From behind the wheel, the first thing you notice about a blacked out 300 is the aggressive presence. The Chrysler 300 has always had a bold profile, but when you go full blackout, it becomes something else entirely. I've spent years reviewing cars, and I can tell you that a well-executed blacked out 300 is one of the most striking sedans on the road. Whether you're into matte finishes or gloss black, this guide covers everything you need to transform your 300 into a stealthy cruiser.
Why the Chrysler 300 Is Perfect for a Blackout Build
The 300's design ethos is clean, formal, and substantial. It's a full-size sedan with long, flat panels and straight lines—ideal for a blackout treatment. Unlike a compact car, where black can make the vehicle look smaller, the 300's size only amplifies the menacing vibe. I recently drove a blacked out 300 owned by a friend, and it drew more attention than a newer luxury sedan. The stock chrome trim on the 300 is generous, but blacking it out transforms the look from executive to enforcer.
Chrysler even offered a factory Blacktop Package on some years, but many owners prefer a custom job. A true blacked out 300 goes beyond factory options—it means vinyl-wrapping or painting the chrome, tinting the windows, and choosing the right wheels. The result is a car that looks like it rolled off a movie set.
The Essential Elements of a Blacked Out 300
Building a blacked out 300 isn't just about spray paint. To get it right, you need to address these areas:
- Window Tint: This is the cheapest and most impactful mod. Legal limits vary by state, but a 5% limo tint on the rear windows and 20% on the fronts creates a seamless dark look. Make sure to use high-quality ceramic tint to avoid purple bubbles.
- Chrome Delete: The chrome window surrounds, grille surround, and door handles need to go. A vinyl wrap is the preferred method; expect to pay $500–$1,200 for a professional job on all chrome pieces.
- Paint or Wrap: The body color itself can be left factory black, but many opt for a matte or satin finish. A full vinyl wrap costs $2,500–$5,000 and preserves the original paint. Paint is more permanent but runs $3,000–$8,000.
- Wheels: Black wheels are a must. Powder coating your stock 20-inch alloys costs around $600–$900. Aftermarket black wheels run $1,000–$3,000 depending on brand and size.
- Lighting: Tinted tail lights and headlights add to the stealth look, but be careful: darkened lights reduce visibility and may violate laws. Use a light smoke film or LED replacements with dark housings.
Cost Breakdown: What You'll Spend on a Blacked Out 300
Let's talk numbers. A factory black Chrysler 300 starts around $35,000 new, but you can find used ones for $15,000–$25,000. To achieve a proper blacked out 300, budget an additional $3,000–$8,000 depending on quality and approach. Here's a rough breakdown:
- Professional chrome vinyl delete: $700–$1,500
- Full body vinyl wrap (matte or satin): $2,500–$5,000
- Window tint: $200–$500
- Wheel powder coating: $600–$900
- Tinted tail light film: $50–$150
If you go with paint instead of wrap, add $1,000–$3,000. The total for a high-end blacked out 300 can approach $10,000, but a smart DIY owner can knock that down to about $2,000 with rattle-can plasti-dip and self-installed tint. However, I've seen too many cheap jobs peel and fade. Save up for quality work.
Choosing Between Vinyl Wrap and Paint for Your Blacked Out 300
This is the biggest decision in any blackout project. Vinyl wrap offers several advantages: it's reversible, protects the factory paint, and comes in finishes like matte, satin, gloss, and even textured black. A good quality wrap lasts 5–7 years with proper care. Paint, on the other hand, is permanent and can look richer, but it's harder to maintain and reduces resale value if someone wants a different color.
For a blacked out 300, I recommend a satin or matte vinyl wrap. The Chrysler 300 has big, flat panels that show imperfections easily, and matte hides minor dings better than gloss. Plus, when you're ready to sell, you can peel the wrap and reveal pristine factory paint.
Pro Tips for a Lasting Black Finish
I've seen too many blacked out cars turn Gray after a year. Here's how to keep your blacked out 300 looking fresh:
- Wash with a pH-neutral soap and avoid automatic car washes with brushes. Hand wash only.
- If you have a matte wrap, never use wax or polish. Use a specific matte detailer.
- Park in the shade when possible. UV rays fade black paint and wrap faster than any other color.
- Touch up rock chips immediately. Black shows every imperfection.
- Consider a ceramic coating on top of the wrap. It adds gloss (if you want it) and makes cleaning easier.
The Verdict: Pros, Cons, and Whether You Should Actually Build a Blacked Out 300
Pros:
- Unmatched street presence. A blacked out 300 looks like a $80,000 car.
- Relatively affordable compared to other luxury sedans.
- The 300's large, formal sheet metal wears black beautifully.
- Easy to customize with wheels and tint.
Cons:
- Black shows dirt, dust, and swirl marks immediately.
- Resale value may be hurt if you paint instead of wrap.
- Tinted lights reduce visibility at night—drive cautiously.
- You need to maintain the finish religiously.
Bottom line: A blacked out 300 is a fantastic project if you enjoy turning heads. Do it with a vinyl wrap, not paint, to keep your options open. The investment is modest compared to modifying European sedans, and the result is a car that feels special every time you walk up to it.
Score: 8/10. Deductions for the maintenance hassle, but the visual payoff is enormous.