In 2006, the Chrysler 300 offered two automatic transmissions depending on the engine: a four-speed automatic with the 3.5-liter V6, and a five-speed automatic with the 5.7-liter Hemi. There was no factory manual transmission option in the U.S. market.
This distinction matters for maintenance, repairs, and resale, since the transmission type affects parts compatibility and service intervals. The following sections outline the two primary configurations and how to identify them on a 2006 Chrysler 300.
Transmission configurations by engine
The two main drivetrains for the 2006 Chrysler 300 used different transmissions. The list below matches each engine to its typical automatic transmission configuration.
- 3.5-liter V6 engine — four-speed automatic transmission
- 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine — five-speed automatic transmission
Note: All-wheel-drive (AWD) versions in 2006 used the same general transmission options as their rear-drive counterparts, with the appropriate hardware to support AWD. When buying used, verify the exact engine and transmission pairing for the vehicle you’re considering.
Verifying transmission and options in a used 2006 Chrysler 300
To ensure you’re aware of the correct transmission in a specific car, check the vehicle’s documentation and VIN. The VIN can confirm the engine code, which in turn indicates the likely transmission configuration for that chassis. If you’re shopping, request service records or a pre-purchase inspection that specifically notes the transmission type and any past transmission work.
VIN and documentation tips
Ask for the build sheet or a detailed vehicle history report to confirm the original engine and transmission pairing. This helps avoid mismatches between marketed specs and the actual drivetrain in a used example.
Summary
For the 2006 Chrysler 300, the transmission is determined by the engine: a four-speed automatic with the 3.5L V6, and a five-speed automatic with the 5.7L Hemi. There was no factory manual option in the U.S. market. When buying used, verify the exact engine-transmission pairing via the VIN and build documentation to ensure you know what you’re getting.