The Good
The 2004 Chrysler 300M offers a comfortable ride and a stylish design that still turns heads. Its powerful V6 engine provides satisfying performance. For the practical buyer, it boasts a spacious interior and decent fuel economy for its class. Emotionally, its luxurious feel at an affordable price is appealing.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 2004 Chrysler 300M include potential transmission issues, electrical problems, and some concerns about the reliability of certain engine components. Owners should watch out for oil leaks, overheating, and any unusual noises from the transmission or engine. Rust can also be a factor in some regions.
2004 Chrysler 300M: Quick Overview
Key specs for the 2004 Chrysler 300M:
- Engine Options:
- 3.5L High Output V6
- Horsepower:
- 250 hp @ 6400 rpm
- Fuel Economy (MPG):
- City: 17-18
- Highway: 25-27
- 0-60 mph Time:
- Around 7.8-8.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Not Recommended/Not Officially Rated
- Trim Level Features:
- Base 300M: Leather seats, power driver's seat, automatic climate control, premium sound system, alloy wheels, power windows/locks/mirrors.
- 300M Special: Performance-tuned suspension, performance-tuned steering, premium leather seating, unique interior trim, performance exhaust, wider tires, firmer seats, auto-adjusting mirrors when in reverse, high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps. Some came with optional sunroof.
2004 Chrysler 300M Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | Chrysler |
| Model | 300M |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Large Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | BRAMPTON |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3581 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 56.00 inches |
| Overall Length | 197.80 inches |
| Overall Width | 74.40 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 113.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.5-L V-6 SOHC 24V |
| Engine Size | 3.5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $30,745 |
| Invoice Price | $28,552 |
| Delivery Charges | $680 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 Chrysler 300M Have?
Recalls for the 300M series, including the 2004 model, have addressed issues such as potential airbag deployment problems and concerns with the anti-lock braking system (ABS). It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA to determine if all applicable recalls have been addressed.
Long-term reliability concerns center on the longevity of the transmission and the potential for costly repairs. The front-wheel-drive configuration can also lead to increased wear on suspension components over time. Some owners have reported issues with the blend door actuator in the climate control system, resulting in inconsistent temperature control. While specific model year variations aren't dramatically different, earlier model years within the 300M's production run may exhibit more wear and tear simply due to age and mileage.
How long will the 2004 Chrysler 300M last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech and Entertainment: Standard features included a premium AM/FM stereo with a CD player and cassette player. Some models included an optional Infinity sound system upgrade. Automatic climate control was standard. There was no built-in navigation system available at the time.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It included features like cruise control and automatic headlights.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included anti-lock brakes (ABS), front airbags, and side airbags (optional). Traction control was also available.
Crash Test Ratings: The 2004 Chrysler 300M received good crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for frontal impacts. The IIHS rated it "Good" in the moderate overlap front test, which was the highest rating at the time. NHTSA gave it 5 stars for driver and passenger protection in frontal crashes, and 4 stars for side impacts.
It's important to note that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2004, so while it was considered safe for its time, it lacks many of the modern safety features found in newer vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2004 Chrysler 300M Prices and Market Value
2004 Chrysler 300M Cost of Ownership
2004 Chrysler 300M Fuel Efficiency
2004 Chrysler 300M Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2004 Chrysler 300M Recalls & Defects
Latches/Locks/Linkages:hood:latch
Exterior Lighting
2004 Chrysler 300M Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2004 Chrysler 300M Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2004 Chrysler 300M Compare to Other Sedan?
Reliability is where the 300M fell short compared to the Toyota Avalon and Buick LeSabre, both known for their dependability. The Ford Taurus offered similar reliability, but lacked the 300M's styling flair.
Price-wise, the 300M was competitive when new, but its rapid depreciation makes it a very affordable used option today.
Alternatives: If reliability is a major concern, a Toyota Avalon or Buick LeSabre would be a better choice, albeit with a more conservative styling. The Acura TL of the same era offers similar luxury and performance with potentially better reliability (though maintenance can be pricier). If styling is a priority, a used Acura TL can be considered.
Ranks #2186 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 2186 | 2004 Chrysler 300M | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Chrysler 300M a Good Sedan?
Miogeta on November 3, 2019
Good up till 170k milesIs a really comfortable and good car however I bought it used and it has required many repairs. In the 2 years I have owned it I have had to do repair after repair. Totaling around 6k extra dollars and it still has clutch problems.
JEG300M on September 23, 2019
MOST RELIABLE CAR I OWNEDBOUGHT THIS CAR FOR MY SON GOING TO COLLEGE 3 YEARS AGO. HE THEN GRADUATED AND PURCHASED HIS OWN CAR. HE SAID WHAT HE MISSED ABOUT THE CAR IS ITS INCREDIBLE SURROUND SOUND.
Good on August 7, 2018
An Excellent choice Overall. Great Price.Meets all -Comfort, Performance, Exterior Styling, Interior Styling, Value and Reliability. All in 1. Meets all -Comfort, Performance, Exterior Styling, Interior Styling, Value and Reliability. All in 1.
Kenny romine on July 10, 2018
Love this car!Just an all around great car. Comfortable, looks awesome, price was great. I'd buy a newer one if they still made it but I'll probably get the 2018 300c when the time comes for a new car.
JustPaul on April 13, 2018
Owned 3 of this model 2000, 02, 04 great carThese cars are comfortable and are reliable. Good european look. Nicely appointed interior. I purchased two after the original one was in an accident. The other was the replacement for the wife and the third for me.
InfernoRed04 on November 2, 2017
I love my 300MBought this car used with a whopping 180,000 on it. Had to do a few things, mainly replace the whole exhaust, also a wheel bearing, and all new rotors. All that said I love the car, plenty of performance for a FWD, really comfortable, and a bunch of quirks that you know where top of the line at the time. Love the car and feel as though it's got a whole lot more miles to go.
Smooth Rider Fan on April 17, 2015
Excellent ride and handlingPurchased this car with 98k on the odometer. Ran great on the test drive and for about 3 weeks into ownership. now 1500 miles later I have an check engine light flashing and rough running when accelerating at highway speeds (code P0340) and an air bag light that randomly comes on for about 24 to 36 hours at a time then goes off. The ride is fantastic and hopefully once I replace the crank sensor it will take care of the misfire P0340 code. If not, it still has 1500 miles left on the warranty so back to the dealer for a timing belt replacement. All in all I love driving this vehicle.
WindDoc on January 4, 2013
Nice cruiser that still likes curvesBought my 300M three years ago, with only 40K on it, now has 82K, and it's been a great car. I have long legs and this car is big enough for me, and it's a fine high speed cruiser. I live in a very hilly area and the handling is really surprising for such a big car. By 2013 standards, it's really a lightweight at only 3600 lbs. I even entered it into a gas mileage contest, driving around the Watkins Glen racetrack for 85 mi. and averaged 45 MPH and got 42.3 MPG! (I also had my H2 generator working). HWY mileage at 75-80 MPH is closer to 27 MPG. Only had to put in an O2 and cam sensor. Brakes are among the best I've had, no fade and long life. I've even driven it around an icy racetrack on one of the Finger lakes, but since the wheelbase is too long I couldn't enter into any official races. FWD needs a different technique to get the tail to rotate into a turn! I would recommend to friends.
MARCELLO on August 30, 2011
CHRYSLER 300M IS OUTSTANDING!I have owned a Chrysler 300M for several years and recently considered trading it for a 300 - NOT! The 300M is much more sophisticated compared to the Germanic designed 300. The interior is designed for the occupants, not Hitler's SS. The exterior is understated, not obnoxiously aggressive like the Hitler Field Marshall grille on the 300. When Lutz left Chrysler to Daimler-Benz he left a legacy of innovative American design that was polluted by Daimler-Benz. One can only hope that Fiat, the new owner, with a history of creative design, will be more successful.
retired military on February 22, 2011
very reliable carvery good car for the money, reliable, great gas performace, comfortable seating, nice interior, and great looking car
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma