The vehicle will exhibit a service transmission/check engine warning indicator for the following transmission models: 845RE, 8HP45, 850RE, 8HP50, 8HP70, 8HP75, 8HP75-PHEV, 8HP75-LCV, 8HP90, 8HP95. Transmissions may exhibit the following diagnostic codes: P07E4, P1DB2, P0716, P1B14, P0733, P1D90, P1DB7, P1B13.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2012 Chrysler 300 powertrain problems
severe Owners of the 2012 Chrysler 300 have filed 74 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 61,000 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
74
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2008 300 | 22 |
| 2009 300 | 4 |
| 2010 300 | 5 |
| 2011 300 | 6 |
| 2012 300 (this page) | 74 |
| 2013 300 | 54 |
| 2014 300 | 66 |
| 2015 300 | 23 |
| 2016 300 | 12 |
8crashes
1fire
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 74 powertrain complaints filed for the 2012 Chrysler 300, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 75,000-100,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 74 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 9 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
No Start Intermittently, Vehicle Requires Multiple Keyless Push To Start Attempts To Start Vehicle, Intermittent Key Not Detected Message
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Gear Ratio DTC?s, Transmission Shift Concerns, Does Not Shift At Times, Shudders
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA Vehicles built after on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. All 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the vehicle you are repairing has a crack in the flex plate or failed pump bushing inspect and confirm that both (2) dowel pins
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗High Beam Headlamps Flicker This bulletin involves installing jumper wires from the Power Distribution Center(PDC) to the headlamp connectors. The technician may find one or more of the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).B1632-15 - Left High Beam Control-Circuit Short To Battery Or Open. B1636-11 - Right High Beam Control-Circuit Short To Ground. In addition the customer may describe the following:High beam headlamps flicker in cold weather. High beams lamps not working properly in cold weather.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners describe a consistent pattern of catastrophic electrical and transmission failures in the 2012 Chrysler 300, often starting with a whining noise or burning smell, followed by dashboard lights flashing uncontrollably, wipers activating on their own, and complete loss of steering and brake control. The alternator frequently fails, melting battery terminals and leaving vehicles dead on highways. When this happens, the transmission gets stuck in Drive or won't shift into Park, wipers won't turn off even with the key out, and the engine won't shut down—some owners had to disconnect the battery to stop the car.
The transmission shift system is equally problematic. Owners report shifters jamming in any position, vehicles rolling backward or forward while parked in Park (in one case knocking an owner to the ground), and transmission jumping into Park unexpectedly when the driver's door opens. The worst part: Chrysler issued recalls (Campaign 16V240000) but the parts have been unavailable for months or years. One owner waited two months without getting parts. Another found that the recall "fix"—a software reprogramming—made things worse by forcing the transmission into Park whenever the door opened while driving, creating driveline shock.
Owners also report sporadic electrical glitches as early as 2013 (Bluetooth, radio, HVAC cutting out and returning), escalating to complete system failures by 2016. Multiple independent mechanics and dealers couldn't pinpoint the root cause, though one suggested the PCM. Dealers were largely unhelpful, claiming either "operating as designed" or stating they had no fix available for 2012 models.
Same Chrysler 300 powertrain reports on nearby years: 2013 · 2014 · 2015
Failure modes owners describe
Alternator Failure
Alternator burns out or fails, often causing battery drain, electrical system shutdown, loss of power steering, transmission control loss, and uncontrollable vehicle behavior at highway speeds. Multiple owners report identical symptoms to recalled 160-amp units despite having 180-amp units not included in recall P60.
When: 20,000–150,000 miles; one case at 51,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Electrical burning smell and whining noise; Dashboard lights flashing or failing; Power steering locks up; Transmission stuck in gear, won't shift or engage Park; Brake and throttle control lost; Engine overheating and smoking; Wipers activating on their own; Battery won't hold charge after alternator fails; Sparking at battery terminals when connecting new battery; Vehicle dies on highway or during normal driving
Codes mentioned: P60 recall (160-amp alternator), Multiple electrical codes detected on scanner
Repairs/costs cited: Alternator replacement and serpentine belt replacement; costs $600–$1,020 per owners; one owner paid over $200 for battery alone after alternator failure
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall P60 (campaign 16V240000) applies to 160-amp alternators only; 180-amp alternators reportedly have same failure mode but not included in recall; recall parts unavailable for extended periods (2+ months in some cases); some owners advised warranty/recall does not cover their vehicle
Transmission Shift Control Failure (Electronic Shift Module)
Transmission fails to shift into or hold Park position, or shifts unpredictably. Electronic shift module loses ignition status or shifter linkage jams. Vehicle rolls away on inclines or flat ground with gear in Park, creating collision risk.
When: 18,789–80,000 miles; reported as early as 20,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle will not shift into Park; Vehicle will not shift out of Park; Shifter jams in any position, requires multiple attempts to move; Transmission warning light illuminates; Vehicle rolls backward or forward when parked on incline or flat ground; Vehicle intermittently fails to move when shifted into Drive, requires engine restart; Hard to shift between gears while driving; Service transmission warning message displays
Codes mentioned: Transmission service warning, Electronic shift module lost ignition status
Repairs/costs cited: Shifter replacement; electronic shift module replacement; transmission valve body replacement needed in one case; recall parts often on back order and unavailable
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Campaign 16V240000 (Powertrain) recall; remedy includes software update/reprogramming; many owners report remedy failed or parts not available; one owner states software patch (April update) did not resolve issue and transmission locked in Park twice after patch; vehicles continue to roll after recall repair attempted
Unintended Vehicle Motion (Rolling Away in Park)
Vehicle rolls backward or forward while parked in Park position, even with engine off or running. Occurs on driveways, parking lots, and while stationary. One owner knocked to ground; another vehicle struck building.
When: 18,789–79,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle rolls backward down driveway or parking lot without driver input; Vehicle rolls forward when in Park and running; Vehicle rolls when parked on incline or flat ground; Vehicle moves after door opened while in Park; Owner unable to stop vehicle motion by shifting to Park once motion starts
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs completed in most cases; vehicle towed or pushed back into position by bystanders or owner; one case involved collision repair at collision center
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Campaign 16V240000 (Powertrain) recall intended to address this but remedy often unavailable or ineffective; one owner reports software update Sept 2016 did not prevent rolling; manufacturer unclear if permanent remedy ever developed
Recall Remedy: Shifter Reprogramming Creates New Problems
Recall reprogramming (campaign 16V240000) causes transmission to automatically jump into Park whenever driver's door opens while car running and in gear. Creates driveline shock and unexpected behavior. Additionally, pressing Start button to turn off car sometimes goes to Accessory instead of Off.
When: After recall reprogramming; one owner with 45 years automotive experience reported immediately after service
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission jumps into Park without warning when driver door opens; Start button places car in Accessory mode instead of fully shutting off; Driveline jarring from unexpected Park engagement
Repairs/costs cited: No corrective repair offered; owner (45-year automotive technician) states this is dangerous and poorly engineered
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 16V240000 reprogramming causes this; owner refused future recalls after this experience
Engine Stall and Loss of Power
Engine stalls without warning during normal driving, highway operation, or immediately after startup. Vehicle loses all electrical power, rendering it immobile. Often accompanied by electrical warnings.
When: 15–150,000 miles; one case at 46,000 miles after three recurring failures
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalls without warning; Complete loss of engine power; Vehicle unable to restart immediately; Transmission and Check Engine lights illuminate before stall; Multiple stalls during same trip; Vehicle stalls at low speeds and highway speeds
Codes mentioned: Transmission service warning, Check Engine light
Repairs/costs cited: No successful repairs completed in multiple complaints; roadside assistance and towing required
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Campaign 16V240000 (Powertrain) and 17V435000 (Electrical System) recalls issued but parts unavailable; one owner waited 2+ months for parts without receiving them
Dashboard and Electrical System Malfunction
Instrument cluster, warning lights, and accessory controls malfunction erratically—lights flashing on/off, wipers activating involuntarily, gauges going crazy, AC/heating cycling without input. Occurs both while driving and after engine off with key removed.
When: 20,000–80,000 miles; sporadic issues as early as 2013, escalating by 2016
Symptoms owners cite: All dashboard warning lights illuminating and flashing randomly; Gauges and needles fluctuating wildly; Windshield wipers activating without input, will not turn off; AC and heating system cycling on/off uncontrollably; Radio and Bluetooth intermittently failing; Backup camera flickering; Blind spot detection failed; Lights coming on when key is out of car; Battery light illuminating
Codes mentioned: Battery diagnostic: low charge, Multiple electrical codes from scanner, ABS sensor warning, ESC sensor warning, Check Engine
Repairs/costs cited: Battery and alternator replacement; one mechanic suggested PCM (powertrain control module) replacement; in most cases, root cause not identified despite multiple shop visits
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Campaigns 16V240000 and 17V435000 issued; parts unavailable; no diagnosis provided by Chrysler despite recall notification
Loss of Braking and Steering Control
Brake pedal becomes unresponsive or loses hydraulic assist; power steering locks up or becomes extremely stiff; pedals become rigid. Vehicle cannot be controlled during these events.
When: 30–65 mph driving speeds
Symptoms owners cite: Loss of brake response and control; Power steering locks up completely; Brake pedal becomes extremely stiff or unresponsive; Accelerator pedal becomes stiff and unresponsive; Steering wheel locks up mid-turn
Repairs/costs cited: Owner used emergency brake to slow vehicle to shoulder; no repair completed in most cases
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented in these cases
Transmission Jerking and Acceleration Failure
Vehicle jerks or bucks during acceleration, hesitates to move, or downshifts unexpectedly. Engine revs but vehicle fails to move forward. Described as slip-like behavior and transmission hesitation.
When: 25–43,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle jerks or bucks when accelerating; Engine revs but vehicle fails to move forward; Vehicle stalls when trying to accelerate; Hesitation and delayed response to throttle; Unintended downshift while driving; Transmission feels like it's slipping on highway
Codes mentioned: Check Engine, Service Transmission warning
Repairs/costs cited: Valve body replacement needed in one case; no successful repairs completed in most complaints
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers state they do not have a fix resolved for 2012 models
AWD (All-Wheel Drive) Engagement Failure
All-wheel drive system fails to engage in slick or snowy conditions despite Service AWD light coming on. Front tires will not engage when vehicle put into Drive on slippery surfaces.
When: November 2018 onwards; issue persists across multiple service visits
Symptoms owners cite: Service AWD light illuminates in snowy/slick conditions; Front tires fail to engage in Drive on slippery terrain; Difficult to stop when slowing down in slick conditions; Difficult to accelerate from standstill in slick conditions; Light goes off after restart but returns with next slick event
Codes mentioned: Service AWD warning light
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer unable to duplicate problem during service attempts; dealer suggested tire replacement (no resolution found); three separate dealer visits with 10-day service period did not resolve issue
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No effective remedy provided; dealer unable to diagnose
Recalls with Unavailable Parts
Owners notified of recalls but parts for repair remain unavailable for extended periods (2+ months), preventing recall completion. Dealers unable to provide appointment dates or estimated part arrival.
When: Affects vehicles from 36,499 to 150,000 miles; parts unavailable from notification through extended waiting periods
Symptoms owners cite: Recall notification received but no parts available; Dealer unable to schedule repair appointment; No estimated delivery date for parts provided; Owner unable to drive vehicle safely while awaiting recall repair
Codes mentioned: Campaign 16V240000 (Powertrain), Campaign 17V435000 (Electrical System), Campaign 16V352000 (Air Bags/Takata)
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs completed; vehicles remain in unrepaired state indefinitely
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Campaigns 16V240000, 17V435000, and 16V352000 issued; manufacturer stated parts distribution disconnect; VIN tool confirms parts not available; manufacturers unable to provide estimated completion dates
Engine Misfire and Cylinder Head Defect
Right side cylinder heads malfunction, causing engine misfire. Vehicle bucks and jolts forward at idle and highway speeds. Feels like transmission slip but is engine-related. One side already replaced without resolving broader powertrain defect.
When: Unknown mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Engine misfire (right side cylinder heads); Vehicle bucks and jolts forward at idle; Vehicle feels like transmission slip on highway; Inconsistent steady speed; Difficult and scary to drive long distances
Repairs/costs cited: Left side cylinder head replaced but problem persists; owner states entire engine and powertrain is defective
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented
Synthesized from 74 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
Tl* the contact owns a 2012 Chrysler 300. While in park with the engine still running, the driver exited the vehicle. Moments later, the vehicle erroneously rolled backwards approximately ten feet. The cause of the failure was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact indicated that a software update was performed in september of 2016 for NHTSA campaign number: 16v240000 (power…
I had a recall performed at the dealer for the shifter recall in for which they performed a reprogram that would supposedly keep the car from rolling if the drivers door was opened and the transmission was not put in park. Well here's what happened. After the reprogram whenever the drivers door is opened while the car is running and in gear it jumps into park which is bad for the driveline. I…
Tl* the contact owns a 2012 Chrysler 300. While the vehicle was in reverse, the gear shifter shifted into park and the vehicle stalled. In addition, the engine warning indicator remained illuminated when driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 81,198.
Had powertrain trouble with your 2012 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 powertrain problem on the 2012 Chrysler 300?
It's a meaningful issue. 74 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 52 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 43,300 and 78,000 miles, with the median around 61,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 43,300; a quarter make it past 78,000. 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 $2,500 for powertrain 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 powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain 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/2012/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.