The 2022 Chrysler 300 sits on the aging LX platform with proven powertrains, but the ZF 8-speed transmission and cooling system issues dominate the reliability conversation. V8 models add Hemi-specific concerns with lifter and cylinder deactivation problems.
ZF 8-Speed Transmission Oil Cooler Failure
Common · high severityTypical onset: 40,000-80,000 mi
Symptoms: Transmission fluid mixing with coolant (pink milkshake in reservoir), Transmission slipping or delayed engagement, Check engine light with transmission overheating codes, Transmission failure if contamination not caught early
Fix: Replace transmission oil cooler, flush both cooling system and transmission, replace transmission fluid and filter. If contamination occurred, full transmission rebuild often required. 4-6 hours labor for cooler only, 18-25 hours if transmission needs rebuild.
Estimated cost: $800-1,200 cooler only, $3,500-5,500 with transmission rebuild
Hemi V8 Lifter and MDS Failure (5.7L and 6.4L)
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 60,000-120,000 mi
Symptoms: Cold start ticking or tapping that persists after warmup, Cylinder misfires on bank deactivation cycles, Check engine light with multiple misfire codes, Loss of power or rough idle, Metal shavings in oil
Fix: Replace failed lifters, camshaft inspection (often damaged), MDS solenoids, and all associated hardware. Requires cylinder head removal. Some shops delete MDS entirely. 16-22 hours labor depending on cam damage.
Estimated cost: $3,800-6,500
Transmission Output Shaft Bearing Failure
Occasional · high severityTypical onset: 70,000-110,000 mi
Symptoms: Grinding or whining noise from transmission that changes with vehicle speed, Noise present in neutral while rolling, Vibration through drivetrain, Metal debris in transmission fluid
Fix: Transmission removal required to replace output shaft bearing and seal. Inspect output shaft for scoring. Full service with new fluid and filter while apart. 8-12 hours labor.
Estimated cost: $2,200-3,500
3.6L Pentastar Head Gasket and Cylinder Head Issues
Rare · high severityTypical onset: 80,000-140,000 mi
Symptoms: Coolant loss with no visible leaks, White smoke from exhaust on cold start, Overheating or erratic temperature gauge, Oil contamination in coolant or vice versa, Rough idle or misfire codes
Fix: Both cylinder heads typically require replacement or machining due to warping. Head gaskets, timing chains, water pump, and all seals replaced. Some cases require complete short block. 18-28 hours labor for heads, 35+ hours for short block.
Estimated cost: $4,500-7,000 heads only, $8,000-12,000 short block
TPMS Sensor and Module Failures
Common · low severitySymptoms: TPMS warning light stays on despite correct pressures, Sensors not reading or intermittent readings, System fails to reset after tire rotation or replacement
Fix: Replace faulty TPMS sensors (battery life 7-10 years) or reprogram system. Module issues require dealership scan tool for diagnosis. 0.5-1.5 hours labor depending on how many sensors.
Estimated cost: $180-450
Transmission Mount Failure
Occasional · medium severityTypical onset: 50,000-90,000 mi
Symptoms: Clunk or thud on acceleration or deceleration, Excessive drivetrain movement felt through shifter, Vibration at idle in gear, Transmission sag visible on inspection
Fix: Replace transmission mount and inspect engine mounts while accessible. Common on V8 models due to torque. 1.5-2.5 hours labor.
Estimated cost: $350-650
A 2022 is still too new to show typical failures, but the platform's history shows transmission cooler and Hemi lifter issues are expensive gambles — buy with warranty or budget $4K-6K reserve for major repairs.
AI-assisted summary drawn from NHTSA recall data, our labor-times database, and platform knowledge. Not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on a specific vehicle.