Overview & Reviews

The Chrysler Sebring was one of only a handful of reasonably priced midsize vehicles to be offered as both a sedan and a convertible. There were some Sebring highlights over the years, including the fun-in-the-sun convertible and the second-generation coupe, which shared a platform with the Mitsubishi Eclipse. But overall, the Sebring was typically outclassed by other models in terms of refinement and performance.

The Sebring did receive a major update for 2011, but with it also came a name change; it's now known as the Chrysler 200.

Most Recent Chrysler Sebring
The most-recent, third-generation Chrysler Sebring was introduced as a sedan for 2007 and convertible for '08. Production lasted until 2010. After that, Chrysler made major updates and renamed the car the Chrysler 200.

Both Sebring body styles were available in LX, Touring and Limited trims, while the convertible could be had with either a traditional soft-top design or a retractable hardtop. Base Sebrings started out reasonably well-equipped with full power accessories, front side-impact and full-length head curtain airbags, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a six-CD changer and, on the convertible, a power vinyl top (cloth was optional). Touring models got 17-inch alloy wheels and a lengthier options list, while the top-of-the-line Limited featured leather trim, automatic climate control and a premium audio system. Options included a hard-drive navigation/audio system.

Stability control was standard on the Touring and Limited trims until 2010, when it strangely was added to the options list. Meanwhile, antilock brakes were optional on the base LX. These items were standard on almost every competitor, and we highly recommend making sure a used Sebring is equipped with these essential safety features.

Standard on most Sebrings was a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine rated for 173 horsepower. A four-speed automatic transmission routed power to the front wheels. Until 2010, a 2.7-liter V6 good for 189 hp was optional on the Sebring Touring sedan and standard on Sebring Touring and Limited convertibles. Available on Limited models only was a 235-hp 3.5-liter V6 backed by a more sophisticated six-speed automatic transmission. Prior to 2010, all-wheel drive was also available with the 3.5-liter V6, though fuel economy suffered.

In reviews, we found the third-generation Sebring sedan to be about as bad as it got in the midsize segment. It was below average in most respects, ranking far behind segment leaders. The ride quality was comfortable enough, but braking and handling were well below average. The base four-cylinder was adequately powerful and fuel efficient, but it was unrefined, while the optional V6 was underpowered and inefficient. Cabin design was ergonomically sound, but the quality of the interior plastics was poor for this price range. These attributes apply to the convertible as well, but there's some inherent desirability to the convertible since there were fewer competing convertible models.

Previous Chrysler Sebring Models
In 2001 Chrysler introduced the second-generation Sebring sedan and reworked coupes and convertibles powered by updated engines and transmissions. The coupe shared a platform with Mitsubishi's Eclipse. At the top of the heap was a 3.0-liter V6 cranking out 200 hp. It was initially available only in the LXi coupe. Standard in convertibles and LXi sedans was the Chrysler-built 2.7-liter V6 rated at 200 hp. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder was also available. In early reviews we praised the Sebring for its good looks, solid performance, competitive pricing and wide range of body styles.

Minor updates followed in successive years, and Chrysler shuffled the trim levels on a nearly annual basis: The familiar Sebring LX and LXi models ultimately gave way to GTC, TSi, Touring and Limited trim levels. Note that the Sebring coupe was discontinued after the 2005 model year, while the Sebring convertible and sedan continued through 2006.

As time went by, the second-generation Chrysler Sebring became increasingly uncompetitive. In later tests, we found that its drivetrains were unrefined; its ride quality was harsh (particularly in the sedan); and its build and interior materials quality were well below average. Though it wouldn't hurt for used-car shoppers to take a look at the Sebring -- especially those interested in the model-year range of the late '90s to early 2000s -- it's probably wise to consider other options before making a final decision.

The original Sebring was launched in 1995 as Chrysler's new midsize coupe. Mechanically, it was related to the Mitsubishi Galant of the same period. Available in LX or LXi trim, the Sebring coupe came with a 163-hp, 2.5-liter V6 and a standard four-speed automatic. At the time, the vehicle's best attributes were its sporty and purposeful exterior styling and roomy (for a coupe) interior. Despite a steeply raked windshield and roof line, headroom fore and aft was adequate even for adults, and the trunk impressed us with its size. The biggest downside was the V6's marginal performance.

The first-generation Chrysler Sebring convertible debuted a year later. However, this model was based on Chrysler's own platform, which was related to the Breeze/Cirrus/Stratus compacts. At the time the car brought class, dignity and a bit of luxury to this otherwise whimsical segment, and it became quite successful.

User Reviews:

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  Dont Buy - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Kalypsoly - October 10 - 2:00 am

  My transmission went out at 50,000. There was such a waiting list for chrysler transmission, that I would have had to wait for 10 months to get one. The Dodge dealership even told me there shoudl have been a recall on the transmission. Ive had many brake problems, and my tires, which are brand new, already need replaced. Everytime I take it in for an oil change they suggest I flush my transmission fluid...everytime. When I wash my car, the water leaks through the seals TERRIBLY. I take great time to properly take care of my seals too.

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  Chrysler Sebring LXI DISSATISFACTON - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By Lisa Shipley - October 5 - 2:00 am

  I have had a very bad experience with my brand new 2001 Sebring LXI. Following issues-faulty brakes, broken sunroof, malfunctioning alarm, broken glove compartment, car shaking and stalling upon start, defective wheel laquer causing flat tires, torn leather, and some minor issues. Not only were several days off from work needed, but Chrysler does not provide loaner cars to customers. I contacted a Lemon law attorney because I still have a broken sunroof that has still not been repaired after three attempts. Also, I repeatedly am getting flat tires due to the defective wheel laquer on my vehicle. I would not recommend this vehicle.

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  Lesson learned - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Jen1976 - September 7 - 2:00 am

  I have spent more on rental cars than car payments this year. Kept it 16-17 months and had to eat about 3k in neg. eq. to get out of it. Every part of he computer system has broken down, bad wiring, trans, problems, you name it and not even at 36k yet. Paid for a worthless extended waranty from Chrysler that for some reason never covers a problem it has. DO NOT buy this car if you dont have a second car.

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  Great car... the first month. - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By Troy O. - July 24 - 2:00 am

  Quick review. Bought it in June of 2000 with 22,000 miles. Drove off and was excited and enjoyed the wind through my hair. Then the problems started. The back passenger floorboard would flood after heavy rains which then shorted out the entire interior electronics. I have no radio, interior lights, keyless entry, etc. The dealer said it wasnt under warranty and would very costly to fix. the interior began to mold and Ive gone through all my bathroom towels as well as my patience. I now have a company car and my Sebring slowly rots until I pay off enough to sell it. Worst purchase Ive ever made. BEWARE!

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  Problems w/ check engine light - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By James Clements - June 25 - 10:00 am

  Check engine light keeps coming on; Chrysler has tried to fix it 10 times, unsuccessfully. Chrysler refuses buy back or replacement. Cant sell the vehicle w/ a chronic, unfixable defect. I will never buy another Chrysler product.

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  Quality Concerns - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By Pontiac - May 17 - 2:00 am

  This car was running great until about 10k miles. Since then I have replaced the tie-rods 3-times, the steering gear twice, the key cylinder once, and just got done replacing the front wheel bearings - all before 28000 miles. The front drivers seat has been loose since purchase and the 2nd dealership Ive tried is actually going to repair it . If I had to do it over again I wouldnt have purchased this vehicle. I am concerned about the repair costs once the warranty period expires. Not what I expected from the "top-of-the-line" model of this vehicle.

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  RUN FAR, FAR, AWAY!!! - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Chryslerhater - April 8 - 2:00 am

  I HATE MY CAR . . . I knew it was cursed when in the first week, I had two flat tires and one bent rim. I had to replace the brakes and roders a month after I had it. Three weeks after that, the whole car had to be rewired, tuned up, and the transmission had to be partially rebuilt... I have my own personalized chair at my mechanics. The car looks nice on the outside but quickly costs you tons and tons of money. Chrysler is the king of accessories but depreciates minutes after it leaves the assembly line. I have two friends with the same vehicle and we all currently owe MUCH MORE money than it is worth... I really wish someone would steal it...

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  should have kept my Honda - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By aww_shucks - March 18 - 2:00 am

  the car has been in the shop for unscheduled maintenance(read: things BROKEN) 10 times in less than 3 years/30,000 miles. while none of the problems were major breakdowns, they were evidence of crappy parts and poor workmanship from the factory. the minor annoyances add up to an unsatisfactory experience and terrible resale value.

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  Mechanically Unreliable Car - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Emserl - March 13 - 2:00 am

  This car has developed a coolant leak, brake fluid leak, and there is fuel leaking into the oil. It has been taken to numerous dealers for repair, that claim nothing is wrong with the car. Ive had the oil tested by an independent lab that verifies the percentage of fuel in the oil steadily increases. I constantly have to add coolant and brake fluid, but the leaks cannot be detected. Ive called Chrysler Corp. They claim it is impossible for the fuel to leak into the oil and that there are no leaks.

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  Good looking - Bad problems - 1997 Chrysler Sebring
  By tonid - February 19 - 2:00 am

  Dont get me wrong I love to drive my car, I put an air intake on her and this bumped the bhp to 177 and she turns heads. But she has been in the shop every couple of months, it is so bad they know my cell phone number by heart at the dealer. The roof has always leaked, I have had to have a new roof and a new carpet it has been so bad. I went through four batteries in four years due to a slight leak and corrosion. I now am experiencing a rough idle, an oil warning light, a break warning light, roof leaks and the interior panels are breaking down. I dont expect cars to last for ever but I definately will not be buying a new one.