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2012 Chrysler 300 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·5 Critical Recalls
2012 Chrysler 300 Report

Overall Score

5.5/ 10
Our Verdict
High risk

Key Takeaways

  • Significant concerns exist regarding the electrical system, particularly alternator failures that can lead to sudden vehicle shutdown.
  • The airbag system is a point of concern, with multiple recalls and a notable number of complaints.
  • While offering robust V8 power, the powertrain and engine systems have also generated a substantial number of owner complaints.
  • The vehicle achieved strong NHTSA safety ratings, with 5 stars overall, 5 for frontal and side crashes, and 4 for rollover.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2012 Chrysler 300

The 2012 Chrysler 300 is a full-size sedan that commands attention with its bold styling and available powerful V8 engines. It offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a statement vehicle. However, its below-average reliability verdict, underscored by a high volume of complaints and numerous recalls, necessitates careful consideration for used car shoppers. The most prevalent issues center on the electrical system, including alternator failures, and potential problems with airbags and the powertrain.

Critical Failure Risk

Alternator failures are a significant concern, leading to battery drain and potential vehicle shutdown. This issue is frequently cited in complaints and recalls.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$3,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls10
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

616
Electrical System186
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Horsepower
292–470HP
Torque
260–470 lb–ftLB-FT
Fuel Efficiency
Combined
19
MPG
City
16
MPG
Highway
25
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

3.5/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers who prioritize bold styling and V8 power over long-term mechanical predictability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a low-maintenance, highly reliable daily driver.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Chrysler 300 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Chrysler 300.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Midgrade
Seating Capacity
5
Horsepower
292-470 hp
Torque
260-470 lb-ft
Transmission
Automatic 5-spd
Drivetrain
Rear-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
MSRP Range
$27,470 - $49,325
EPA Combined MPG
19

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Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 186 reports

2. Airbags

Usage: 81 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

5,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
10 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2012 Chrysler 300 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Chrysler 300 is 3.5/10. Reliability score is 3.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 10. Owner complaints: 616.

How practical is the 2012 Chrysler 300 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 462 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Chrysler 300 is 5.5/10. Overall score is 5.5/10 (Mixed). Confidence 82%. Maintenance 7.6/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 5,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Alternator (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

MSRP range is $27,470 - $49,325.

What engine is in the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

Engine specs list V6, V8 • 8 • 5.7. Output is 292-470 hp • 260-470 lb-ft.

What transmission does the 2012 Chrysler 300 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chrysler 300, transmission is Automatic 5-spd. The paired drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2012 300 require Midgrade gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Midgrade.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What is the fuel economy range for the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chrysler 300, fuel economy range is 13-31 mpg combined.

How many people fit in a 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chrysler 300, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chrysler 300, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Chrysler 300 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Chrysler 300, drivetrain is Rear-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 5-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (186 reports, 30.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

This model year has 10 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Chrysler 300?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Ford Taurus and 2012 Chevrolet Impala.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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