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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  The car of style - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Eddie - October 11 - 2:11 pm

  What sold me was the style inside and outside, rear passenger foot room, headlights/driving lamps, and the cornering is wonderful. The 2.7 liter V6 gets the job done for the size of motor and can keep up with most of the 3.0 series engines in the market today. I get and average of 24 to 27 mpg in city and 26 to 30 on hwy which is pretty good for a V6. If you are looking for a great car to have fun in and turn heads this would be that car and a plus is it is affordable.

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  Never had a problem with this one - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By sometime - October 11 - 10:00 am

  I have had it for over a year and have had a great time with it. The service from Bonneville is superlative. I would buy another vehicle from them.

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  Cant wait until pay-off date - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Brokendisappointed - October 9 - 11:58 am

  I love this car-as long as everything is functioning properly (which isnt very often). The solenoid goes out every year, usually January or February. The sensors have minds of their own-my engine light is on more than it is off. I had to have a tranny overhaul this past February, as well as the solenoid replaced. Fuel economy is terrible, I dont give a damn what the specs say. The tranny pan gasket has been replaced twice. When the weather is cool/cold, there is a strange scraping noise coming from the rear axle.The seals on the headlight assemblies dry-rotted last year. Needs better sound barriers very noisy when driving. Nevertheless, I have no complaints about performance or handling.

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  Sebring Hard Top Convertible - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Carnut - September 26 - 7:35 pm

  Great vehicle! With current incentives it is a great value and lots of fun to drive. Great new features with the MyGig system and navigation. I typically own and drive BMW, MBenz and Porsche, but this car gets me more compliments. If you dont need the high-end performance of the MB CLK, then you can get all of the fun and features at half the price!

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  Original owner, and family car with low mileage. - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Michigan Zegota - September 24 - 10:31 pm

  Where it was manufactured, and that some parts will require metric tools. This model does hold up well in Northern environments and handle well in snow with appropriate tires, great A/C and heater. Mileage is above average for model and year, does not require no-lead gasoline, or special formula, if driven in Northern environment where salt is used on roads. You should look for signs of rust in rear wheel area, behind fender, undercarriage and frame holds up well, so does the 2.7 engine if properly maintained. Do not listen to complaints on this engine, however make sure you do check for any major repair work, I did have to replace the complete power steering unit, include the front right wheel assembly due to poor manufacturing. It is one of the reasons that I do ask you to check and make sure that the Sebring was made in America, and not Canada because of metric bolts...etc. I still have this car today after fourteen years, with sixty-seven thousands original miles, just replaced the rear struts last year 2016. Now experiencing the oil indicator warning light on, and staying on after warming up, heating indicator showing ok temperature, no leaks, and oil level is ok. Could be pump, however at this stage and year would not prefer to spend that amount of money for a pump, or repairs, guess will drive until tires fall off. I would not purchase this car new, is I had a chance, way too many issues from date of purchase, I even tried to pursue the lemon law in Michigan within the first two years. No one would listen...got me a brand new Buick 2014 now.

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  Reliable but has problems - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By Thirtysomething - September 24 - 9:11 am

  I purchased this car from Enterprise Car Rental Company in Plano Texas when is was still considered a new car. It has been reliable, but noisy. Sounds like a helicopter flying over my head constantly. I am hard of hearing and wear a hearing aid. When I am driving this car on the interstate it is hard for me to hear on my cell phone because of the noise. The a/c condenser is creating too much water, it is leaking into the passenger side of my car and it drips onto the serpentine belt and squeals. The fuel econ sucks and very little power. I also own a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am, it is more powerful and gets better gas mileage. Plus, it was a pain to replace driver headlight bulb It went out twice!

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  Excellent Car - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Don Pelzel - September 22 - 4:28 pm

  The car has been a pleasant surprise with the ride and fuel mileage. With 72000 miles with no problems. If I drive 70 miles an hour I have obtained over 33 miles to the gallon. Original tires and brakes. Very happy with this purchase.

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  Poor design poor quality. - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Extremely Unreliabe - September 11 - 11:06 am

  Water pump is driven by a timing chain that is inside engine on 2.7 engines. My original pump failed at 61,800 miles flooding engine with antifreeze. Water pump casting number is 0466373611797B followed by Chrysler STAR SYMBOL. Now Im having to pay $5000 for an engine rebuild. Chrysler refuses to own any part of the problem has been happening since 1999. Before purchasing a Chrysler 2.7 please check out the horror stories on the intranet. Old sales pitch was dont buy no ugly truck. Buyers beware.

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  Fun Car - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Ironmike - September 10 - 10:34 pm

  One of the three most enjoyable cars Ive had in over 40 years of driving. Looks great. Bought it with about 50,000 miles and now have about 145,000. Has been very reliable. Fun to drive. The only improvement I would make is more comfortable cushions on the front seats. Im looking for a newer one with low miles.

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  Beware the 2.7 L V6 - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Jim - September 9 - 11:35 pm

  I have had this car about 6 months. No problems until a few weeks ago with the oil light coming on. Was told it was a bad oil pressure sensor. My extended warranty that supposedly covered everything didnt cover it. It was replaced, 10 minutes after leaving the dealer it came on again. Was told it may be a bad oil pump, though the Nissan dealer i bought it from took it to a Chrysler dealer and all they did was replace it again and do an oil flush and change the oil ,free of charge. Took it home, found the Fog Lights stopped working. What next? Its too bad the under the hood issues take away from a great looking car. Cruises nice and gets good mileage with the V6.