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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  Steer clear of the Sebring - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By Matt - July 19 - 8:35 pm

  I just recently got my lisence last summer and this was my first car. At first glance you would say its a nice looking car but looks dont count for everything. When i got it, it has about 114,000 miles on it. The transmission had been replaced along with a power steering pump. I thought that this car would last me for a few years but after having the car for one day the fuel pump gave out. Shortly after the ac went bad along with the back two windows. When winter hit the car struggled to start and the thermostat went bad making it very difficult to drive. Also because of its low power and heavy body, it made it slmost impossible to drive in the winter.

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  One of the best - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Richard - July 18 - 9:30 pm

  I bought my first Chrysler product, a 1956 Plymouth convertible, in 1962 and but for two cars, a Triumph TR-4 and a Mercedes Benz, Ive owned nothing but Chryslers since. My 99 JXi is one of the best I have ever owned, but my car must be a fluke. Ive had none of the problems described by other owners and it now has 109,000 miles. The only repairs Ive had to make were a catalytic converter due to a tank of bad gasoline and the A/C compressor at 100,000 miles. The top is still fine, the leather seats are pristine and the body is solid..... and it gets almost 35 MPG on the highway! But I take care of this car. I change oil every 3,000 miles and it received a full tune up at 100,000 miles.

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  Wish I would have waited - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Rushed Into It - July 14 - 7:42 pm

  Next month will be a year I have the car. Two weeks after I got it check engine light was on. I found out its the purge valve. Then to top it off everytime it raines I have a flood on the driver side floorboard front to back seat. It will cost me more to have them find out the problem because the dealership doesnt want to honor my warranty. Im trading it in as soon as possible. More trouble than its worth.

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  Fun Car to Drive - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By Wayno - July 13 - 6:23 pm

  Great gas mileage on highway and city. Lots of get up and go and holds the road well on curves. The only drawback is the air noise on the highway-the top seals could be tighter! Good sound system and fun to drive. I bought it for my wife, but I liked it so much, that I drive it most of the time commuting to and from work. Only serviced at regular intervals and no performance or service problems. I am looking for a newer one. Its one of the BEST convertibles that I have owned.

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  Topless - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Marie - July 10 - 12:02 pm

  Love to drive my Sebring convertible. Great performance for 70,000 miles on it. Had to have transmisson solenoid replaced because my dog put the gear shift in reverse when we were in the carp pool lane going 80mph. Nothing happened immediately, however 2 years later we noticed leaks under the engine. My husband thought it was master cylinder fluid leaking. The transmission was covered under warranty. Excellent highway gas mileage on long trips and exceptional comfort.

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  BUYER BEWARE!!!!! - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Why Me?? - July 10 - 12:30 am

  This was by far the worst mistake I have ever made when purchasing a car. (Owned Toyota, Pontiac, Lexus, and Audi.) In the first 20 days of driving my Chrysler Sebring LX Convertible the latch on the trunk stops operating. This means that my trunk lid will not close and is unsafely moving about while I drive. Next problem came at a stop light when the car stalledÂ…Yes, I was completely stopped at a light and it completely shut off. Luckily my boyfriend was driving and he of course knew what to do. I probably would have panicked. Third, it seems that this problem is a continual problem that CHRYSLER (who should be bankrupt from making crappy cars) is in denial to recall to fix.

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  Goodbye Chrylser - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Suz - June 29 - 7:53 am

  I have had nothing but problems with this car since I purchased it. The speed sensor went three times, in addition to other repairs - control arms replacement, door lock attenuator, replaced all the rims (got money back in the Class Action Lawsuit), headlight is foggy (from inside), etc. I have been adamant on keeping up with the maintenance book but have run out of room to write in all the extras that were needed. I am maticulous with the exterior (looks new) but have been battling rust that is coming from the inside of the hood leaching out. Most mechanics do not want to work on Chryslers and the parts (Mopar only) are difficult and expensive. My next car? Something foreign!

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  Great Car - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By beachbumx - June 26 - 6:29 pm

  So far this car has been great. Average 24 mpg. Pleanty of room for my 6 4 frame.Plenty of looks when top is down. Top is a whiz to operate. Fun Car to drive. Love its Radio and controls.

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  Last Chrysler - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Frustrated - June 25 - 1:30 pm

  My wife and I are loyal Chrysler buyers until this vehicle came along. The styling is great and I like the convertible factor. Thats where the compliments end. The vehicle is just over 2 years old now and has been in for repairs 12 times! Thats an average of once every 2 months. Issues include, brake lights coming on intermittently, starting getting stuck, front- end/steering noise, stuck door locks, stalling, recalls and interior fit issues. I am currently working with Chrysler assistance to get rid of this vehicle as I feel the front-end problems make it unsafe to drive. Also, it is not worth now what is owed according to KBB. Another nice kick in the head.

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  2008 Convertible - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Tami - June 24 - 12:42 pm

  I purchased a 2008 Stone White Sebring LX Convertible. Love it! Has the 4 cylinder, and i drove it through the Ozark Mountains here in Missouri with no trouble at all - and that was with the top up, the A/C blasted, two passengers and a trunk full of luggage. It is comfy, cool looking and is a real head turner!!