Despite being a performance-oriented car, with one of the most powerful engines available in a domestically manufactured sedan, the Chrysler 300C has a bevy of transmission-related problems. They range in seriousness from excessive vibration to the entire car switching off in mid-cruise. Chrysler dealerships haven't always had the best reputation for fixing problems under warranty, so it is probably worth thinking twice before buying a fully loaded, HEMI- equipped version of this automaker's flagship sedan.
Due to the enormous size (5.7 liter displacement) of the 300C's engine, the air conditioning condenser and transmission are in close proximity under the hood. This means that a perfect storm of quick temperature changes and heavy a/c usage can lead to water vapors contaminating the transmission fluid. This is a serious problem that may require a replacement transmission. Unfortunately, the 300C does not have a dipstick to check transmission fluid.
Some 300C owners have complained of the car not being able to shift out of park, shifting into neutral inexplicably on the freeway or not shifting beyond second gear. Some drivers report their 300C won't even shift out of park. This problem can usually be solved by replacing a small plastic clip inside the shifter assembly.
One owner of a 2005 300C inspects the underside of the car every 3000 miles because of transmission fluid leaking onto the ground. It is also sealed shut so you cannot add replacement transmission fluid. If this leaking continues without being fixed, it can lead to the transmission shifting out of the appropriate gear at random.
