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2002 Chrysler Sebring

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By Research the Car 6 min read

The 2002 Chrysler Sebring was available as a coupe, sedan, and convertible. It’s often praised for its affordability and styling, particularly the convertible model. However, it’s also frequently criticized for reliability issues, particularly with the 2.7L engine and the automatic transmissions. Owners often appreciate the comfortable ride but dislike the Sebring’s overall build quality and tendencies for various components to fail. Engine options include a 2.4L I4 producing around 150 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque, a 2.7L V6 producing around 200 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6 producing around 200 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options primarily consist of a 4-speed automatic.

Engine

2.4L I4

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various points, including the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and the smell of burning oil.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks can occur from hoses, the water pump, or the radiator. Symptoms include a low coolant level, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the component.
    • Recalls: None Found

2.7L V6

  • Sludge Buildup/Engine Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The 2.7L V6 is notorious for oil sludge buildup, which can lead to catastrophic engine failure. The engine’s design with narrow oil passages makes it prone to this issue. Symptoms include engine knocking, reduced power, and eventually complete engine failure.
    • Solution: In severe cases, engine replacement is necessary. Regularly changing the oil and using high-quality synthetic oil may help prevent this issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ (engine replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Water Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The water pump is located inside the engine, making its replacement costly. Failure of the water pump can lead to overheating and engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the water pump, usually requiring significant engine disassembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 2.4L, oil leaks are common from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil consumption, and the smell of burning oil.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

  • Timing Belt Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The 3.0L V6 is an interference engine, so timing belt failure can cause significant engine damage. Symptoms can range from rough running and misfires to complete engine stall.
    • Solution: Regular timing belt replacement is crucial.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ (timing belt replacement) ; Significantly more if the timing belt breaks and damages the engine.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Idle Air Control Valve Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The IAC valve can become dirty or fail, causing rough idle, stalling, or high idle speeds.
    • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Many Sebring owners report issues with the 4-speed automatic transmission, including harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or complete failure.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, valve body repair, or complete transmission replacement may be required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (fluid flush), $500 - $1500+ (valve body/repairs), $2,000 - $4,000+ (transmission replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, leading to shuddering during acceleration or complete loss of drive.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Worn Struts/Shocks
    • Description/Symptoms: The struts and shocks can wear out, leading to a bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
    • Solution: Replace the worn struts and shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Broken Coil Springs
    • Description/Symptoms: Coil springs can break, leading to a lowered ride height, uneven tire wear, and poor handling.
    • Solution: Replace the broken coil springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per axle
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Power Window Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Power windows can fail due to a faulty motor, regulator, or switch.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty component.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Faulty Instrument Cluster
    • Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience various issues, including dimming, flickering, or complete failure.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • ABS Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: ABS sensor failure can cause the ABS light to illuminate and affect the functionality of the ABS system.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per sensor
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Starter Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The starter motor can fail, preventing the engine from starting.
    • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the body panels, particularly in areas prone to moisture and salt exposure.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted body panels.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the extent of the rust.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Convertible Top Issues (Convertible Models)
    • Description/Symptoms: Convertible tops can develop leaks, tears, or mechanical issues with the folding mechanism.
    • Solution: Repair or replace the convertible top or the faulty components of the mechanism.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on the severity.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard is prone to cracking due to sun exposure and temperature changes.
    • Solution: Dash cover, or dashboard replacement (expensive).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $100 (dash cover), $500 - $1500+ (dashboard replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Broken Door Handles
    • Description/Symptoms: Interior door handles can break due to wear and tear.
    • Solution: Replace the broken door handles.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per handle
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Chrysler Sebring is plagued with a variety of issues, ranging from minor electrical problems to major engine and transmission failures. The 2.7L V6 is especially problematic due to sludge issues and potential engine failure. While the car is affordable, the cost of repairs can quickly add up, making it a potentially unreliable vehicle. It’s important to thoroughly inspect any used Sebring before purchase, paying close attention to the engine, transmission, and overall condition of the vehicle. The severity of issues ranges from relatively inexpensive fixes to costly engine or transmission replacements, meaning that ownership can be unpredictable in terms of maintenance expenses.

Chrysler, Sebring
Chrysler Sebring 2002
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