Chrysler 300M

silverbullet4

My peeve with Z-6 overspray on the window is that I didn't notice it until it was dry, leaving little spots. I have used Rain-X on the M. It lasts a long time on the side windows and rear glass. The windshield wipers seem wear it off the front glass pretty quickly, though. Thanks for reminding me. I need to re-apply. Who knows? It might rain again someday in Dallas.

Silver

easyrider300m

a few questions:

1) would the thicker one fit if one were not doing light mods---and would it cool even better

2) I assume you did it yourself: how long do you think it would take a mechanic to install

3) does it come with mounting hardware and full instructions---

4) are you able to use the original input and output lines or did you have to splice onto the original ones

thanks , easyrider300M

scotian

I received my my two temperature sensors. They had identical values while sitting next to each other at room temperature.

I then mounted them on either side of the engine side top edge of my custom airbox.

60F outside. I drove 70mph for a while; the engine was around 20F warmer than the airbox. Then I drove down a 30mph street, occasionally stopping at traffic lights. The engine was consistently 32F or more warmer than the airbox while moving (102F/70F).

I idled for a while, and got:

120 135 140 145 146 146
75 76 77 79 82 86

where they stabilized. A 60F difference at idle!

hatax

I think it depends on the price of the Special package, it is now listed on chryslers homepage with info on it, but no price. It's got nice turn signal mirrors, HID headlamps (Which are spendy outside of a package), and a clean looking simple dual setup. I think you could run mid grade fuel and be at the same HP as a normal 300M. Just my thoughts, if it's a $1000 or so upgrade, it just may be worth it! And the carbon fiber inside is pretty cool looking, along with two tone leather.

99_300m_ric_va

Has anyone tried to do the Prowler Pro Gears? Avalanche, I thought you were gonna do this. Anyone?

mboomgarden

The price for the Special is $32,595, plus shipping. Seems like a pretty good price, considering that it includes HID headlights, ground effects, 18" wheels, and upgraded suspension, gearing, and exhaust. Personally, I think they missed the boat by not increasing the engine output substantially, but that doesn't diminish the fact that Chrysler has packed a lot of value into the Special.

drpixel

After the first body control module repeated the light show (..and then some..) it was originally brought in for, the S.O. took eMily back to the 1/16 * dealer. They ordered another BCM which came in yesterday and was installed. This time, it was a NEW module, not one 'repaired @ the place of manufacture like the last one-and apparently many others. Be wary, if you have had this 'light show' problem-and some of have had it-- try to push the dealer into getting a brand-spanking new one. The Service manager told me the cost WAS $1k.

* Othe side effects added to the 'light show':
* gas guage reading empty, though I know it was half full
* Seats moving by themselves
* Heater going on and off-by itself
* Air Bag light on the dashboard lit up

If you have/or are having this module replaced, make sure they re-arm/program your 'alarm' --my dealer's technician forgot to.

to infinity and beyond,
Doc

fuzzywuzzy

I was a 300M owner. It's a good car. It has more features the the LS, & it's cheaper. The LS is nice, but has no style. The 300M is a better deal. Also look into the Acura 3.2 TL-S. It has the same peformance as the 300M & LS, but has the better quality. It's drawback is the same as the LS, in looks.

drpixel

the doctor here....who among youse has the Chrysler splash guards on your 300m? Are you satisfied with them? Did you get them painted to match your "M", or go with the stock black/dark gray color? Any plusses or minuseses.....?
Was going to use another aftermarket brand, but they looked a little big (..according to the S.O., anyway....). Any help on this is appreciated.....

Doc

sdmike2

that's awesome man!

drpixel

I'd like to ditto what most here have said about the 300m. I also looked at the Lincoln LS, and while it was a decent looking car, I felt I was looking at another Honda. More importantly, I did not fit into it comfortably; as I'm 6 foot 6 inches tall! I tried picking my foot up off the gas as if I would be making a panic stop and kept hitting my thigh on the steering wheel!

When I test drove the 300m, I felt very comfortable behind the wheel and had no problems getting to the brake pedal at all. While I've had a few minor things crop up, the dealer was able to take care of them pretty quickly. Have had (..knock wood..) none of the vibration problems, window motor problems, etc..that some here have had, but my M is a 2000.

From an asthetic point of view, I think you'd be hard-pressed to find a more attractive automobile on the market, dollar-wise. Couple this with the new Chrysler 7 year, 100,000 mile warranty; how could you go wrong? Of course, its just my 2¢ worth, but I know I got my $$'s worth when I bought my 300m!

Doc

300m_vt

Tried after market ones approx. same size as Chryslers. Had problems (scrapping) over railroad tracks, pot holes and the Northern version of them (frost heaves). Did not get to paint them before I took them off. Not using anything presently.

drpixel

You all know I'm tool-challenged, but where is the air-filter on the engine? I want to check it to see if I need to replace it (10,500 plus miles..), and I don't want to be opening up the flux capacitor or anything like that....please set your flame-throwers to 'light toast', thank you....

"for God's sake, Spock, I'm a web designer, not a mechanic.."--
Doc

drpixel

Thanks for reply, bud! The original ones I bought looked okay in the package, but when I placed them on the fender well to show Linda, she responded with"ewwwwwww....too big." ! Hate to say it but she was right.
She saw splash guards @ 1/16 star dealer, but were for PT Cruiser. Asked part guy how much $$ for Gen-u-wine Chrysler 300m ones: $26 a pair. I know they're smaller, but DO/did they protect what they are supposed to protect? I seem to remember someone here using them, but also remember a comment that they were more for show than for blow.

Doc, again...

rogor2k

I have 'em and like 'em.

Look at my pics at http://albums.photopoint.com/j/ViewPhoto?u=934019&a=7113867&p=24084723&f=0 and http://albums.photopoint.com/j/ViewPhoto?u=934019&a=7113867&p=37261995&f=0

I didn't have them painted, obviously. I occasionally have a scrape, but not very often. they really keep the crap (can I say "crap" here?) off the body panels.

scotian

The big box in front. Push in the two snaps in front, and lift off:

http://albums.photopoint.com/j/ViewPhoto?u=1280646&a=13764864&p=55197693&f=0

easyrider300m

you want to find the air filter? OK, first you have to remove all the spark plugs and hoses and all wires going to the engine. Then you have to rent one of those engine lifters and tie it to the rafters in your garage. Remove the hood from the car..Then unbolt the engine attachments and secure it to engine lift. Carefully lift out the engine being careful not to hit the upper part of the fenders in the process. Once the engine is out, you will see the air filter just above the tie rods and near the Constant Velocity boots.

Install air filter into the enclosure and then reverse the above directions. Pretty simple , eh?

Let me know if you have any trouble----we're alway here to help fellow members.

Easyrider300M

intrepidspirit

I prefer the 300M because it is a great car and a much better value than the Lincoln LS. And much more attractive. I have 2 -- a 2000 on lease and a 2001 that I purchased for my wife in April. We have had only minor (warranty) problems. I purchased her car (new) with only a full size spare as an option for $24,888. I just don't think I could have gotten a better value on a car of this class. BTW, the stock 300M has an abundance of great appointments -- IMHO you don't need to upgrade.

I think the 2002 Special would be a great buy if you could get it for $6,000 - $7,000 off MRSP like the stock vehicles, but that won't happen. The $32,595 is a good MRSP, but who pays MRSP for a car today?

intrepidspirit

The marketplace really dictates warranties! I was always envious of the 5 year warranty Chrysler buyers got in Canada. However, the 7 yr./100,000 mile warranty in the U.S. is for purchase of a 2001 or 2002 vehicle through 12/31/01. They may not extend it, depending on the marketplace...

You mentioned Hyundai and the 10 yr./100,000 warranty here vs. the 3 yr./36,000 warranty in Canada. In July I purchased a 2001 Elantra GLS (automatic) for my daughter on the strength of excellent reviews, an excellent price ($10,988) and, of course, the 10 year warranty. This is an unbelievable car for the price -- I was cruising 75-80 mph with very little engine or road noise. I'm surprised that the Sonata was car of the year in Canada because the reviews have been lukewarm compared to the Elantra...

laurasdada

Hello, Ron:
I'm another satisfied (very, actually) M owner. Mine is a '99 that has had a couple of known warranty repairs (window motors, speed sensor, probably a BCM soon, light show). But '99 was the first model year and I believe these issues have been addressed.
There was a discussion thread in the Sedan Comparisons: 300M vs LS vs Aurora. I posted the following message that seems to have killed the thread:

The Best?
Simple. After shopping all three, the one you actually buy is the best! Duh!
Although the LS wasn't around when I bought my 300M and I don't trust GM vehicles overall, I still think the M would have been the winner for me. I'm willing to give up a couple of tenths to 60 and a bit of .gs (vs. the V8 LS, that is)for the traction in Boston's winter offered by the M. Also the bigger trunk, clearly ( ;-) ) superior internal and external styling and value. But, hey, that's just MHO!
Enjoy YOUR car!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I highly recommend the 300M. Great car, great value!

BTW: Has anyone in Massachusettes heard anything about the potential "tax free" shopping period in December? End of year car deals, 0% financing and no sales tax??? Maybe it's time to buy another car!!!

silverbullet4

Hey-

Based on some of your posts regarding synthetic motor oil I tried a Penzoil synthetic blend last oil and filter change. I am happy to report that it has maintained the original level on the dipstick and still looks clean after 2,500 mi. I will continue to check it for oiliness feel and cleanliness, and believe it will be good for at least 4,500 miles between changes. Milder temperatures this winter should help it last.

I took out the stock air filter, inverted it and rapped it on the pavement a couple of times. A bunch of loose dirt and trash popped loose, so I feel I prolonged the time between replacement. I am going to order an OEM (S & H??) performance filter to get a little less restriction when I do change it.

Doc-Don't believe easyrider. You don't have to remove the hood. The engine slides out the bottom as a unit with the front suspension. Then you can get to the air filter.

Silver

mikeyp

I see that a lot of us are looking at the warranty for our M's..Question..I just saw on TV last night that Chrysler is having 7-100K..now does anybody know if it hold true if you purchased the car in November of 2000? I have an 01..that just turned 1..yea..but if this holds..I would like to see some paperwork from Chrysler that states that I also can have the warranty..

Thanks

splatt

Was in the shop today for inspection - emissions was at 0 - pretty cool Anyway, we got to talking about stuff. He does not recommend the better plugs since they tend to increase emissions - I may try them anyway,we'll see.

As for the exhaust and the special - I was chatting about the dual mod being the one thing that the car really should have, but due to the lease I can't get one. He says, "no problem - when I remove the exhaust, you put it in the basement. At the end of the lease, I put it back on. Quick, easy, no prob." Of course the dual would be out, since I'd have to cut the back end, but the borla with the 3" would definitely be a way to go! (Now to convince the wife. Talked with her on the cell and she just chuckled at me - so far so good

Also, was commenting on the special only rated at 2-5 hp over the stock - he said he'd guarantee it's more than that. The higher they 'rate' the hp on a car, the more the emissions requirements change. The epa comes down hard and all sorts of problem arise. He said they always underrate in a case like this. Nice to know for those getting a new one...

Mikeyp, I'd also be very (VERY) interested if you find anything out. Or if I find I'll email you. I got my 01 in Dec of 00 so it's almost a year. If I could extend the warranty.... btw - is this 7/100 for the drivetrain (which was a standard - pick 3/36 bumper or 7/100 drive) or a 7/100 bumper to bumper?

fuzzywuzzy

I had both sets of flaps. The flat ones with the 300M on them were too big in the back I thought. Maybe there weren't mounted right though. I switched to the molded ones. I forgot what I paid for them, but the paint job was $75. They painted them, clearcoated them, & baked them. Very nice job, & worth the money. The fronts are good. The rears are again too big. The flaps are just too long. I scraped them on speed bumps all the time. & I know they were on right. Also they didn't seem to keep dirt off the sides at all. I bought them for looks only.

sdmike2

warranty stuff - DC is offering the new warranty as a sales incentive. Because we already own the cars don't hold your collective breath on seeing any of it.

Doc/Air Filter - These guys are messing with you. It's not nearly as difficult as they say. I was able to get to mine by jacking up the front end, dropping the oil pan, disconnecting the vacuum system, removing the garfunkle regulator, and getting the skinny-armed neighbor kid to slide between the fly caliper and the intake splorge to make the switch.

fastdriver

DOC-

Isn't it GREAT how all of your "friends" have come to your aid? ;-)))))

fastdriver

bigmike5

I have had my 300M since July 27,1998. Most enjoyable car I have owned, with the only downside being the tire noise and low speed wobble from the Badyears, which are leaving in another 5K miles. [I am at 36K miles now and would have dropped the Badyears sooner [like DC did on the 00s and 01s, but I have the full sized spare in the rotation, and couldn't justify it to myself since the car rode so good at highway speeds and above.] I owned a 96 Aurora until Oct 00, and found its steering to be overly light, and yet it was more of a heavy road car with a little low end torque,and a lot of high end torque. It got better gas mileage on premium as an 8 than my M does as a 6 on regular. [The Eldorado does too, by a wide margin and also on regular]. The 300M [I don't have PHP] still handles more like a sports car for agility, feel, and quickness. We were looking toward another Aurora when they Buickized it and anounced the end of Olds. I ended up getting the SO the car I always dreamed about which was an Eldorado. The ride is superior to anything else, but so was the price tag. I looked at the LS but did not drive one. I read the Edmunds board and saw that there were so many trans and motor issues over there that I decided that Quality was not really Job 1. Ottowrkr also posted a note that the LS line got shut down recently to work out some major problems. I never owned a Ford product and decided this was not the time to start. Lincolns have always as far as I know had the reputation of high repair vehicles given their luxury badge. When I tried the 300M I liked the ride and extras that came with it. Never had a Chrysler either, but took a shot on the 300m. Once it is paid off I will probably keep it as my "project" or Dream Cruise car. I'll just drive my 2004 Platinum 300 Hemi C for regular commuting and save the 300M for Sunday drives. Go with your gut feelings and damn the torpedos. DC has most of the bugs worked out of the M so feel comfortable if you decide to go that way.

Drpixl--I have the same flaps as Roger and they have held up well for 3 years; and they have saved countless windshields for the poor beggars that I have blown past on our KY highways. No scraping either, but I have not had to traverse NY potholes [Harlem River Drive, Pallisades, etc.]in quite some time.

rstilp

Doc, I've got the stock molded guards like Rogers and they are fine. A little long in the rear but, you get used to them. Speed bumps are a little exciting. Anyone have the side window rain deflectors? Are they Hokey? Any recommendations?Rick/Geezer300M

rdl40

Can I get this car below invoice? What have others been paying for a '02?
thanks, ron

mikeyjohn

I did see your posts on the Hyundai link a while go. If you go to www.CanadianDriver.com and follow the links you will see the results, it also has a feature from the latest Vegas car show and several DC products are shown. I still love my 01 M, but I can't afford another M for my wife, and she does not drive my cars as her reputation for dings is well known and I have enough trouble on my own. The weather has turned for the worse here, with snow and cold, the heated seats are sure a pleasure!!!!!!!

easyrider300m

Doc: trust me--take the engine out from the top---if you do it with silverbullets method, you'll have to take out the tranny as well---save yourself some hours and pull it from the top---piece of cake--

Easyrider300M

easyrider300m

you have a silver M like mine---I will probably be getting the moulded mud flaps for my M and dont think its necessary to paint them silver as black goes well with silver anyway---black matches the tires and the mirrors and you wont have to worry about chips on the paint of the flaps---I think the moulded fit the best

easyrider300m

if the performance plugs give off more emissions, wouldnt that mean that the fuel-air mixture is not fully burning---I would think better plugs would cause more effient burn and therefore lower emissions not higher.

comments anyone
Easyrider300M

splatt

I'm just repeating what he said Not entirely sure the process...

russklass

I am on my second "M", and have 93,000 trouble-free miles of 300M experience.
My '01 was a significant improvement over the '99 with which I was well satisfied.
I still believe the 300M is the best "bang for the buck" in the "near luxury category.
Good luck, whatever you decide!

guesswho1

Doc: the molded ones on my silver m look great unpainted they blend with the tires...have to look hard to even notice them. i scraped one of the rears while i was in 4X4 mode backing over a curb at the bank...getcha some!!!

guesswho1

how many of you keep your m in 4X4 mode all the time? is that bad for the tranny? or should i only use it while crossing over the median during rush hour?

sdmike2

go to http://www.carbuyingtips.com for information on how to get the best deal on a car. It's very informative. As a point of comparison, go to http://www.carsdirect.com and price out your car. You should be able to beat their price at the dealer. I did, by over $500. I just went out to carsdirect and saw that they are selling the base M with a MSRP of $28,995 and an invoice of $27,552, for $26,602 including a $1,000 rebate. Remember, the invoice is NOT a dealer's cost for the car. There is also a 3% holdback and other factory to dealer incentives. I would say that the dealer's cost on the base car is around $26,750. Take the rebate off that and you get $25,750, then add something for the dealer (e.g. $500) and you end up around $26,250. It's a little less than carsdirect, but maybe not worth the haggling.

Oh, you should be able to really strike a deal on an '01 if having an '02 isn't important. A local San Diego dealer was advertising all '01 300Ms for $7,500 off MSRP, which puts the car below dealer cost.

intrepidspirit

Thanks for the link! So the Sonata is actually "family sedan of the year" in Canada. I'm surprised the Elantra didn't win in some compact category...

I never had heated seats when I lived in Canada -- I could have really used them in 1980-84 when I lived in Winnipeg! I still shudder when I think of the 35-40 below zero temperatures. I believe that at 40 below, Farenheit is approximately equal to Celsius. Cold no matter what scale you use!

My heated seats are kinda going to waste here in Southern California....

300m_vt

Doc.
The splash guards did work, just not for my roads that I have to travel.

rstilp.
A you speaking of the "side window rain deflectors" ones that tape on at the top of the side window mouldings ? If so some go by the name weather shield (not an endorsement). If so then yes they work great. Let air in and weather out.

mikeyp

Hey there..

I'm pretty sure it's just for the PT..not the full bumper to bumper..But it would be very interesting to see what they say about our 1 year old models...I'll ask when I take my M in for service..

splatt

Well, if I remember correctly, they've always offered the choice of 7/100 pt or 3/36 bumper. But if they are now offering with both, that would be cool let me know what you find...

avalanche165

anyone purchased some that covers drivetrain transmission problems. i'm at 34k now, gotta look into getting some. any favorite places? just wanna make sure the transmission in under warranty.

sdmike2

I considered warranty direct but ended up with a DC contract when the dealer matched price. Seemed like a good company with good coverage at a good price. http://www.warrantydirect.com

300michael

I used the same hoses to hook it up.
I did get the smaller 7.5 by 12 by .75 because, it was smaller (more flexable as to where to put it), I also did not want it to heat up the raditor too much eather. I did get the hi tech type simular to the one JCWhitney carries. E-bay tends to carry the round tube type (which is better then stock) but not what I wanted. It is a job you can do yourself longest it should take is an hour.

300michael

I left enough holes for the water to drain out just incase some gets ingested (it takes 3/8" in the hood scoop). At 750rpms the air is split 50 / 50 through the air scoop and drain holes in the air box. The engine can idel but anything more requires the scoop intake to supply additional air. I figure at about 15mph the scoop starts supplying positive air pressure to the box. My plan is to have it handle about a gallon of water a minute going into the hood scoop with out having any getting into the engine. The box can handle 3/4 of a gallon a minute the rest is handled by the vents in the scoop. I wanted to be ready for the Monsoons we have in Phoenix. No incrased intake sound because I rubberized the inside (didn't want any siybd of metal rattling) It should help keep it cooler too. I hope to put the finishing touches tomorrow, because I should have my DVD player, and my new rear camera delevered (will try to have them installed for the meet Saturday Will post more pictures later (Batteries Charging).

300michael

Warrienty Gold a while back. So far I have not needed to use it. A few of my friends had it and liked it. They just changed (bought out) so I will wait and see if any differances.

300michael

I did get to test drive an LS on a test track. It handled very nice. Better than the Catera, but not as good as the 300M, Seville, or BMW 540i. I did like the rear A/C controls for the rear passangers, but that was about it. The second one tested was the V6 all I can say is for get it.
To me it looks like a large Mitsubishi Galant. The inside is smaller (although larger then the 540i)
I liked the handling on both (300M and LS) but the price differance made the choice easy. With about $500 put into the 300M it will out perform the LS in just about every catagory. I have done some to my M and except for BMW's and the TL-S it performs great.
Along with the others I would not get the Special package and go with the Performance Package instead.

nmifr300m

Haven't visited the page in awhile and noticed that it sounded like Doc was pulling his engine. Could figure out way,(cosidering some of his other questions about mechanical things), but I thought maybe he was goinf whole hog and changing to Prowler gears or something. So I start going back to find out. Replacing the airfilter. Well the advice was certainly worth the time. LOL. Don't take the picking on you to hard Doc. We all do appreciate your web work for the club.

scotian

I am now using the hollowed-out stock TB bend instead of the nitrile elbow. I think its only advantage is that it is easy to get back on the TB. I have ordered a 3.5" 90 degree nitrile elbow to try out.

http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=1280646&a=13764864&f=0&sp=1&showall=true

http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=1280646&a=13923132&f=0