Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 1999 Chrysler 300M
The 1999 Chrysler 300M has some issues, mainly in airbags, structure, and steering, based on 351 complaints and 4 recalls. Be cautious around limited complaint data, but consider documented recalls. Check key vehicle components, especially lighting and transmission, for reliability when inspecting this model.
NHTSA data on file today
The 1999 Chrysler 300M has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 351 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #09E012000 FMVSS 108/AFTERMARKET COMBINATION LAMPS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #04V021000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/FLOOR SHIFT IGNITION-PARK INTERLOC NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #03V035000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/SEAT BACK RECLINING BOLT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V034000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/SEAT BELT MOUNTING BOLTS NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Air Bags 51 complaints
- Structure 49 complaints
- Steering 48 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 33 complaints
- Power Train 32 complaints
- Wheels 22 complaints
Of the 351 complaints on file, 32 report a crash and 6 a fire; across all 351 complaints, owners report 19 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Ignition interlock failure
How to check: Ensure shifter locks in park with key out
Seat recliner failure
How to check: Check seat backs for firmness and stability
Seatbelt mounting failure
How to check: Inspect seatbelts and shoulder loop mounts
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any loud engine noises
Red flag: Persistent knocking or tapping sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for steady idle and dash warnings
Red flag: Idle is rough or warning lights on
- 03
Low-speed maneuvering
What to check: Test steering response and ease
Red flag: Steering feels loose or unresponsive
- 04
Braking
What to check: Assess braking smoothness and efficiency
Red flag: Vibration or noise during braking
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth power delivery and shifts
Red flag: Significant lag or transmission slip
- 06
Highway cruising
What to check: Check for straight-line stability
Red flag: Car pulls to one side
- 07
Parking
What to check: Evaluate ease of parking and shifter function
Red flag: Shifter moves out of park without key
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition interlock been repaired?
- Are there any current airbag issues?
- Have seats or seatbelts been replaced?
- Any problems with the transmission?
- What is the vehicle's maintenance history?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle recall repair history
- Maintenance records
- Title and registration papers
- Warranty information
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 1999 Chrysler 300M at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 1999 Chrysler 300M? 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.