A Guide to Replacing Ignition Coils on Your 2003-2023 Chrysler 300
Fix engine misfires and restore performance by choosing the right ignition coils for your V6 or V8 Chrysler 300.
- A flashing check engine light indicates a severe misfire; stop driving to prevent expensive catalytic converter damage.
- On V6 engines, some coils are under the intake manifold, making replacement more difficult than on V8s.
- Misfire codes (P0300-P0308) are the most common sign of a failing coil.
- For long-term reliability, choose OEM (Mopar) or premium aftermarket brands like Bosch, Delphi, or NGK.
Is Your Chrysler 300 Stuttering? It Could Be an Ignition Coil.
A failing ignition coil on your Chrysler 300 is a common issue that can disrupt your engine's smooth operation. When a coil starts to go bad, it can't produce the high voltage needed for a strong spark. This leads to an incomplete burn of fuel in the cylinder, a condition known as a misfire. You'll feel this as a stutter, hesitation during acceleration, or a rough, shaky idle. 🎬 Watch: Learn more about common symptoms of a bad ignition coil. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious problems, including damage to your catalytic converter due to unburned fuel entering the exhaust.
Flashing Check Engine Light? Pull Over.
If your check engine light is flashing, it signals a severe engine misfire. Unburned fuel is entering the exhaust and can quickly overheat and destroy your catalytic converter, a very expensive repair. Avoid heavy acceleration and get the vehicle checked immediately.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ignition Coil
When replacing a coil, you have many options. While the Mopar OEM coil is a reliable choice, many aftermarket brands offer comparable quality, often at a better price. Here’s how they generally stack up for your Chrysler 300:
- OEM / Premium Aftermarket (Bosch, Delphi, NGK, Hitachi, Denso): These brands are often the original equipment suppliers to automakers and are known for their quality and reliability. They are engineered to meet or exceed factory specifications. Choosing one of these is the safest bet for long-term performance that is comparable to the original Mopar part.
- Reputable Aftermarket (Standard Ignition, Walker Products, Spectra): These brands have a long history in the aftermarket and provide a good balance of quality and value. They are a solid choice for most daily drivers and are generally considered reliable.
- Budget-Friendly (DriveWire, True Tech, Global Parts, etc.): While the lower price is tempting, quality can be inconsistent. These coils may have a shorter lifespan or not perform as well under stress. They can be a solution if you're on a tight budget, but it's often better to invest in a higher-quality part to avoid replacing it again soon.
For high-mileage vehicles, especially if one coil has failed, it's wise to replace them all. Coils are subjected to the same heat and wear, so if one fails, others may soon follow. On V6 engines where the intake manifold must be removed to access some coils, replacing all six at once saves you from paying for the same labor again.
Cost of Replacing Chrysler 300 Ignition Coils
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) Coil (Single) | $80 - $145 |
| New Aftermarket Coil (Single) | $28 - $100+ |
| Shop Labor (Single Coil, Easy Access) | $75 - $150 |
| Shop Labor (Multiple Coils, Intake Removal) | $162 - $237+ |
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
While there are no widespread recalls specifically for ignition coils on the Chrysler 300, several recalls exist for the ignition switch on 2008-2010 models, which could cause the engine to stall. Additionally, a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB #9003081) was issued in 2014 advising technicians to stop using a specific type of dielectric grease on ignition coil boots, as it could cause the silicone material to degrade. Another TSB for some 2016 models (18-069-16) notes that certain misfire codes may require a PCM replacement rather than just a coil replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just one ignition coil?
Yes, you can replace just the single failed coil. However, if your vehicle has high mileage (over 80,000 miles), it's often recommended to replace them as a set. All the coils have endured the same conditions, so another failure may not be far behind.
Is it hard to replace the ignition coils on a Chrysler 300 myself?
It depends on the engine. On the 5.7L and 6.1L/6.4L HEMI V8s, all eight coils are on top of the engine and easy to access, making it a simple DIY job. 🎬 See this walkthrough for replacing coils on a 5.7L HEMI V8. On the V6 engines (2.7L, 3.5L, and 3.6L), the coils on the passenger side are easy, but the driver's side coils are located under the upper intake manifold. This requires removing the manifold, making the job more complex for a beginner.
🎬 Watch: How to remove the intake manifold to reach V6 coils.What are the OBD-II codes for a bad ignition coil?
A general misfire code is P0300. Misfire codes for specific cylinders are P0301 (Cylinder 1), P0302 (Cylinder 2), and so on. You may also see codes like P2302, P2305, etc., which point directly to an issue with the ignition coil's secondary circuit.
Do I need to replace my spark plugs at the same time?
It's a very good idea. The ignition coil and spark plug work together, and you're already accessing them. Worn spark plugs can put extra strain on new ignition coils, causing them to fail prematurely. Replacing them together ensures a complete and long-lasting repair.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68238603AA 56028394AB 56029129AF 68060346AA 05149168AI UF648 68223569AD UF807
All 2003-2023 Chrysler 300 models use a 'Coil-on-Plug' (COP) ignition system. There is one coil per cylinder. V6 engines use 6 coils, while V8 HEMI engines use 8 coils.
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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.
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