2003 Chrysler Sebring problems
The Chrysler Sebring (/ˈsiːbrɪŋ/ SEE-bring) is a line of mid-size automobiles that was sold from 1995 through 2010 by Chrysler. Three generations of convertibles, two generations of sedans, and two generations of coupes were produced. Although the coupe shared the same name and some styling cues, it was mechanically unrelated to the other Sebring models.
The Sebring line was introduced in 1995 with the Chrysler Sebring coupe. It was the replacement for the Chrysler LeBaron coupe. In 1996 the convertible was introduced, replacing its LeBaron counterpart as well. For 2001, both body styles were redesigned and a sedan version was offered, replacing the Chrysler Cirrus. The coupe was discontinued after 2005 with no replacement model planned.
The redesigned sedan was introduced for 2007, and a convertible the following year. New options included all-wheel drive on sedans and an available retractable metal top for the convertible. All Sebring models were replaced by the Chrysler 200 for the 2011 model year.
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Common 2003 Chrysler Sebring problems
The Chrysler Sebring, produced between 1995 and 2010, has been known to have several common problems, particularly in the 2001 and 2002 models. The most frequently reported issue is engine sludge resulting in engine failure, which is caused by oil leaks from the 2.7-liter engine.
The sludge problem is particularly frustrating for owners because it often goes unnoticed until severe engine damage has occurred, even for those who take good care of their cars and regularly service them. This issue tends to appear around 85,000 miles for the 2001 model and around 94,000 miles for the 2002 model, although in some cases, it may not occur until the car has over 100,000 miles.
Chrysler's response to the engine sludge problem has also been a source of frustration for owners. Many have discovered that Chrysler was aware of the issue but did not issue a recall or take any steps to help owners with the problem. As a result, most owners have had to replace the engine at their own expense, with repair costs averaging around $4,830 for the 2001 model and $4,100 for the 2002 model.
In addition to engine sludge issues, the Chrysler Sebring has also had problems with the air conditioner and heater, as well as electrical problems with interior systems. Many owners have reported issues with the blower fan not working unless it's set to high, loud noises from the air conditioner or heater, and water pooling on the floor. Electrical problems include issues with the instrument cluster and dash lights not working, as well as problems with the radio, power locks, and power seats.
The Sebring's transmission has also been a source of problems, particularly in the 41TE automatic transmission. Failures in these transmissions have been attributed to the use of Dexron instead of the ATF+4 it was designed for, as well as the transmission going into "Limp Home Mode" when the computer throws an engine code, only utilizing 2nd gear.
The Sebring's engine sludge issues have been particularly persistent in the 2001 and 2002 models, causing significant engine damage and expensive repairs. While Chrysler was aware of the problem, they did not issue a recall or take any steps to help owners with the issue, leaving most owners to bear the cost of engine replacement. Other problems, such as issues with the air conditioner, heater, and electrical systems, have also been reported, as well as transmission issues.
What years of Chrysler Sebring to avoid?
Worst Issues
- oil sludge resulting in engine failure in the 2001 Sebring. 115.
- oil sludge resulting in engine failure in the 2002 Sebring. 114.
- horn goes off by itself in the 2006 Sebring. ...
- oil sludge resulting in engine failure in the 2004 Sebring. ...
- horn malfunction in the 2005 Sebring.
Is a Chrysler Sebring a good car?
Ride and handling also leave much to be desired. Playing in one of the most competitive segments of the automotive marketplace, the Chrysler Sebring is pitted against some of the best cars offered--period. Though handsomely styled for most of its tenure, the long-running Chrysler Sebring was never a very good car.
Do Chrysler Sebrings have transmission problems?
Common Chrysler Sebring 41TE Transmission Problems
Hard Shifting & Slipping: Two of the most common A604 transmission problems are slipping between the gears, or particularly hard shifts. There are a number of OE design flaws that cause these problems to occur.
Are Chrysler Sebrings expensive to fix?
Chrysler Sebring Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost. The annual maintenance cost of a Chrysler Sebring is $428.
Is Chrysler Sebring a good car?
Playing in one of the most competitive segments of the automotive marketplace, the Chrysler Sebring is pitted against some of the best cars offered--period. Though handsomely styled for most of its tenure, the long-running Chrysler Sebring was never a very good car.
Why is the Chrysler Sebring a bad car?
The 2.7L DaimlerChrysler engine is highly suceptible to oil sludge, a sticky hell stew that coats the inside of your engine. The sludge retains heat and starts putting severe strain on the mechanical parts of your engine.
Is Chrysler Sebring expensive to maintain?
The annual maintenance cost of a Chrysler Sebring is $428.
How long do Chrysler Sebrings last?
Chrysler Sebring drivers typically report a maximum mileage in the 250,000 range. If you can find one in good condition, there's no reason you shouldn't be able to hit a quarter million miles. Higher numbers have been reported, but the really expensive repairs will start to mount past 250,000.
2003 Chrysler Sebring car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chrysler Sebring problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Suspension problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Chrysler Sebring vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Chrysler Sebring
The NHTSA has received 74 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Chrysler Sebring. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Chrysler Sebring vehicles.
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-10
- VIN: 1C3EL75T53N
- Components: POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
- Summary: While driving approximately 25 mph I crossed over railroad tracks in the road. There is only a very small bump going over these. The front drivers side wheel came off. The lower ball joint pulled out and pulled the front axle out. The vehicle only has 91,000 miles on it. There was no warning that this was going to happen. I was driving in normal traffic. And was unable to move the vehicle out of the traffic lane. Vehicle had to be towed. This happened yesterday 7/10/21. I have seen other reports of problems with this but vehicles have higher mileage than mine. Is there not a recall for this?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: 1C3EL55TX3N
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL; AIR BAG LIGHT ON DASH COMES ON & OFF INTERMITTENTLY FROM STARTUP TO SHUTDOWN, ANYWHERE - WTF?
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-13
- VIN: 1C3EL55T33N
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: PAST FEW WEEKS BEEN NOTICING ISSUES WITH THE CAR. 1. SUN VISORS HIT ME IN THE FACE 2. CAR STALLS TO START 3. LIGHTS HARDLY WORK EVEN WHEN YOU TRY TO PUT ON HIGH BEAMS 3. FLUID DOESN'T STAY IN THE CAR 4. CAR CUTS OFF IN MID DRIVING 5. CAR ALSO CAN CUT OFF WHEN YOU APPLY BRAKES . CAR BACK TIRE SMOKES. WAS NOT IN A ACCIDENT WITH ANYONE CAR CUT OFF ON ME WHILE DRIVING I WAS ABLE TO OWN MY OWN BRING CAR TO STOP
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-28
- VIN: 1C3LC56R17N
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I WON A CAR FROM MY LOCAL CHRYSLER DEALER. THE CAR HAD A 2.7L V6 ENGINE IN IT THAT NADA AND KBB DO NOT LIST SUCH AN ENGINE IN THIS TYPE OF CAR THAT I WON, SO I CAN ONLY ASSUME IT WAS A DEALER SWAP PRIOR TO THE RAFFLE DRAWING, BUT THEY DENY THE SWAP WHEN I CALLED THEM ABOUT THIS INCIDENT. WHEN I WON IT, LAST JUNE IT HAD LIKE 181,000 MILES ON THE CAR, UNKNOWN MILEAGE ON THE ENGINE, BUT I HAD IT FROM JUN TO DEB 2016 AND DROVE IT MAYBE 9000 MILES MAX AND IT FAILED WITHOUT WARNING. I CHANGED THE OIL EVERY 3000 TO 4000 MILES, SO LIKE 2-3 TIMES SINCE I HAVE HAD THE CAR AND IT HAD NO INDICATION OF ANY ENGINE PROBLEMS PRIOR TO SPONTANEOUS AND COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE. I HAVE MY CARS SERVICES REGULARLY FOR TIRE ROTATIONS, CAR INSPECTIONS ETC. NOTHING COULD HAVE WARNED ME ABOUT THIS AND I HAD NO IDEA ABOUT THE CLASS ACTIONS LAW SUITS PERTAINING TO THIS EXACT ENGINE UNTIL MY ENGINE FAILED A FEW MONTHS AGO. I CLIMBING TH INTERSTATE ON RAMP WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THE RPM'S ON MY CAR CONTINUED TO RISE WHILE MY CAR WAS SLOWING DOWN, IN ESSENSE IT WAS REVING AS I ACCELLERATED, BUT MY CAR WAS SLOWING, SO I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND ATTEMPTED TO RESTART MY CAR, NOTHING HAPPENED, SO I HAD IT TOWED TO A LOCAL MECHANIC, WHEN IT GOT BACK TO THE SHOP, THE CAR STARTED BACK UP AS NORMAL, BUT I LEFT IT ANYWAY, BECAUSE IT CLEARLY HAD AN ISSUE. IT WAS DISCOVERED AFTER THE MECHANIC DROVE IT THAT THE OIL LIGHT CAME ON AND THE ENGINE LOST OIL PRESSURE. THERE WAS PLENTY OF GOOD OIL IN THE TANK, WHEN IT WAS CHECKED AND BASED ON THE LEVEL THERE WAS NO NEED TO ADD OIL. IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE ENGINE WAS SEIZING UP DUE TO OIL SLUDGE AND THAT MY ONLY FIX IS A NEW ENGINE.
SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-17
- VIN: 1C3EL46X43N
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 5 MPH, HE TRIED TO TURN LEFT AND THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE TURNED OUTWARDS. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE LOWER CONTROL ARM AND BONJOY WAS FRACTURED IT CAUSED THE AXLE TO FRACTURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 10E059000 (SUSPENSION) HOWEVER THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 131,389.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-02
- VIN: 4C3AG52H43E
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V338000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. UPDATED 03/09/16*LJ
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-06
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 4C3AG52H63E
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS IN A WRECK ON 11/06/2015, A WOMEN FAILED TO YIELD AND I T-BONED HER PASSENGER SIDE BY BACK DOOR/BACK TIRE, I WAS GOING 30 MILES AN HOUR THE SPEED LIMIT ON THE CITY ROAD, I HAD MY SAFETY RESTRAINT ON AND STILL MANAGED TO HIT THE STEERING WHEEL AND WINDOW, I HAD A LOOSE CAR SEAT IN FRONT THAT HIT THE PASSENGER DASH, NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, SHE WAS HEADED NORTH AND I WAS HEADED WEST, I WAS DRIVING STRAIGHT ON THE ROAD WHEN I HIT HER, SO IT FELT LIKE A BRICK WALL AT 30 MPH, I ENDED UP IN THE ER WITH A SPRAINED WRIST, MY LEFT SIDE OF MY HEAD WAS SWOLLEN, AND I'M HAVING ISSUES IN MY BACK(DOCTOR SAID NECK AND BACK PAIN IS MOST LIKELY DUE TO WHIPLASH, I AM STILL HAVING ISSUES WITH BACK PAIN. FROM ALL THE INFORMATION I'VE FOUND ON RECALLS, THERE IS NOT ONE FOR FAULTY AIRBAGS ON MY CHRYSLER LXI....
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-03
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: START CAR, WHEN IN IDLE IT SHUTS OFF WITH IN A FEW SECONDS OF HITTING GAS NOW. IT USE TO IDLE AND I WOULD HAVE TO REV A LITTLE SO IT WOULD NOT TURN OFF. THAT WORKED FOR A LITTLE BIT TODAY TO BROKE DOWN. LUCKILY IN MY DRIVE WAY THIS TIME INSTEAD OF THE MIDDLE OF ROAD LIKE LAST WEEK. WHY IS MY CAR DOING THIS?
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-03-23
- VIN: 1C3EL56R13N
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING SEDAN. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE ENTIRE STEERING COLUMN, HORN, AND CRUISE CONTROL WERE FRACTURED. IN ADDITION, THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT WAS CONTINUOUSLY ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURES OCCURRED CONTINUOUSLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE CLOCK SPRING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DASHBOARD BEGAN TO RISE WITHOUT CAUSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DRIVER GOING APPROX 40 MILES AN HOUR AROUND CURVE, CLOCKSPRING BROKE CAUSING THE STEERING WHEEL TO BECOME INOPERABLE. DRIVER LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE WENT OFF ROAD HIT TWO TREES. AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY. CAR IS TOTALED AND DRIVER IS IN CRITICAL CONDITION. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-15
- VIN: 1C3EL55TX3N
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE FAILURE DUE TO OIL SLUDGE. THIS IS, APPARENTLY, A COMMON PROBLEM AFFECTING THE 2.7L V6 ENGINE. *JS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-09-05
- VIN: 1C3EL55T03N
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE HORN FAILED TO FUNCTION AND THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS WHERE IT WAS STATED THAT THE CLOCK SPRING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 143,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-01
- VIN: 4C3AG42G33E
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DASH SEPARATING FRO VENT POSSIBLY BY THE SUN. ALSO THE FRONT BUMPER SCRAP MOST DRIVEWAYS. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-15
- VIN: 4C3AG52H93E
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE TIRE FAILED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT HE PUT AIR IN THE TIRE AND IT DEFLATED A COUPLE OF HOURS AFTER. THE TIRE WAS REPLACED WITH THE SAME TYPE OF TIRE BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION AND THEY STATED THAT THE WHEEL HAD CORRODED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 46,000. THE CONSUMER SATED THE VEHICLE HAS DEFECTIVE WHEELS. HE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN 2007 AND THE TIRES WERE REPLACED ONCE A YEAR DUE TO THE DEFECT. THE CONSUMER HAD THE WHEELS FIXED AT THE DEALER, AND THE FIX ONLY LASTED THREE DAYS. THE WHEELS LEAKED AT THE BEAD OF THE TIRE, DUE TO THEM NOT BEING SEATED PROPERLY. THE CONSUMER STATED HE SPENT $2,000 ON TIRES, ONLY TO FIND OUT, THE PROBLEM WASN'T THE TIRES, IT WAS THE DEFECTIVE WHEELS. UPDATED 02/28/13
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-14
- VIN: 4C3AG52HX3E
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AFTER PICKING UP VEHICLE FROM DEALER AND REPORTING "SLIPPING" ON THE TRANSMISSION, THE DEALER TOLD ME THE TRANSMISSION WAS STARTING TO BREAK UP. A NEW ONE WOULD COST $7,000, AND A REFURBISHED ONE WOULD BE $5,500, AND THERE WAS A WAITING LIST. I DECIDED TO DRIVE IT HOME AN EXPLORE OTHER AVENUES. THE VEHICLE LASTED MAYBE FIVE MILES AND IT DIED ON THE FREEWAY. THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, THE ENGINE STARTED SMOKING, AND THE ENGINE JUST DIED. I LIFTED THE HOOD AND THE ENGINE WAS SMOKING AS THE TRANSMISSION HAD BROKEN AND IT HAD BEEN LEAKING ITS FLUID ON THE FREEWAY. I CALLED A TOW TRUCK TO TOW IT HOME. AN INDEPENDENT TRANSMISSION REPAIR SHOP WILL CHARGE ME $1,800 TO REBUILT IT. I HAVE NO CHOICE. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-01-30
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE DROPPED DOWN TOWARD THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE FRONT LOWER BALL JOINTS FAILED DUE TO DEFECTIVE MATERIAL. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE MECHANIC, BUT WAS NOT REPAIRED A SECOND TIME. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000 AND THE APPROXIMATE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 115,300.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-12
- VIN: 1C3EL55T23N
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE A 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING CONVERTIBLE WITH A 2.7L ENGINE. I RECENTLY STARTED NOTICING PROBLEMS AROUND 88,000 MILES.. I NOW HAVE 92,000 MILES AND SEE ENGINE COOLANT IS BLACK.. ONLINE IT APPEARS A COMMON PROBLEM IS OIL MIXING WITH COOLANT.. APPARENTLY I HAVE THIS PROBLEM. I ALSO HAVE THE 2.7L ENGINE THAT IS PRONE TO SLUDGE AND OTHER PROBLEMS. I NOTICED THE CAR WAS USING MORE OIL RECENTLY EVEN BEFORE MY 3,000 OIL CHANGE.. NOW I MIGHT HAVE THE REASON WHY... I SEE I'M NOT THE ONLY PERSON WITH THIS PROBLEM, PLEASE HELP EVERYONE WHO PURCHASED A CHRYSLER PRODUCT WITH THIS 2.7L ENGINE... *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-23
- VIN: 1C3EL46XX3N
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: COMPLAINT OF KNOCKING NOISE FROM REAR OF VEHICLE. FOUND REAR SPRING MOUNT BROKE DUE TO CORROSION. MADE OF ALUMINUM POT METAL? *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-25
- VIN: 1C3EL45X43N
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING CONVERTIBLE. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TURNING TO THE LEFT AT APPROXIMATELY 8 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE LOWER BALL JOINTS WERE REPLACED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 70,000. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 7,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-12
- VIN: 1C3EL55T93N
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING 61,000 MILES DEFECTIVE NOW BROKEN CLOCK SPRING THAT OPERATES AIR BAG AND HORN, NOW STEERING WHEEL BINDS, VEHICLE UNSAFE TO OPERATE. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO MANY OTHERS, MOSTLY BREAKS WHEN ITS COLD OUT. HOW COME CHRYSLER ISSUED A RECALL ON THE CARAVANS FOR SAME REASON BUT NOT ON SEBRINGS? PLEASE ADVISE. *TR
STEERING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-01
- VIN: 1C3EL56R13N
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: CLOCK SPRING BROKE IN STEERING WHEEL. AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON. CALLED DEALER AND MADE APPOINTMENT. VERIFIED BROKEN SPRING . NOT IN STOCK. 10 DAYS LATER CALLED DEALER STILL NO PART. AM DRIVING WITHOUT AIR BAG, LIGHT STILL ON. *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-23
- VIN: 1C3EL46X23N
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I PARKED MY CAR JUNE 23 2009 AROUND 5:15 PM SEAT BELT WAS WORKING FINE. CAME BACK OUT OF THE HOUSE 20 TO 30 MINUTES LATER, SEAT BELT WOULD NOT RELEASE FOR ME TO BUCKLE UP. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-23
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WORKED WITH THE REPAIR SHOP - EVANS AUTO CAR IN BLUE ASH, OH - TO UNDERSTAND WHY 2003 CHRYSLER SEBRING SUDDENLY EXPERIENCES DROP IN SPEED FROM 70 TO 25 MPH. REPAIR SHOP NOTED CAR COMPUTER LIKELY FAULTY AND PARTS UNAVAILABLE FROM DEALERSHIP. ACCORDING TO MESSAGE BOARDS AND OTHER CHRYSLER SHOPS, DEALERS ARE RESTRICTED FROM RELEASING PARTS DUE TO ANTICIPATED FUTURE PROBLEMS. PROBLEMS STEM FROM COLD-SOLDERING OF THE MAIN COMPUTER BOARD. THIS IS A DANGEROUS DEVELOPING SAFETY CONCERN THAT WARRANTS FUTURE INVESTIGATION DUE TO MANUFACTURER HOLDING BACK PARTS. REPAIR SHOP NOTED THEY MAY BE PREPARING FOR FUTURE PROBLEMS. *TR
STEERING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-14
- VIN: 1C3AL46X33N
- Components: STEERING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: PROBLEM: SMELLING GAS FUMES WHILE STARTING THE CAR. ENGINE FAILURE TO START. FAILURE IS DAILY. MY WIFE AND HAVE TAKEN THE CAR NUMEROUS TIMES TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER STATED THAT THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THE CAR, EXCEPT NEEDING A NEW GAS CAP. SINCE THEN, OUR LOCAL DEALER HAS GONE OUT OF BUSINESS. I AM CONCERNED THAT OUR CAR WILL RESULT IN WORST CASE SCENARIO RESULTS, LIKE AN EXPLOSION WHILE STARTING THE CAR. OUR CAR WAS PURCHASED BRAND NEW IN 2003, IN 2009 THE CARS CONDITION HAS GOTTEN WORSE, SMELLING MORE FUEL FUMES. I AM NOT SURE WHAT TO DO, I AM IN HOPES THAT SOMEONE ON YOUR END CAN HELP US. WE DON'T HAVE ALOT OF MONEY TO GO OUT AND SIMPLY GET A NEW CAR. CHRYSLER SHOULD HAVE BEEN PAYING MORE ATTENTION WHEN DESIGNING THE SEBRING LX. I AM AFRAID TO EVEN OPERATE IT. I HAVE TWO CHILDREN MY WIFE AND I SIMPLY CANNOT AFFORD TO REPEATEDLY TAKING OUR CAR TO SOMEONE ONLY TO BE TOLD THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH IT. WE HAVE ALSO NOTICED CLICKING SOUNDS FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. AND THE WHEN YOU HAVE YOUR HANDS ON THE STEERING WHEEL, YOU CAN FEEL THIS "CLICKING". PLEASE HELP US.*TR
2003 Chrysler Sebring recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2003 Chrysler Sebring.
- Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is recalling certain model year 2000-2005 Eclipse vehicles manufactured April 5, 1999, to December 17, 2004, 2001-2005 Eclipse Spyder vehicles manufactured January 19, 2000, to March 18, 2005, 2001-2005 Chrysler Sebring vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 21, 2005, and 2001-2005 Dodge Stratus vehicles manufactured April 17, 2000, to February 22, 2005. In the affected vehicles, the passenger side sun visor may be folded down in such a position that, if the passenger frontal air bag deploys, the passenger side sun visor may detach.
- Consequence: If the passenger side sun visor detaches and is propelled rearward, there is an increased risk of occupant injury.
- Remedy: MMNA will notify their owners, and Chrysler will notify the Chrysler and Dodge owners. Dealers will install a tether strap to retain the passenger sun visor, free of charge. The recall began on July 20, 2015. Owners may contact MMNA customer service at 1-888-648-7820. MMNA's number for this recall is SR-15-005. Chrysler and Dodge owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is R30.
- Manufacturer: QUALIS AUTOMOTIVE LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
- Summary: QUALIS AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN AFTERMARKET BALL JOINTS SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE SOCKET MAY HAVE BEEN EXCESSIVELY HARDENED WHICH COULD CAUSE IT TO CRACK NEAR THE RETAINING RING GROOVE ALLOWING THE BALL STUD TO SEPARATE UNDER IMPACT LOAD. THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS WERE SOLD AS FOUR PART NUMBERS, D10945, D10946, G10945, AND G10946. THE AFFECTED CONTROL ARMS, D10945 AND D10946, ARE STAMPED WITH THE FOLLOWING DATES ON THE BALL JOINTS: 134308, 135708, 100109, 102709, 104109, 105509, 107609, 108909, 110309, 113209, AND 116609. THE G10945 AND G10946 ARE THE SAME PART AS THE D10945 AND D10946 RESPECTIVELY. THEY ARE LABELED DIFFERENTLY DEPENDING ON THE AFTERMARKET CUSTOMER.
- Consequence: SEPARATION OF THE BALL STUD FROM THE SOCKET OF THE BALL JOINT HOUSING WOULD ALLOW THE CONTROL ARM TO COLLAPSE AND THE WHEEL TO FOLD IN CAUSING LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: QUALIS AUTOMOTIVE WILL REPLACE THE BALL JOINTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 9, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT QUALIS AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-800-493-4128.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: CARDONE INDUSTRIES, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
- Consequence: LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL RETURN LINE HOSE FITTING ON THE ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP MAY BE RESTRICTED, CAUSING EXCESSIVE FUEL PRESSURE TO BUILD UP IN THE FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM. EXCESSIVE FUEL PRESSURE MAY RESULT IN A LEAK IN THE FUEL RETURN HOSE.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL PUMP PRESSURE. THOSE VEHICLES EXHIBITING HIGHER THAN NORMAL FUEL PUMP PRESSURE WILL RECEIVE FUEL PUMP MODIFICATIONS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 15, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-992-1997.
Negative 2003 Chrysler Sebring car reviews
Positive 2003 Chrysler Sebring car reviews
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This is my second Sebring Convertible. I'm so glad to have owned one! They're sleek, stylish, and always get attention. Plus, the maintenance has been very low.
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That's a really cool and good-looking car!
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Love the convertible! It's great that the top is so easy to put up and down. However, it seems like the front end suspension could use some improvement. It's been a persistent issue with the car, and it would be great if Chrysler could find a solution.
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I have only had it a few months and I love every little bit of it. Although I wish I would have gotten the V6 for that extra pick-up, the 4-cylinder still has good pickup and passing gears. I have driven long distances and it is extremely comfortable. This car has given me the affordable luxury I was looking for.
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Your car rides well, handles well, and gets good mileage. It has been reliable in the five months you've had it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Chrysler Sebring problems:
2003 Chrysler Sebring Problems and Complaints - 14 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Chrysler Sebring? Our list of 14 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Chrysler Sebring.
Q&A: 2003 Chrysler Sebring 2.7 Engine Problems - JustAnswer
Feb 19, 2008 ... The 2.7L chrysler engine has several known problems resulting in low oil pressure and eventually locking up. The water pump was poorly designed ...
2003 Chrysler Sebring - Are there recalls? - Maintenance/Repairs ...
Apr 26, 2023 ... $3000 to repair the automatic transmission seems pretty reasonable. Provided the job is guaranteed for at least a year/12,000 miles. If repair ...
2003 Chrysler Sebring | Read Owner Reviews, Prices, Specs
Reliability I'd say is the biggest downfall of owning a Chrysler Sebring. Since it is a convertible I love it. But mechanical issues are a huge factor in owning ...
Chrysler Sebring Starting and Stalling Problems - Page 6 — Car ...
Dec 8, 2006 ... Chrysler Sebring Starting and Stalling Problems ... Problems with Mass Air Flow sensors are common. ... My 2003 Chrysler Sebring v6 3.0L shuts off ...
Other years of Chrysler Sebring
Are you having problems with your 2003 Chrysler Sebring?
Jerome Fadel 2024-10-26
The convertible looks great and feels pretty good. Its biggest drawback is the limited view that a moderately tall driver has out the front window. Even with the driver's seat all the way down, the driver's view is blocked by the top of the front windshield. Additionally, the locking mechanism for the roof and the sun visor hinge on the convertible are unnecessarily large and block a significant part of the driver's vision. Moreover, if the seat is lowered to accommodate a moderately tall driver, the back of the seat remains in the same position, and as a result, the lumbar support is in the wrong place.
Jessy Shields 2024-06-18
I purchased this car from a reliable source, but unfortunately, it has not lived up to my expectations. Despite spending a significant amount of money on repairs, including replacing the springs and fixing an oil leak, I continued to experience issues with the headlights, electronics, and ultimately the engine. The cost of replacement parts was also quite high, and dealing with the dealership was a frustrating experience. As a result, I have decided to move on from GM.