Is the 2012 Chrysler 300 reliable?

It can be reliable with consistent maintenance, and many reach high mileage, but it has a known pattern of electrical issues and wear items that buyers should budget for and inspect carefully.

What are the most common 2012 Chrysler 300 problems?

Common issues include battery drain/charging problems, TIPM-related electrical faults, front suspension wear (clunks, vibration, tire wear), and on some V8 cars, valvetrain noise when oil changes were neglected.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2012 Chrysler 300?

Costs are typically moderate for a full-size sedan, but repairs can rise if electrical modules, charging components, or multiple suspension parts need replacement at the same time.

What are the best years of the Chrysler 300 to buy?

Many buyers prefer later second-generation years with updated features and refinements, but condition and service history matter more than the exact year—choose the best-maintained example you can find.

What should I check before buying a used 2012 Chrysler 300?

Verify a clean maintenance history, test all electronics (lights, locks, infotainment), check for warning lights, confirm smooth transmission shifting, inspect suspension for noise and uneven tire wear, and have the charging system and battery tested. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and the recommended maintenance schedule to keep your 2012 Chrysler 300 running at its best.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2012 Chrysler 300 Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

72/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable, stylish sedan that requires careful consideration and proactive maintenance to mitigate known trouble spots.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

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).

Should 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.

Electrical System (TIPM)major~60,000-100,000 mi

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.

Front Suspension Componentsmoderate~40,000-80,000 mi

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.

Transmission (Early 8-speed & 5-speed)moderate~70,000-120,000 mi

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.

Full repair-cost ranges, fix-before-you-buy notes, and inspection checklists are in the report.

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.

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.

60,000

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.

90,000

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.

120,000+

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 KeepScores across nearby years of the Chrysler 300. Click any year for its full report.

All Chrysler 300 years ranked →Chrysler 300 years to avoid →Chrysler 300 common problems →

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Frequently Asked Questions

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