1996 Chrysler Sebring

Introduction:

The 1996 Chrysler Sebring is a mid-size sedan offered with a choice of two engines: a 2.0L inline-4 with 132 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L V6 with 168 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic for both engines and a 5-speed manual for the 2.0L engine only. The Sebring is praised for its stylish design and comfortable interior, but criticized for its lackluster performance and reliability issues.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, loss of coolant, overheating, rough idle. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Timing belt failure: Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, won’t start. Solution: Replace the timing belt. Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
• Head gasket failure: Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, loss of coolant, overheating, white smoke from exhaust. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+

2.5L V6

• Valve cover gasket leak: Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, burning oil smell. Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
• Intake manifold runner control (IMRC) system failure: Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, check engine light. Solution: Replace the IMRC system. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
• Water pump failure: Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating. Solution: Replace the water pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Torque converter failure: Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, delayed shifts. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• Shift solenoid failure: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, check engine light. Solution: Replace the shift solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+

5-speed Manual

• Clutch failure: Description/Symptoms: Slipping, difficulty engaging gears. Solution: Replace the clutch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
• Transmission mount failure: Description/Symptoms: Vibrations, noise. Solution: Replace the transmission mount. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+

Suspension

• Strut failure: Description/Symptoms: Poor handling, excessive bouncing, noise. Solution: Replace the struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+ (for all four)
• Control arm bushing failure: Description/Symptoms: Noise, vibrations, uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the control arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+ (for all four)
• Sway bar link failure: Description/Symptoms: Noise, poor handling, rattling. Solution: Replace the sway bar links. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+ (for both)

Electrical

• Battery failure: Description/Symptoms: Won’t start, dim lights. Solution: Replace the battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Alternator failure: Description/Symptoms: Dim lights, battery won’t charge. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
• Starter failure: Description/Symptoms: Won’t start, grinding noise. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+

Exterior

• Door handle failure: Description/Symptoms: Door won’t open. Solution: Replace the door handle. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ (for each door)
• Power window failure: Description/Symptoms: Window won’t roll up or down. Solution: Replace the window motor or switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (for each window)

Interior

• Dashboard cracking: Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard. Solution: Replace the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Seat fabric tearing: Description/Symptoms: Holes appear in the seat fabric. Solution: Repair or replace the seat fabric. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (for each seat)
• Climate control failure: Description/Symptoms: Climate control doesn’t work properly. Solution: Repair or replace the climate control module. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Summary:

The 1996 Chrysler Sebring has numerous reliability issues across major components. Engine problems, particularly with the 2.0L inline-4, are the most severe and costly to repair. Transmission issues, suspension problems, and electrical failures are also common. While the Sebring offers a comfortable interior and stylish design, its reliability issues significantly detract from its overall value.