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.

Biggest Strengths

Robust 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine
Comfortable and spacious ride
Distinctive, upscale styling and interior

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2012 Chrysler 300. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Electrical System (TIPM)major

Front Suspension Componentsmoderate

Transmission (Early 8-speed & 5-speed)moderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

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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