Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Chrysler 200
The 2012 Chrysler 200 has had a number of issues, notably with the engine, electrical system, and air bags, based on recall and complaint data. There are several recalls affecting safety components, so it's important to focus on these areas during inspection. There are 638 complaints registered, so potential buyers should approach this model with caution and inspect thoroughly.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Chrysler 200 has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 639 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #17V640000 Active Headrests may not Deploy in a Crash NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V668000 Air Bags/Seat Belt Pretensioners may be Disabled NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #13V282000 Non-Deployment of Head Restraints NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #11V487000 ROD BEARING FAILURE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 146 complaints
- Electrical System 140 complaints
- Air Bags 136 complaints
- Unknown or Other 103 complaints
- Seat Belts 71 complaints
- Visibility/Wiper 56 complaints
Of the 639 complaints on file, 29 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 639 complaints, owners report 33 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Connecting rod bearing failure
How to check: Listen for knocking noises from the engine.
Electrical system failure
How to check: Inspect for warning lights and electrical malfunctions.
Occupant restraint controller failure
How to check: Check if the airbag warning light is on.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Knocking or ticking sounds from engine.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Ensure smooth gear shifts.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed shifts.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Observe engine performance; check for misfires.
Red flag: Hesitation or lack of power.
- 05
Braking
What to check: Test for responsiveness and unusual sounds.
Red flag: Grinding or squealing noises.
- 06
Parking
What to check: Test ease of steering wheel movement.
Red flag: Stiff or noisy steering.
- 07
Final inspection
What to check: Check if airbag light stays on.
Red flag: Airbag light remains lit.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine needed major repairs?
- Have you experienced electrical issues?
- Has the car been in any accidents?
- Have all recalls been addressed?
- Are there any warning lights currently on?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Chrysler 200 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2012 Chrysler 200? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.