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:
Showing 81 through 90 of 1,334.00-
headache from the start - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
By sebringhater - November 25 - 3:07 pmhorrible whining noise but intermittent so dealer always says they cant duplicate, transmission slams into drive but intermittent, dealer fixed once but still does it, cant duplicate when they have the car so they wont do anything about it. Car shakes terribly but dealer says its a convertible and you can expect cowl shake. Better than a vibrator. Had the car a little over 5 years and Id be ashamed to sell it to anyone other than another Chrysler dealership so they would have the problem. Probably cured me from buying another Chrysler product and Ive always been a Chrysler person.Been trying off and on for 3 years to get the whining fixed with no luck at all. Number one piece of JUNK
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Do not buy this car! - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
By bigpieceofjunk - November 10 - 6:04 pmWell maintained 2001 LXi, only 57K miles in 6 years. Since the 2-year mark, have had to replace the following: wheel bearings, radio, A/C blower, sway bar links, tie rods, upper control arm, transmission control module, fuel system serviced several times, transmission leak fixed twice, now needs O-rings & fuel rail, which is unacceptable on a car with such few miles on it. Im starting to believe what I hear about the Chrysler 2.7l V6. Getting rid of this piece of trash as soon as I can.
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Defective Rims - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
By Nick - September 25 - 2:10 pmI have had many flat tires since purchasing this car three years ago, mostly due to bent rims. Sebrings manufactured between 1997-2001 had defective rims, and a 33 million dollar settlement was won against Chrysler. Unfortunately the 3 year warranty is long expired and I have been forced to pay out of pocket. Also, one of the side door panels fell off for no reason, and black goo melted out of the door on really hot days.
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okay for cheap coupe - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
By Mark - August 23 - 1:31 amYeah those cheap chrysler rims and the brakes I fixed but it does look good! I had to tape together the bottom of the front bumper from curb and road rash, to low! Nice exhaust sound to bad it doesnt translate into horsepower although it goes if you keep your foot in it. The one thing not mentioned is this cars higher insurance rating, still Ill keep it for awhile its kinda fun. Watch out for those curbs and potholes or youll be looking for new rims!
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Dissappointed - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
By gwhea38411 - July 30 - 10:55 amBeautiful car however, the build quality is lacking. The car just feels flimsy. Dont know if its the design or the craftmanship. Braking is horrible and do not feel comfortable having to brake at speed. What the car lacks in quality it makes up for in appearance. If you must have a reliable car that will stand the test of time, this aint it but if you have some extra money lying around and want a fine looking car to drive it is. I would not recommend to a friend, just look at all the recalls this model has endured.
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Big lemon - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By Rose - July 19 - 3:54 pmI have owned my sebring for 11 months, since then I have replaced a part for the transmission for 600.00. Now at 47,000 miles my engine went out in the car.Extended warranty? NO I did not think I would need one. There is no replacement engine on the market for me to purchase. So Im stuck with a car I have paid 11,000 cash for and it does not run. Dont buy a Chrysler.
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Mid Life Chrysler - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
By Gerry Stanford - July 19 - 9:56 amThis car has been an absolute joy to own until recently. The car has performed flawlessly until it hit 90k miles. Engine has enough pep to propel me in and out of tight spots including taking my bass boat to the lake. However, when the car hits 90K the durability factor goes out the window. Plan on a trade in of about 4k or spend the same in keeping it running. AC alone will cost me $2K to repair.
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2001 sebring drives - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
By carl payne - May 16 - 9:07 pmThe 6 cyl is sluggish when compared to the Mitsubishi Galant 6 cyl I owned before this. The sebring is comfortable on a long trip. I now have 83k miles and average repair bills, although more than the 1994 Plymouth Grand Voyager I bought new which now has 149k miles.
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Just OK... - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
By Chris - April 25 - 3:18 pmI have been happy with this car mechanically....but....too low in front, bad turning radius, rattles in glovebox and sunroof, exterior cladding fell off, stiff ride(but enjoyable). I have owned it since new. I would not buy another one. It has been an OK car and decently good looking. The cab forward design was interesting for looks but practical it is not. The newer models dont look as good, and the redesign doesnt even look promising. I wont recommend this car used unless you plan on adding a lot of aftermarket styling and equipment...should be cheap. It isnt even worth what edmunds or bluebook says it is worth.
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Transmission - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
By basebalcch - February 23 - 9:56 pmTransmissions are known to go after 80,000 miles. Of course they dont volunteer this information until it goes out. Unfortunately the extended warranty that was supposedly good until 2009 or 80,000 miles which ever came first wasnt good for anything. I was faced with a 3000 to 5000 dollar repair or leave the car sitting while I continue to make payments. Dont ever buy a pre-owned or used Chrysler SeBring. I am VERY Disapointed!
