), 2015-2017 (later models with refinements)
Years to Avoid
2005-2007 (early 1st generation had more prevalent issues, particularly with interior quality and some mechanicals)
Biggest Strengths
- Robust 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine
- Comfortable and spacious ride
- Distinctive, upscale styling and interior
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2012 Chrysler 300, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) can fail, leading to sporadic operation of fuel pump, headlights, wipers, power windows, or even non-start conditions, often due to internal circuit board issues or software glitches.
The weight of the vehicle, particularly with larger engines, puts significant stress on front suspension components like control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends, leading to premature wear, clunks, and poor handling.
While the 8-speed (V6) is generally robust, early versions could suffer from software glitches causing harsh shifts or engagement issues. The 5-speed (V8) is older, prone to solenoid issues or delayed engagement with age.
2012 Chrysler 300 Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2012 Chrysler 300 most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
Primarily routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations. Early electrical gremlins might show up if they're going to, often related to software.
Maintenance Zone
Expect to replace brake pads and rotors, potentially address worn front suspension components like sway bar links. Check for V6 oil cooler leaks.
Elevated Risk Zone
Front lower control arm bushings are highly likely to need replacement. Transmission fluid service is critical. Be vigilant for TIPM-related electrical issues or early signs of V8 MDS lifter wear.
High Risk Zone
This is where major component failures become a higher possibility. Hemi V8s could experience costly MDS lifter/camshaft wear. Transmission overhaul may be needed if not properly serviced. Continued vigilance for electrical system and su…
2012 Chrysler 300 Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2012 Chrysler 300 on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 2012 Chrysler 300 Last?
The 2012 Chrysler 300 can reliably serve well beyond 150,000 miles with diligent maintenance, but be prepared for increasing suspension and electrical component replacements past the 90,000-mile mark.
What 2012 Chrysler 300 Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Bold, distinctive styling and imposing road presence.
- Comfortable, quiet ride that soaks up bumps well for relaxed cruising.
- Powerful engine options, especially the exhilarating Hemi V8.
- Spacious interior and trunk, making it great for passengers and luggage.
Common Frustrations
- Frustrating electrical gremlins (TIPM), leading to unpredictable malfunctions.
- High fuel consumption, particularly with the Hemi V8 engine.
- Premature brake wear, requiring more frequent pad and rotor replacements.
- Relatively early development of clunks and rattles from front suspension components.
Who Should Buy the 2012 Chrysler 300?
Best For
- Value-conscious buyers looking for a full-size, near-luxury sedan.
- Highway commuters appreciating comfort and stable handling on long drives.
- Enthusiasts desiring American muscle and rear-wheel-drive dynamics (Hemi V8).
Not Ideal For
- Budget-tight owners due to potential costly unexpected repairs.
- Those seeking ultimate, trouble-free reliability from their vehicle.
How the 2012 Chrysler 300 Compares to Rivals
The 300 offers a distinct blend of American luxury and muscle with a nod to its German heritage, providing a more engaging drive than some domestic rivals but often falling short of Japanese long-term reliability benchmarks.
More Reliable Than
- Ford Taurus (earlier models with 3.5L engine issues)
- Cadillac DTS (older platform, more complex systems)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Impala (similar comfort, different style)
- Dodge Charger (its platform mate)
NHTSA Recalls
9 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2010 Dodge Ram 3500, Ram 4500/5500, 2010-2011 Dodge Dakota, 2010-2014 Dodge Challenger, 2010-2015 Dodge Challenger, Chrysler 300, and 2010-2016 Jeep Wrangler vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, Dodge Durango, and 2012-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles. The affected vehicles have electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) and are equipped with a 5.7L or a 3.6L engine and a 160, 180 or 220 amp alternator. In the affected vehicles, the alternator may suddenly fail.
What breaks on the 2012 Chrysler 300?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Chrysler 300 by Year
Compare AutoScores across nearby years of the Chrysler 300. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by AutoScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2012 Chrysler 300
Parts and accessories matched to your 2012 Chrysler 300
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Where the 2012 Chrysler 300 report beats Carfax + CR
Carfax tells you if it crashed. Consumer Reports rates the whole nameplate. Autojunket tells you what will actually break on this specific year — and how to negotiate it.
Year-specific reliability score
Common problems + repair costs
Mileage danger zone map
AI negotiation script + walk-away price
Single report price
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Sell your 2012 Chrysler 300 for what it's actually worth.
Log every service on your Chrysler 300. When it's time to sell, hand the buyer a signed PDF — every receipt, mileage-verified, close the deal at your price.
- OSC Transfer PDF — every receipt
- Snap-a-receipt AI log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Shareable buyer view link
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