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Chrysler · Known Issues

2006 Chrysler 300 Problems: 5 Known Issues

2006 model year · 1,030+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,030+ owner reports, the 2006 Chrysler 300 has 5 documented known issues. None of the listed issues is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. The most commonly reported issue is 5.7L HEMI Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure with 350 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $5 to $1,800. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • 300 Engine1
  • 300 Suspension1
  • 300 Transmission1
  • 300 Interior1
  • 300 Emissions1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Suspension1
  • Transmission1
  • Interior1
  • Emissions1
  • Recalls6
  • FAQ

All 5 Known Issues

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Community reported
350 owners

On the 2005-2023 Chrysler 300 5.7L HEMI V8, the 5.7L HEMI is notorious for exhaust manifold bolts breaking, especially on the passenger side. Thermal cycling causes bolts to become brittle and snap. Creates a ticking noise at cold startup that partially diminishes as engine warms but never fully goes away. Broken bolts can be extremely difficult to extract if snapped flush with the cylinder head.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 200, Chrysler Aspen, Dodge Challenger

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking or exhaust leak noise at cold startup
  • Noise diminishes as engine warms but doesn't fully disappear
  • Visible exhaust soot around manifold flanges
  • Failed emissions inspection
  • Exhaust smell in engine bay

How to Fix

Extract broken bolts using ProMAXX drill template tool kit (PMXA200PROP) to safely extract without damaging cylinder head. Replace with upgraded Grade 8 double-ended studs and nuts instead of bolts. Apply anti-seize compound on new hardware. Consider Hooker Blackheart stainless replacement manifolds for a permanent upgrade on high-mileage vehicles.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $1,500

Research This Issue

Based on 350 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence350 owner reportsLast reported by owners Nov 2025Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
280 owners

On the 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, first-generation Chrysler 300 models suffer from extremely rapid front suspension wear including tension struts (radius arms), inner and outer tie rods, lower control arm bushings, and sway bar end links. Bushings typically worn by 45,000-60,000 miles. This is a known endemic problem across all LX-platform vehicles (300, Charger, Magnum, Challenger).

This issue also affects: Chrysler 300M, Chrysler Aspen, Chrysler LHS

Common Symptoms

  • Clunking or thumping noise from front end over bumps
  • Loose or wandering steering
  • Uneven tire wear
  • Front end feels like it's collapsing over sharp bumps
  • Sway bar clunking in turns

How to Fix

Replace tension struts, lower control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and sway bar end links as a complete set. Use quality aftermarket parts from Moog. Alignment required after repair. Inspect rear suspension cradle bushings simultaneously as they often wear at the same rate.

Typical repair cost:$600 - $1,800

Research This Issue

Based on 280 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence280 owner reportsLast reported by owners Aug 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
220 owners

On the 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, a small plastic clip in the shifter mechanism breaks, causing the vehicle to become stuck in Park. Known design flaw in the first-generation LX platform vehicles. The clip is inexpensive but causes a completely disabled vehicle when it fails. Emergency brake override button near shifter can bypass the issue temporarily.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300M, Chrysler Cirrus

Common Symptoms

  • Vehicle stuck in Park, unable to shift
  • Shifter feels loose or has excessive play
  • Intermittent difficulty shifting from Park
  • Clicking sound when trying to shift out of Park

How to Fix

Replace broken shifter clip (Mopar 4578446AA). Accessible by removing center console trim. Keep a spare clip in the glove box. Know the location of the brake override release near the shifter for emergency bypass.

Typical repair cost:$5 - $150

Research This Issue

Based on 220 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence220 owner reportsLast reported by owners Jun 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
180 owners

On the 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, the dashboard pad on first-generation Chrysler 300 models warps and sinks, particularly near the driver's side defroster vent. The material deteriorates from UV exposure and heat cycling, becoming sticky or tacky in hot climates. Chrysler refused to address under warranty, stating it meets commercial standards.

This issue also affects: Dodge Ram 1500

Common Symptoms

  • Dashboard sinking near defroster vents
  • Visible gap between dashboard and windshield trim
  • Dashboard surface becoming sticky or tacky in hot climates
  • Warped or distorted dashboard appearance

How to Fix

Install aftermarket dash cover (DashMat is most popular) or replace entire dashboard. Park in shade and use windshield sunshade to slow deterioration. No OEM recall or fix available.

Typical repair cost:$50 - $1,500

Research This Issue

Based on 180 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence180 owner reportsLast reported by owners May 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2005-2023 Chrysler 300, the Chrysler 300 uses Chrysler's proprietary natural-vacuum leak detection hardware instead of a conventional pressure-based leak detection pump. On 2005-2006 cars this is the NVLD (Natural Vacuum Leak Detection) valve/solenoid; from 2007 onward it is the ESIM (Evaporative System Integrity Monitor), a small spring-and-diaphragm switch mounted on or next to the charcoal/vapor canister on the left underbody ahead of the fuel tank. Both work the same way: as the sealed EVAP system heats and cools, natural pressure/vacuum changes trip an internal switch the PCM reads to confirm the system is sealed. The diaphragm seal inside the NVLD/ESIM is a well-documented high-failure item — it stiffens, sticks, or loses its seal with age, so the PCM can no longer verify integrity and falsely reports a leak. The result is a check-engine light with P0456 (small leak, ~0.020 in.), P0455 (large leak), or P0457 (interpreted as loose/missing cap), even when the fuel system is actually sealed. Because the code wording points at the gas cap, this is very commonly misdiagnosed: owners and shops replace the cap (and often the purge valve and canister) repeatedly before discovering the NVLD/ESIM itself is the culprit. One 2012 300 SRT owner reported eight dealer visits — the ESIM and its seal replaced twice, plus a new filler neck, purge valve, and charcoal canister — before the leak code was resolved. The fault is an emissions/MIL issue only: it does not affect drivability or engine longevity, but it will fail an emissions/smog inspection and on some model years can disable remote start until cleared. A faint fuel-vapor smell is occasionally reported when an actual leak is present.

This issue also affects: Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300M, Chrysler Aspen

Common Symptoms

  • Check engine light / MIL on with no drivability change
  • Stored EVAP leak codes P0455, P0456, and/or P0457
  • Dashboard or message-center warning that the gas cap is loose/off even when it is tight
  • Repeat check-engine light after replacing the gas cap
  • Failed state emissions / smog inspection
  • Remote start disabled until the code is cleared (some model years)
  • Occasional faint fuel-vapor smell near the tank/filler when an actual leak is present

How to Fix

Always start with the cheapest checks: tighten the fuel cap fully (listen for clicks), inspect the cap's O-ring seal, and replace a cracked/old cap with a genuine Mopar cap, then clear the code and drive several drive cycles. If the code returns, have a shop perform an EVAP smoke test — but note the small-leak verification monitor can fail even when a smoke test passes (some hairline EVAP-line cracks only open under vacuum, sealing under the positive pressure of a smoke machine). Inspect the EVAP lines and the purge valve/solenoid for cracks. If the cap, lines, and purge valve are good, replace the NVLD valve (2005-2006) or the ESIM (2007+); the ESIM is the common Mopar service part (e.g., P/N 4861959AD), typically about $40-$60 OEM ($20-$50 aftermarket), and unbolts from the canister with a few hand tools — a DIY-friendly job. On early cars where the NVLD/ESIM is integrated and sold only with the charcoal canister assembly, expect a higher parts cost. After replacement, clear the codes and complete the EVAP drive-cycle/monitor before re-testing for emissions. Total at a shop generally runs from roughly $150 (ESIM swap with labor) up to the $417-$476 range if a full vapor/charcoal canister assembly is needed.

Typical repair cost:$40 - $476

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
NHTSA Recalls6 recalls

TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor battery may fail prematurely and cause the sensor to become inoperative. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."

Campaign #22V50400014/07/2022

TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS

Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2022 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor battery may fail prematurely and cause the sensor to become inoperative. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."

Campaign #22V80800027/10/2022

VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Dodge Challenger, Dodge Charger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 212, "Windshield Mounting."

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chrysler 300 problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,030+ owner reports, the 2006 Chrysler 300 has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 5.7L HEMI Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure, Front Suspension Premature Wear (LX Platform), Shifter Clip Failure - Vehicle Stuck in Park. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.

Is the Chrysler 300 reliable?

The 2006 Chrysler 300 has 5 known issues documented across 1,030+ owner reports. None of the matching records is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Chrysler 300 problems?

Repair costs for known Chrysler 300 issues range from $5 to $1,800, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2005-2023 Chrysler 300 5.7L HEMI Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure?

The 5.7L HEMI is notorious for exhaust manifold bolts breaking, especially on the passenger side. Thermal cycling causes bolts to become brittle and snap. Creates a ticking noise at cold startup that partially diminishes as engine warms but never fully goes away. Broken bolts can… Repairs typically run $400-$1,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2005-2010 Chrysler 300 Front Suspension Premature Wear (LX Platform)?

First-generation Chrysler 300 models suffer from extremely rapid front suspension wear including tension struts (radius arms), inner and outer tie rods, lower control arm bushings, and sway bar end links. Bushings typically worn by 45,000-60,000 miles. This is a known endemic pro… Repairs typically run $600-$1,800. Severity: medium.

What is the 2005-2010 Chrysler 300 Shifter Clip Failure - Vehicle Stuck in Park?

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 1,030+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #21V51600008/07/2021

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) (Stellantis) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The right and left side curtain air bag inflators may rupture due to a manufacturing defect.

Campaign #24V19800014/03/2024

PARKING BRAKE

Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2023 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Challenger vehicles. The parking brake may be improperly adjusted, which can result in a vehicle roll away. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."

Campaign #24V11200015/02/2024

+ 1 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

A small plastic clip in the shifter mechanism breaks, causing the vehicle to become stuck in Park. Known design flaw in the first-generation LX platform vehicles. The clip is inexpensive but causes a completely disabled vehicle when it fails. Emergency brake override button near… Repairs typically run $5-$150. Severity: medium.

What is the 2005-2010 Chrysler 300 Dashboard Warping and Deterioration?

The dashboard pad on first-generation Chrysler 300 models warps and sinks, particularly near the driver's side defroster vent. The material deteriorates from UV exposure and heat cycling, becoming sticky or tacky in hot climates. Chrysler refused to address under warranty, statin… Repairs typically run $50-$1,500. Severity: low.

What is the 2005-2023 Chrysler 300 EVAP Leak Detection (NVLD/ESIM) Failure Triggers P0455/P0456 — Often Misdiagnosed as a Bad Gas Cap?

The Chrysler 300 uses Chrysler's proprietary natural-vacuum leak detection hardware instead of a conventional pressure-based leak detection pump. On 2005-2006 cars this is the NVLD (Natural Vacuum Leak Detection) valve/solenoid; from 2007 onward it is the ESIM (Evaporative System… Repairs typically run $40-$476. Severity: low.