The Chrysler 300 is a full-size rear-wheel-drive sedan produced by Chrysler from the 2005 through the 2023 model year. It spans two distinct generations and multiple engine families across its production run.
Timing system identification matters because some Chrysler 300 engines use a timing belt requiring scheduled replacement, while others use a timing chain rated for the life of the engine. Confusing the two can result in missed service or unnecessary repair costs.
Engine availability changed significantly between the first generation (2005–2010) and the second generation (2011–2023). Always verify by engine displacement and model year before scheduling any timing system service.
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Does the Chrysler 300 Have a Timing Belt or Timing Chain?
Most Chrysler 300 models use a timing chain. The exception is the 3.5L V6 engine offered from 2005 to 2010, which uses a timing belt. All second-generation engines (2011–2023) use a timing chain. Always verify by engine size and model year before scheduling service.
2023 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | Inspect for chain stretch or tensioner wear at high mileage. Regular oil changes required. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
| 6.4L HEMI V8 (300C limited edition) | Timing Chain |
All three engine options available for the final production year use a timing chain. The 6.4L HEMI V8 was exclusive to the limited-run 300C trim, with only 2,000 units produced for the U.S. market. No scheduled timing system replacement applies to any 2023 engine.
2022 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | Keep oil changes current. Startup rattle may indicate chain tensioner wear. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
Both engines available in 2022 use a timing chain. Replacement is not required on a scheduled basis. Consistent oil maintenance is the primary factor in chain longevity.
2021 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Oil condition directly affects chain and tensioner life. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
Same timing system as previous model year. Both engines use a timing chain with no manufacturer-published replacement interval. High-mileage units should be inspected for tensioner and guide wear.
2020 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | Monitor for chain rattle on cold start. Maintain factory-specified oil change intervals. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
Both available engines in the 2020 model year use a timing chain. Neither requires a scheduled replacement interval. Cold-start noise that dissipates quickly may warrant inspection of chain tensioners.
2019 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. 5.7L HEMI remained available on S and C trims only. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
Same timing system as previous model year. All 2019 engine options use a timing chain. No timing belt is present in any 2019 Chrysler 300 engine variant sold in the U.S.
2018 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | All engines use a timing chain. Timing chain service is a repair-as-needed item, not routine maintenance. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
Both engine options in 2018 use a timing chain. No scheduled interval applies. Unusual engine noise or a check engine light related to cam/crank timing should prompt professional inspection.
2017 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Chain durability is oil-maintenance dependent. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
Same timing system as previous model year. Both 2017 engine options use a timing chain. No timing belt or scheduled timing system replacement is required on any 2017 engine variant.
2016 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | Timing chain life depends on consistent oil change intervals. No belt to inspect or replace. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
All 2016 Chrysler 300 engine options use a timing chain. No timing belt is present in any 2016 engine. Routine maintenance beyond oil changes does not include timing system replacement.
2015 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | 2015 marked a mid-cycle refresh. SRT8 trim with 6.4L was discontinued. Only 3.6L and 5.7L remained. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
Starting in 2015, the 6.4L SRT8 trim was discontinued for the Chrysler 300. The two remaining engine options both use a timing chain with no replacement interval. AWD was also discontinued after the 2014 model year.
2014 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 / 6.4L HEMI V8 (SRT8) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | All three engine options use a timing chain. 2014 was the last year for the 6.4L SRT8 trim in the Chrysler 300 lineup. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
| 6.4L HEMI V8 (SRT8) | Timing Chain |
All three engine options for 2014 use a timing chain. The 6.4L HEMI V8 in the SRT8 trim was offered for the final time this model year. No timing belt is found in any 2014 engine variant.
2013 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 / 6.4L HEMI V8 (SRT8) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system as previous model year. Oil maintenance is critical for chain tensioner and guide longevity on all engines. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
| 6.4L HEMI V8 (SRT8) | Timing Chain |
Same timing system as previous model year. All three 2013 engine options use a timing chain. No scheduled timing system replacement applies to any engine in this model year.
2012 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 / 6.4L HEMI V8 (SRT8) |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | 2012 was the first year for the 6.4L SRT8 trim. All engines use a timing chain. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
| 6.4L HEMI V8 (SRT8) | Timing Chain |
The 6.4L HEMI V8 in the SRT8 trim was introduced for the 2012 model year. All three engine options use a timing chain. No timing belt is present on any 2012 Chrysler 300 engine.
2011 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 3.6L Pentastar V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 |
| Timing System | Timing Chain |
| Interference Engine | Yes |
| Replacement Interval | No scheduled replacement (lifetime chain) |
| Maintenance Notes | 2011 introduced the second generation. The 2.7L and 3.5L V6 engines from the first generation were replaced by the 3.6L Pentastar V6. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 3.6L Pentastar V6 | Timing Chain |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
The 2011 model year began the second generation. The 3.5L timing-belt engine was discontinued, and all engines from 2011 onward use a timing chain only. No timing belt service applies to any 2011 engine variant.
2010 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 2.7L V6 / 3.5L V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 / 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) |
| Timing System | Varies by engine (see table below) |
| Interference Engine | Yes (all engines) |
| Replacement Interval | 3.5L V6: 120,000 miles (193,000 km); all other engines: N/A |
| Maintenance Notes | 2010 was the final year for the 3.5L timing belt engine and the last year of the first generation. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 2.7L V6 | Timing Chain |
| 3.5L V6 | Timing Belt |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
| 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) | Timing Chain |
The 2010 model year was the last to offer the 3.5L V6 with its timing belt. Replacement interval for the 3.5L belt in 2010 is 120,000 miles. The 2.7L, 5.7L, and 6.1L engines all use a timing chain.
2009 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 2.7L V6 / 3.5L V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 / 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) |
| Timing System | Varies by engine (see table below) |
| Interference Engine | Yes (all engines) |
| Replacement Interval | 3.5L V6: 102,000 miles normal / 105,000 miles severe (164,000–169,000 km); others: N/A |
| Maintenance Notes | Only the 3.5L engine requires a scheduled timing belt replacement. All other engines use a timing chain. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 2.7L V6 | Timing Chain |
| 3.5L V6 | Timing Belt |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
| 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) | Timing Chain |
Same engine lineup as 2008. Only the 3.5L V6 uses a timing belt; all other engines use a timing chain. The 3.5L is an interference engine, so belt failure can result in engine damage.
2008 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 2.7L V6 / 3.5L V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 / 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) |
| Timing System | Varies by engine (see table below) |
| Interference Engine | Yes (all engines) |
| Replacement Interval | 3.5L V6: 102,000 miles (164,000 km); others: N/A |
| Maintenance Notes | The 2008 model received a minor exterior refresh but no engine timing system changes. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 2.7L V6 | Timing Chain |
| 3.5L V6 | Timing Belt |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
| 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) | Timing Chain |
The 3.5L V6 uses a timing belt with a replacement interval of 102,000 miles in 2008. All other engine options in this model year use a timing chain rated for the life of the engine.
2007 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 2.7L V6 / 3.5L V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 / 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) |
| Timing System | Varies by engine (see table below) |
| Interference Engine | Yes (all engines) |
| Replacement Interval | 3.5L V6: 105,000 miles (169,000 km); others: N/A |
| Maintenance Notes | Same timing system configuration as 2006. The 3.5L belt interval was 105,000 miles for 2005–2007 models. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 2.7L V6 | Timing Chain |
| 3.5L V6 | Timing Belt |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
| 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) | Timing Chain |
Same timing system configuration as the previous model year. The 3.5L V6 requires timing belt replacement at 105,000 miles. Water pump replacement is typically recommended at the same service interval given shared access.
2006 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 2.7L V6 / 3.5L V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 / 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) |
| Timing System | Varies by engine (see table below) |
| Interference Engine | Yes (all engines) |
| Replacement Interval | 3.5L V6: 105,000 miles (169,000 km); others: N/A |
| Maintenance Notes | The 3.5L belt interval for this year is 105,000 miles or 84 months. Ensure tensioner and idler pulleys are replaced with the belt. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 2.7L V6 | Timing Chain |
| 3.5L V6 | Timing Belt |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
| 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) | Timing Chain |
Three of the four 2006 engine options use a timing chain. The 3.5L V6 remains the sole engine requiring scheduled timing belt replacement. All four engines are interference designs.
2005 Chrysler 300 Timing Belt Or Timing Chain
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Option(s) | 2.7L V6 / 3.5L V6 / 5.7L HEMI V8 / 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) |
| Timing System | Varies by engine (see table below) |
| Interference Engine | Yes (all engines) |
| Replacement Interval | 3.5L V6: 105,000 miles (169,000 km); others: N/A |
| Maintenance Notes | First model year. The 3.5L V6 requires a timing belt. The 2.7L, 5.7L, and 6.1L engines all use a timing chain. |
| Engine Option | Timing System |
|---|---|
| 2.7L V6 | Timing Chain |
| 3.5L V6 | Timing Belt |
| 5.7L HEMI V8 | Timing Chain |
| 6.1L HEMI V8 (SRT8) | Timing Chain |
The 2005 model year established the engine mix that carried through the entire first generation. Only the 3.5L V6 requires a scheduled timing belt service. The remaining three engine options use a timing chain.
Timing Belt vs Timing Chain on the Chrysler 300
A timing belt is a reinforced rubber component that synchronizes the crankshaft and camshaft rotation. It operates dry, requires no engine oil for lubrication, and must be replaced at manufacturer-specified intervals to prevent failure. On the Chrysler 300, the 3.5L V6 uses a timing belt.
A timing chain is a metal link chain that performs the same function as a timing belt but is lubricated by engine oil. Timing chains are generally designed to last the life of the engine and do not require scheduled replacement. All Chrysler 300 engines other than the 3.5L V6 use a timing chain.
The key maintenance difference is the service obligation. Timing belt engines require proactive replacement at a defined mileage or time interval. Timing chain engines require no scheduled replacement but depend on consistent oil changes to maintain lubrication of the chain, tensioners, and guides.
Cost and symptom profiles also differ. Timing belt replacement is a planned expense. Timing chain failure is typically preceded by symptoms including a rattling noise on cold startup, camshaft or crankshaft position code faults, or rough idle. Either failure type on an interference engine risks internal damage if the component breaks while running.
Chrysler 300 Timing System Maintenance
The 3.5L V6 engine requires timing belt replacement at 105,000 miles for 2005–2007 models, at 102,000 miles for 2008–2009 models, and at 120,000 miles for 2010 models. Timing components including the tensioner, idler pulleys, and water pump should be inspected and typically replaced during the same service.
All other Chrysler 300 engines use a timing chain with no manufacturer-published replacement interval. However, a cold-start rattle that clears within the first few seconds of running can indicate tensioner wear or chain stretch. This symptom warrants prompt professional evaluation.
Oil maintenance is the most important factor in timing chain life on all Chrysler 300 engines. Extended oil change intervals allow oil to degrade, which reduces lubrication at the chain, tensioner, and guide surfaces. Using the manufacturer-recommended oil viscosity and change interval is the primary preventive measure.
Inspection or repair may become necessary at high mileage even on engines not requiring scheduled replacement. Timing chain service is typically triggered by noise, diagnostic fault codes related to variable valve timing, or a confirmed stretch measurement during engine inspection. Early attention to symptoms reduces the risk of secondary engine damage.
| Timing Belt (3.5L V6, 2005–2010) | Timing Chain (All Other Engines) | |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement Required | Yes, at scheduled interval | No scheduled replacement |
| Lubrication | Dry (no oil contact) | Engine oil lubricated |
| Failure Warning | Often no warning | Cold-start rattle, codes |
| Interference Engine | Yes | Yes |
| Service Cost | Moderate (planned) | Variable (repair-based) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Chrysler 300 have a timing belt or chain? Most Chrysler 300 engines use a timing chain. Only the 3.5L V6, offered from 2005 to 2010, uses a timing belt. All second-generation engines (2011–2023) use a timing chain.
When should a Chrysler 300 timing belt be replaced? On the 3.5L V6, replacement intervals are 105,000 miles for 2005–2007 models, 102,000 miles for 2008–2009, and 120,000 miles for the 2010 model year. Consult the owner’s manual for exact specifications.
Does a timing chain need maintenance on a Chrysler 300? No scheduled replacement is required. Regular oil changes are essential for chain lubrication. Inspect the timing chain if cold-start rattling or camshaft timing fault codes appear.
Is the Chrysler 300 an interference engine? Yes. All Chrysler 300 engines across all model years are interference designs. Belt or chain failure while the engine is running can cause internal engine damage on any Chrysler 300 variant.
How much does Chrysler 300 timing belt replacement cost? Timing belt replacement on the 3.5L V6 ranges approximately $370 to $575 depending on location and whether related components such as the water pump and tensioner are replaced at the same time.
Which Chrysler 300 engine has a timing belt? Only the 3.5L V6 SOHC engine has a timing belt. This engine was available from 2005 through 2010. Every other engine option in the Chrysler 300 lineup uses a timing chain.
Conclusion
The Chrysler 300 uses both timing belt and timing chain configurations depending on model year and engine. The 3.5L V6 from 2005 to 2010 is the only engine requiring a scheduled timing belt replacement. All other engines, including the 2.7L V6, 3.6L Pentastar V6, 5.7L HEMI V8, 6.1L HEMI V8, and 6.4L HEMI V8, use a timing chain.
Engine-specific verification is essential before scheduling any timing system service. A vehicle with the 3.5L V6 has a defined replacement obligation, while chain-equipped engines require oil maintenance rather than belt service. Always verify timing system details using the owner’s manual or manufacturer service information before scheduling repairs.
