3 Cheap but Reliable Used Chrysler 300 Model Years Under $10,000
The once-popular Chrysler 300 is finally retiring. Since 1955, full-size cars have cruised American highways and byways. This latest demise may or may not be permanent, but used Chrysler 300 models will continue to roam the roads for years to come. Even with the declining sales that prompted Chrysler to kill the 300, these large sedans remain classy and affordable on the used market. A few Chrysler 300 years balance an accessible price with above-average reliability, even a decade or more after their release.
(Note: Regardless of a used car’s reliability score, always obtain a vehicle history report and have a trusted mechanic perform an inspection to uncover potential problems before purchasing. Also, prices may vary depending on trim level, mileage, overall condition, and location.)
2008 Chrysler 300
The late 2000s through the early 2010s mark a strong run for the Chrysler 300. These model years are reliable for used cars under $10,000.
Let’s start with the oldest and cheapest option on our list, the 2008 Chrysler 300. J.D. Power shows people are paying only $3,573 to $7,743, depending on the condition. The research firm gave this model year a “good” Quality & Reliability score of 82 out of 100.
The biggest 2008 Chrysler 300 problems involve the electrical system. Over time, it tends to fail in the 2008 model, leading to severe issues triggering the starter. Repairs cost around $700. But this issue isn’t nearly as common in the 2008 300 as in other large cars from the same timeframe.
2009 Chrysler 300
The 2009 Chrysler 300 is perhaps the best buy of the three models on this list. Though it isn’t immune to the most common used car problems, owners have reported issues at a much lower rate than they have for most large cars, including other Chrysler 300 model years.
At $4,040 to $9,154, the 2009 model is slightly more expensive than the previous year, but that premium might be worth it for the lower risk of electrical problems. Its 82 J.D. Power Quality & Reliability score may be identical, but the types of problems associated with the 2009 300 make a big difference.
In this case, it’s sludge. Depending on the environment, build-up in the engine block can become a severe issue over time. That’s especially problematic for drivers who live in areas with heavy snowfall. It can be costly if it gets out of hand, of course. But owners willing to keep an eye on the build-up and clear it out will be rewarded with an inexpensive and immensely reliable vehicle despite its age.
2010 Chrysler 300
The final affordable yet reliable used Chrysler 300 year is 2010. Though there’s a slight uptick in complaints about this model compared to 2009, one less year on the road might make the newer version more appealing. With an 83, it has the highest J.D. Power Quality & Reliability score of the three model years on our list. So that might help assuage fears of the minor issues that owners report about the 2010 Chrysler 300.
It also helps that it’s not much different in average used price from the 2009 model, ranging from $4,492 to $9,686. But the biggest reported problem — rare though it may be — is a full-on engine blowout.
That’s the worst-case scenario and won’t apply to most people buying a used 2010 Chrysler 300 today. For savvy shoppers capable of detecting signs of engine problems, the issue can be avoided before purchase. But for most consumers, the 2009 model might be the safest choice if keeping an eye on sludge build-up isn’t too much to ask.
