2005-2010 Chrysler 300 Rear Spoiler: Avoiding Leaks, Paint Matching & Installation

Known Issues and Failure Points

While a rear spoiler is a simple, non-mechanical part, it can still cause problems. Most issues are related to age, environmental exposure, or improper installation.

Trunk Water Leaks

By far the most common complaint is water leaking into the trunk through the spoiler's mounting holes. This typically happens when the original foam gaskets or seals degrade and fail over time. It is also a frequent problem on vehicles where a spoiler was added after the car left the factory, if the installer did not use a quality sealant like silicone around the newly drilled holes and bolts. Water can pool in the spare tire well, leading to musty odors and potential corrosion.

Loose or Rattling Spoiler

Over time, vibrations and the force of opening and closing the trunk can cause the nuts holding the spoiler to loosen. This can result in an audible rattling or a physically loose spoiler. In most cases, this is easily fixed by accessing the nuts on the underside of the trunk lid and tightening them, but it's important to do so before the spoiler becomes loose enough to damage the paint or the mounting holes.

Paint and Clear Coat Failure

Like any painted surface on a vehicle, the spoiler is susceptible to sun damage. The clear coat may begin to peel, flake, or haze, leaving a dull, chalky appearance. This is a cosmetic issue but is very common on cars of this age, especially those in sunny climates. Once the clear coat fails, the underlying paint is exposed and can begin to fade or degrade.

Buying a Used 2005-2010 Chrysler 300 Spoiler

A used OEM spoiler is often the best choice, offering perfect fitment and original quality. However, you must inspect it carefully before buying.

Physical Inspection Checklist

• Check for Cracks: Pay close attention to the areas around the mounting studs. Stress cracks can form here, which may worsen over time or allow water to penetrate the spoiler itself.
• Inspect Mounting Studs: Ensure the threaded mounting studs are intact and not stripped or excessively rusted. On rare occasions, a stud may be broken off, making the spoiler unusable without significant repair.
• Examine the Paint: Look for signs of peeling clear coat, deep scratches, or fading. If you plan to use the spoiler as-is, ensure the paint condition is acceptable to you. If you plan to repaint it, these issues are less critical but may affect the price.
• Verify the Style: The 2005-2010 300 had a few spoiler options, most notably the standard lip spoiler and the slightly more aggressive SRT-8 style. Ensure you are buying the style you want for your vehicle.

The Importance of the Paint Code

Repainting a spoiler can cost between $150 and $350. To avoid this expense, find a used spoiler that already matches your car. To do this, you need your vehicle's paint code. For the 2005-2010 Chrysler 300, the paint code is found on a sticker in the driver's side door jamb. The code is typically three characters long, often containing letters and numbers, and is labeled next to "PNT" on the sticker.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Spoilers

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) spoilers are made from durable ABS plastic and are guaranteed to fit perfectly using the factory mounting points. Aftermarket spoilers are available in materials like fiberglass, polyurethane, or ABS plastic and come in many more styles. While cheaper, aftermarket parts can sometimes have fitment issues. Some are "no-drill" and attach with adhesive tape, but for a secure, long-term fit, a bolt-on spoiler is recommended.

Installation Difficulty & Procedure

Installing a rear spoiler is a feasible DIY project, but the difficulty varies greatly depending on whether your car already has a spoiler.

• Difficulty Rating (Replacing Existing): 2 out of 5
• Difficulty Rating (New Installation with Drilling): 4 out of 5

Replacing an existing spoiler is straightforward. It involves removing the trunk liner, unbolting the old spoiler, cleaning the surface, and bolting the new one in place with new gaskets or sealant.

Installing a new spoiler on a trunk without one is more involved and requires precision.

1. Positioning: Use the included templates (if provided) or carefully measure to position the spoiler correctly. Use masking tape to mark the location.
2. Marking Holes: Many kits come with guide tools that help you mark the exact center for each hole.
3. Drilling: Start with a small pilot hole, then use the final size drill bit. Place a block of wood on the inside of the trunk lid to prevent the bit from damaging anything when it goes through.
4. Sealing Bare Metal: This is a critical step. Apply automotive touch-up paint or a rust-inhibiting primer to the bare metal edge of every hole you drilled to prevent future rust.
5. Final Mounting: Place a new gasket or a bead of 100% silicone sealant around each hole on the trunk surface before mounting the spoiler. Secure the nuts from the underside, being careful not to over-tighten and crack the spoiler. Reinstall the trunk liner.

Cost Comparison

Prices for a 2005-2010 Chrysler 300 rear spoiler can vary significantly based on source, condition, and finish.

OEM Part Numbers

The following are known OEM part numbers for the 2005-2010 Chrysler 300 rear spoiler. Many of these correspond to specific, pre-painted colors and may now be discontinued. The most common service part is the primered version, ready for paint.

• 1AK18ARHAA
• 1AK18AXRAA
• 1AK18BB8AA
• 1AK18CDMAA
• 1AK18DA4AA
• 1AK18DBMAA
• 1AK18TZZAA (Primered)
• 1AK18WS2AA
• 1AK18XWGAA
• 82210135

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)