Is The Chrysler 200 a Good Car?

Reliability Ratings

When it comes to reliability, the Chrysler 200 scores average to above average for its class, according to industry authorities like J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, and RepairPal. While not at the top of the pack, the 200 holds its own against many of its midsize sedan competitors.

J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, which measures problems experienced after three years of ownership, has consistently rated the 200 as about average for its segment. Consumer Reports’ analysis gives the 200 a slightly above average reliability score when looking at the 2015-2019 model years as a whole.

RepairPal, which analyzes real-world repair data from mechanics, ranks the 200 with a slightly better than average reliability rating of 4 out of 5. This places it in the top third of all cars for dependability, which is a respectable showing for a domestic sedan in this price range.

Common Problems

While the Chrysler 200 can be a decent used car option for Canadians on a budget, it’s important to be aware of some common issues that have plagued this model. Based on owner reports and expert reviews, here are some key problem areas to watch out for:

Transmission Issues: The 9-speed automatic transmission found in many 200 models has been a frequent source of complaints. Owners have reported issues like rough shifts, hesitation, and even complete transmission failure. The 9-speed seems to be the main culprit, with the older 6-speed units proving more reliable.

Electrical Gremlins: Like many modern vehicles loaded with electronics, the 200 has been susceptible to electrical issues. Owners have reported problems with everything from interior lighting and infotainment systems to warning lights and gauges acting erratically.

Engine Oil Consumption: Excessive oil consumption has been documented in some 200 models, particularly those with the 2.4L Tigershark engine. Keeping a close eye on oil levels and topping up regularly may be required between changes.

Interior Quality: While the cabin looks upscale for the segment, many owners have criticized the durability and fit and finish of interior materials. Excessive wear on seat upholstery, scratchy plastics, and rattles from the dashboard area are common gripes.

Rust Issues: Like many vehicles, the 200 can be prone to accelerated rust and corrosion when driven in the harsh Canadian winter climate and road salt. Careful inspection of the undercarriage and wheel arches is advised, especially on older higher-mileage examples.

Transmission Issues

One of the most significant problem areas for the Chrysler 200, particularly in the earlier model years after its redesign, was the troublesome 9-speed automatic transmission. This advanced transmission aimed to improve fuel efficiency but was plagued with shuddering, harsh shifts, and premature failure in many cases.

According to numerous owner complaints and technical service bulletins, the 9-speed units in 2015 and 2016 models were especially problematic. Issues ranged from jerky acceleration and delayed downshifts to complete transmission failure requiring costly replacements under warranty or out-of-pocket expenses.

While Chrysler made efforts to address the issues through software updates and revised components, the 9-speed transmission remained a sore point for many 200 owners during those initial model years. Drivers reported continued issues with rough shifting, hesitation, and overall unpredictable behavior from the transmission.

It’s worth noting that transmission problems became less prevalent in later model years as Chrysler continued to refine and improve the 9-speed unit. However, for used car buyers considering a 2015 or 2016 Chrysler 200, it’s crucial to have the transmission thoroughly inspected and to be prepared for potential issues or the need for an eventual rebuild or replacement.

Electrical Gremlins

Despite Chrysler’s efforts to improve quality, the 200 has gained a reputation for various electrical glitches and quirks. Owner forums are filled with complaints about issues like malfunctioning power windows, flickering dash lights, faulty infotainment systems, and random warning lights illuminating.

Some of the most commonly reported electrical problems include:

• Power window regulators failing, causing windows to get stuck
• Battery draining issues from parasitic electrical draws
• Uconnect touchscreen freezing or rebooting unexpectedly
• Exterior lighting failures like taillights or turn signals
• Instrument cluster going haywire with inaccurate readings

While not all 200s will experience electrical demons, it’s something to be aware of. Many owners report having to repeatedly visit the dealer for electrical gremlins that are difficult to diagnose and fix permanently. Purchasing an extended warranty may provide peace of mind for this problem area.

Oil Consumption

One issue that crops up frequently in owner forums and reviews is higher than normal oil consumption on the Chrysler 200’s engines. Some owners report having to top up the oil every 1,000 miles or less, which is far more frequent than expected for a modern engine.

The 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder and 3.6L Pentastar V6 engines both seem prone to this problem, though it appears to affect a larger percentage of four-cylinder models. The root cause is not definitively known, but theories include:

• Loose piston rings allowing oil to burn off
• Improperly installed oil filter gaskets causing minor leaks
• Design flaws in the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system

While Chrysler has issued a handful of technical service bulletins related to oil consumption, there has not been a widespread recall campaign to address the issue. As a result, many owners have been stuck topping up oil frequently and potentially facing larger repair bills down the road if left unaddressed.

For used buyers, it’s important to carefully inspect service records and have a mechanic evaluate oil consumption rates during a pre-purchase inspection. Excessive oil burning could be a sign of more serious internal engine wear that will only get worse over time.

Interior Quality

While the Chrysler 200’s interior was praised for its stylish design and upscale look, many owners reported issues with the fit and finish as well as the durability of the interior materials over time. Common complaints included:

• Cheap, hard plastic trim pieces that scratched or cracked easily
• Gaps or uneven panel fitment, especially around the center console and dashboard areas
• Premature wear on leather upholstery, with creasing or cracking after just a few years of use
• Squeaks, rattles, and wind noise from poor sound insulation

While the higher trim levels like the 200C offered more premium materials, even these versions exhibited some of the same durability issues over time according to owner forums. The interior quality was a step behind segment leaders like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, especially on lower trim models with more hard plastic surfaces.

Rust Issues

One area of concern for Canadians considering a used Chrysler 200 is the potential for rust, especially in the notorious salt belt regions where road salt is heavily used during winter months. The 200’s unibody construction can be susceptible to corrosion if not properly cared for and protected.

Many owner reports from places like Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritime provinces note accelerated rust developing on the 200’s wheel wells, rocker panels, and other exposed metal areas after just a few years of ownership. The salt and brine used to de-ice roads in these regions can wreak havoc on a vehicle’s undercarriage and body if not washed off regularly.

To minimize rust risks, it’s advisable to thoroughly inspect any used 200 from a salt belt area for existing corrosion. Pay close attention to the wheel wells, rocker panels, door bottoms, and underneath the vehicle. Even minor surface rust can quickly spread if not addressed. A vehicle history report may also indicate if it has spent time in these harsher winter climates.

If purchasing a salt belt 200, having professional rust-proofing treatments applied annually is highly recommended to create a protective barrier against the corrosive road salt. With proper care and maintenance, rust shouldn’t be a deal-breaker, but it’s certainly an area that requires due diligence for Canadian buyers.

Maintenance Costs

When it comes to ownership costs, the Chrysler 200 is slightly above average for its class. According to repair cost estimates from trusted sources like RepairPal and Consumer Reports, you can expect to pay a bit more for maintenance and repairs compared to top rivals like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

Common repair needs tend to revolve around the areas mentioned earlier – transmission issues, electrical gremlins, and engine oil consumption. These types of repairs can add up over time. However, routine maintenance like oil changes, brake jobs, and scheduled services shouldn’t break the bank compared to other midsize sedans.

When budgeting for a used 200, it’s wise to factor in these potentially higher repair costs, especially if purchasing a model from the problematic early years of the redesign. Proper maintenance and finding one with detailed service records is also advisable to hopefully sidestep some of the common headaches down the road.

Model Years to Avoid

The Chrysler 200’s issues were most pronounced in the first couple of model years after its redesign for 2015. The 2015 and 2016 model years saw widespread complaints about the new 9-speed automatic transmission, which was plagued by rough shifts, hesitation, and even complete failure in some cases.

Beyond the troubled transmission, these early models also suffered from other teething issues common with new model launches. Electrical gremlins were rampant, with problems ranging from interior lights flickering to complete system failures. Build quality was also a concern, with trim pieces becoming misaligned or separating over time.

If you’re considering a used Chrysler 200, it’s generally advisable to avoid the 2015 and 2016 model years altogether. While some owners didn’t experience major issues, the potential headaches and repair costs make these two years a gamble most buyers would be wise to skip.

Fortunately, Chrysler addressed many of the 200’s issues for 2017 and later model years. The 9-speed transmission received software updates and hardware revisions to improve its behavior, while build quality and electrical reliability were also enhanced. So for the best blend of value and dependability, used 200 shoppers should target 2017 or newer examples.

Best Value Model Years

When it comes to getting the best value out of a used Chrysler 200, there are a couple of model years that stand out from the rest. First and foremost, the 2014 models equipped with the 6-speed automatic transmission are highly recommended. These pre-facelift 200s avoided the problematic 9-speed transmission that plagued later years, and the 6-speed was a tried-and-true unit with far fewer reported issues.

Additionally, the 2017 and newer model years are also worth considering. By this point, Chrysler had worked out many of the bugs and gremlins that plagued the initial launch of the redesigned 200. The 9-speed transmission, in particular, saw significant improvements in smoothness and reliability. While not perfect, these later models represent a much more refined and ironed-out version of the 200.

Regardless of the model year, it’s always wise to have a trusted mechanic inspect any used vehicle before purchase. But by targeting the 2014s with the 6-speed auto or the 2017+ models, you’ll be stacking the odds in your favor when it comes to getting a more reliable and hassle-free used Chrysler 200.

Positive Owner Reviews

Despite its flaws, the Chrysler 200 has earned praise from many owners for several key strengths. One of the most frequently cited positives is the comfortable and composed ride quality, with the suspension doing a good job of soaking up bumps while maintaining control. Owners also laud the exterior styling, appreciating the sleek and modern design that gives the 200 a more upscale presence than its price tag might suggest.

Moving inside, reviewers are generally pleased with the interior layout and materials, at least on higher trim levels. The cabin is praised for its spaciousness, intuitive control layout, and attractive design with quality soft-touch materials adorning areas that passengers frequently interact with. Leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a large touchscreen infotainment system give the 200 a premium ambiance when optioned accordingly.

For those who opted for the available 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine, acceleration and passing power are highlights. With 295 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque on tap, the V6 provides plenty of gusto for merging onto highways or overtaking slower traffic. Paired with the smoother 6-speed automatic transmission, the V6 powertrain is regarded as one of the 200’s stronger selling points by those who want a midsize sedan with some verve.

Negative Owner Feedback

While many owners praised the Chrysler 200’s comfortable ride, stylish looks, and well-equipped interior, there were also numerous complaints about some significant problem areas. Chief among these were issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission, which was plagued by harsh shifts, hesitation, and overall unpredictable behavior according to many owner reports.

Electrical gremlins were another common gripe, with owners reporting a variety of electrical glitches like malfunctioning displays, faulty sensors, and random warning lights illuminating on the dash. These electrical issues could be intermittent and difficult to diagnose, leading to frustration for owners.

Road noise was also frequently criticized, with many feeling the 200’s cabin was not as well-insulated from exterior noise as competitors like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry. Owners reported noticeable wind and tire noise at highway speeds that detracted from the overall refinement.

Value Proposition

One of the key selling points of the Chrysler 200 on the used market is its strong value proposition compared to rivals like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. While those Japanese midsize sedans hold their value extremely well due to their reputation for reliability, the 200 depreciates at a faster rate.

This translates into significant savings for used car buyers willing to take a calculated risk on a lightly-used 200. You can often find 2-3 year old examples with low miles for 40-50% off their original MSRP. That’s a much steeper discount than you’d find on a used Accord or Camry of the same vintage.

The value equation gets even better when you look at higher trim levels of the 200 like the Premium or Limited. These loaded models can be had on the used market for the price of a base Accord or Camry, yet they come equipped with leather seats, premium audio, larger wheels, and more creature comforts that cost thousands more when new.

So while the 200 may not have the bulletproof reliability of its Japanese competitors, it can provide a much more luxurious and well-equipped driving experience for your money if you buy used and avoid the problematic early model years. For budget-conscious buyers willing to take a calculated gamble, the value proposition is quite compelling.

Is the Chrysler 200 Worth Buying Used?

The verdict on whether the Chrysler 200 is worth buying used comes down to being an informed buyer and knowing what to look for. While not without its flaws, the 200 can represent a decent value proposition for the right Canadian buyer seeking an affordable, stylish midsize sedan.

For buyers prioritizing value and willing to deal with some potential issues, a used 200 from the 2017 model year or newer can make sense. Avoid the problematic early model years like 2015-2016 that suffered from widespread transmission woes. The 2014 models with the tried-and-true 6-speed automatic are also a relatively safe bet.

When shopping for a used 200, pay close attention to maintenance records and have any prospects thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic. Test drive extensively to check for transmission issues, electrical glitches, and oil consumption problems. Properly maintained examples, especially in upper trims like the Limited with the V6 engine, can provide a comfortable ride, appealing styling, and decent power.

However, those prioritizing long-term reliability and lower ownership costs may be better served by looking at models from Honda, Toyota, or Mazda instead. The 200 can’t quite match the legendary durability and rock-solid reputations of the class leaders. But for the right buyer on a tighter budget, a used 200 could hit the sweet spot of style, features, and value.