Valve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2005 Chrysler 300 engine problems
moderate 105 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100 · see engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
105
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
1crash
1fire
When does it fail?
Of the 105 engine complaints filed for the 2005 Chrysler 300, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 105 engine complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Among the 13 model years of Chrysler 300 in our records for engine problems, this one ranks #2 by owner-complaint volume.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
NAG1 (5A580) Valve Body As per Warranty Bulletin D-13-22, please use R2108213A$ valve body for all Warranty (W), Mopar (M) and Mopar Vehicle Protection (F) claims.~ Assembly also includes Filter (52108325AA) and Gasket (52108332AA).~
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Part Description: 5.7L Long Block Issue Description: This 5.7L Long Block Assembly is compatible with both EGR and Non-EGR applications. An EGR Block-Off Plate (53032739AA) must be ordered when installing this Long Block Assembly in a Non-EGR application. Unless, the EGR Block-Off Plate is being transferred from the old engine.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Part Description: 5.7L Long Block Issue Description: This 5.7L Long Block Assembly is compatible with both EGR and Non-EGR applications. An EGR Block-Off Plate (53032739AA) must be ordered when installing this Long Block Assembly in a Non-EGR application. Unless, the EGR Block-Off Plate is being transferred from the old engine.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Part Description: Valve Body Assembly Issue Description: Valve body design was changed between 2010MY and 2011MY applications. To prevent mix matching valve bodies and solenoid packs the connectors are color coded.~ Valve bodies with a white connector can be used on 2010, 2009, 2008..., model years. Valve bodies with a gray connector can only be used on 2011, 2012, 2013..., model years.~ Solenoid packs with a white connector are used with 2010, 2009, 2008..., model years. Solenoid packs with a gray connector are used with 2011, 2012, 2013..., model years.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2005 Chrysler 300 engine problems cluster heavily around three distinct failure patterns. First is post-refueling stalling: engine dies 2–5 minutes after filling the tank, restarts rough and runs poorly for 1–2 miles. Owners report this happens repeatedly after each fill-up, creating serious traffic hazards when the vehicle stalls mid-intersection. The second pattern is unexplained stalling while driving at random—at stop signs, highway speeds, or traffic lights—causing complete power loss including steering and brakes. These stalls often recur multiple times per trip and dealerships consistently fail to reproduce them, leaving owners stranded. Third is catastrophic engine failure: sudden timing chain breakage, valve seat collapse, or complete loss of compression, sometimes with white smoke and loud bangs. A subset of owners report persistent ticking from day one on new vehicles that dealers dismiss as oil-related. Others encounter rough idle, throttle stickiness, or power loss during acceleration. Repair costs run $1,500–$8,000, and manufacturers have been quoted instructing dealers to use new parts without explanation—a pattern owners interpret as damage control over a known defect.
Same Chrysler 300 engine reports on nearby years: 2006 · 2007 · 2008
Failure modes owners describe
Engine stalling after refueling
Engine dies shortly after filling gas tank, typically within 2-5 minutes or a few miles of the gas station. Difficult restart, rough running for 1-2 miles after restart. Multiple occurrences reported after each fill-up.
When: Intermittent, triggered by refueling event. Some owners report it stopped if they avoided filling tank completely.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine dies after refueling; Difficult restart, requiring 20-30 seconds or multiple attempts; Engine runs rough for 1-2 miles after restart; All dashboard lights illuminate on stall; Loss of steering and brakes while stalled; Check engine light may or may not illuminate
Codes mentioned: Evaporative system malfunction, Fuel tank issue (suspected float valve)
Repairs/costs cited: Gas tank replacement $1,583.58 in one case; throttle body cleaning; vapor canister replacement; EVAP solenoid replacement; dealership diagnostics inconclusive in most cases
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Some dealers blamed owner overfilling or improper gas cap closure; suggested continued driving or fuel burn-off; offered warranty coverage under extended plans in limited cases
Unexplained engine stalling while driving
Engine shuts down completely while driving at various speeds (stop signs, traffic lights, highway). Vehicle loses all power including steering and brakes. Stalls recur intermittently over weeks or months.
When: Random occurrences; some owners report stalling multiple times within same trip or day
Symptoms owners cite: Complete engine shutdown while driving; Loss of power steering and brakes; Check engine light may illuminate; Loud ding sound sometimes heard; Vehicle restarts after short delay or multiple attempts; Stalling in traffic, at intersections, or on highways
Codes mentioned: PCM/computer issues (reprogramming sometimes attempted), Manifold absolute pressure sensor fault
Repairs/costs cited: Throttle body replacement; PCM reprogramming/flashing; fuel tank replacement; spark plug replacement (multiple sets); manifold absolute pressure sensor replacement; manifold replacement. Multiple dealers unable to reproduce issue. Costs unknown in most complaints.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Advised customers to take to dealer for diagnosis; unable to replicate issue in dealership; offered extended warranty info; one case noted dealer said Chrysler ordered use of new/modified parts without explanation
Catastrophic engine failure - timing chain/internal components
Engine suddenly loses compression, develops loud knocking/ticking noise, or catastrophically fails with internal damage. Symptoms include loud bang, white smoke from exhaust, piston failure, valve seat failure, or complete seizure.
When: Sudden onset, often without warning. Reported at mileages ranging 38k-114k miles, with concentration in 55k-75k range. Some owners report failure after recent dealer maintenance.
Symptoms owners cite: Loud ticking/knocking from engine, especially right side/back under head gasket; Engine losing power progressively; White smoke from exhaust; Large oil leaks; Loud bang/exploding noise on startup or during operation; Complete loss of compression in one or more cylinders
Codes mentioned: Timing chain failure, Internal water pump leak, Oil sludge accumulation (owner-suspected)
Repairs/costs cited: Engine replacement/rebuild: $5,000-$8,000. Complete engine teardown required. Dealer noted finding timing chain failure, water pump leaks, and internal damage. One dealer mentioned using new/modified parts for repairs per Chrysler instruction.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer mentioned Chrysler ordered quiet approach; instructed to use new parts only; limited warranty coverage applied in one case ($100 deductible under 7/70 drivedrain). Refused to acknowledge design defect. Some owners noted this is known issue with 2.7L engine (1998-2005 Dodge/Chrysler vehicles).
Valve seat/valve failure
Cylinder valve seat falls off or valve springs break, dropping components into combustion chamber and causing severe internal damage. Sudden loud noise on startup followed by engine shutdown.
When: Sudden failure; reported at 114k miles and other high-mileage instances. One occurrence within 4 months of warranty expiration.
Symptoms owners cite: Loud bang or horrible noise on startup; Engine immediately stalls after loud noise; Smoke from engine; Severe damage to valves and pistons
Codes mentioned: Valve seat failure, Valve spring failure
Repairs/costs cited: Full engine replacement required ($3,104.94-$7,000+). Multiple cases documented. Mechanic findings: cylinder valve seat fell off, dropped into piston causing severe damage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Refused assistance to non-original owners; no recalls issued; Chrysler acknowledged internal investigation per one complaint but offered no public disclosure
Engine ticking noise from new/early ownership
Persistent ticking noise in engine, particularly from right side/back, present from days after purchase. Noise intermittent, sometimes resolves temporarily after dealer visit but returns. Owner suspects piston or lifter issue.
When: Present from 2 days after purchase (brand new vehicle); recurring over extended ownership period
Symptoms owners cite: Loud ticking from engine right side; Intermittent noise; sometimes louder, sometimes quieter; Engine sounds like losing power; Noise located under head gasket area per owner assessment
Repairs/costs cited: Multiple dealer visits; repairs often temporary. Dealer blamed low oil (despite being new), loose gas cap, need for continued oil changes. Owner suspects pistons or lifters.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer suggested oil maintenance and continued driving; denied warranty claim; attempted to sell replacement vehicle instead of fixing
Rough idle and throttle control issues
Vehicle exhibits rough idle from new, high idle after computer reprogramming, lunging when putting vehicle in park, shaking when turning off engine. Throttle does not ease down after accelerator release over 30 mph; owner must ride brakes to slow.
When: Present from test drive (1,700 miles on purchase); persisted after dealer computer flash and repairs
Symptoms owners cite: Rough idle at startup; High idle; Lunging and popping sound when putting in park; Shaking when turning off engine; Throttle sticks/does not ease down over 30 mph; Requires riding brakes to decelerate
Codes mentioned: Throttle body issue
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer performed PCM flash; problem worsened after flash (high idle and lunging developed). No permanent fix achieved.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Salesperson offered warranty coverage if issue not resolved after 1,000 miles; dealer attempted computer flash but worsened condition
Engine power loss and hesitation during acceleration
Engine loses power momentarily during acceleration, check engine light illuminates (sometimes without stored codes), vehicle hesitates or lurches when accelerating quickly.
When: Occurs during quick acceleration; some events at traffic lights
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of power during acceleration; Check engine light illuminates without codes stored; Engine hesitation or lurching; Vehicle may temporarily become uncontrollable
Codes mentioned: Check engine light (no codes stored in many cases)
Repairs/costs cited: Spark plug replacement; throttle body cleaning; no permanent fixes documented. Problem persists in reported cases.
HEMI-specific valve train failure
5.7L HEMI engine experiences dropped valve, catastrophic internal failure, or valve-related damage. White smoke from exhaust noted before failure.
When: Occurs with regular maintenance; one case at 114k miles; one case after fuel pump and oil pressure sensor service
Symptoms owners cite: White smoke from exhaust; Engine shuts down while driving; Complete engine failure; Engine will not restart
Repairs/costs cited: Full engine replacement required; one owner refused replacement with same engine design due to defect concern
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler refuses to acknowledge design issue or recall; suggests this is 'bound to happen' per owner account of dealer conversation
Accessory belt/pulley failure
Drive belt detaches from engine, causing abnormal noise and loss of steering control. Vehicle veers right and becomes difficult to steer.
When: At 89,000 miles during 35 mph driving
Symptoms owners cite: Abnormal noise under hood; Vehicle veers to right; Loss of steering control
Repairs/costs cited: Belt reattachment and pulley replacement
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified; treated as covered repair
Engine stalling in reverse
Engine cuts off when backing up or immediately after putting vehicle in reverse. Occurs on multiple identical new units.
When: Occurs immediately upon starting reverse motion
Symptoms owners cite: Engine dies when backing up; Vehicle stalls in reverse position
Codes mentioned: Throttle issue (per dealer diagnosis)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer diagnosed as throttle problem; no successful repairs documented across two identical vehicles
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Same issue replicated on replacement vehicle, suggesting systemic problem
Synthesized from 105 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
A couple months back the engine shut down going down the road, computer checked showing the heat sensor went bad ,had it replaced and also installed a new thermostat just in case. Yesterday 12/6 2018 took the car out and went to the outlets roughly 25 miles away car ran great . Stop for gas on the way back a mile from home, left the station went a 1/4 mile the car shut down again,started right…
I have a 2005 Chrysler 300c hemi. Three months ago, I put unleaded 87 octane gasoline in the tank. I drove a few blocks and the engine stopped suddenly in mid-drive. I had a difficult time restarting the car and when I did, it took a few seconds before it would engage in gear. I took the car to the dealership to check, and they advised me that the engine computers have to reajust to the lower…
Takata recall , so I take care of my Chrysler 300c 5.7 very well I always check the fluids on the coolent and oil and change my oil when its needed. I was running out of gas on the freeway barely making it to the gas station and I filled up my gas tank, when I tried to starting my car it didnt start. My car just hesitated and I thought my battery was going out but it was a brand new one and my…
Had engine trouble with your 2005 Chrysler 300?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the engine problem on the 2005 Chrysler 300?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 105 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 85 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 52,000 and 120,000 miles, with the median around 77,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 52,000; a quarter make it past 120,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2005/Chrysler/300.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.