Chrysler 300 Transmissions: Overview, Problems, Fluids

The Chrysler 300 is an expansive sedan that is impressive on the road, both in appearance and performance. Its design is spacious and tall. These attributes provide a distinct look and abundance of interior room for a pleasant ride. The first-generation of the Chrysler 300 was available as either a station wagon or a four-door sedan for its fan base. The production of its second generation began in 2010. For the record, it is available exclusively as a four-door sedan. The modern 300 has a wide range of advanced features. Some prominent ones include leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control, LED lights, and lane departure warning. Along similar lines, we will discuss the various transmissions the Chrysler 300 has embraced throughout its journey. So, here we go.

The Chrysler 300 has incorporated a variety of automatic and manual transmissions in its various models. It includes 4-,5-, and 8-speed automatic transmissions.

It is significant to mention that things are not as simple as expressed above. The Chrysler 300 has evolved throughout its journey. Curiously enough, it has included a range of different models of automatic transmissions. So, we will see the transmissions through several aspects. Starting with the reliability factor, we will jump to go through the costs of them. Subsequently, we will see the issues that commonly emerge during the lifetime of those transmissions. In the end, we will go through the differences between them. We will also share the source to help you find the fluid appropriate to your transmission.

What's Inside show

What Transmissions Has The Chrysler 300 Used?

Let us see different transmissions the Chrysler 300 has incorporated in its two generations.

First Generation (2004–2010)

4-speed 42RLE automatic
5-speed W5A580 automatic

Second Generation (2010–Present)

5-speed 5G-Tronic automatic
8-speed 8HP45 automatic

How Long Does A Chrysler 300 Transmission Last?

The overall shelf life of a Chrysler 300 transmission is contingent on how well a driver maintains it. On average, it can often last between 130,000-180,000 miles. Nevertheless, regular maintenance that includes fluid changes is essential to get the transmission to hit the mentioned rough estimates.

How Much Does A Chrysler 300 Transmission Cost?

It is natural to bother about knowing the transmission cost, given that you need to make up your mind to change the transmission of your Chrysler 300. For your assistance, we have provided prices for transmissions that the vehicle has embraced during its evolution so far.

4-speed 42RLE automatic: $1,695.00 (SPPrecision)
5-speed W5A580 automatic: $2,000.00 (eBay)
5-speed 5G-Tronic automatic: $2,950.00 (mbzParts)
8-speed 8HP45 automatic: $541.70 (eBay)

Common Chrysler 300 Transmission Problems

Like other things, Chrysler 300 transmissions also pop up problems over time. Here we see a few common issues concerning those transmissions that Chrysler 300 drivers face during driving.

42RLE

A driver with the 42RLE transmission may have trouble shifting gears. The problem often arises because of low transmission fluid.
Losing car power and the gear sticking in the second shift are additional problems that commonly emerge.
Another problem is grinding and clunking sound when shifting gears. The problem occurs more often with manual transmission. It seems like a driver has not released at the correct time when shifting gears.
Drivers can also face overheating. Some recommend installing a transmission cooler to avoid the problem.
When clutches start to wear out, high engine revving also begins to occur.

Also read: All Common Problems & Recalls Of The Chrysler 300

W5A580

The transmission fluid is the weakest link to the W5A580 transmission. The transmission can start shuddering even when as small as 0.005 percent of water is mixed in the fluid.
Replacing the internal filter and changing the fluid are possible solutions to overcome the problem. It eliminates any impurities, such as water and debris.
Even though the W5A580 transmission is employed in high-performance cars, it can resort to overheating. It can cause long-term problems when it happens. Excess heat can go as far as destroying the transmission.
The torque converter sometimes does not hold correctly. A faulty clutch, a faulty solenoid, or fluid contamination often cause the problem.

5G-Tronic

Fluid contamination can fail the electronic conductor plate mounted on the valve body. TCM (Transmission Control Module) stores the dual-clutch transmission faults when the speed sensors fail. The transmission enters limp mode when certain ECP (Electronic Power Control) malfunctions. The removal of the transmission valve body and the oil pan is needed for replacing the conductor plate.
The transmission has its adaptor plugged directly into it, and O rings seal it. These rubber O rings are prone to becoming brittle and crack over time. Neglecting it paves the way for the leaking of the transmission fluid onto the external wiring harness. The fluid, then, makes inroads into the transmission control module. It costs plenty, given that the TCM gets damaged.
The beverages flowing into the assembly can cause the electric shifter to fail. Shifter resorts to getting stuck in the park position when the internal shifter electronics corrode over time. When damaged, it has to get replaced.
Over time, the seals within the transmission that keep the clutches operating appropriately also wear down.

Also read: The Types Of Gas A Chrysler 300 Uses (Explained)

Differences Between Transmissions

The 42RLE is a four-speed automatic transmission. Controlled with adaptive electronic controls and monitors, it is a conventional mechanical assembly. The hydraulic system of the transmission comprises hydraulic valves, fluid, and fluid passages. It also contains several line pressure control components. It is fully adaptive electronics that accomplish the control of the transmission.

The W5A580 is a 5-speed automatic transmission. It is an electronically controlled transmission system with a lock-up clutch in the torque converter. It is designed in a way that its fifth gear is an overdrive with a high-speed ratio. Three planetary gear sets obtain the ratios for the gear stages. Beginning with the Dodge Magnum and 2005 Chrysler 300, it was included in many Chrysler vehicles.

The 5G-Tronic automatic is a 5-speed automatic transmission. It is an electronically shifted overdrive automated transmission system with a lock-up clutch in the torque converter. In all applications, people recognize it as the NAG1 (new automatic gearbox generation one).

Also read: Is The Chrysler 300 A Sports Or Muscle Car? (Answered)

Transmission Fluids And The Chrysler 300

Taking good care of your vehicle is the first step in ensuring smooth running. As far as the transmission fluid is concerned, car manufacturers suggest changing it every 45,000 miles. It is to note that different types of transmission demand unique kinds of transmission fluid. Here we give you one of the sources to help you find the transmission fluid that goes well with your transmission.

42RLE, W5A580, 5G-Tronic, 8HP45: Transmission fluid

References

Stefan K.

Hi! My name is Stefan; I’m the owner and lead writer at TheDriverAdviser.com.

I’m an active writer on this blog myself, as well as a novice car mechanic. For the really technical stuff, I find writers with experience as a mechanic or who have studied mechanical engineering.

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