Potential new buyer, Reliability issues

[Complicated]

Hi everyone, I posted this message on the 300cforum. Sorry for the repeat to some of you but I am just trying to as much responses as I can. Thank you in advance.

Hi everyone, as you guys can tell FROM my screen name I am a complicated person. This is because I am a very picky person when it comes to cars. Let me first start off by saying that in the past 8 years I have had nothing but problems with my last 2 cars. First car was an American car and second is a Benz. Between the 2 I have been to both dealerships over 50 times with all kinds of issues. I am frankly sick of problems and reliability issues. This is why I need all your help please.

1) When I first saw the 300C I fell in love with it. The style, power, size, and looks. However being that it is a combination of both American and German build I am extremely nervous about buying this car. Now that the car has been out for a couple of months, do you guys think most of the bugs have been fixed? Im really scared of jumping INTO this car and HAVING all kinds of issues. I just don't have the heart to deal with issues any more.

2) I test drove the 300C last week. It was a fully loaded car minus the navi. Loved it and I know one of the issues was the right pull. However I could not duplicate the issue with my test drive. That was a good thing. I loved the car, I mean this was the most comfortable ride I have ever drove. However when we stopped at a traffic light I felt the car shaking a little and then when I stepped on the gas it went away. I know some of you stated there is an issue at idle. That's what scared me. I checked the built date and it was 7/04. Has this problem been fixed on more recent built dates?

3) Guys, im sorry for the long post but I love this car yet it scares me at the same time. What I need is honest opinions FROM all of you. Should I buy it now because I do need a new car or should I just go buy a Japanese car and wait 4 years till this car has most issues resolved? What really scares me is also some of the stories about the car not starting, is that still an issue?

Thanks everyone for your time and patience. Any input would be helpful.

[DucatiBoy]

Over all I would bet this car (even being a first year) is probably as reliable as any American or German car. Since you already know that those are not "statistically" the most reliable cars in the world, then you might not be happy with this car.

I have had my 300C for only a month and it was back at the shop twice for little build problems (that weren't perfect, and I wanted them fixed), which is 2 times more than my wives hondas over the last 4 years. I never had any problem with any honda (my wife has had nothing but for years). Oh and another note, it's got to go back for a third time 10-5-04 too. I have the extended warranty and have a free rental when I take it in.

That being said, I still love my car. I never had a right pull. The shaking when it idles is considered normal. Unless your fillings are coming lose when it's idling. I wouldn't say that little vibration at idle was an issue, but more of the character of the car.

I think you might have had more problems than most with your most recent cars. I did read something recently that American cars are now more reliable than German cars, with Jap being the most reliable. But that is what the warrantee is for.

I would say if you are worried about build quality and reliability, It's still a Chrysler. It's the nicest Chrysler I think I have ever seen them make, but it's still a Chrysler. If you are that worried and the warranty doesn't make you feel better (it did to me) then buy a Honda Accord or an Acura TL.

[Upstate]

But then you would be stuck driving a Honda Accord or an Acura TL. yuk

[DMAG]

I think all new LX's do not have the right pull problem. I believe it SHOULD only be ones built in April or prior.

[C4me]

Ordered 01/04, delivered 04/26. No pull, no rattles, no problems. Almost 10,000 miles. 3 road trips - 1st to Texas, 2nd to Georgia, 3rd to Alabama. No problems, great power, good MPG, 24-ish each time, and only 2 speeding tickets. People who didn't buy during the oil embargo have regreted buying Chevy econoboxes. 'Nuf said.

[schmeky]

Complicated,

Yes, you truly are. Don't buy anything Daimler-Chrysler builds. Get a Kia, Hyundia, Suzuki, or other such contrivance with a 100,000 mile warranty.

You need therapy or "warranty" reassurance.

Hope I never get to meet you

[OA-5599]

schmeky, lightin up for jebuses sake!

[schmeky]

Theweeb,

Point well taken. Please accept my apologies. I worked with a person for years that continually sought advice FROM everyone, but never took anyones suggestions. Complicated reminds me of this frustrating individual. Complicated should slide off the fence and take a side.

Again, I apologize. :?