What is the problem with the door panels on the Chrysler 300?

The door panels on the Chrysler 300 have shown a range of issues, but the specific problem depends on the model year and trim. The most common concerns include peeling or bubbling vinyl, rattling or loose trim, and water intrusion around the window seals.

The Chrysler 300 has been produced across multiple generations, and owners have reported a variety of door-panel problems—from cosmetic wear to hardware failures—that can affect interior durability and comfort. Some problems have prompted warranty actions or service bulletins; others are tied to specific production runs or regional manufacturing variations. This article reviews typical complaints, potential causes, and practical steps for verification and repair.

Common door-panel problems reported by owners

Before outlining the specific issues, here is a consolidation of the types of failures most frequently documented by drivers and service centers. The items reflect patterns seen in owner forums, complaints, and dealer notes across model years.

• Peeling, bubbling, or fading vinyl/leather on the door panels, especially along armrests and sun-exposed areas.


• Rattles, squeaks, or creaks from the door area at highway speeds or when opening/closing the door.


• Water intrusion or dampness around window seals, leading to musty odors or damp carpeting near the door sill.


• Loose or detached trim pieces, misaligned mouldings, or gaps between the panel and adjacent interior components.


• Issues with door handles or switches, including sticking or broken components.


• Window regulator or motor problems causing slow movement, erratic operation, or incomplete closure.

Not every vehicle experiences these problems, and many doors perform without issue. If you’re dealing with one of these symptoms, documenting when it started and under what conditions can help during service diagnostics.

What causes these door-panel issues?

Materials and aging

Door-panel materials (vinyl, leather, foam backing) can degrade over time, especially under sun exposure and extreme temperatures. This can lead to bubbling, cracking, or delamination of the surface and foam layers.

Environmental exposure

Moisture intrusion from window seals or door weather-stripping can cause mold, mildew, and softening of interior materials, potentially leading to rattles or panel deformation over time.

Hardware and installation

Fasteners, clips, and adhesive bonds used to secure panels can loosen or fail, producing gaps, misalignment, or squeaks. In some cases, premature wear of window regulators or door latch components can accompany panel issues.

These underlying causes are often interconnected. For example, water intrusion can accelerate adhesive and foam degradation, which in turn makes trim more prone to rattling or separation.

Recalls, service notices, and how to check for your vehicle

The best way to know whether a door-panel issue is tied to a formal recall or service campaign is to verify by model year and VIN in official databases. Recalls are year- and region-specific, and some repairs are performed under warranty or service bulletins regardless of mileage.

• Look up your vehicle’s VIN in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database to see if any campaigns apply.


• Ask your Chrysler/Fiat dealer to run a VIN-based recall check and review any relevant Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to door panels or interior trim.


• If a recall or TSB applies, schedule the repair with a dealer or authorized service center as soon as possible.

Because recall status can change and varies by region, check the latest official listings and discuss options with a certified technician.

What to do if you’re experiencing problems

If you notice door-panel issues, begin with a diagnostic visit to a dealer or trusted mechanic. Bring documentation of symptoms, mileage, and any prior service. For warranty-eligible problems that appear to be manufacturing defects, coverage may extend beyond basic limits if the vehicle remains eligible. For out-of-warranty cases, discuss potential repair options and costs with the service adviser, and inquire about any applicable goodwill coverage or service campaigns.

Summary

Door-panel problems on the Chrysler 300 can range from cosmetic wear to structural and hardware faults, including peeling or fading surfaces, rattles, and moisture-related issues. The prevalence and nature of these problems vary by model year and trim, and some cases have been addressed through recalls or service bulletins. The most reliable path is to check for recalls using the VIN, review any relevant service notices, and consult with a dealer to determine the appropriate remedy. Being proactive with documentation and verification can help streamline diagnosis and repair.

What is the recall on the Chrysler 300?

Recent Chrysler 300 recalls include issues with the windshield not bonding properly, a faulty Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensor, and a problem with the instrument cluster's warning lights. Other older recalls have addressed issues such as the airbag inflator, cruise control, and transmission. Chrysler dealerships will perform the recall repairs at no cost to the owner. 
Recent recalls

• Windshield Bonding: For 2020-2021 models, the windshield may not have been bonded correctly, causing it to detach during a crash and increasing injury risk. 
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): 2022 models have a recall for TPMS sensor batteries that may fail prematurely, which could lead to tire failure and an increased risk of a crash. 
• Instrument Cluster: For 2019 models, a problem with the instrument cluster may prevent it from properly illuminating warning lights, potentially causing the driver to miss critical vehicle alerts. 

Other recalls to be aware of

• Airbags: Some models have recalls related to airbag inflators that could rupture and spray metal fragments during deployment. 
• Cruise Control: Some 2015 models were recalled because a short circuit could cause the cruise control to malfunction and not disengage when the driver presses the brake or turns the system off. 
• Transmission: Some older vehicles have recalls for issues such as a faulty transmission park lock rod or problems with the powertrain control module. 

What to do

• Check for recalls: Visit the Chrysler recall website and enter your vehicle's VIN to see if it's affected by any recalls. 
• Schedule service: Contact a Chrysler dealership to schedule a service appointment for any open recalls. 
• Get free repairs: The automaker will cover the cost of the repairs for any open recall. 

What's the worst year for the Chrysler 300?

The worst years for the Chrysler 300 are generally considered to be 2005, 2006, and 2007, due to a combination of issues including early Hemi engine problems like dropped valve seats, significant airbag recalls, and general electrical and build quality complaints. 2013 also stands out with numerous recalls. 
This video explains the history and major flaws of the Chrysler 300: 56sMarspeedYouTube · Nov 19, 2022
Early models (2005-2008) 

• Engine issues: The 2005-2008 Hemi engines were known for a design flaw where valve seats could fail and fall out, leading to catastrophic engine damage. 
• Airbag recalls: Many 2005-2010 models were affected by recalls for the frontal and/or passenger airbag inflators, which could rupture due to moisture, potentially causing severe injury. 
• Electrical problems: These years saw a high number of user complaints regarding electrical issues. 
• Build quality: Owners reported issues with cabin materials and other aging components. 

Other problematic years

• 2011-2014: While generally more reliable than the initial models, this period had some issues. A significant recall affected the 3.6L V6 engine's 160 amp alternator, which could fail and cause stalls or even fires. 
• 2013: This year saw a high number of recalls, though some of the problems were not as severe as the engine and airbag issues of earlier years. 

This video explains what can go wrong with the Chrysler 300 interior, specifically the carbon fiber trim: 41sReDrivenYouTube · Dec 6, 2024
What to consider

• Early model issues: The 2005-2007 models are generally the riskiest due to the combination of engine, airbag, and electrical issues. 
• Later model reliability: Models from 2014 and newer are often cited as being more reliable, especially those with updated safety and infotainment features. 
• Maintenance: Proper maintenance can extend the life of any Chrysler 300, as well-maintained models have been known to last for over 200,000 miles. 

What is the class action lawsuit on the Chrysler 300?

The Stellantis class action lawsuit alleges the automaker used a low-cost polymer prone to warping in warm temperatures for the interior trim of 2014–2019 Chrysler 300 and Charger vehicles, causing door panels to warp and separate from the frame when exposed to heat.

What is the most common problem with Chrysler 300?

The most common problems with the Chrysler 300 include transmission issues, such as rough shifting and stalling, and electrical problems, like power window and airbag malfunctions. Other frequent complaints involve suspension issues, particularly worn ball joints and bushings, a musty smell from the HVAC system, and a check engine light.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the common problems with the Chrysler 300: 56sMarspeedYouTube · Nov 19, 2022
Transmission issues

• Rough shifting, stalling, or vibrations, especially in older models.
• Inability to shift properly, including difficulty getting out of park.
• Stalling at low or high speeds. 

Electrical problems 

• Power window motors and regulators failing.
• Faulty airbags.
• Intermittent issues with interior lights and other electrical features.
• A musty odor from the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
• The check engine light often due to cylinder misfires or carbon buildup. 

Suspension and steering 

• Worn ball joints and sway bar bushings, which can start to fail as early as 50,000 miles. 
• Squeaking noises from the steering wheel while turning. 
• The ABS warning light coming on due to a faulty speed sensor or other brake issues. 

Other common issues

• Warped interior door panels, particularly on the driver and passenger sides.
• Oil leaks or excessive oil consumption.
• Rear differential and axle seals prone to leaking.
• Issues with the oil cooler, especially in 3.6L V6 models.
• Problems with the automatic transmission fluid cooler line leaks.