repeat, repeat, repeat........you'll love the car, don't sweat the details BUT GET AN EXTENDED SERVICE CONTRACT. THIS IS AN ABSOLUTE NECESSITY. Your love affair with the car, like mine, will turn to acrimonious divorce without it. I still love the car, but am searching for a new replacement soon as the repair costs have been crushing between 36K-50K miles. Just do it.
My '99 300M has had no repair costs incurred (save for a blown OEM Goodyear tire and body work after a school bus backed over my car!) between mile 36,000 and its current 46,000. Knock wood...
Speaking of the OEM Goodyears, NOISY! But decent in the snow and I should get 50,000 miles out of the remaining original 3.
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
Hi fellow 300m people, I am fairly new to this board, and have been following it since I got my new 300m back in Nov02.Want to thank the posters for the wealth of info that I can find here.I thought I take a few minutes to give my experiences so far with it. Bought it brand new nov 02, 2002, phg, lux grp, rad cass/4cd/amp/11spkr 360 watt grp, side airbags, moonroof, chrome wheels/fullsize spare.Cin glaze w/ drk slate int. List price $33,260. With all the discounts and being a leftover I paid approx 24,500. I purchased the car because it is one of the most comfortable cars I have sat in lately.And with the phg the handling and braking is excellent especially for a car of this size.Also with all the equipment you get for the money,it just can't be beat for value. I live in the phila area and recently took the car on a trip to florida. It was great, I was able to drive 20 hours without hurting. The gas mileage averaged about 26mpg at about 75 mph.The car only had 800 miles when i left. It now has about 5000. It was rock solid and cruised effortlessly all day long. In florida in 92 degree heat the ac worked perfect and it cooled the car off very quickly. Another thing I noticed was in the cold weather back north , even on 10 degree nights, the heater usually was throwing warm air within a minute or two of a cold start(I wonder how chrysler does that). All in all the car is everything I had hoped for, with a few exceptions. I think the quality of the fit and finish leaves a lot to be desired(poor paint quality, misaligned panels ,etc.).It looks good untill you look close. also In florida at about 2300 miles the trans cooler line sprung a leak and by the time I realized it I probably had driven a 100 miles, and had two add 3 quarts to bring it back to full. The dealer fixed it under warranty, but I wonder what damage might have been done. It feels ok now, but what about down the road. Also the oil filter was leaking and had to be fixed. The radio sounds like a piece of garbage when you turn the bass and volume up,( I guess I might have to take it in and get the amplifier swapped out for the upgraded one , or maybe get the infinity basslink). The windows stick if you don't open them every day.And the car is a little bit on the noisy side at highway speeds,(I checked the door seals, so far so good). So there you have it so far, I really like and enjoy the good points of the 300m(comfort, quickness, great handling and braking, looks,good gas mileage, and many bells and whistles), but chrysler is really going to have to work on their quality control and put out a better product before I would buy another chrysler product. Sorry for the long post Luck to all-----Jack
Hi, everyone! Haven't posted for a while, but I try to catch up on the postings every week. The board has really quieted down -- where is everyone???
Just to bring things up to date, I just purchased another 300M this week. That means we currently have 3 (I think I can hear Fastdriver's guffaws all the way out her in California)!
The bottom line is my wife and I have thoroughly enjoyed our M's and it was my first choice for replacement of my current leased M at the end of June. I was going to delay my purchase, but they were running out of 03's here and I wanted to take advantage of the $3,000 rebate.
I got a good deal (not a great deal) on a silver M with moonroof/full size spare/cassette/smokers group @ $5,100 off MRSP of $30,840 ($25,740). I got it from the same dealer we got my wife's 01 M from 2 years ago this week (hers was a "one only" @ $5,600 off MRSP).
I honestly feel you can't get better value in today's market. If I had had any problems with our first 2, I would probably feel differently -- but ours have been very reliable. I truly enjoy driving my 300M each day!
Still driveing my 99. It was laid up for a week do to problem I caused (Air Strut mounts installed up-side down. Car was making all kind of noises (I thought every bushing in the front had gone bad). I have since corrected the problem and the car rides like a top again in both lowered mode 2" (ground clearance) and what I call 4 wheel mode 8" (ground clearance). Glad to hear your M's still purring along (except for pester). Check the history of the M if used you are getting. It seems that the few bad ones have tons of stuff wrong with them. Others are great in haveing no need to ever see a shop. The board here has slowed down. I think it is for several reasons. Some have gone to the club board, others are traveling during this great weather we have been haveing (at least here in AZ), and with the war coverage, and situation people have other concerns.
Man, you're tough. When you reread your post about all the positive qualities you enjoy from this wonderful vehicle you purchased at a screaming bargain of $24.5, then conclude you'd never buy another one because of a loose line (no big deal) and poor fit and finish (gosh, I never noticed-and BTW, my '99 paint job is holding up great and there have been few if any complaints about paint on this board), I really wonder what vehicle out there would possibly satisfy you.
Did everyone go into lurk mode? Maybe they are like me and have been busy working on their M's. I'm finally getting around to buying components for my dual exhaust. I just put on 18" Enkei wheels whit BFG gForce KDWS W rated 50 series tires (matching spare too), HID headlights, jewel taillights, a wood dash kit, a tire pressure monitoring system, a hard-wired radar detector (Valentine 1), Brembo rotors, a bandpass dual 12" subwoofer box, a stiffening capacitor for the amp, and I am in the process of putting 5" TFT LCD monitors in my headrests so my little ones can watch The Wiggles on trips. Tinted windows and a K&N Aircharger intake system next month. I've been a little busy!!! ;-)
Seeing that all the old timers are checking in lately, thought I would pop in and say hello. I am a moderator over at the club board and spend a lot of my online time there. I check in here occasionally to catch up on the posts.
Hey Dustin---looks like you've been very busy modding your M. I hope to do the duals soon and maybe the aircharger. Probably will shave the letters too and maybe add the mudflaps.
Hello indydriver, Thank you for the commentary on my post #23379.Yes I read my post as I was writing it, and after I wrote it.And yes I acknowledged the good attributes that I liked about the car, and yes after doing so I still would not buy a car that didn't meet the quality standards that I would feel safe with.You think a loose transmission line on a car with less than 3000 miles on it is no big deal, or to be expected. Well I was driving from tampa to orlando(a 90 mile trip), at midnight on interstate 4 where the average speed is 80 mph.When I noticed that the car wasn't shifting properly,I had to find a station that sold transmission fluid(not easy at that hour )to continue my trip or sit out on the highway and take my chances with the traffic or worse. As it were i had to pull into a station that I ordinarily wouldn't (dangerous neighborhood), and fortunately was able to get the supplies needed to continue on.My wife was with me and I was not very happy to have to put her in such harm's way. So I think it is a very big deal when you have problems like that that can leave you and your loved ones stranded and open to all kinds of hurt. I wouldn't expect that in a cheaper, new car, and especially not in a car listing at over $33000.00. And as for the other problems I noted, I have read many posts on this board and others, citing a host of the same problems,ie: (poor fit and finish, paint quality, sticking windows, poor door gasket seals, poor radio sound, numerous transmission problems, poor brake quality), just to name a few. Some are minor annoyances, and some are downright life threatening, under certain circumstances. I am not belittling the 300m, just stating the facts of my experience so far.
And as for what possible car would satisfy me, the answer is simple. One that instills confidence, and does what it is supposed to do and doesn't leave you stranded somewhere. I am in my mid 50's and have bought at least 30 new cars for my self and for my business in my life. And I have had many that satisfied me, most recently most were toyotas, or lexus. None of my remarks were meant to be sarcastic or malicious, just the facts.I like the 300m, but I don't think it is unreasonable to expect reliability and good quality, And I feel it is not quite there with this one . Luck to all----Jack
Your problem with the transmission line is the first I have heard of with the 300M. Most problems with the M have been minor but still aggravating issus such as you mentioned. I have only heard of one major engine problem . Very few have been stranded. The power train of the M has proven to be reliable.
I have owned my M for over 3 years now and have put up with numerous minor problems and one not so minor--a power steering cooler failure. But my dealer took care of the issues and even comped me a replacement vehicle whenever I brought my M in for service.
The M is a unique vehicle and in my opinion is the best value out there for a luxury sport vehicle. I am not sure the model that replaces the M is going to be on my shopping list, but I will probably keep my present car till it becomes unreliable and shows wear. But overall, I find the M to be a very enjoyable vehicle to own and drive.
Yes you can go out and buy a GS400 Lexus or a Mercedes. But you could also buy the M and save enough to put a good down payment on your next car in 5 years.
I have experienced 2 (that is "two") speed sensor failures and one transmission hydraulic pump failure - that totals three times when I was left on the side of the road, or reduced to limp mode in 2nd gear. I concur with llbean30 - this is not right on a $30M+ car, especially with less than 50K miles. I'll cry again, all failures occuring between 36K miles and 50K miles - total out of MY pocket cost $5,500:
2 speed sensor failures (2nd gear limp mode only) Hydraulic transmission failure (stuck in 1st gear) 2 driver window motor/regulator failures Both cooling fan motors failed (one fan broken and about to "deshaft") Failed A/C compressor Leaking A/C evaporator coil Failed steering pump
Totally unacceptable. No sympathy or help from Chyrsler. When this car is running, its a kick and great fun and a genius design! But balanced against the above problems, I would rate it a piece of c**p, poorly executed, and an economic catastrophe. You would think if experiences like mine were so rare and infrequent, that Chrysler would belly up and help out. Dream on. Buyer beware! My only "sin" was not paying close to $2K for an extended service contract. "All cars break" is an unacceptable response on a $30K car with less than 50K miles. (For the record, I take meticulous care of my 300M and have a mix of 60% HWY/40% town driving. 5K mile Mobil 1 synthetic oil changes, Car "looks" brand new due to care, waxing, etc.)
Just looked at the 2004 Gran Prix GTP. No thanks. I swear, Pontiac makes the ugliest damn cars in the universe. The Bonneville SLE looked like it had frog bugged out eyeballs....I am shocked that anyone at GM would ever have allowed that car to be produced!! The Kia's next door put them to shame!
Looked at the Pacifica. It's a station wagon, with options.
Maybe I could get a 2003 300M if they gave me an extended service contract? think they would do that? They had a low mileage used 2002 300M on the Pontiac lot.....immaculate, couldn't find one ding or paint blemish whatsoever...$20,000.
You can buy a service contract for any M less than (I think) 4 years old. The price goes up about $100 per year old. The official Chrysler prices on service contracts are very high, of course. If you have a good relationship with your dealer you could certainly get them to come down in price.
Most of my cars were considered dogs by the automotive world. 61 Rambler Classic wagon, 76 Dodge Aspen. Both were on the cars to avoid list. But they were great to me. I have never had a car prevent me from going anywhere when I wanted to go. Or break down on me. My 300M has a better track record then my Honda CRV. Toyota and Lexus make on average very good cars. I just wish they had larger interiors and were a little more exciting to look at. It is sad to say that at this moment I I were to buy a new 04 it would probably be the new GTO they are comming out with. For the price range it is at least one of the few cars that start to light my fire. If the CTS were not so ugly I would even consider it (with the 400hp engine) but alas I would still have to wash it with my eyes closed.
I test-drove a Pontiac Grand Prix GTP a few days ago. It was quite nice. A lot of improvements over the '97-'03 Grand Prix. Still has lots of power
Feature-wise it is now very close to 300M. Heck, the front now looks pretty close to 300M too. No memory seats though.
Huge trunk with folding rear seats, just like 300M.
The one that I drove did not have TAPShift paddles, but they say that the shifting with those is VERY quick.
The seats have very nice bolsters.
Plastics have been improved. Leather has been improved. Switchgear is pretty nice.
P.S. I also sat in a 2004 Maxima that was already sold to someone (hence no drive), and they even let me turn on the engine Inside is sweet. Exterior is not so sweet. But looks like a great package. My favorite feature there - power tilt/telescoping steering wheel with memory, swing out when ignition key is removed.
Seems like "old home week" on this board. Many of the late and great have shown up again. I thought only me and Beach were left. Welcome back on this board all you old timers. Dream Cruise is August 16 in Detroit. Please make plans to join all the other M'ers for a great Cruise. Even Fast and Beach are allowed to attend..yuk, yuk.
llbean--Your tranny problem is the second I have heard of involving a hose in four years on this board. The input and output speed sensors have been the major tranny complaint. When I raised the sensor issue with the guys at the plant last year, they were oblivious to it. I don't know if DC ever wrung the neck of the supplier or what. I carry a spare of each and installation directions in my glove box just in case. $25 worth of peace of mind?? Anyway, my first year build 99 is at 56K now and only the window and lock activators and a starter relay and starter switch have been issues for me over the last five years. So far all covered under an extended warranty. I did have a minor issue with the radiator clamp not being tight enough or working loose when the car was fairly new, but I spotted some splatter on the hood insulator and the dealer quickly spotted the problem and installed a second clamp on the top hose, and that solved the problem. I really think most issues are "part related" [although an occasional mess-up by a dealer's tech can also occur] and I do not know what giant monolithe DC can do quickly about consistent part failure, like on the input speed sensor. Long term maybe they got it, like they did with the window activator, otherwise it takes a long time to get info up the line, [the recent seat bolt issue recall being an example], but I sympathize with the circumstances of your breakdown. Scary to say the least. Hope everything else goes well for you in the future.
Help !!! I love everything about the 300M and can get one at dealer cost (and the $3000 discount on top of it). Like it in white with Taupe interior by the way. However, I can also get a new 2003 Honda Accord V6 at dealer cost ($22,900). The 300M would cost me about $2,500-$3,000 more with the extras I want. My dilemma is making a decision to buy the 300M based upon resale value in five years and reliability reputatuion of Chryslers compared to Hondas. This would be my only vehicle to get to work with (34 miles each way). It has to be reliable. Does anyone on this board put mucho miles on their M? I would like to hear from owners with 50k+ miles. Is the car tight? Anyone with an '03 can you comment on any problems?
Accord vs 300M = Apples and Oranges. They are not the same car. I have a 1999 M that just turned 50K miles. No rattles or squeaks, still a ton of fun to drive, and still turns heads. My only complaint (documented earlier) was that I had to have the car tuned up at just under 50K miles - supposedly it should go 100K between tuneups.
I drive about a 60/40 mix of urban/highway miles. I average just under 21 mpg combined. My car is white with light interior...be advised that a lighter interior may cause a bothersome reflection on the windshield (cured with polarized sunglasses), unless they have "fixed" that over the past couple of years.
Resale will never be what a Honda is. If resale is that important to you, get the Honda. If good looks and driving fun are more important - get the M.
Dustinnwon & Indydriver - Nice to hear from you guys. Dustin be sure to let us see pics of your M when you're done with the mods.
Mricciardi - My 1999 has 58K miles with only very minor issues in 4.5 years. Still tight as a drum with no squeaks or rattles. Only repairs have been (a) intermittent window regulator replaced, (b) speed input sensor ($49 repair) and (c) Intermittent headlight switch. Overall I'm very happy with the car. Honda may have better resale value (seems all American cars suffer from high depreciation), but having a more unique and beautiful vehicle to drive is worth it. It's unfortunate Chrysler has decontented the M in past years (02 models and up) but you'd only notice what's missing if you owned an earlier model.
300-I do have that bug! I just hate that it has taken me this long to get things done!
blonda-you can see my current upgrades at http://www.dustinnewton.com/trips/300m/300m.htm I try to keep it updated as I add new mods. I have jsut added a couple of layers of FatMat (http://www.fatmat.com) sound deadening material (like Dynamat) to my trunk and deck lid, as well as under the rear seat, and I will hopefully be able to get my doors done soon. I need to get those pics out on my website.
Nice work. The rear subs look like they will make you M do the quarter mile in about 2 seconds. The tips are like my pacesetters. They should last about 3 years. Mine are rusting. Will be replacing soon.
Looking good. Like those wheels. Don't you just love the way the mud guards make the deep slate look? I added those to my M a few mos. ago. I'm also going to purchase the 02 grill and will install with the mesh grill in about a month. Was going to go with the HID's too but a little over my budget. I have some near new 02 regular headlights (my current ones are a little "sandblasted") I'm going to put PIAA's in instead.
So...since us Californians like to crash our M's....got any leads on a good wrecking yards or two to check for extra parts?
I'm driving up to NYC this weekend. I'm going to the NY auto show Saturday. Are the new 300M(n?)cars going to be there? Or do they come out later in the week? If they are there I'll try to get some close up pics & post them when I come back next week.
Took del in Jan. Only problem has been warped front rotors. Didn't stop as good as I thought it should either.
5* replaced rotors under warranty. No problems now as breaking is smooth and much better. This was done @ 2800 mi but the problem showed up almost immediately.
Have steel blue with light taupe interior. Very Sharp.
I have a '99 with 80k on it. It definitely has squeeks and rattles. Moreso than when I bought it with 40k on it. My problems thus far have been minor. (1)A stuck a/c vent of some sort (2) a worn idler pulley and (3) failed trasmission sensors. Less than $400 of non-routine work in 2 years. I really like the car but I suggest the Honda for you. If resale value is anywhere on the radar screen then a Chrysler is one of the last cars you should look at.
I agree, if resale value is a high priority, the 300M is probably not the car to buy. I have never really understood the resale thing anyway -- if I pay $25k for a car and sell it 3 years later for $15k, I have lost $10k in sales value. If I pay $30k for a car and sell it 3 years later for $19k, I have lost $11k in sales value. Plus I have paid more interest on the higher loan. So why would I pay more for my second choice to lose $1k more over 3 years?
Anyway, I would rather spend those 3 years with something exciting than a high-resale value cookie-cutter!
For those that have had problems with their M's, I can appreciate their complaints. However, "fit and finish" is something to consider when purchasing a car -- it's right out there in full view. To complain about fit and finish after buying a car is really a complaint about your own car-buying criteria.
By the way, this is just my passion for the M coming out -- please don't take any of my comments personally. They are just my humble opinion, and everybody has one...
300michael- Do your Monza's have resonators? I opted to get mine without. I want a good deep growl at low RPM's, and I want it to scream when I open it up. Just as long as it doesn't have that rice burner "swarm of bees in a coffee can" sound!
Blonda-My guards were more for necessity unfortunately. I work (as an IT Network Admin) for a steel manufacturer, so I am constantly driving in a dirty environment. The guards help keep the dirt/mud/steel dust/general crap mix that's created after a rain from splashing up on my body panels as I drive out, and that makes wash day a wole lot easier!! No salt here in the deep South, so I don't have that problem to deal with thank goodness!
Pster-No problem. I'm 33. I like more subtle and traditional mods as opposed to lots of under car neon, 5 inch tailpipes, decals everywhere, etc. I like to listen to old school rap and while I don't cruise with my system at full blast, I do want to hear the full richness of the music, hence the subs for that extra depth.
Intrepid-I agree fully with you on fit and finish. I made my dealer wait over 30 minutes for my check while I checked all gaps to make sure they were equal (I didn't get the micrometer out, but I wanted to make sure they at least looked even) and checked the entire car for bad paint spots. When I was satisfied, then he got the check. I have seen Pontiac Grand Am's with gaps on the trunk so unequal, it was hideous. I know that Pontiac isn't alone with these problems, but I never understood why someone would accept a car like that or one covered in orange peel paint. I told my dealer beforehand that I wasn't going to waste my time with him if he tried to sell me a car like that and to check it over himself before I got there. He did, and 3 years (this May the 19th) and 50K miles later, I am still exceptionally happy with my flawless M!
"Pster-No problem. I'm 33. I like more subtle and traditional mods as opposed to lots of under car neon, 5 inch tailpipes, decals everywhere, etc."
Well Dustin....it just goes to show you what age and gravity will do to ya...I'm 47, and I like my mods subtle too....thus all I have done to my 300M is put a "George Bush W in '04" sticker on my rear window.....and I thought that was being pretty sporty. As my motto goes...."the older I get the faster I was".......
You did a better job on inspecting for fit and finish when you bought your car than I did last week! It was early evening last Monday when I was in the process of purchasing my 3rd M. I tried to inspect the car before it got dark while the process was going on, but each time I went out, they had it in the service area -- cleaning, etc.
When I finally inspected it, it was really too dark to do so. I missed some (very minor) indentations in the rear quarter panel and a gap between the front fascia and the bottom of the headlights on the right side (about 1/2 " gap difference vs.the left side). However, I indicated on the due bill before signing that it was subject to daylight inspection the next day. I took the car in this week and they have repaired the indentations and adjusted the headlight -- turns out it was out of alignment.
If I look closely and critically I can see that there are slight misalignments in all 3 of my 300M's, but, like you, I am not a stickler for micrometer precision. As long as the car looks great and runs great and I get a great deal, I am happy!
I did get the resonator tips. I liked the look better and the sound was no different. It has a deep mellow sound. Just wish they didn't start rusting as fast as they did.
Actually looks better than I thought it would be. I think the 20" wheels make the car, but with small production wheels and huge wheel well gaps (per the LH platform) I'll still hold my opion till I see one at the dealer.
Aghh...It is as bad as we all suspected. Calling it a "saloon" indicates where they are going with this car. Wouldn't you really rather have a Buick... or Avalon? Well, that cinches it. Unless the Crossfire does more than promised for me, I'm saving now for a Vette.
The question Otto, is will enough of the buying public like it to keep you and your co-workers employed. And what happens if they don't?
This car is going to be competing in a very tough segment of the market, one Chrysler (the company) hasn't been present in since the mid 70's with the original Imperial (not the shrunken ones) and a segment Chrysler (the brand) has never been a part of. I just don't think this car will draw buyers from the competition and that's what would be needed to succeed.
For me it's: Gee, now they have some good bits under the wrapper, but the wrapper.
Love it or hate it, you definitely ain't gonna ignore it.
The thing looks to much like the Caddy CTS ("trucklike" grille), which I find to be one of the uglier vehicles on the road. Glad I got me a stylish 300.
I'll take some good pics of it at the auto show. It looks ugly in pics, but maybe in real life it will look better. Also those 20's won't make it to production. It might be an option though. What happend to that 300N convertable. They had pics of it. Was that axed?
Aside from the "truck grill" -- it's not bad IMO. (Actually the grill is reminiscent of the old 300's). Definitely would require a billet or similar grill mod to improve the appearance.
(1) In it's 2nd year of production, (2) If it comes with a free 7 year extended service contract, $100 deductible, (3) If the price is $33,000, or less.
I don't suppose I'll be buying one. 300M owners are learners.
I think it looks like the modern repro of a Chicago gangster's car. Or maybe the villian's car in the next Spiderman or Dick Tracy movie......those on the edge - no pun intended -of accepting the CTS might like this better.
I must have missed something somewhere. So there's no N, but there is a C? That's the successor to the M? Is the date on my computer wrong...is it April 1st? That looks nothing like the Hemi C Concept. Did they drop it off the truck on the way to the show? Several times? Hard? And then run over it? A lot? A WHOLE lot?
Comments
Phil
Speaking of the OEM Goodyears, NOISY! But decent in the snow and I should get 50,000 miles out of the remaining original 3.
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
I purchased the car because it is one of the most comfortable cars I have sat in lately.And with the phg the handling and braking is excellent especially for a car of this size.Also with all the equipment you get for the money,it just can't be beat for value. I live in the phila area and recently took the car on a trip to florida. It was great, I was able to drive 20 hours without hurting. The gas mileage averaged about 26mpg at about 75 mph.The car only had 800 miles when i left. It now has about 5000. It was rock solid and cruised effortlessly all day long. In florida in 92 degree heat the ac worked perfect and it cooled the car off very quickly. Another thing I noticed was in the cold weather back north , even on 10 degree nights, the heater usually was throwing warm air within a minute or two of a cold start(I wonder how chrysler does that). All in all the car is everything I had hoped for, with a few exceptions.
I think the quality of the fit and finish leaves a lot to be desired(poor paint quality, misaligned panels ,etc.).It looks good untill you look close. also In florida at about 2300 miles the trans cooler line sprung a leak and by the time I realized it I probably had driven a 100 miles, and had two add 3 quarts to bring it back to full. The dealer fixed it under warranty, but I wonder what damage might have been done. It feels ok now, but what about down the road. Also the oil filter was leaking and had to be fixed. The radio sounds like a piece of garbage when you turn the bass and volume up,( I guess I might have to take it in and get the amplifier swapped out for the upgraded one , or maybe get the infinity basslink). The windows stick if you don't open them every day.And the car is a little bit on the noisy side at highway speeds,(I checked the door seals, so far so good).
So there you have it so far, I really like and enjoy the good points of the 300m(comfort, quickness, great handling and braking, looks,good gas mileage, and many bells and whistles), but chrysler is really going to have to work on their quality control and put out a better product before I would buy another chrysler product.
Sorry for the long post
Luck to all-----Jack
Just to bring things up to date, I just purchased another 300M this week. That means we currently have 3 (I think I can hear Fastdriver's guffaws all the way out her in California)!
The bottom line is my wife and I have thoroughly enjoyed our M's and it was my first choice for replacement of my current leased M at the end of June. I was going to delay my purchase, but they were running out of 03's here and I wanted to take advantage of the $3,000 rebate.
I got a good deal (not a great deal) on a silver M with moonroof/full size spare/cassette/smokers group @ $5,100 off MRSP of $30,840 ($25,740). I got it from the same dealer we got my wife's 01 M from 2 years ago this week (hers was a "one only" @ $5,600 off MRSP).
I honestly feel you can't get better value in today's market. If I had had any problems with our first 2, I would probably feel differently -- but ours have been very reliable. I truly enjoy driving my 300M each day!
Fastdriver -- to each his own!!!!
Check the history of the M if used you are getting. It seems that the few bad ones have tons of stuff wrong with them. Others are great in haveing no need to ever see a shop.
The board here has slowed down. I think it is for several reasons. Some have gone to the club board, others are traveling during this great weather we have been haveing (at least here in AZ), and with the war coverage, and situation people have other concerns.
Hey Dustin---looks like you've been very busy modding your M. I hope to do the duals soon and maybe the aircharger. Probably will shave the letters too and maybe add the mudflaps.
Bye for now and Happy M'ing!
EasyRider300M
And as for the other problems I noted, I have read many posts on this board and others, citing a host of the same problems,ie: (poor fit and finish, paint quality, sticking windows, poor door gasket seals, poor radio sound, numerous transmission problems, poor brake quality), just to name a few. Some are minor annoyances, and some are downright life threatening, under certain circumstances.
I am not belittling the 300m, just stating the facts of my experience so far.
And as for what possible car would satisfy me, the answer is simple. One that instills confidence, and does what it is supposed to do and doesn't leave you stranded somewhere. I am in my mid 50's and have bought at least 30 new cars for my self and for my business in my life. And I have had many that satisfied me, most recently most were toyotas, or lexus.
None of my remarks were meant to be sarcastic or malicious, just the facts.I like the 300m, but I don't think it is unreasonable to expect reliability and good quality, And I feel it is not quite there with this one .
Luck to all----Jack
I have owned my M for over 3 years now and have put up with numerous minor problems and one not so minor--a power steering cooler failure. But my dealer took care of the issues and even comped me a replacement vehicle whenever I brought my M in for service.
The M is a unique vehicle and in my opinion is the best value out there for a luxury sport vehicle. I am not sure the model that replaces the M is going to be on my shopping list, but I will probably keep my present car till it becomes unreliable and shows wear. But overall, I find the M to be a very enjoyable vehicle to own and drive.
Yes you can go out and buy a GS400 Lexus or a Mercedes. But you could also buy the M and save enough to put a good down payment on your next car in 5 years.
EasyRider300M
2 speed sensor failures (2nd gear limp mode only)
Hydraulic transmission failure (stuck in 1st gear)
2 driver window motor/regulator failures
Both cooling fan motors failed (one fan broken and about to "deshaft")
Failed A/C compressor
Leaking A/C evaporator coil
Failed steering pump
Totally unacceptable. No sympathy or help from Chyrsler. When this car is running, its a kick and great fun and a genius design! But balanced against the above problems, I would rate it a piece of c**p, poorly executed, and an economic catastrophe. You would think if experiences like mine were so rare and infrequent, that Chrysler would belly up and help out. Dream on. Buyer beware! My only "sin" was not paying close to $2K for an extended service contract. "All cars break" is an unacceptable response on a $30K car with less than 50K miles. (For the record, I take meticulous care of my 300M and have a mix of 60% HWY/40% town driving. 5K mile Mobil 1 synthetic oil changes, Car "looks" brand new due to care, waxing, etc.)
Looked at the Pacifica. It's a station wagon, with options.
Maybe I could get a 2003 300M if they gave me an extended service contract? think they would do that? They had a low mileage used 2002 300M on the Pontiac lot.....immaculate, couldn't find one ding or paint blemish whatsoever...$20,000.
Feature-wise it is now very close to 300M. Heck, the front now looks pretty close to 300M too. No memory seats though.
Huge trunk with folding rear seats, just like 300M.
The one that I drove did not have TAPShift paddles, but they say that the shifting with those is VERY quick.
The seats have very nice bolsters.
Plastics have been improved. Leather has been improved. Switchgear is pretty nice.
P.S. I also sat in a 2004 Maxima that was already sold to someone (hence no drive), and they even let me turn on the engine
>>> Me as well as many other people find the '97-'03 Grand Prix (GT or GTP) awesome looking. '04 looks a bit strange.
"I am shocked that anyone at GM would ever have allowed that car to be produced"
>>> Lutz allowed it.
llbean--Your tranny problem is the second I have heard of involving a hose in four years on this board. The input and output speed sensors have been the major tranny complaint. When I raised the sensor issue with the guys at the plant last year, they were oblivious to it. I don't know if DC ever wrung the neck of the supplier or what. I carry a spare of each and installation directions in my glove box just in case. $25 worth of peace of mind?? Anyway, my first year build 99 is at 56K now and only the window and lock activators and a starter relay and starter switch have been issues for me over the last five years. So far all covered under an extended warranty. I did have a minor issue with the radiator clamp not being tight enough or working loose when the car was fairly new, but I spotted some splatter on the hood insulator and the dealer quickly spotted the problem and installed a second clamp on the top hose, and that solved the problem. I really think most issues are "part related" [although an occasional mess-up by a dealer's tech can also occur] and I do not know what giant monolithe DC can do quickly about consistent part failure, like on the input speed sensor. Long term maybe they got it, like they did with the window activator, otherwise it takes a long time to get info up the line, [the recent seat bolt issue recall being an example], but I sympathize with the circumstances of your breakdown. Scary to say the least. Hope everything else goes well for you in the future.
I drive about a 60/40 mix of urban/highway miles. I average just under 21 mpg combined. My car is white with light interior...be advised that a lighter interior may cause a bothersome reflection on the windshield (cured with polarized sunglasses), unless they have "fixed" that over the past couple of years.
Resale will never be what a Honda is. If resale is that important to you, get the Honda. If good looks and driving fun are more important - get the M.
Nice to hear from you guys. Dustin be sure to let us see pics of your M when you're done with the mods.
Mricciardi -
My 1999 has 58K miles with only very minor issues in 4.5 years. Still tight as a drum with no squeaks or rattles. Only repairs have been (a) intermittent window regulator replaced, (b) speed input sensor ($49 repair) and (c) Intermittent headlight switch. Overall I'm very happy with the car. Honda may have better resale value (seems all American cars suffer from high depreciation), but having a more unique and beautiful vehicle to drive is worth it. It's unfortunate Chrysler has decontented the M in past years (02 models and up) but you'd only notice what's missing if you owned an earlier model.
blonda-you can see my current upgrades at http://www.dustinnewton.com/trips/300m/300m.htm
I try to keep it updated as I add new mods. I have jsut added a couple of layers of FatMat (http://www.fatmat.com) sound deadening material (like Dynamat) to my trunk and deck lid, as well as under the rear seat, and I will hopefully be able to get my doors done soon. I need to get those pics out on my website.
I just ordered my exhaust tips. Here is a pic: http://www.jegs.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ProductDisplay?prrfnbr=300- 2&prmenbr=361 Can't beat that price! Now, all I need is my main Magnaflow muffler and I'll be set. I already have the collector and mandrel 90 degree bend pipes, so I'm almost there!
The tips are like my pacesetters. They should last about 3 years. Mine are rusting. Will be replacing soon.
So...since us Californians like to crash our M's....got any leads on a good wrecking yards or two to check for extra parts?
5* replaced rotors under warranty. No problems now as breaking is smooth and much better. This was done @ 2800 mi but the problem showed up almost immediately.
Have steel blue with light taupe interior. Very Sharp.
Anyway, I would rather spend those 3 years with something exciting than a high-resale value cookie-cutter!
For those that have had problems with their M's, I can appreciate their complaints. However, "fit and finish" is something to consider when purchasing a car -- it's right out there in full view. To complain about fit and finish after buying a car is really a complaint about your own car-buying criteria.
By the way, this is just my passion for the M coming out -- please don't take any of my comments personally. They are just my humble opinion, and everybody has one...
Blonda-My guards were more for necessity unfortunately. I work (as an IT Network Admin) for a steel manufacturer, so I am constantly driving in a dirty environment. The guards help keep the dirt/mud/steel dust/general crap mix that's created after a rain from splashing up on my body panels as I drive out, and that makes wash day a wole lot easier!! No salt here in the deep South, so I don't have that problem to deal with thank goodness!
Pster-No problem. I'm 33. I like more subtle and traditional mods as opposed to lots of under car neon, 5 inch tailpipes, decals everywhere, etc. I like to listen to old school rap and while I don't cruise with my system at full blast, I do want to hear the full richness of the music, hence the subs for that extra depth.
Intrepid-I agree fully with you on fit and finish. I made my dealer wait over 30 minutes for my check while I checked all gaps to make sure they were equal (I didn't get the micrometer out, but I wanted to make sure they at least looked even) and checked the entire car for bad paint spots. When I was satisfied, then he got the check. I have seen Pontiac Grand Am's with gaps on the trunk so unequal, it was hideous. I know that Pontiac isn't alone with these problems, but I never understood why someone would accept a car like that or one covered in orange peel paint. I told my dealer beforehand that I wasn't going to waste my time with him if he tried to sell me a car like that and to check it over himself before I got there. He did, and 3 years (this May the 19th) and 50K miles later, I am still exceptionally happy with my flawless M!
Well Dustin....it just goes to show you what age and gravity will do to ya...I'm 47, and I like my mods subtle too....thus all I have done to my 300M is put a "George Bush W in '04" sticker on my rear window.....and I thought that was being pretty sporty. As my motto goes...."the older I get the faster I was".......
When I finally inspected it, it was really too dark to do so. I missed some (very minor) indentations in the rear quarter panel and a gap between the front fascia and the bottom of the headlights on the right side (about 1/2 " gap difference vs.the left side). However, I indicated on the due bill before signing that it was subject to daylight inspection the next day. I took the car in this week and they have repaired the indentations and adjusted the headlight -- turns out it was out of alignment.
If I look closely and critically I can see that there are slight misalignments in all 3 of my 300M's, but, like you, I am not a stickler for micrometer precision. As long as the car looks great and runs great and I get a great deal, I am happy!
How profound! This has my vote for quote of the year.
the next 300
Eeewwwwww!
This car is going to be competing in a very tough segment of the market, one Chrysler (the company) hasn't been present in since the mid 70's with the original Imperial (not the shrunken ones) and a segment Chrysler (the brand) has never been a part of. I just don't think this car will draw buyers from the competition and that's what would be needed to succeed.
For me it's: Gee, now they have some good bits under the wrapper, but the wrapper.
Love it or hate it, you definitely ain't gonna ignore it.
(2) If it comes with a free 7 year extended service contract, $100 deductible,
(3) If the price is $33,000, or less.
I don't suppose I'll be buying one. 300M owners are learners.