2001-2006 Chrysler Sebring: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2006 Chrysler Sebring
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2001-2006 Chrysler Sebring ▼
- Price Range: $2,400 - $14,100
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2001-2006 Chrysler Sebring and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Acceleration (4-cyl)
- Rear-seat entry/exit (coupe, convertible)
- Rear-seat comfort (coupe)
Vehicle Highlights
Chrysler redesigned its midsize line, retaining the coupe and convertible but introducing a new Sebring sedan. In the previous generation, sedans were called Cirrus. New V6 engines were available, and sedans gained side-curtain airbags. Wheelbases were unchanged, and interior dimensions grew only slightly. Chrysler claimed numerous structural changes to improve crashworthiness and reduce noise, vibration and harshness. Coupes again shared their platform and powertrains with the Mitsubishi Galant and Eclipse. Each was built in the same Illinois factory, alongside the related Dodge Stratus (formerly called the Avenger). The LX coupe held a 147-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, while a 3.0-liter V6 rated 200 horsepower went into the LXi coupe. The V6 produced 37 more horses than its predecessor, and came with a standard five-speed manual transmission. Optional with the V6 and standard with four-cylinder coupes was a four-speed automatic. When installed in V6 models, the automatic incorporated an AutoStick feature for manual gear changes. Sedans and convertibles, built in Michigan, again shared a Chrysler platform and powertrains. Sedans had a counterpart at Dodge, called the Stratus; but Dodge offered no convertible. A 150-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine went into the LX sedan, with a 2.7-liter 200-hp V6 optional. Standard in the LXi sedan, and in all convertibles, the V6 produced 32 more horses than the previous step-up engine. All models used a four-speed automatic transmission. Convertibles came in JX, JXi, and Limited trim. A power top and heated glass rear window were standard. Power side windows automatically raised and lowered in tandem with the top. Curtain airbags, optional in sedans, dropped from above the side windows for head protection in a side impact. Sedans, convertibles, and the LXi coupe had four-wheel disc braking. ABS was standard on the Limited convertible, unavailable on the LX coupe, and optional for all other models. Sedans and convertibles contained lower anchors for rear child seats, and an emergency release inside the trunk. Coupe and sedan headlights were said to be 25-percent brighter than before, while thicker glass was intended to improve sound insulation. Sebrings competed against the Ford Taurus, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry sedan, as well as Toyota's Camry Solara coupe and convertible.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Chrysler Sebring LX sedan Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 5 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 51 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2001-2006 Chrysler Sebring. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2001-2006 Chrysler Sebring.
Year to Year Changes
2002 Chrysler Sebring:
A new GTC convertible appeared during the 2002 season, fitted with V6 engine and a manual gearbox rather than the usual automatic transmission.
2003 Chrysler Sebring:
Coupes got revised exterior styling, front and rear, for 2003, as well as interior modifications that included a new dashboard. For the first time, too, coupes were available with front side airbags.
2004 Chrysler Sebring:
For 2004, Sebring sedans and convertibles got revised front styling, but coupes remained unchanged.
2005 Chrysler Sebring:
Coupes were dropped from the lineup this year, and the sedan and convertible continued on unchanged for 2005.
2006 Chrysler Sebring:
Sebring loses its coupe for 2006.
Our road test for the 2001-2006 Chrysler Sebring includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2001-2006 Chrysler Sebring and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2001-2006 Chrysler Sebring is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Each new V6 engine used in Sebrings (and their Stratus counterparts) is a clear step forward in both power and refinement. The Chrysler-made 2.7-liter in sedans and convertibles feels smoother than the coupe's Mitsubishi 3.0. Though slower than domestic and import rivals with larger V6s, any six-cylinder Sebring offers acceleration that's easily adequate for most needs. Four-cylinder owners are still relegated to the slow and noisy lane, even though both 2.4-liters are an improvement over their predecessors. Regardless of engine, automatic transmission performance is improved, with smoother upshifts and fairly prompt downshifts. Optional Autostick is a welcome addition to coupe models, improving throttle response somewhat. As for economy, a manual-shift V6 Sebring coupe averaged 23.3 mpg, a V6 sedan with automatic managed 18.3 mpg, and an LXi convertible averaged 18.5 mpg. Uplevel models handle noticeably better than base cars, with little penalty in ride quality. All feel competent on twisty roads, with better grip and less body lean than a Camry. Sebring coupes are slightly more nimble than the sedans, but their suspensions don't filter out bad pavement as well. Sedans and convertibles suffer some floatiness over dips and swells. The Sebring convertible feels stable and solid, despite some cowl shake and flex on undulating pavement. Steering feedback is good, though we'd prefer less around-town power assistance on the four-cylinder versions. Stopping power with ABS is a strong point, feeling sure and stable, with good pedal modulation. Overall refinement falls short of Japanese-brand rivals, but noise levels are fairly quiet and drivetrain vibration is greatly reduced from the previous generation. Suppression of wind noise is admirable. Sebring sedans have uncommonly roomy interiors for their exterior size, despite a slight loss of rear head clearance compared to prior models. Convertible front seating is spacious, while in the coupes, taller front-seat occupants might want a touch more head room. With only a little squeezing, three adults can fit in the sedan's back seat. Leg and foot room are generous, but head space is a bit snug. The convertible has rear seating for two adults, and it's surprisingly comfortable. Coupes have three rear seat belts, but even two grown-ups will feel crowded, and the seat cushion is uncomfortably low and seatbacks are overly reclined. Entry/exit to the back seat isn't so easy, either. Sedan and convertible gauges are clear and readable. Coupe instruments until 2003 mirror the gimmicky design in Mitsubishi two-doors. Coupe drivers sit low to the floor, whereas the sedan and convertible have airy-feeling cockpits. Convertibles suffer blind spots at the rear quarters. Getting in or out of sedans is easy, but a low roofline hampers entry/exit to coupe front seats, and limits head room for taller folks. In addition, interference from the front seatbelts worsens the already cumbersome entry into the back. Convertibles mount their front shoulder belts to the seats, so they don't impair rear access. Cargo space is average for the class (good for a convertible), though coupe trunklid hinges dip into the luggage bay.
Value for the Money
Despite improvements in driveline smoothness and overall refinement, the new Sebring sedans and coupes lack the polished feel of import-brand rivals. Each fulfills its purpose, and sedans are sporty-feeling family cars. While all three body styles offer competitive value, the real prize is the Sebring convertible, which is roomier than rivals and quite the pleasant cruiser.
Despite improvements in driveline smoothness and overall refinement, the new Sebring sedans and coupes lack the polished feel of import-brand rivals. Each fulfills its purpose, and sedans are sporty-feeling family cars. While all three body styles offer competitive value, the real prize is the Sebring convertible, which is roomier than rivals and quite the pleasant cruiser.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Chrysler Sebring LX sedan Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 5 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 5 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 4 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 5 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 51 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Chrysler Sebring includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chrysler Sebring .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Audio system:
If the radio, instrument, or trip-computer lights flicker when the turn signals or high beams are switched on, the multifunction (turn-signal stalk) switch may be bad. (2001-02)
Automatic transmission:
Some sedan owners received a non safety-related notice, advising them to replace a relay for the automatic transmission that does not work properly when cold. (2001)
Brake noise:
The brakes may squeak on coupes with the 3.0-litre engine and 15-inch brakes. It can be repaired with revised brake-caliper mounting brackets. (2001-03)
Dashboard lights:
The powertrain computer may mistakenly notice misfires and illuminate the check-engine light. Either have the computer reprogrammed (2001) or install hotter heat-range spark plugs. (2002)
Electrical problem:
An intermittent short in the dome-light switch blows fuses that protect the radio, dome light, courtesy light, vanity mirrors, remote keyless entry, compass, and clock. (2001-02)
Suspension noise:
The rear suspension makes a popping and squawking noise on the sedan or convertible that is corrected by replacing the upper control arms with revised ones. (2001)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $775 |
| Alternator | $410 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,900 |
| Brakes | $740 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,290 |
| Exhaust System | $675 |
| Radiator | $715 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,445 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $655 |
Our price chart for this generation Chrysler Sebring details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
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| 2006 | |||
| Sebring Ltd. convertible | $14,000-15,500 | $12,700-14,100 | $8,800-9,800 |
| Sebring convertible | $9,800-11,500 | $8,800-10,400 | $5,100-6,000 |
| Sebring sedan | $8,500-11,500 | $7,700-10,400 | $4,400-6,000 |
| 2005 | |||
| Sebring Ltd. convertible | $12,200-13,500 | $11,000-12,200 | $6,800-7,600 |
| Sebring convertible | $8,500-10,500 | $7,700-9,500 | $4,400-5,500 |
| Sebring coupe | $7,800-10,000 | $7,000-9,000 | $4,000-5,100 |
| Sebring sedan | $7,200-10,500 | $6,400-9,300 | $3,500-5,100 |
| 2004 | |||
| Sebring Ltd. convertible | $10,200-11,500 | $9,200-10,400 | $5,300-6,000 |
| Sebring convertible | $7,000-9,000 | $6,200-8,000 | $3,300-4,200 |
| Sebring coupe | $6,500-8,500 | $5,700-7,500 | $2,900-3,800 |
| Sebring sedan | $5,900-8,000 | $5,100-7,000 | $2,500-3,400 |
| 2003 | |||
| Sebring Ltd. convertible | $8,500-9,500 | $7,700-8,600 | $4,400-4,900 |
| Sebring convertible | $5,600-7,200 | $4,800-6,200 | $2,300-3,000 |
| Sebring coupe | $5,300-6,500 | $4,600-5,600 | $2,200-2,700 |
| Sebring sedan | $4,700-5,900 | $3,900-5,000 | $1,800-2,200 |
| 2002 | |||
| Sebring Ltd. convertible | $6,800-7,800 | $6,100-6,900 | $3,200-3,700 |
| Sebring convertible | $4,500-5,800 | $3,700-4,800 | $1,600-2,100 |
| Sebring coupe | $4,300-5,400 | $3,600-4,500 | $1,500-1,800 |
| Sebring sedan | $3,700-4,800 | $3,000-3,900 | $1,100-1,400 |
| 2001 | |||
| Sebring Ltd. convertible | $5,500-6,500 | $4,700-5,600 | $2,300-2,700 |
| Sebring convertible | $3,800-4,800 | $3,100-3,900 | $1,200-1,500 |
| Sebring coupe | $3,600-4,600 | $2,900-3,700 | $1,000-1,300 |
| Sebring sedan | $3,100-4,200 | $2,400-3,300 | $700-1,000 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Chrysler Sebring include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 2-door coupe | 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 106.0 | 103.7 | 108.0 |
| Overall Length, in. | 193.7 | 190.2 | 190.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.4 | 70.3 | 70.6 |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.0 | 53.7 | 54.9 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3394 | 3099 | 3201 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 11.3 | 16.3 | 1.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.0 | 16.3 | 16.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.7 | 38.5 | 37.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 | 42.3 | 42.3 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.0 | 36.0 | 35.8 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.2 | 34.0 | 38.1 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Powertrain Options and Availability
Coupes had different engine choices than sedans and convertibles. A 147-horsepower four-cylinder engine went into the LX coupe, while a 3.0-liter V6 was standard in LXi coupes and optional for the LX. The LX sedan got a 150-horsepower four-cylinder, with the option of a 2.7-liter V6 that made 200 horsepower. All convertibles held the 2.7-liter V6. Only V6 coupes could have manual shift, until the stick-shift GTC ragtop arrived. All other models used a four-speed automatic transmission.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.4 / 148 | 150 | 167 | 4-speed automatic: 21/30 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V6 | 2.7 / 167 | 200 | 190-192 | 4-speed automatic: 20/27 | 4-speed automatic: 18.3 |
| ohc V6 | 3.0 / 181 | 200 | 205 | 5-speed manual: 20/29 4-speed automatic: 20/28 |
5-speed manual: 23.3 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohc I4 | 2.4 / 143 | 147 | 158 | 4-speed automatic: 21/28 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Chrysler Sebring include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2001-2006 Chrysler Sebring directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2001 w/automatic transmission:
Defective transaxle cooler hoses could lead to transmission fluid leak. Smoke and drivability problems could result. Dealers will replace the cooler hoses.
2001:
Crankshaft position sensor harness could ground with a protective shield causing engine to stall. Dealers will reroute the harness.
2001:
Defective passenger airbags could separate in an accident. Dealers will replace the passenger airbag.
2001:
Fuel return hose does not contain the desired ozone protection. Dealers will replace the fuel return hose.
2001:
Harness for crankshaft position sensor could contact new protective shield; prolonged contact could erode insulation and create short circuit that might result in engine die-out.
2001:
Incorrect driver-seat mounting bolts may cause result in driver injury in an accident. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
2001:
Smoke or burning smell might come from map lights due to contact with insulation material. Dealers will remove insulation material in affected vehicles.
2001:
Some owner's manuals are missing instructions for installing child seats. Owners will be provided with an addendum to the owners manual.
2004 Convertible:
Left rear seat belt retractor bolt may not have been properly tightened.
2004 Coupe:
Fuel return hose fitting on electric fuel pump may be improperly molded, which could result in fuel leakage and possible fire.
2004:
Excessive pressure and leakage may build up in the fuel injection system due to a restriction of the fuel-return hose. Dealers will inspect and replace any affected parts.
2005 Sedan:
Rear outboard retractor and turning loop bolts on seat belts may not have been properly tightened.
2005 Sedan and Convertible:
Right steering knuckle could crack and separate from upper control arm.
2006 Sebring w/automatic temperature control:
The software programmed into the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) module may cause the windshield defrosting and defogging functions to become inoperative. Dealers will reprogram the HVAC module.
2006:
A faulty hood latch may cause the hood to open while driving. Dealers will replace the hood latch strikers.
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