2012 Chrysler 300 Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
2012 Chrysler 300
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 292–470HP
- Torque
- 260–470 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
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.
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 reportedUsage: 186 reports
2. Airbags
Usage: 81 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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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.