2011-2023 Chrysler 300 Radiator Support: Upper vs. Lower and Collision Repair Guide

Anatomy of the Chrysler 300 Radiator Support: Upper vs. Lower

When searching for a radiator support for a 2011-2023 Chrysler 300, it is crucial to understand that it consists of two main, separately sold pieces: the main upper support and the lower tie bar. Ordering the wrong one is a common and costly mistake.

• Main Upper Radiator Support (OEM Part #68142203AC): This is the large, primary plastic and metal composite structure that holds the headlights, hood latch, and the top of the radiator and condenser. This is the part most people refer to when they say "radiator support." It is the focus of this guide.
• Lower Radiator Support Tie Bar (OEM Part #05065240AH): This is a smaller, steel cross-member that bolts underneath the main support. It secures the bottom of the radiator and A/C condenser. While essential, it is a different part.

Symptoms of a Damaged Radiator Support

Damage to the radiator support is almost always caused by a front-end impact. Even a minor collision can cause cracks or warping that lead to noticeable problems.

• Poor Hood Alignment or Latching: If the hood is difficult to close, doesn't latch securely, or has an uneven gap along the top, the radiator support that holds the latch may be bent or broken.
• Uneven Panel Gaps: Look for inconsistent gaps between the headlights, grille, front bumper, and fenders. A warped support will throw off the alignment of all these parts.
• Visible Cracks or Damage: The most obvious sign is visible damage. Look for cracks in the plastic, bent metal sections, or broken mounting tabs, especially after any front-end accident.
• Headlights Pointing Incorrectly: If your headlights seem aimed too high, too low, or crooked, it could be because their mounting points on the support are damaged.
• Engine Overheating: A severely damaged support can allow the radiator or A/C condenser to shift out of position, blocking airflow or damaging the components, which can lead to overheating.
• Unusual Noises: A loose, cracked, or broken support can cause rattling, creaking, or clunking sounds from the front of the vehicle, especially when driving on bumpy roads.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Chrysler or the NHTSA for the radiator support itself on 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 models. Failures are almost exclusively the result of collision damage or external stress, not a manufacturing defect.

However, this vehicle generation has been subject to other recalls, most notably for airbag inflators and alternators, which are unrelated to the vehicle's core structure.

Buying a Used 2011-2023 Chrysler 300 Radiator Support: What to Check

A used OEM radiator support is often a better choice than a new aftermarket one. OEM parts guarantee perfect fitment for all the bolt-on components, which is a common problem with cheaper aftermarket copies that can have misaligned holes for headlights or the hood latch. Here’s what to inspect on a used part:

1. Check All Mounting Points: Carefully examine every tab, bracket, and screw hole. Pay close attention to the headlight mounting areas and the central hood latch receiver. Ensure none are cracked, broken off, or repaired with epoxy or plastic weld.
2. Look for Hairline Cracks: Flex the part slightly and inspect it under good light. Look for small, hairline cracks, especially where plastic meets metal. These can compromise the part's strength.
3. Verify Flatness and Symmetry: Lay the support on a flat floor. It should sit level without any significant rocking or twisting. A warped support will make aligning the front end impossible.
4. Avoid Repaired Parts: Look for signs of previous repairs, such as melted plastic from a plastic welder, excessive glue, or mismatched paint. A repaired support will not have the same structural integrity as an original.
5. Confirm the Part Number: Double-check that you are buying the correct part—the upper support (68142203AC) or the lower tie bar (05065240AH).

Cost of Replacing a Chrysler 300 Radiator Support

Costs can vary based on your location and choice of part. The replacement is labor-intensive, as the entire front bumper and headlights must be removed.

Replacement Overview & Difficulty

• Difficulty: 3.5 out of 5
• Estimated Time: 3-5 hours
• DIY Feasible: Yes, for an experienced DIYer.

Replacing the radiator support is a significant job but manageable for someone comfortable with auto body work. The general process involves:

1. Disconnecting the battery.
2. Removing the front bumper cover, which involves releasing clips in the wheel wells and under the hood.
3. Removing the headlights.
4. Disconnecting the hood latch cable.
5. Supporting the radiator and A/C condenser. They do not need to be disconnected from their hoses unless you are also replacing them.
6. Unbolting the damaged radiator support from the vehicle's frame rails.
7. Transferring any necessary components (like the hood latch) to the new support.
8. Installing the new support and reassembling everything in reverse order.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)