The flagship V8 version of the 300 — genuinely strong performance paired with one of Chrysler's most dependable engines, sidestepping the V6 model's early-production risk entirely.
The 300's substantial, rear-wheel-drive-biased body is an excellent match for this V8 — genuinely strong, confident performance that never feels strained, with the smooth power delivery this engine is known for.
Unlike the V6 300 covered elsewhere, this trim sidesteps the Pentastar's early-production rocker arm risk entirely, since the HEMI has a different and generally stronger reliability track record of its own.
This is about the car itself — for engine-specific failure points, see the dedicated engine page below.
This generation of 300C is a defining application of the 5.7L HEMI. Full detail on this engine's well-understood, manageable issues lives on the dedicated engine page.
FULL ENGINE BREAKDOWNChrysler 5.7L HEMI V8 — Reliable or Not →The standard V6 trim of this same generation is worth comparing if fuel economy matters more to you than outright performance.
Listen for a ticking exhaust leak noise, especially under load, a common sign of loosened manifold bolts covered on the engine page.
Listen separately for a tapping or lifter-style noise, which points toward MDS-related wear rather than the manifold bolts.
Ask for a complete service history, though this engine is generally more forgiving of gaps than the V6 Pentastar in this same generation.