A Guide to Replacing Shocks and Struts on Your 2012-2023 Chrysler 300
Restore your 300's signature smooth ride by learning to spot bad shocks and choosing the right replacement parts.
- Always replace shocks and struts in pairs (both front or both rear) to maintain vehicle stability.
- A clunking noise might be a worn control arm bushing, not a bad strut; have it inspected first.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing front struts to prevent tire wear and ensure proper handling.
- Choose your brand based on your goal: Bilstein for performance, KYB for a balanced OEM-style ride, and Monroe/FCS for budget-friendly comfort.
Is Your Smooth Ride a Bumpy Memory? Signs of Failing Shocks
The shocks and struts on your Chrysler 300 wear out gradually. You might not notice the decline until the ride becomes truly uncomfortable or unsafe. Here are the common signs that your shocks or struts need replacement:
- Bouncy Ride: After hitting a bump, does your car continue to bounce up and down? This is the classic sign of worn shocks, as they can no longer dampen the spring's movement.
- Nose-Diving: When you apply the brakes, does the front end of the car dip excessively? This increases stopping distances and indicates worn front struts.
- Rear Squat: During acceleration, does the rear of the car sag or 'squat' down? This is a sign of failing rear shocks.
- Clunking or Knocking Noises: Hearing a clunking sound from a corner of your car when going over bumps can point to a completely failed shock or a problem with its mounting hardware.
- Body Roll: If the car sways or leans heavily during turns, the shocks are no longer controlling the body's weight transfer effectively.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Worn shocks can cause tires to bounce slightly as they roll, leading to cupped or scalloped wear patterns on the tread. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose a bad strut or shock
Check This Before You Replace!
A clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension is a common complaint. While this can be a bad strut, Chrysler has issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs like 02-008-17 and 02-008-24) for worn front lower control arm bushings, which can cause a nearly identical sound. Have a mechanic inspect the control arm bushings before you decide to replace the struts to avoid unnecessary repairs.
🎬 See the top 5 front suspension noises for Chrysler 300Choosing the Right Aftermarket Shocks & Struts
You don't need to buy expensive OEM parts to restore your ride. The aftermarket offers a wide range of options. We've grouped the available brands into tiers to help you decide.
Tier 1: Performance Upgrade
These brands offer better-than-OEM performance, improving handling and stability, sometimes with a slightly firmer ride. Ideal for the owner who enjoys spirited driving.
- Bilstein: Often considered the top choice for a performance upgrade. The B6 series, for example, provides noticeably better handling and control without being overly harsh.
- Koni: A well-respected performance brand known for high-quality, often adjustable, shocks that can be tuned for your preferred driving style.
Tier 2: OEM-Quality Replacement
These brands are the go-to for most drivers, offering an excellent balance of comfort, durability, and value that meets or exceeds the original factory ride.
- KYB: A highly recommended brand that is often an OEM supplier for many automakers. Many users find them to be a significant step up from budget options and a perfect daily-driver choice.
- Sachs: Another OEM-level supplier, known for producing shocks that closely match the vehicle's original ride and handling characteristics.
Tier 3: Economy & Value
These brands offer a budget-friendly solution to get your car back on the road safely. They are often available as 'quick struts' or 'complete strut assemblies', which include the spring and mount, saving significant labor time and cost.
- Monroe: A widely available brand known for providing a comfortable, often softer, ride. Some users feel they are less performance-oriented than other brands.
- FCS Struts & Unity: These brands specialize in complete, ready-to-install strut assemblies that make for an affordable and straightforward replacement.
Understanding Replacement Costs
The cost to replace shocks and struts varies based on parts and labor. The front struts are more complex and thus more expensive to replace than the rear shocks.
| Item | Estimated Cost (Per Pair) |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) Parts | $450 - $550 |
| New Aftermarket Parts | $72 - $364 |
| Shop Labor (Front Struts) | $250 - $500 |
| Shop Labor (Rear Shocks) | $150 - $300 |
| Total Job (Front Aftermarket) | $322 - $864 |
| Total Job (Rear Aftermarket) | $222 - $664 |
Pro Tip: An alignment is required after replacing the front struts, as the process disturbs the suspension geometry. Factor in an additional $100-$200 for this service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to replace all four shocks at once?
No, but you absolutely must replace them in pairs. If the right front strut is bad, you must replace both the left and right front struts. The same goes for the rear. Mismatched shocks will cause unpredictable handling and instability.
What's the difference between a shock and a strut on my 300?
Your Chrysler 300 has struts in the front and shocks in the rear. A strut is a structural part of the suspension that combines the shock absorber and the spring mount into one unit. A shock is simply a damper and is not part of the vehicle's structural support.
Can I install these myself?
Rear shocks are a relatively simple DIY job for someone with mechanical experience. Front struts are more complex and require more tools, including potentially a way to safely compress the coil spring if you are not using a complete strut assembly. Due to the safety risks, most people should leave front strut replacement to a professional.
🎬 Watch: Full walkthrough of Chrysler 300 front strut replacementDo I need an alignment after replacing my shocks?
Yes, a four-wheel alignment is essential after replacing the front struts. It is not strictly necessary after replacing only the rear shocks, but it is always a good idea to have the alignment checked if you've done any suspension work.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4782731AE 68072161 68544271AA 68544270AA
The 2012-2023 Chrysler 300 uses a MacPherson strut assembly for the front suspension and a separate coil spring and shock absorber setup for the multi-link rear suspension. Parts differ between Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models, as well as between standard, performance, and load-leveling suspension options. Always verify fitment with your vehicle's specific submodel and drivetrain.
We Have This Part in Stock
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 300:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Smooth Ride a Bumpy Memory? Signs of Failing Shocks
- Check This Before You Replace!
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Shocks & Struts
- Tier 1: Performance Upgrade
- Tier 2: OEM-Quality Replacement
- Tier 3: Economy & Value
- Understanding Replacement Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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