2012 Chrysler 300: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own

Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data

First 8-speed year and a TIPM-electrical low point, with stalling, no-start and alternator complaints. Appealing styling and power, but a higher-risk year that needs a thorough electrical check. 4 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2012 Chrysler 300 ranged from $27,470 to $47,470 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).

4/10
Mixed track record

First 8-speed year and a TIPM-electrical low point, with stalling, no-start and alternator complaints. Appealing styling and power, but a higher-risk year that needs a thorough electrical check.

Sources (6)
  • api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=chrysler&model=300&…
  • repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/chrysler/300
  • cargurus.comhttps://www.cargurus.com/research/articles/chrysler-300-buying-guide
  • rerev.comhttps://rerev.com/articles/chrysler-300-years-to-avoid/
  • carparts.comhttps://www.carparts.com/blog/chrysler-300-reliability-and-common-problems/
  • driveandreview.comhttps://www.driveandreview.com/chrysler-300-pros-and-cons/

Known issues

Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.

Sources (3)
  • api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=chrysler&model=300&…
  • api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=chrysler&model=300&…
  • carparts.comhttps://www.carparts.com/blog/chrysler-300-reliability-and-common-problems/

Recalls & safety

Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.

Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.

Pros & cons

Pros

  • Spacious, comfortable cabin with room for five and a large trunk, plus a relaxed, quiet highway ride.
  • Available 5.7L (and SRT 6.4L) HEMI V8 delivers strong, muscular acceleration and a satisfying exhaust note.
  • Bold, distinctive styling and genuine road presence that still stands out among full-size sedans.
  • Strong value: a lot of rear-wheel-drive (or available AWD) full-size car for the money, especially used.

Cons

  • Heavy curb weight and a high beltline with thick pillars hurt agility and outward visibility.
  • Electrical reliability is a known weak spot (TIPM, infotainment and accessory faults), heaviest on the early 2011-2014 cars.
  • Thirsty fuel economy, particularly with the HEMI V8; running costs are higher than a typical midsize sedan.
  • Aging platform and dated infotainment in later years, with interior plastics that can feel cheap in places.

Trims & original pricing

TrimOriginal base MSRPNew todayEngineMPG
Base $27,470 discontinued — —
Limited $32,470 discontinued — —
300S V6 $33,470 discontinued — —
300C $38,470 discontinued — —
300S V8 $39,470 discontinued — —
SRT8 $47,470 discontinued — —

Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.

Sources (1)
  • iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2012-chrysler-300-price

Cost to own

Repairs (rises with mileage)≈ $600–650/yr
Insurance (medium tier)≈ $1,900–2,000/yr
Expected lifespan~200k miles

National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.

Sources (3)

Frequently asked questions

What problems does the 2012 Chrysler 300 have?

Documented issue patterns include: TIPM (totally integrated power module) electrical failures: fuel-pump relay faults, random stalling, no-start and charging-system problems were the dominant complaint on the early redesigned cars, and replacement modules are expensive; Takata airbag inflator recall: front inflators can degrade and rupture on deployment and must be replaced under a free recall. Confirm completion before purchase; Eight-speed automatic (from 2012): harsh or erratic shifting, hesitation and a 'transmission not in Park' rollaway concern addressed by a software recall. Confirm the recall was completed and shifts are smooth; Early 3.6L Pentastar V6 cylinder-head issues: left-bank head ticking, misfires and lifter problems on some early engines, often appearing after warranty. Listen for a persistent top-end tick. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.

Is the 2012 Chrysler 300 reliable?

First 8-speed year and a TIPM-electrical low point, with stalling, no-start and alternator complaints. Appealing styling and power, but a higher-risk year that needs a thorough electrical check.

How much did the 2012 Chrysler 300 cost new?

Between $27,470 and $47,470 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.

Is the Chrysler 300 expensive to maintain?

Estimated repairs run roughly $600–650/year as mileage climbs.

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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.