If you're buying a used Chrysler 200, get a 2016 or 2017 from the second generation, ideally a V-6, with dealer records showing the nine-speed transmission software updates were done. The 2015 is the year I'd be most careful with: it has the most recalls and by far the biggest NHTSA complaint file of any 200, much of it about the transmission. A first-gen 2011-2014 car is cheaper and simpler, but it's a reworked Sebring, and it drives like one.
Chrysler never sold many of these, and that shapes everything about buying one now. Car and Driver says poor sales meant 2017 was the 200's last year. So the youngest car is about nine years old, parts and service support come from a model line that's gone, and resale is weak. That's fine if you pay accordingly. It's a problem if the seller prices it like a Camry.
Two generations, and how they differ
The first 200 ran 2011-2014. Consumer Reports says the Sebring was "completely reworked and renamed" for 2011, with nicer styling, a much nicer interior, a more compliant ride and a smooth V-6 with good power, but it still ranked near the bottom of family sedans. The second generation arrived for 2015. CR calls it a vast improvement that still trails the field, citing klutzy handling, a thrashy base engine and cramped packaging.
For 2015-2017, C/D lists a 184-hp 2.4-liter four with a nine-speed automatic and front-wheel drive as standard, with a 295-hp 3.6-liter V-6 and all-wheel drive optional. Our Chrysler VIN decoder post shows how to confirm the engine and drive from the VIN, which beats trusting a listing headline.
The nine-speed problem, in plain terms
The early nine-speed got a lot of software attention. A Chrysler service bulletin from January 10, 2015, TSB 21-001-15, reflashed the transmission and engine computers on 2.4-liter 2015 200s built May 9 to October 23, 2014, to keep a clutch snap ring from dislodging. A few weeks later AutoGuide reported, citing Automotive News, that 2015 200 and Jeep Cherokee owners had complained of rough shifts, lunging and the transmission unexpectedly disengaging, and that another reflash was coming for 2.4-liter cars.
The complaint data backs that up. When I pulled the 2015 Chrysler 200 complaint file on October 16, 2026, it held 1,993 complaints, with 755 tagged electrical and 695 tagged power train. In the text, 427 mention the transmission and 190 mention neutral. The 2016 file has 344 and the 2017 file only 43. NHTSA doesn't verify owner complaints, but that drop-off is hard to ignore, and it's why I'd pay a bit more for a later car.
Recalls worth checking by VIN
From the NHTSA recalls API, starting with the 2015 query:
- 15V090, 2015 nine-speed cars built March 9 to December 15, 2014: the park pawl can be contaminated or the park rod dislodged or broken, so the car may not go into Park. Dealers inspect and replace affected transmissions.
- 16V529, 2015 nine-speed cars: poor crimps in the transmission sensor wiring can make it shift to neutral unexpectedly.
- 15V470, 2015 built January 7 to September 23, 2014: a power distribution center connector can cause intermittent power loss to some components.
- 18V332, 2015-2017: a wiring short could stop the cruise control from shutting off. Dealers flash the engine computer.
- 16V668, 2011-2014: the occupant restraint module can short and keep the frontal air bags, pretensioners and side air bags from deploying.
- 13V552, 2013 2.4-liter cars: debris in the balance shaft bearings can drop oil pressure and cause a stall or engine failure.
The 2015 also has 15V461, a radio software flaw that could allow remote access to some vehicle systems, plus rear shock, door wiring and passenger seat sensor campaigns. Our Chrysler recall check by VIN post covers running the exact car.
Crash ratings
IIHS rated the 2015-2017 200 Good in every crash test it ran, including driver-side small overlap, and the 2017 earned Top Safety Pick when equipped with optional front crash prevention. Headlights rated Marginal or Poor depending on trim. The 2011-2014 car's small overlap rating was Acceptable, based on a test of its Dodge Avenger twin.
200 vs. 300 vs. Dart
The 300 is a different animal. C/D notes its rear-wheel-drive layout, optional all-wheel drive with the V-6, and that 2023 was its last year; our used Chrysler 300 guide covers. If you only need a cheap commuter, our used Dodge Dart guide covers the smaller FCA sedan, which also offered a 184-hp 2.4-liter four. Most shoppers, though, are better off with a used Honda Accord or used Toyota Camry at the same mileage, even if it costs more up front.
Before you pay
Ask for the dealer's service printout showing recalls and transmission flashes closed. Check title brands free on NMVTIS, then pull a history report on the VIN yourself; a seller's PDF can be edited. We're a licensed CARFAX and AutoCheck reseller, not affiliated with CARFAX, AutoCheck or Experian. As of mid October 2026, one report through us has cost roughly $5.50 as a guest or $4.50 with a membership, with the two-report bundle near $6.75. Retail is usually $39.99 to $44.99. The checkout page has the real number.
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