We had snow tires put on our car in February to try help the horrible winter performace of the car. Well.. now its time to take them off and we are looking for suggestions on regular tires since the originals are shot. There was only 20,000 miles on the car too.
Anyway.. I'm curious to see what other brands of tires owners are replacing the factory awful continental tires with.
It is a shame for such a great looking car to have tire problems. I will be looking for other tires to put on in the next 10,000 miles. If you get different tires let me know what you get.
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Can anyone recommend a 20" wheels and tire they have been using on their 300C ? What about the change in ride from factory 18" wheels and tires? Did you notice much of a difference in comfort ? What about vibration? I've been told that non factory wheels are not as true as original and you will have vibration? Can anyone shed some light on this issue? I want to get 20" wheels and want high quality ride and performance.
Just wanted to post a wrap up message to my attempt over the past year+ to search for a proper replacements for my 300M. I had a 99 300M w/Performance package that I was looking to replace with the 300C as soon as I heard Hemi-V8, rear wheel drive, and 5 speed autostick [see some of my ancient posts back in msgs #229/677/688]. It sounded like a great combination and I can still remember going to the initial 300C web site, ready to click the boxes and order one, only to be stunned when I got to wheels section - 225/60/18 All Season Touring tires with no other choice/option, and found no performance upgrades beyond some "touring suspension" that came with the "C" model. Shortly thereafter Car&Driver review confirmed that among other things the tire choice had lead to a speed limiter for this mighty engine of 118, and that combined with a very sensitive/safe traction control system settings put the g-force rating at .77 (practically in minivan territory), so generally it seemed that despite the engine they were not really aiming it at sport sedan duty yet. I had considered whether to get one anyway and see what could be done with upgrades to beef up the performance but I decided the overall package was not enough a match for what I was looking for and waited... The Dodge Magnum wagon (no sedan) did not appeal to me and also did not address any of the above issues anyway. Then the SRT-8 came along and this is exactly what I wanted, but unfortunately more so in that with the new 6.1 engine and other goodies... it was a ~$7k price jump (although I admit that it still seemed very reasonable for all that they had put into it) which kept me from getting in line immediately at the dealership. Seems like now if you are not already near the head of the wait list, your prospects seem dim. So I congratulate the SRT-8 owners (and hopefuls) - I think they are getting a great car. Maybe I should have just blindly jumped in line for it but I felt at this point with the $$$, guzzler tax, and wait issues, I ruled this out at this point.
Then I thought the Dodge Charger was the right answer. I can't say I was wowed by the styling of it [the 300C also had to grow on me, I still like the 300C lines the best) but I needed a sedan package and was willing to live with it [although sedan or no, they could have done some retro touches like "CHARGER" spelled across the back instead of going for current corporate themes like very small corporate "dodge" on left and "charger" on right, from a distance indistingishable from Stratus backend]. When I heard there was a performance package for it, I was sure I would be all set and this would come closest to what I was waiting for - however, more details emerged and they still went with a modest tire size of 235/55/18 even for this performance package which is still well outside of mainstream performance tire choices that are in the 50/45/40 series now. Then they would give you more performance with the "Daytona" package - but this you need to take in retro orange or yellow, not colors I'm willing to live with in my perf. sedan. I think the Dodge SRT-8 coming in the fall of this car (very nice pictures of it in black w/hood scoop on web site) but I ran out of patience and time to get in line and wait.
So I am now the very happy owner of an 2005 Infiniti G35 Sedan with a great 18" wheel and suspension performance package.
I just wanted to post my frustration with Chrysler's handling of the 300C/Magnum/Charger from the sport sedan perspective. I was a ready made buyer if any kind of reasonably priced version of this car could have been made available with more performance bent (short of the full out SRT-8). I had liked the 300M, had positive vibes from having once owned an old Coronet V8, loved the engine, bang for the buck/ value approach Chrysler took, and was ready to buy but never found the right combination to make me want to pull the trigger on it.
So although I believe that overall the 300C is a great car and value and that Chrysler has obviously had a huge hit with it as a luxury sedan, they have missed out in my opinion at a great opportunity to easily have a killer value mid $30's sport sedan with this package so far. Maybe they will eventually get the Charger to properly cover this and/or maybe they can bring make some of the SRT-8 options available to 300C owners but it will be too late for me this time around anyway.
I had the same problem. Ordered a 2005 and still waiting for 2006 since Jan. The manager from Chrsyler actually called and apoligized for the wait. He said I am getting more value in the 2006. I paid $37,600 including taxes and fees, for a fully loaded 300c unlimited, 2005. I have no idea what the 2006 cost fully loaded. (just a woman that gets in and drive) Anyway, manager said he will give me a coupon to recieve cash back at 1% below dealers cost so I will have cash given back to me. I should have my car the second week in June. Its been so long and days seem to drag on. Do anyone know the cost of a 2006 300c unlimited? Is the any difference in 2005 and 2006's? Thanks
The differences are negligible. almost meaningless. The only added attraction is the tire pressure monitoring system.
The big minus though is the fact that you lose the 7/70 warranty on the drivetrain. If the dealer wants to give you something ask for this extended warranty.
I want to replace the 18" rims on my 2006 AWD 300C. I haven't seen any custom rims that I like but I think the chrome rims on the RDW match the look of the car the best. A friend has offered me the rims from his 2005 RWD from a vechile he totaled. (The rims survived !!!) Will they fit? Anyone know the dimensions of the lug net spacing?
My 2006 300C is at the dealership. Will pick up in a little over a week. They stated that they have a code to lock in my 2005 price with the exception of the 1% below invoice, will still get the invoice minus the cash back. Will try and get a break on the extended warranty based on the loss of the 1% below. Its the first 2006 to hit this dealership. Nice to hear I wasn't the only one in this situation. Hope you get yours soon. Will drop a line once I get a look at it as far a differences go.
I am going to repost this again because they are going to pull my post due to "masked profanities" and I think people should know about this, so here is the re-write....
Continental Tire Wear & Right Pulling Problem: I had a Rep come out to Massachusetts and look at the pulling problem of my 300. I also asked him about the tire wear issue and he said it is different from the Pull to the Right. The Tire wear is a Continental Tire problem. They have admitted to the problem and are supposed to replace all tires...DO NOT pay any money for more tires! I heard it straight from a Tech Advisor from DM. I really like this car, but it's a total lemon.
As far as the pull to the right, I am getting more lies everytime I talk to them. We need to contact someone and get this story out there - FOX - CNN - Someone! I already tried this at 1 local station, but they didn't reply, so I am going to keep at it, and also dealng with a lawyer. I hate to do it, but the car needs to go.
I just saw a silver Chrysler 300C today and it took my breath away. Chrysler really nailed the styling on this one. They'll be talking about it for decades. I personally think it belongs up there with the top ten best looking vehicles of all time. And because it's such a nice car, I think they should offer it in more variants than just a sedan.
I think Chrysler should launch three different versions of the 300, a four and two door convertible, a wagon similar to the Magnum, and a large two door coupe. A convertible version would really make people reconsider buying that BMW 6 or Mercedes CL. Motor Trend did a test on something called an ASC Helios, and said it could hit showrooms in 18 months. I say bring it earlier.
A 300 wagon would be easy to produce, as it could be based on the existing Magnum platform. It would give people a stylish looking atlernative to the agressive Magnum.
Finally a 300 coupe must be made, as there is plenty of demand for a Dodge Charger coupe as well. Finally, I think all models should be offered in 300C and 300C SRT-8 versions. If Chrysler thinks produces all these models, the 300 could become Chrysler's best selling product in the history of it's existence.
My post vanished while typing, so here go again :confuse: My 2006 is finally in and picking up tomorrow. I know they are tire of me moaning and groaning. Mybe this will help people that are planning on buying. After chrysler total your bill, look at document fess and the total. The charge $375.00 or more for some numbers on rear side windows. Their reason, just in case your car in stolen. That's what the manager at dealership said. He also said that was the "LAW". Well, after I told him I would ask my attorney about this law,(and I was serious) he deducted it from my fees. They're ripping people off. Thats not all, afterward my total still wasn't adding up. After I said a few choice words, they changed my 2005 order to a 2006. They said it was a mistake by chrysler so they're giving me a 2006 300c fully loaded. which I ordered minus a couple of options. So, They're trying to pay for their underhand doings.
That is really old news. 300 wagons already exist, just not for the US market. Photoshop coupe and convertible photos have been around since the car first came out.
I own an AWD 300C and when I ordered it was told exactly what you just said. The truth of the matter is the AWD adds about an inch more fender gap than the RWD 300C with 18's. You can go with larger wheels but with the AWD you CAN NOT increase the diameter more than 4% of the diameter of the OEM 18 inch wheel and tire. So you need to have the same diameter with say 22's as with the 18's. The sidewall of the tire just gets thinner. So even with 22 inch wheels on the car it still retains the same fender gap. The only way to get rid of the fender gap is to replace the springs with a lowering kit. Eibach makes two different lowering kits for the RWD but has yet to release a kit for the AWD. As of 4-05 they are still prototyping a 1.6 inch (front and back) kit but do not have a release date yet.
Chrysler 300 wagons exist? Where? Sad that they aren't sold in the US.
As the coupe and convertible ideas, Chrysler should take them from the photoshop stage to the production stage. A 300 convertible could give the Germans some competition, and a 300 coupe would not only look nice, it could form the basis for a Dodge Charger coupe, which Chrysler should build if it wants to play ball with the Pontiac GTO and Ford Mustang.
You have so many vehicles, one base vehicle and then a upmarket luxury version. Example, the Expedition and Navigator. Land Cruiser and LX470, Chevrolet Avalanche, Cadillac Escalade EXT. The upmarket luxury version is nothing more than a rebadged version with more luxury features. The upmarket version usually has different styling.
Besides, I'm sure there are many people who want a wagon without that typical aggressive Dodge styling. A 300 wagon would be pretty elegant, to me it looks better than any wagon from Germany or Sweden.
Although you could argue that the upmarket versions are nothing more than rebadged versions of the base vehicle (which is partially true) the popularity of vehicles like the Navigator, Escalade, and others show that badge engineering is indeed profitable, if it is done right. You need to offer distinctive styling and features in order to get a market.
Example, the Buick Rainier isn't a successful vehicle because hardly anything is different from the Trailblazer.
By the way, where overseas does a 300 wagon exist. I live in the Middle East, they sure don't exist here. I've only seen about maybe 5 or 6 300's here anyway. The 300 is just getting here.
I too am very dispointed with my 300C. Tires, wheels, windows that either don't go down or, go down, up, down half way, shocks that had to be replaced, a vibration at 55mph in the engine. Chrysler needs to address these issues. Factory engineer checked the 55mph problem and said it is inherent on the Hemi's. I now have a vibration in the brakes when they are applied at forty mph. I have 12000 miles on my car. I'm waiting for the Chrysler rep to make a determination on my corroding wwheels. My tires are also crap.
How many times have the wheels been off of your car?
I ask because the fastest way I know of of generating a vibration in the brake system is to mount a set of wheels with an impact wrench, especially if the "Star" pattern of lug bolt/nut tightening isn't followed.
Very new to this forum but have learned a lot-thanks. I have a decision to make and would like your input. I found a 2005 300 Touring that has everything I want and the price appears to be good. But since the 2006 models are now out it does not make sense to buy a “year old” car. I was told that a similar equipped ’06 will be about $800 more. Yes I know about the warranty change. What would you do?
I agree, a very good forum. I am also involved in a situation similar to what you are describing. Usually, when a new model year arrives, there are good incentives for the dealers to get the previous year's cars off the lots. We have all been taught about the rapid depreciation of cars so it makes sense that a 2005 is worth considerably less than a 2006, not just the $800 that the price has been increased. If you had to trade it in or (heaven forbid, have a total loss in an accident or flood) what would the value be? I suspect that an insurance company or a dealer would see the 2005 as a previous year's model since there are 2006 cars available. This marketing strategy of bringing out the next year's model long before the year begins (April?) is not a good thing for consumers. My opinion: cars should just carry a "Born on" date like a Budweiser.
folks... i was doing some websurfing tonite..and saw on the united airline site that they'll give you 70k miles if u buy a chrysler ... i figured i would let u guys know since someone might be in the market for a chrysler ... its thru 8/1.. thought it was good info to pass along... go to my mileageplus on the united site... laters, kyle
Just bought my 300 limited 2 weeks ago and just stopped long enough to say im estatic about it............real headturner..................lucky if i can steal it from my wifes grips long enough do drive the damn thing to enjoy its plush comfortable ride and elegance...........purchased the cool vanilla white version loaded with all the goodies.. Ive been reading all of your comments and so on about the problems you have been experiencing with it so far and I find them very informative and very helpful.........thankyou. I do have to illicit this small amount of teaching in some manners................bear with me ok..........I have always had a chrysler of some form in my life always.............my father owned 6 of them from the original 300 version to a newport..........biggest crankiest, meanest cars to ever drive handle or fix...........literally! The one constant ive found is they all have their problems one thing or another....especially chryslers!.The company has always been at the forefront in all respects of innovation and new products others wouldnt touch....therefore you have bugs to fix and it takes time...the best method ive always seen my father do....as i have as well...........was to finess stroke adjust and drive to enjoy it..............in the end a chrysler is a thing of beauty to enjoy and love forever or as long as it lasts...........truly i mean that from the bottom of my heart............they can be a pain in the [non-permissible content removed]...................one only knows my 68 roadrunner was a testament to that.......but its still in my garage and mouths drop and kids scatter when i fire that beast up and it goes down the street on most sundays.........ha ha. I really guess what im saying to sum it up in a nutshell is yes.............they will have growing pains but i guarantee you will love em just as i do and it will give you years of pleasure to come and just as I look forward to mine doing so as well. On the note of the tires pulling to the right problem.........check your tire pressures........it will eliminate it all together and your tires will love it for you........and also have the mechanics check the strut arm extentions on your sway bar they may be loose or need adjustment.........mines fine so far but ive noticed the pull and i corrected it with the air pressure adjustment and its fine now. Any comments feel free to drop a line and say hi
NOT well said....it ISN'T tire pressure. If it was such a simple solution then why is Chrysler buying back hundreds and hundreds of 300s? I liked my car when I first got it too, but I will like it even better when the flat-bed comes to cart it off. So pardon my manners, but this car BITES.
To answer your question-- the car I drove to work this morning is a 1990 model with 150,000 miles. The car my wife drove to work this morning is a 1999 model with 98,000 miles. The car my son drove to school is a 1990 model with 117,440 miles (always will have that many--odometer broke about 5 years ago). Enjoy your new 300. I hope to enjoy one soon, as well.
A writer with a national newspaper would like to interview someone who was looking at a Chrylser/Dodge/Jeep vehicle, and wasn’t sure whether to get a Hemi but in the end paid the extra money for the Hemi. The writer is specifically looking at the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum or Jeep Grand Cherokee. If you fit what the writer is looking for and you are willing to be quoted in a newspaper article, please send an email with contact information to kholguin@edmunds.com by Monday, May16, 2005, 5pm Eastern.
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I wish that Chrysler would make a POWER lumber support for the driver AND the passenger. Most high price cars have them for both seats. This item is one of the few things I do not like about the300C and for that matter other C- products!!
the car I drove to work this morning is a 1990 model with 150,000 miles. The car my wife drove to work this morning is a 1999 model with 98,000 miles. The car my son drove to school is a 1990 model with 117,440 miles
I have two cars. One is a 1995 with 157k and the other is a 1993 with 215k. I drive them both hard and work on them myself. The entire world doesn't need to be driving a 0-3 year old car, thankfully.
To you and me, depreciation doesn't matter much, leasing would be ridiculous, and reading a lot of information from current owners before buying a vehicle is indispensable.
Just read you post . I have 23,000 on my 300c . Had vibration while braking appears rotors are warped .also needed brake pads . Tie rod ends shot car would shimmy at 60 and 70 mph . This however wore out the tires dealer solution " rotate tires " got everything covered under warranty ( except the tires ) but I did have to kick in $ 100.00 . ( co pay ) Presented claim to continental they are sending me to tire dealer to determine why the excessive wear . should be a no brainer . Please let me know how you do with your wheels I have the same problem .
Right on - I had to hit a deer with my wifes '91 - 135,000 (2nd deer) to get her to part with her sports coupe, and only after she test drove the 300 would she agree. Actually I was trying to hold out until one of the "I lease all my cars" buffs turned in one with around 12k, after taking the initial depreciation hit. First new car I've purchased in a long time. I agree with research research research. I've even rented before purchase to test a vehicle out since I plan on keeping it for many years. I just traded my '97 gas guzzling SUV with only 177,000 miles on it which I bought with 8k for $9,000 under MSRP. Somebody else took the hit and I enjoyed every mile. To each his own I guess. I take good care of my vehicles. I have a great mechanic and I do as much work as possible myself and can't wait to get them away from the dealers shop. I haven't found one yet that's worth their salt and that includes Ford, Chevy, VW, Honda and now after my first experience with DC. I'll add them to the list. Went for first time to fix Window that doesn't work, Aux plug doesn't work and, Surprise, drifts to the right! I picked car up with all fixed except drift to right. Shop mgr told me they were designed that way in case you fell asleep you won't hit anybody head on. Yes he really said that and with a straight face too. After I stopped laughing, and I haven't laughed that hard in awhile, I thanked him for confirming that I needed to get my vehicle away from dealer shops ASAP. I did return later with a copy of the service bulletin but figured I could live with the right pull rather than let him touch my car again.
I recently noticed that all four of my wheels are discoloring, its like something is getting under the chrome and causing it to peel, I have not seen a post on this subject and am wondering if anyone else has ran into this problem, my 300C is just a year old and has less than 10,000 miles, oh yes I live in NW Illinois which is snow country and believe it must be due to salt.
The president of my company showed up on Tuesday in a fully loaded Silver SRT-8...still w/ dealer tags. In questioning him, he responded "cheaper than an E-class", so I guess I can't fault him since it's a company leased car and therefore he's saving us money. The wheels and brakes are awesome, much better than even the "C".
If you are talking about pitting in the rim area where the wheel weights go on. Yes, there is a manufacturing defect. Dealers are obtaining replacement wheels from DC after you show them the problem.
I've had my 300C since December. Since the weather has warmed up I've started to drive with the windows down. I've noticed an acrid rubber smell at almost all times. Has anyone else noticed this? The car tracks OK, but I wonder if the smell is the Continental tires wearing themselves to death. I've seen a number of posts about poor tire mileage and I think I smell the same problem coming on. Any comments?
Please see my post on Problems - They are not replacing them all! I have only 4342 miles on my 300c and showed them the problem with only 3800 miles on the car. Got my answer yesterday that they WILL NOT replace them because a TSB from 9/26/03 tells them how to care for the CHROME WHEELS. These are not chrome wheels! I also called the National Customer Service number and was told once a decision was made it can not be changed! Any ideas where to go next! :mad:
DC has recognized that there is a problem with these wheels and you are not the only one, there are hundreds out there. I was told they are going to another manufacturer and will be replacing the damaged ones. It will not be a general recall as it seems the only people having problems are ones who live in snow belts.
I might suggest that if you keep getting this runaround then take your complaint to your local media, especially ones that have a consumers complaint forum, and have them look at it as well as identifying the dealer, no dealer likes bad press. I am still waiting and then I will be going through the routine I suggested. The TSB that the dealer told you about is not for the pitting. I know of several people who already have their wheels covered under warranty, but this is only a temporay fix as the problem will return.
Stopped by the local Chrysler dealer today to look at the 300C SRT8. Wow, that is a very hot car. I was pretty surprised to hear that the dealer would, as he put it, "...consider offers around $60k for the car..." This is about $15k over sticker.
Now I know that they are not making a huge number of these cars for 2005, but is that really the transaction price point for an SRT8?? Seems to me that the audience for the car is narrow, and the history of how Chrysler vehicles have held their value would make it a pretty foolish purchase at $60k.
Not like a lender or leasing company is going to play ball at that price, so the buyer needs to come heavily out of pocket, or make it a cash deal.
I am interested in your opinions, because for me, part of the appeal of the car is the price point, take that away, and you have another big-dollar niche domestic car like the Cadillac XLR or CTS-V - both of which are limited production, but snoozing on dealer lots everywhere.
I just picked up my beautiful black 2006 300C this afternoon. So far I am delighted. I have 3 questions I can't seem to find the answers to in the manual: 1) Is there a "break in" period for this vehicle? 2) When finished using Autostick, how do you return to "drive?" 3) I was surprised by the discussion of tire pressure monitoring in the manual. How can I find out if mine has it? (I didn't order it.) Thank you for your help in advance.
lanzz, depending on your part of the country, the dealer's will gouge you to death on the 300C SRT8. I too like the SRT8, but I refuse to pay MSRP or above. I'm going to wait three years when the car will depreciate to around $30K and get the extended warranty. Keep in mind that these low-volume high-performance cars almost all depreciate 40-50% in three years. Plus, you won't have to pay that ridiculous gas gazzler tax. My local dealer is already offering me the regular 300C Hemi for 1% under invoice, so the SRT8 will come down in price eventually
Andre - yes, you are completely right. Paying sticker for the SRT8 would be about what I would have been willing to spend, and even that would set me up for a nice bath in a few years.
I was looking at the Chrysler dealer in Manhattan on 11th Ave - not like I expected them to be cheap, but starting at $60k seemed downright crazy. They claim to have sold an SRT8 at that price - I guess somebody wanted it a lot more than I do.
just thought I'd post an update to the last . once again car is a 300c with 23k miles. 80% highway driving . car went in for brakes and a shimmy problem . Called to see how car was doing. dealer has replaced : 1. rotors 2. pads 3. tie rod ends 4. struts 5. sway bar bushings 6. sway bar links and said that they still have a noise in the front suspension . With all those problems they will not address the tire wear and suggested I go to a continetal rep.( tire shop ). tires are down to 2/32 . How did you get the dealer to replace the tires or were you dealing with a rational human being ?
I bought a 2005 300C about 6 weeks ago, black, just like yours.
I read in the manual that there really is not much of a break in period, and that the car should be able to be driven however you like over 100 miles. Scour the manual, I saw it in there.
To return to "drive" from autostick, just keep slapping it to the left or right, cant remember which, and it will resort back to normal drive. Works for me.
Yeah, I wondered about the tire pressure stuff myself. Apparently, the only time you will know if your tires are low, is when a light or warning goes off. There is not any way to know what the psi is for instance in each tire, like some cars.
To find out if you have it, I think it comes with one of the packages automatically, so you might want to look real close at what the packages include, and determine if you have one.
There is one full proof way, puncture the tire! Just kidding...
Comments
Anyway.. I'm curious to see what other brands of tires owners are replacing the factory awful continental tires with.
Thanks for your feedabck
Heather
It is a shame for such a great looking car to have tire problems. I will be looking for other tires to put on in the next 10,000 miles.
If you get different tires let me know what you get.
Dennis
dennisfe2004@yahoo.com
If you want folks to be able to see your email address, all you need to do is make it public in your profile.
Thanks!
I had a 99 300M w/Performance package that I was looking to replace with the 300C as soon as I heard Hemi-V8, rear wheel drive, and 5 speed autostick [see some of my ancient posts back in msgs #229/677/688]. It sounded like a great combination and I can still remember going to the initial 300C web site, ready to click the boxes and order one, only to be stunned when I got to wheels section - 225/60/18 All Season Touring tires with no other choice/option, and found no performance upgrades beyond some "touring suspension" that came with the "C" model. Shortly thereafter Car&Driver review confirmed that among other things the tire choice had lead to a speed limiter for this mighty engine of 118, and that combined with a very sensitive/safe traction control system settings put the g-force rating at .77 (practically in minivan territory), so generally it seemed that despite the engine they were not really aiming it at sport sedan duty yet. I had considered whether to get one anyway and see what could be done with upgrades to beef up the performance but I decided the overall package was not enough a match for what I was looking for and waited...
The Dodge Magnum wagon (no sedan) did not appeal to me and also did not address any of the above issues anyway.
Then the SRT-8 came along and this is exactly what I wanted, but unfortunately more so in that with the new 6.1 engine and other goodies... it was a ~$7k price jump (although I admit that it still seemed very reasonable for all that they had put into it) which kept me from getting in line immediately at the dealership. Seems like now if you are not already near the head of the wait list, your prospects seem dim. So I congratulate the SRT-8 owners (and hopefuls) - I think they are getting a great car. Maybe I should have just blindly jumped in line for it but I felt at this point with the $$$, guzzler tax, and wait issues, I ruled this out at this point.
Then I thought the Dodge Charger was the right answer. I can't say I was wowed by the styling of it [the 300C also had to grow on me, I still like the 300C lines the best) but I needed a sedan package and was willing to live with it [although sedan or no, they could have done some retro touches like "CHARGER" spelled across the back instead of going for current corporate themes like very small corporate "dodge" on left and "charger" on right, from a distance indistingishable from Stratus backend]. When I heard there was a performance package for it, I was sure I would be all set and this would come closest to what I was waiting for - however, more details emerged and they still went with a modest tire size of 235/55/18 even for this performance package which is still well outside of mainstream performance tire choices that are in the 50/45/40 series now. Then they would give you more performance with the "Daytona" package - but this you need to take in retro orange or yellow, not colors I'm willing to live with in my perf. sedan. I think the Dodge SRT-8 coming in the fall of this car (very nice pictures of it in black w/hood scoop on web site) but I ran out of patience and time to get in line and wait.
So I am now the very happy owner of an 2005 Infiniti G35 Sedan with a great 18" wheel and suspension performance package.
I just wanted to post my frustration with Chrysler's handling of the 300C/Magnum/Charger from the sport sedan perspective. I was a ready made buyer if any kind of reasonably priced version of this car could have been made available with more performance bent (short of the full out SRT-8). I had liked the 300M, had positive vibes from having once owned an old Coronet V8, loved the engine, bang for the buck/ value approach Chrysler took, and was ready to buy but never found the right combination to make me want to pull the trigger on it.
So although I believe that overall the 300C is a great car and value and that Chrysler has obviously had a huge hit with it as a luxury sedan, they have missed out in my opinion at a great opportunity to easily have a killer value mid $30's sport sedan with this package so far. Maybe they will eventually get the Charger to properly cover this and/or maybe they can bring make some of the SRT-8 options available to 300C owners but it will be too late for me this time around anyway.
Happy motoring!
Is the any difference in 2005 and 2006's?
Thanks
The big minus though is the fact that you lose the 7/70 warranty on the drivetrain. If the dealer wants to give you something ask for this extended warranty.
Nice to hear I wasn't the only one in this situation. Hope you get yours soon.
Will drop a line once I get a look at it as far a differences go.
Continental Tire Wear & Right Pulling Problem:
I had a Rep come out to Massachusetts and look at the pulling problem of my 300. I also asked him about the tire wear issue and he said it is different from the Pull to the Right. The Tire wear is a Continental Tire problem. They have admitted to the problem and are supposed to replace all tires...DO NOT pay any money for more tires! I heard it straight from a Tech Advisor from DM. I really like this car, but it's a total lemon.
As far as the pull to the right, I am getting more lies everytime I talk to them. We need to contact someone and get this story out there - FOX - CNN - Someone! I already tried this at 1 local station, but they didn't reply, so I am going to keep at it, and also dealng with a lawyer. I hate to do it, but the car needs to go.
I think Chrysler should launch three different versions of the 300, a four and two door convertible, a wagon similar to the Magnum, and a large two door coupe. A convertible version would really make people reconsider buying that BMW 6 or Mercedes CL. Motor Trend did a test on something called an ASC Helios, and said it could hit showrooms in 18 months. I say bring it earlier.
A 300 wagon would be easy to produce, as it could be based on the existing Magnum platform. It would give people a stylish looking atlernative to the agressive Magnum.
Finally a 300 coupe must be made, as there is plenty of demand for a Dodge Charger coupe as well. Finally, I think all models should be offered in 300C and 300C SRT-8 versions. If Chrysler thinks produces all these models, the 300 could become Chrysler's best selling product in the history of it's existence.
Bring it on Chrysler!
Check out these pictures.
WAGON
http://www.motorlegend.com/dossiers/screen/download/_chrysler_300c_p.jpg
CONVERTIBLE
http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-11849-223522-2013/chrysler%2030- 0c%20convertible_best.jpg
My 2006 is finally in and picking up tomorrow.
Mybe this will help people that are planning on buying.
After chrysler total your bill, look at document fess and the total. The charge $375.00 or more for some numbers on rear side windows. Their reason, just in case your car in stolen. That's what the manager at dealership said. He also said that was the "LAW". Well, after I told him I would ask my attorney about this law,(and I was serious) he deducted it from my fees. They're ripping people off. Thats not all, afterward my total still wasn't adding up. After I said a few choice words, they changed my 2005 order to a 2006. They said it was a mistake by chrysler so they're giving me a 2006 300c fully loaded. which I ordered minus a couple of options. So, They're trying to pay for their underhand doings.
Photoshop coupe and convertible photos have been around since the car first came out.
As the coupe and convertible ideas, Chrysler should take them from the photoshop stage to the production stage. A 300 convertible could give the Germans some competition, and a 300 coupe would not only look nice, it could form the basis for a Dodge Charger coupe, which Chrysler should build if it wants to play ball with the Pontiac GTO and Ford Mustang.
You have so many vehicles, one base vehicle and then a upmarket luxury version. Example, the Expedition and Navigator. Land Cruiser and LX470, Chevrolet Avalanche, Cadillac Escalade EXT. The upmarket luxury version is nothing more than a rebadged version with more luxury features. The upmarket version usually has different styling.
Besides, I'm sure there are many people who want a wagon without that typical aggressive Dodge styling. A 300 wagon would be pretty elegant, to me it looks better than any wagon from Germany or Sweden.
Although you could argue that the upmarket versions are nothing more than rebadged versions of the base vehicle (which is partially true) the popularity of vehicles like the Navigator, Escalade, and others show that badge engineering is indeed profitable, if it is done right. You need to offer distinctive styling and features in order to get a market.
Example, the Buick Rainier isn't a successful vehicle because hardly anything is different from the Trailblazer.
By the way, where overseas does a 300 wagon exist. I live in the Middle East, they sure don't exist here. I've only seen about maybe 5 or 6 300's here anyway. The 300 is just getting here.
I ask because the fastest way I know of of generating a vibration in the brake system is to mount a set of wheels with an impact wrench, especially if the "Star" pattern of lug bolt/nut tightening isn't followed.
Best Regards,
Shipo
I have a decision to make and would like your input. I found a 2005 300 Touring that has everything I want and the price appears to be good. But since the 2006 models are now out it does not make sense to buy a “year old” car. I was told that a similar equipped ’06 will be about $800 more. Yes I know about the warranty change. What would you do?
Just bought my 300 limited 2 weeks ago and just stopped long enough to say im estatic about it............real headturner..................lucky if i can steal it from my wifes grips long enough do drive the damn thing to enjoy its plush comfortable ride and elegance...........purchased the cool vanilla white version loaded with all the goodies.. Ive been reading all of your comments and so on about the problems you have been experiencing with it so far and I find them very informative and very helpful.........thankyou. I do have to illicit this small amount of teaching in some manners................bear with me ok..........I have always had a chrysler of some form in my life always.............my father owned 6 of them from the original 300 version to a newport..........biggest crankiest, meanest cars to ever drive handle or fix...........literally! The one constant ive found is they all have their problems one thing or another....especially chryslers!.The company has always been at the forefront in all respects of innovation and new products others wouldnt touch....therefore you have bugs to fix and it takes time...the best method ive always seen my father do....as i have as well...........was to finess stroke adjust and drive to enjoy it..............in the end a chrysler is a thing of beauty to enjoy and love forever or as long as it lasts...........truly i mean that from the bottom of my heart............they can be a pain in the [non-permissible content removed]...................one only knows my 68 roadrunner was a testament to that.......but its still in my garage and mouths drop and kids scatter when i fire that beast up and it goes down the street on most sundays.........ha ha. I really guess what im saying to sum it up in a nutshell is yes.............they will have growing pains but i guarantee you will love em just as i do and it will give you years of pleasure to come and just as I look forward to mine doing so as well. On the note of the tires pulling to the right problem.........check your tire pressures........it will eliminate it all together and your tires will love it for you........and also have the mechanics check the strut arm extentions on your sway bar they may be loose or need adjustment.........mines fine so far but ive noticed the pull and i corrected it with the air pressure adjustment and its fine now.
I have been leasing for years and love it. My payments are cheaper, and I dont
have to worry about getting stuck with crappy resale values.
On Monday, I dump my 2002 S-Type V8. Man, am I glad I don't own it.
Let THEM try to sell it. It has a vibration when driven that they cannot fix.
Well, now it's their problem. Not to mention resale sucks. So, good luck Jaguar!
My replacement car is, by the way, a 300C (2005). Which blows my fully loaded
Jaguar S-Type V8 sport away!
Leases are alright on the 300s, but there are often incentives on the outgoing
model year, to make the lease prices really great.
So if you are considering leasing, then there is no difference between a 2005 and
2006, other then trivial feature differences, and the 2006 being more expensive.
Go with best deal, and forget about the year of the car, if you going to lease, since
you dont own it at the end anyways. Which in many cases is a good thing.
How many of you actually drive the same car for 6 years straight?
:lemon:
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2015 Kia Soul, 2021 Subaru Forester (kirstie_h), 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 (mr. kirstie_h)
Review your vehicle
I have two cars. One is a 1995 with 157k and the other is a 1993 with 215k. I drive them both hard and work on them myself. The entire world doesn't need to be driving a 0-3 year old car, thankfully.
appears rotors are warped .also needed brake pads . Tie rod ends shot car would shimmy at 60 and 70 mph . This however wore out the tires dealer solution " rotate tires " got everything covered under warranty ( except the tires ) but I did have to kick in $ 100.00 . ( co pay )
Presented claim to continental they are sending me to tire dealer to determine why the excessive wear . should be a no brainer .
Please let me know how you do with your wheels I have the same problem .
RayK1
SRT-8...still w/ dealer tags. In questioning him, he responded "cheaper than an E-class", so I guess I can't fault him since it's a company leased car and therefore he's saving us money. The wheels and brakes are awesome, much better than even the "C".
I might suggest that if you keep getting this runaround then take your complaint to your local media, especially ones that have a consumers complaint forum, and have them look at it as well as identifying the dealer, no dealer likes bad press. I am still waiting and then I will be going through the routine I suggested. The TSB that the dealer told you about is not for the pitting. I know of several people who already have their wheels covered under warranty, but this is only a temporay fix as the problem will return.
Now I know that they are not making a huge number of these cars for 2005, but is that really the transaction price point for an SRT8?? Seems to me that the audience for the car is narrow, and the history of how Chrysler vehicles have held their value would make it a pretty foolish purchase at $60k.
Not like a lender or leasing company is going to play ball at that price, so the buyer needs to come heavily out of pocket, or make it a cash deal.
I am interested in your opinions, because for me, part of the appeal of the car is the price point, take that away, and you have another big-dollar niche domestic car like the Cadillac XLR or CTS-V - both of which are limited production, but snoozing on dealer lots everywhere.
:confuse:
I was looking at the Chrysler dealer in Manhattan on 11th Ave - not like I expected them to be cheap, but starting at $60k seemed downright crazy. They claim to have sold an SRT8 at that price - I guess somebody wanted it a lot more than I do.
once again car is a 300c with 23k miles. 80% highway driving .
car went in for brakes and a shimmy problem .
Called to see how car was doing.
dealer has replaced :
1. rotors 2. pads 3. tie rod ends 4. struts 5. sway bar bushings 6. sway bar links
and said that they still have a noise in the front suspension .
With all those problems they will not address the tire wear and suggested I go to a continetal rep.( tire shop ). tires are down to 2/32 .
How did you get the dealer to replace the tires or were you dealing with a rational human being ?
I bought a 2005 300C about 6 weeks ago, black, just like yours.
I read in the manual that there really is not much of a break in period, and that the car should be able to be driven however you like over 100 miles. Scour the manual, I saw it in there.
To return to "drive" from autostick, just keep slapping it to the left or right, cant remember which, and it will resort back to normal drive. Works for me.
Yeah, I wondered about the tire pressure stuff myself. Apparently, the only time you will know if your tires are low, is when a light or warning goes off. There is not any way to know what the psi is for instance in each tire, like some cars.
To find out if you have it, I think it comes with one of the packages automatically, so you might want to look real close at what the packages include, and determine if you have one.
There is one full proof way, puncture the tire! Just kidding...