2015-2017 Chrysler 200 Hood: Damage Inspection, Material, and Replacement Costs
This guide covers what to look for when buying a used hood for your 2015-2017 Chrysler 200, including material facts and cost comparisons.
- The original hood for a 2015-2017 Chrysler 200 is made of aluminum; use a magnet to check if a used one is a heavier steel aftermarket part.
- When buying used, always inspect the underside for hidden creases or repair signs that indicate past collision damage.
- There are no major recalls for the hood itself, but always check that the primary and secondary latches are working correctly for safety.
- A used OEM hood is often the best value, providing superior fit and material quality compared to aftermarket options, potentially saving you money on paint if you find a color match.
Known Issues and Recalls
While the 2015-2017 Chrysler 200 hood panel itself has no specific recalls, it's important to be aware of related issues. The primary concern for any hood is the latching system. A faulty latch can cause the hood to open unexpectedly while driving, creating a serious safety hazard. While no recalls were issued specifically for the 2015-2017 Chrysler 200's hood or latch, other Chrysler models from the same era were recalled for hood striker bolts that could loosen. Always ensure the primary and secondary hood latches are functioning correctly.
Symptoms of a Failing or Damaged Hood
Since a hood is a body panel, most 'failure' symptoms are visible or related to its physical function.
- Visible Damage: Dents, dings, creases, and deep scratches are the most obvious signs of a problem. This is almost always caused by impact from accidents, hail, or road debris.
- Poor Alignment: Uneven gaps between the hood and the fenders or front bumper indicate a problem. This can be caused by a previous accident that bent the hood or its mounting points, or simply from a poor installation.
- Fluttering at High Speeds: If the hood appears to vibrate or flutter while driving, it could mean the latch is not secure, the hood is bent, or the hood lift supports are weak. This is a serious issue that needs immediate attention.
- Difficulty Opening or Closing: 🎬 Watch this quick clip on locating the hood release lever. A hood that is hard to open or requires slamming to close may have a faulty latch, misaligned hinges, or underlying structural damage.
- Corrosion: Look for bubbling paint or rust, especially along the front edge and underneath seams. The factory hood is aluminum, which doesn't rust but can corrode (oxidize), causing paint to bubble and flake off.
Buying a Used 2015-2017 Chrysler 200 Hood
A recycled OEM hood is often the best choice for replacement, as it guarantees the correct fit, material, and safety specifications. Aftermarket hoods, while cheaper, may not align perfectly and can be made from different materials like steel or fiberglass, which can affect weight distribution and crash performance.
Inspection Checklist:
- Check for Hidden Damage: Inspect the underside of the hood carefully. Look for any signs of cracks, creases, or repairs. A hood that looks perfect on top may have been damaged in a collision and poorly repaired underneath.
- Verify Material: The original hood is aluminum. A magnet will not stick to it. If a magnet sticks, it's a steel aftermarket replacement, which is heavier and not original to the vehicle.
- Examine the Edges and Seams: Look closely at the folded edges on the underside. This is where corrosion often starts. Ensure the seam sealer is intact and not cracked or peeling.
- Assess the Paint: Unless you plan to repaint, find a hood that matches your vehicle's color code. Be aware that sun exposure can cause slight variations in color, so an exact match is not always possible. Check for peeling clear coat or significant fading.
- Inspect Hinge and Latch Points: Ensure the mounting points for the hinges and the latch striker are not bent, cracked, or damaged. Damage in these areas suggests the vehicle was in a significant accident.
Pro Tip: When buying a used hood, ask for photos of the underside and the part number sticker if it's still present. The OEM part number for this hood is 68143614AC, which supersedes 68143614AB and 68143614AA.
Cost Comparison for a 2015-2017 Chrysler 200 Hood
Hood replacement costs can vary significantly based on the type of part and labor involved. Painting is a major additional cost to consider if you cannot find a color-matched used part.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Part Only) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) | $1,100 - $1,700 | Comes unpainted. Guarantees perfect fit and original aluminum material. |
| New Aftermarket (CAPA Certified) | $400 - $850 | Often aluminum and certified for fit, but quality can vary. Comes unpainted. |
| Used OEM | $300 - $700+ | Price depends on condition and color. May not require painting if a match is found. |
| Shop Labor (Installation) | $100 - $200 | For a simple swap. Alignment can add time and cost. |
| Shop Labor (Painting) | $400 - $800+ | Cost to paint a new hood to match the vehicle's color. |
Replacement Information
Replacing the hood on a Chrysler 200 is a relatively straightforward job, but it requires a second person to safely lift the hood off and on without scratching the fenders or windshield.
- Difficulty: 2 out of 5
- DIY Feasible: Yes, with a helper.
- Tools Needed: Socket set, wrench, painter's tape, touch-up paint (for bolt heads).
- Procedure Outline:
- Mark the hinge locations on the old hood with painter's tape or a marker to simplify alignment of the new hood.
- Disconnect the windshield washer fluid hose.
- Have a helper support one side of the hood while you unbolt the hinges. There are typically two bolts per hinge.
- Carefully lift the old hood off the vehicle.
- With your helper, place the new hood onto the hinges and loosely install the bolts.
- Reconnect the washer fluid hose.
- Adjust the hood to align with the fenders and bumper, using the marks you made earlier. Gently close the hood to check alignment before latching it.
- Once aligned, tighten the hinge bolts to the proper torque.
- Check the operation of the primary and secondary latches.
Warning: Never work under a hood that is supported only by its hydraulic lift supports. Always use a secondary prop rod if you are working near the hinges or latch mechanism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2015-2017 Chrysler 200 hood made of aluminum or steel?
The factory OEM hood for the 2015-2017 Chrysler 200 is made of aluminum. Some cheaper aftermarket replacements may be made of steel.
Was there a recall on the hood latch for the Chrysler 200?
No, there were no specific hood latch recalls for the 2015-2017 Chrysler 200. However, other Chrysler vehicles of the same era had recalls for hood striker bolts, so it is wise to inspect the latch and striker for tightness and proper function.
Do I need to use hood pins for an aftermarket hood?
For standard factory-style replacements, hood pins are not necessary. However, for lightweight fiberglass or carbon fiber performance hoods, manufacturers often recommend or require hood pins for safety, as the factory latch may not be strong enough to secure them at high speeds.
How much does it cost to replace the hood latch?
If only the hood latch mechanism is faulty, the replacement cost is much lower than replacing the entire hood. The part itself is around $116, with labor costs between $45 and $65, for a total average cost of $161 to $182.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68143614AC 68143614AB 68143614AA
Material: Aluminum
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Chrysler 200: