2018 Chrysler 300 Safety Report
2018 Chrysler 300: Strong Crash Ratings Undermined by Electrical System Failures and Multiple Safety Recalls
AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Chrysler 300
Reliability Score
The 2018 Chrysler 300 receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2018 Chrysler 300
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Chrysler 300:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uconnect Lcd Screen Delamination/Malfunction The Uconnect touchscreen delaminates, causing 'phantom touches' that lead to uncontrolled changes in radio, climate, navigation, and even unintended 911 calls, posing a significant distraction and control hazard. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Side Curtain Air Bag Inflator Rupture Manufacturing defect in side curtain air bag inflators can cause them to rupture, expelling sharp metal fragments that can injure or kill occupants during deployment. Subject of recall 24V198000. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Electrical System Wiring Issues (Vehicle Stall/Cruise Control) Wiring defects can lead to vehicle stalls or prevent cruise control deactivation, increasing the risk of a crash. Subject of two separate electrical system wiring recalls. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Transmission Park Lock Rod Malfunction An incorrect transmission park lock rod may prevent the vehicle from properly engaging 'PARK', leading to unintended vehicle movement and increased crash risk. Subject of a power train recall. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Headlight Assembly Failure Headlight assemblies failing prematurely, leading to loss of illumination and requiring expensive replacement, with reports of repeat failures. |
Medium | Occasional | 29000+ miles |
| Interior Door Panel Warping/Separation Interior door panels warping and separating from the door frame, raising concerns about airbag safety and structural integrity during a collision. |
Low | Occasional | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Chrysler 300:
Predominantly related to Uconnect screen delamination causing phantom touches, loss of control over infotainment, climate, and navigation, and unintended actions like 911 calls.
Often linked to the electrical system issues, particularly the Uconnect screen problems, but also includes miscellaneous complaints not categorized under specific components.
Includes complaints about air bag warning lights, seat belt module failures, and concerns related to the side curtain air bag inflator recall.
Issues such as transmission skipping, bumping when changing gears, and problems related to the park lock rod recall.
Complaints related to rearview camera failure, often tied to the broader Uconnect screen issues.
Specific complaints about headlight assembly failure, leading to loss of illumination.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Chrysler 300
Is the 2018 Chrysler 300 safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 Chrysler 300 received a respectable 4-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars in side crash tests. However, it has 150 consumer complaints, 6 crashes, and 7 injuries reported, along with four significant safety recalls, including issues with air bag inflators and electrical system defects that could lead to vehicle stalls or loss of control. While crash test performance is good, real-world reliability and potential manufacturing defects are concerns.
What are common problems with the 2018 Chrysler 300?
The most reported issues for the 2018 Chrysler 300 are related to the ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (39 complaints), primarily concerning the Uconnect LCD screen delamination causing 'phantom touches' and loss of control over infotainment, climate, and navigation. Other common problems include 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' issues (30 complaints), AIR BAGS (10 complaints), and POWER TRAIN (7 complaints).
Are there any recalls for the 2018 Chrysler 300?
Yes, the 2018 Chrysler 300 has 4 recalls. These include recalls for side curtain air bag inflators that may rupture (24V198000), electrical system wiring issues that could cause a vehicle stall, another electrical system wiring issue affecting cruise control, and a power train recall for an incorrect transmission park lock rod that could prevent the vehicle from staying in 'PARK'.
How does the 2018 Chrysler 300 perform in crash tests?
The 2018 Chrysler 300 received an overall 4-star safety rating from NHTSA. It scored 4 stars for frontal crash, an excellent 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Is the Uconnect screen issue a safety concern?
Yes, the Uconnect screen delamination and malfunction are significant safety concerns. Numerous complaints describe 'phantom touches' that can change climate settings, activate navigation, make unintended phone calls (including 911), and cause general distraction, potentially leading to a loss of focus on driving and control over essential vehicle functions.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the strong crash test ratings but persistent electrical system issues, multiple safety recalls, and reported injuries, potential buyers should prioritize verifying all recall repairs have been completed and thoroughly inspect the Uconnect system for any signs of delamination or malfunction before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Chrysler 300
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Chrysler 300. The data includes 150 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Chrysler 300 an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.