🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chrysler Model: 300M Year: 2002 Codes Chassis Code: LH Platform 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size luxury sedan Target Audience: Drivers seeking comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped American luxury sedans with a focus on performance Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 2002: Buick LeSabre/Park Avenue, Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Oldsmobile Aurora (last model year), Cadillac DeVille Key Features Platform: LH platform, known for its front-wheel-drive architecture and refined ride Design Language: Distinctive styling with aerodynamic lines and a long wheelbase, aimed at projecting a sophisticated image Value Proposition: Offering significant interior space and features at a competitive price point compared to European luxury brands 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Scope: All models and all repairs A-Z, vehicle specific Page Count Number Of Pages: Estimated 1500-2000+ pages (typical for full factory service manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Likely printed book or digital PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust, fuel system Chassis: Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires Electrical: Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, body control modules, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Antilock Brake System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) Body: Interior components, exterior trim, body panels, doors, windows, HVAC system, safety restraints Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics Repair: Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly, adjustments, calibration Specifications: Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical schematics Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic fluid services to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed diagnostic procedures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Features: Searchable text, hyperlinked sections (if PDF), printable pages Print Quality Print Standard: High-quality print (if applicable), clear diagrams and schematics Binding Type Binding: Durable binding (stapled, perfect bound, or wire-o for printed versions) Paper Type Paper Quality: Durable paper stock suitable for shop environments ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated V6 Engine Displacement: 3.5 Liters (3500 cc) Engine Code: EGD (3.5L High Output SOHC V6) Bore X Stroke: 96.0 mm x 81.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 Horsepower: 255 hp @ 6400 rpm Torque: 250 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Performance 0-60 Mph: Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 seconds (depending on conditions) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Regular Gasoline (87 octane recommended) Fuel Capacity: 18 gallons (68 liters) Engine Management Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug ignition ECU: Chrysler's Powertrain Control Module (PCM) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic Transaxle Transmission Model: 42LE (updated version) Gear Ratios: Refer to manual for specific ratios (typically around 2.74:1 first, 1.54:1 second, 1.00:1 third, 0.69:1 overdrive) Features Shift Modes: Driver-selectable Auto-Stick manual shifting capability Transmission Fluid Fluid Type: Chrysler ATF+4 (or equivalent) Fluid Capacity: Approx. 8.0 quarts (7.6 liters) for dry fill 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 203.0 inches (5156 mm) Width: 74.0 inches (1880 mm) Height: 57.4 inches (1458 mm) Wheelbase: 113.0 inches (2870 mm) Front Track: 62.1 inches (1577 mm) Rear Track: 61.4 inches (1560 mm) Interior Front Headroom: 39.1 inches (993 mm) Rear Headroom: 37.8 inches (960 mm) Front Legroom: 43.0 inches (1092 mm) Rear Legroom: 41.7 inches (1059 mm) Front Shoulder Room: 59.2 inches (1504 mm) Rear Shoulder Room: 57.2 inches (1453 mm) Interior Volume: Approx. 115 cubic feet Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 16.1 cubic feet Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3650 - 3800 lbs (1655 - 1724 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Approx. 4700 lbs (2132 kg) Wheels Tires Standard Wheel Size: 17 x 6.5 inches Optional Wheel Size: 17 x 7.0 inches (chrome clad) Standard Tire Size: 225/55R17 Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5 x 100 mm 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: 5 Stars (2002 model year testing) NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: 5 Stars (2002 model year testing) NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver: 5 Stars (2002 model year testing) NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger: 5 Stars (2002 model year testing) NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver: 5 Stars (2002 model year testing) NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger: 5 Stars (2002 model year testing) IIHS Frontal Offset: Good (for its era) Active Features Traction Control: Standard Traction Control System (TCS) Antilock Brakes: Standard Antilock Braking System (ABS) Brake Assist: Brake Assist (BA) system Passive Features Airbags: Advanced front airbags, available side-impact airbags Seatbelts: Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH child seat anchors Security: Sentry Key immobilizer system, Remote Keyless Entry 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player; optional premium Infinity speaker system with subwoofer. Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with dual-zone temperature control. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard speed control system. Tire Pressure: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) available on some models/trims. Connectivity Telematics: Optional OnStar system was available. Convenience Seats: Power adjustable front seats with...
Drivers seeking comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped American luxury sedans with a focus on performance
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors 2002:
Buick LeSabre/Park Avenue, Ford Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Oldsmobile Aurora (last model year), Cadillac DeVille
Key Features
Platform:
LH platform, known for its front-wheel-drive architecture and refined ride
Design Language:
Distinctive styling with aerodynamic lines and a long wheelbase, aimed at projecting a sophisticated image
Value Proposition:
Offering significant interior space and features at a competitive price point compared to European luxury brands
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z, vehicle specific
Page Count
Number Of Pages:
Estimated 1500-2000+ pages (typical for full factory service manuals of this era)
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Likely printed book or digital PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust, fuel system
Chassis:
Suspension, steering, brakes, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, power accessories, body control modules, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Antilock Brake System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS)
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player; optional premium Infinity speaker system with subwoofer.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with dual-zone temperature control.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard speed control system.
Tire Pressure:
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) available on some models/trims.
Connectivity
Telematics:
Optional OnStar system was available.
Convenience
Seats:
Power adjustable front seats with memory function for driver's seat; heated front seats available.
Lighting:
Automatic headlamps, fog lamps.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on oil quality).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Replace every 12,000-15,000 miles (19,000-24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped plugs: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) under normal conditions. Refer to manual for exact type and interval.
Transmission Service:
Inspect fluid and filter at 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km); fluid change recommended every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) or as indicated by manual.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified, meeting Chrysler MS-6395)
Coolant:
Chrysler's HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant, typically Mopar OAT or equivalent (pink/orange color).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (Mopar P/N 04267814AA or equivalent)
Known Issues
Engine:
Occasional intake manifold gasket leaks, possible PCV system issues leading to rough idle.
Transmission:
The 42LE transmission is generally robust but can develop issues with solenoids or torque converter clutch (TCC) control if not properly maintained. Torque converter shudder can occur.
Suspension:
Front suspension bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can wear over time, leading to clunking noises or steering looseness.
Electrical:
Power window regulators, HVAC blower motor resistors, and instrument cluster gauge failures are relatively common.
Body:
Paint delamination or clear coat peel, particularly on hood and roof; interior trim pieces can become brittle or loose.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chrysler Legacy:
Chrysler has a long history of producing large, comfortable sedans, often with a focus on luxury and value.
Model Evolution
Predecessors:
The 300M evolved from the earlier Chrysler LHS and Concorde models, sharing the LH platform.
Lh Platform Development:
The LH platform, developed with AMC technology, debuted in the early 1990s, featuring distinctive cab-forward design and independent rear suspension.
300M Introduction:
Introduced for the 1999 model year as a distinct luxury model above the Concorde, slotting into the full-size segment.
Production
Production Years:
1999-2004
Manufacturing Location:
Bramalea, Ontario, Canada
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1999.
Motor Trend:
Competed for MotorTrend Car of the Year title.
Certifications
Epa Fuel Economy:
City: 17 MPG, Highway: 25 MPG (approximate, consult EPA ratings for specific year/trim).