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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  Loved it but it was a lemon - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By VirginiaD - October 17 - 4:28 pm

  My first convertible, and a great one at that. Power top was perfect and never had problems with it working. Replaced top seal when I purchased it ($800), replaced rotors (on all my Chryslers) every 20k miles. Brakes were not strong. Engine began to smoke at about 45k, and mechanics said it was a goner. NOT a good investment. Engine is a bad one (2.7L V6). Loved the car and top down driving and very comfortable, with all the nice options. Peppy to drive and smooth on hwy. Cant recommend because of engines and overall long-term quality issues.

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  Very nice reliable family car - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By C,Faith - October 12 - 12:41 am

  Had my sebring for 2 and a half years now put many many miles on it and it still runs and sounds new! The head room is a issue for tall people,well actually im only 57 and i bang my head alot on the roof,so that maybe a good thing to consider. Odomotor lights are green if maybe they made it abit more sporty it would be perfect. The seats in the back are not the greatest but hey thier seats,right? Over all love the car,safe and reliable

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  Misfiring, took them 5 weeks - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By MattyPython - October 10 - 6:01 pm

  Bought the car in april, no problems til august took it to the shop, they replaced over 3 thousand dollars worth of parts and it was still misfiring but only when hot. Finally after close to six weeks of it being in the shop they have the nerve to charge us four hundred bucks for some wires. These are poorly built cars.

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  Best for the $$$$$ - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Don Durzo - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Looked for a convertible that gives comfort,extra power not desired and the price was right on track, Very comfortable to drive and well worth the price. Not any real competition in this size vehicle. Work for a major competitor and the Quality is very good

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  Just purchased - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By SDR - October 2 - 12:28 pm

  My husband surprised me 9/21/09 with a 2002 4dr LX Chrysler Sebring. The Car is beautiful but it didnt come with the transmitter for the alarm. I took it to Mt Ephraim Dodge 9/26/09 and paid $131.61 for a new transmitter. 10/01/09 my car would not start! I called the dealer and was told maybe the alarm burned out the battery. Now I have to pay $98.00 for a diagnostic test. On top of that when I turn my steering wheel to its furthest point left or right it makes this screeching sound. I was told I need to $48.99 to check it. If I need a Power Steering Pump it will cost me $110 for parts and if it is the Rack N pennon (??) the parts will cost $600.72 not including labor.

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  04sebring - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By b10ant - August 18 - 10:00 am

  Bought my Sebring used with 1800 miles on it at a great value. Its been only a few weeks, but so far so good. Bought it due to job change and lots of increased miles, and had to get better gas mileage than with my Explorer. Im getting 25-26 mph, which works for me. And the styling is cool. Not much headroom, and the controls and console features arent readily within reach.

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  Its whats inside that counts... - 2009 Chrysler Sebring
  By killakass85 - August 11 - 9:30 am

  First-the bad news: if you are looking to lay down 10 second runs at the track or turn heads at the valet then this isnt the car for you. That being said - I challenge you to find a roomier, more equipped, more fuel efficient, smoother riding vehicle than the 09 Sebring Sedan. Traded a clunker in w 200K miles and with all rebates,discounts, +ttf walked out the door with a 2.7 V6, Nav/Sirius Sat Radio, MyGig/DVD System, Power Sunroof, Heated/Power Seats, Hot/Cold Cup Holder, & Remote Start for $19K. Those same options on any other car puts you well over $30K all without the lifetime powertrain warranty. Put 100 miles on it the first day testing out the Navi!!! BTW - Im 64-

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  Great Value 2.7 v6 - 2009 Chrysler Sebring
  By Wally - August 6 - 9:05 pm

  There was not a touring 2.7 listed but that is what I got and what a good motor for the car. I cant believe the gas mileage I am getting, way better than listed. On the highway at 65 to 70 miles per hour I get 33 miles per gallon. It has all the bells and whistles, some I will never use. It is comfortable for my wife and me to travel in. The motor is responsive for getting on and off the freeway and passing. The gas mileage is reasonable and we are averaging 28 miles per gallon. The radio sound is excellent for a car. We both like it. I have has the undecarage done, rust inhibiters, cloth stain proofed and paint protected. Now the car must respond.

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  Nice car - 1997 Chrysler Sebring
  By george7861 - August 5 - 10:52 am

  Even though the car is really a Mitsubishi Eclipse with a Chrysler body it is a nice sporty, fast car. It handles really good, mine has 140,000 miles on it and it starts better in the winter better than my neighbors VW.

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  Fun but not worth the trouble - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By Bob D - July 30 - 12:00 pm

  After reading other reviews it has become apparent to me that my experience with the Sebring is somewhat typical. In general, lots of things need tweaking and repairs are costly and frequent. 125k miles - replaced/repaired - panel cluster - many radio components - brakes through and through - fan assembly - soon to replace the rubbers that seat the spark plug tubes (rough idle - arcing) gotta remove the engine cover... we all know what that can cost. Lots of rust spots on the way. When I buy a used car the next time I will consult Edmunds first. Sebring - not again, but the car still remains a head turner. Too much invested to sell but worried what will go next.