IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2008 Chrysler 300C

The 2008 facelift brought a refreshed exterior with new grille and lights, a much-improved interior with soft-touch materials, and the addition of an SRT-Design diesel variant. The 3.5-litre V6 petrol was dropped from the range.

What changed for 2008

  • •Facelifted exterior with new grille and rear lights
  • •Upgraded interior with soft-touch materials and touch-button ignition
  • •SRT-Design diesel variant introduced
  • •3.5-litre V6 petrol dropped

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Suspension wear from heavy kerb weight
  • !Swirl motor failure on 3.0 CRD models
  • !Electrical glitches with new infotainment
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2008 period has 2 more issues than the Chrysler 300C average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Swirl Motor Failure (3.0 CRD)

SeriousEngine

Oil leaks from the turbocharger intake pipe can drip directly onto the swirl flap motor located in the "V" of the engine, causing it to short out and put the car into limp mode.

Most affected: 3.0 CRD Diesel

Estimated cost: £400–£700Affects: 2005–2010

Typical symptoms

  • •Limp mode (limited power)
  • •Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) light
  • •Engine management light

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for oil residue around the turbo inlet
  • ✓Ask if a "resistor mod" or swirl motor bypass has been fitted

Suspension Bush & Ball Joint Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The 300C is a very heavy car, and its suspension components (derived from the Mercedes W211) take a beating on UK roads. Ball joints and control arm bushes often last less than 40,000 miles.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £300–£800Affects: 2005–2015

Typical symptoms

  • •Knocking over speed bumps
  • •Vague steering
  • •Uneven tyre wear

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Service history for suspension work
  • ✓Listen for knocks during test drive
  • ✓Inspect front tyres for inner edge wear

Alternator Failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The alternator is prone to premature failure, often caused by diesel fuel dripping onto it from cracking rubber fuel hoses. The earth cable can also corrode, leaving the car unable to start.

Most affected: 3.0 CRD Diesel

Estimated cost: £300–£700Affects: 2005–2015Often appears around: 50,000–100,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Battery warning light
  • •Car failing to start
  • •Dimming lights
  • •Electrical glitches

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the alternator output voltage
  • ✓Inspect fuel hoses near the alternator for leaks
  • ✓Check the earth cable for corrosion

Buying Tips for the 2008 Chrysler 300C

  • ✓The facelift models have significantly better interiors and slightly improved electrical reliability
  • ✓Check for the "red lightning bolt" warning light on diesels
  • ✓Touring estate versions are practical but check the self-levelling rear suspension
2006–2007 Chrysler 300C2009–2010 Chrysler 300C

Browse 2008 Chrysler 300C in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2008 Chrysler 300C vehicles.

View 2008 Directory

Other Chrysler 300C Year Periods

20052006–200720082009–2010201120122013–2015

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