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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  my convertible - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Vicki H - October 7 - 2:00 am

  I love the look and the styling and the room. do NOT like the way seats have to move in order to let a passenger sit in the back seat. Terrible feul economy-- 15.4 mpg. I totaled my 2004 Sebring conv. in an accident several weeks ago and I still plan on buying another one, just like it

• 

  Too Costly to Repair - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By LRN2SWM - September 27 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my car for almost 2 years... I bought it from a guy who ordered it off the line. My experience with this car has been mostly a nightmare! I had to replace the engine at 97,000 and now the transmission is slipping at 115,000. The car is foreign built so getting aftermarket parts at shops such as AutoZone is IMPOSSIBLE! It is a very expesive auto to fix because of the engine style and the Mopar parts. I would recommend not purchasing the COUPE version, since the convertible is easier to find parts for. Although it is a sporty looking car, there are better options for the repair costs.

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  Sebring Conv. - fun car/fun drive - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By nitneelyin - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Car has been a pleasant surprise. Expected road noise with a convertible and I got it, but the ride is superb, even after 134,000 miles. Gas mileage runs 24-27. The OEM Michelin tires got 60,000 miles, so did the second set and Im on #3. Back seat is useless for anyone except small kids. Trunk is okay, but not roomy. Battery placement (I changed it once) is horrendous, in the wheelwell on the front driver side, what an engineering screw-up. Stereo was clear and loud even with the top down. Bottom line, its been a fun car with the top down or up!

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  Sebring 2002 - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By PAPASIR - September 22 - 2:00 am

  Electrical problems: From day one there was an intermittant problem with the headlight switch causing the dash lights to go on and off. Then the blower motor relay went out leaving me with only high speed on the blower. Next was the automitic door locks. Currently the doors will not lock except with the remote. This is all within the first 60,000 miles. Owned severl Toyota products and never had these kind of problems.

• 

  Front end noise and more - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By DLLA - September 19 - 2:00 am

  Would not purchase another. Had owned a 2001 same model previously. Front end problems in both. 2 different dealerships - hear it, but cant fix it after multiple attempts at bushings, sway bars. Sounds like a rocking chair creaking when braking and turning noise is not present when only turning, however, I am told it is not a brake issue nor a safety issue. Concerned about resale and wear/tear especially after out of warranty. Also, have excess wind noise on drivers side excess brake dust intermittent outside temp sensor malfunction one-touch down drivers window never worked.

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  outstanding value - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By bill acampora - September 18 - 2:00 am

  for a price of $21,000 this is an outstanding and very underrated vehicle. The v6 engine is very strong and very responsive around town and on the inter- states. The ride is smooth and quiet and handling is first-rate. Not crazy about the interior layout but the exterior is raw and sexy. First class vehicle for the money and chrysler build quality is very noticably improved.

• 

  Just OK car - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Bryangm - September 18 - 2:00 am

  The body is very sold. Build quality seems very nice. Has some of the most comfortible seats ever. The 4 wheel disk brakes are excellent! The transmission in this car is junk! It clunks, sometimes wont downshift, and other times downshifts at the wrong time so the car lurches violently. Sometimes it wont go into gear even when its in drive, then will drop into gear with a loud clunk. This is with only a little over 10k miles. BEWARE! Their 7 year warranty thing is a scam! You can take the car back 50 times and their so called "Specialists" will tell you theres nothing wrong with it. This is with the 4 speed automatic with AutoStick.

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  Good for a non-sport enthusiast - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By stevio - September 7 - 2:00 am

  Overall, its been a good ride. I had 2000 JXI which I was actually MORE happy with than this one. However, it was wrecked. Ive had very rough idle engine problems since 12k miles. Dealer claims to have finally fixed it on the 3rd visit. But, still runs rough from time to time. Very impressive mileage for a v-6 in such a big car. I get 30-31 on highway with non-ethanol gas with speeds less than 73. After 73, mileage really deteriorates. (Just imagine if I didnt have that rough idle?) I would NOT buy another. However, would buy a used 1999 or 2000 JXI if the price was right.

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  Nice Car - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By zoom1840 - September 7 - 2:00 am

  I purchased a new limited. I was impressed by the gas millage. I also purchased the opitonal wind screen, it made a big difference. I would purchase another.

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  Love it! - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By sduston - August 16 - 2:53 am

  I absolutely love the car. In dash 4 disc changer and infinity stock speakers are very impressive. Very smooth, but stiff ride. Especially impressed with the performance, look, and features of the car for the price it sells for. Havent had it long enough to know how reliable it might be, but I would definitely buy it again as of now if I had to do it all over again. Everything I could have asked for in a car at a price I could afford!