VehicleVerdict

1996 Chrysler Sebring problems

Verdict · NHTSA data

One of the years to avoid

With 481 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 2.1 times the median Sebring year — the 1996 model ranks #2 of 19 Sebring years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list. Complainants reported 30 injuries in total across these filings.

No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across suspension (81), brakes (61), and transmission (55), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.

481

NHTSA complaints

12

Recalls

5

Investigations

52

Crash-involved

11

Fires reported

30

Injuries

0

Deaths

NCAP overall

How does 1996 compare to other Sebring years?

See all Sebring years to avoid →

What are the most common 1996 Chrysler Sebring problems?

ComponentComplaintsShare
Suspension8117%
Brakes6113%
Transmission5511%
Engine429%
Electrical System419%
Body & Structure398%
Visibility & Wipers367%
Airbags327%
Speed Control214%
Seat Belts174%
Steering153%
Tires & Wheels143%
Climate Control (A/C & Heat)71%
Other61%
Fuel System61%
Lighting41%
Latches & Locks31%
Seats10%

Does the 1996 Chrysler Sebring have recalls?

12 NHTSA recall campaigns on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.

09E012000LightingApril 7, 2009 · 16,270 units

Defect

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.

07E055000Fuel SystemJuly 26, 2007 · 222 units

Defect

CERTAIN AIRTEX FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLIES, P/N E7081H, SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE WALL OF THE FLARED FITTING OF THE FUEL PUMP IS NOT THICK ENOUGH TO PREVENT THE MATING THREADED FITTINGS FROM BOTTOMING OUT BEFORE AN ADEQUATE SEAL IS ACHIEVED. THIS CONDITION MAY RESULT IN LEAKAGE OF FUEL AT THE CONNECTION OF THE VEHICLE FUEL LINE AND THE FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLY.

Consequence

IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FUEL LEAK COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy

AIRTEX WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL PUMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JULY 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT AIRTEX AUTOMOTIVE AT 800-880-3056.

06E091000Fuel SystemNovember 2, 2006 · 24,358 units

Defect

CERTAIN AIRTEX FUEL PUMP MODULES, P/NOS. E7089M, E7094M, E7113M, AND E7129M, MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JUNE 1 AND SEPTEMBER 24, 2006. THESE FUEL PUMP MODULES WERE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET FOR USE IN CERTAIN DAIMLERCHRYSLER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SILICONE MATERIAL USED IN MANUFACTURE OF THE FLAPPER VALVE WAS OUT-OF-SPECIFICATION, LEADING TO EXCESS SWELL OF THE FLAPPER VALVE RESTRICTING THE FLOW OF FUEL TO THE FUEL PUMP MODULE.

Consequence

FUEL RESTRICTION COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF POWER AND/OR ENGINE STALL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

AIRTEX WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MODULES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AIRTEX TOLL-FREE AT 1-866-867-3759.

06E088000Fuel SystemOctober 23, 2006 · 39,243 units

Defect

CERTAIN TIGAS FUEL PUMP MODULES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN JUNE 1 AND SEPTEMBER 24, 2006, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AND P/NOS. THESE FUEL PUMP MODULES ARE SOLD AS AFTERMARKET FOR USE IN CERTAIN DAIMLERCHRYSLER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SILICONE MATERIAL USED IN MANUFACTURE OF THE FLAPPER VALVE WAS OUT-OF-SPECIFICATION, LEADING TO EXCESS SWELL OF THE FLAPPER VALVE RESTRICTING THE FLOW OF FUEL TO THE FUEL PUMP MODULE.

Consequence

FUEL RESTRICTION COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF POWER AND/OR ENGINE STALL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MODULES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 6, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE TOLL-FREE AT 1-877-461-1834.

02V186000Speed ControlJuly 8, 2002 · 88,000 units

Defect

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.5L V6 ENGINES, THE THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE CAN FRAY CAUSING THE THROTTLE TO BIND OR STICK.

Consequence

THIS COULD POTENTIALLY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE THROTTLE CABLE ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 5, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

00V421002SuspensionDecember 18, 2000 · 393,796 units

Defect

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE RUBBER BOOTS ON THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION WERE DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY, DIRT AND WATER CAN INTRUDE. ALSO, MMC HAS ADDED THE POTENTIAL OF LEAKING MOISTURE, WHICH CAN CAUSE THE BALL STUD TO CORRODE.

Consequence

THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT TO SEPARATE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH. THIS CAMPAIGN SUPERCEDES MMC'S PREVIOUS SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN, SEE 99V-066.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT FOR WEAR. BALL JOINTS THAT EXHIBIT WEAR BEYOND THE ESTABLISHED TOLERANCE WILL BE REPLACED WITH NEWLY DESIGNED LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS. BALL JOINTS THAT ARE WITHIN THE ESTABLISHED TOLERANCE WILL BE CLEANED AND A SPECIAL SEALANT WILL BE APPLIED TO PREVENT INTRUSION OF MOISTURE.

99I004000Body & StructureMay 6, 1999 · 175,000 units

Defect

THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER IS NOT INSTALLED CORRECTLY, IT CAN SEPARATE UNEXPECTEDLY FROM THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING.

Consequence

IF THE COVER SEPARATES WHILE DRIVING, IT COULD DISTRACT THE DRIVER INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

OWNERS WILL RECEIVE AN IMPROVED CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER INSTRUCTION LABEL AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS.

99V066003SuspensionApril 5, 1999 · 165,857 units

Defect

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. IF THE RUBBER BOOTS ON THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINTS OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION WERE DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY, DIRT AND WATER CAN INTRUDE.

Consequence

THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT TO SEPARATE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE RUBBER BOOTS, AND IF THE BOOT IS DAMAGED, THEY WILL REPLACE THE LOWER LATERAL ARM AND BALL JOINT ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES.

98V183000TransmissionAugust 6, 1998 · 685,000 units

Defect

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS. THE ADJUSTMENT OF THE CABLE CONNECTING THE CONSOLE SHIFTER MECHANISM TO THE IGNITION KEY CAN CAUSE A TRAPPED KEY CONDITION WHICH CAN RESULT IN A LOW FORCE REQUIRED TO DEPRESS THE SHIFT BUTTON. A COMBINATION OF APPLYING A MIS-ADJUSTED RELEASE BUTTON WITH A LOW FORCE ATTEMPT TO SHIFT OUT OF PARK WITH THE KEY IN THE LOCKED POSITION, CAN BREAK THE CONNECTING PIN IN THE SHIFTER.

Consequence

IF THIS HAPPENS, THE "IGNITION-PARK" INTERLOCK SYSTEM WILL BE NONFUNCTIONAL.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR PROPER OPERATION OF THE SYSTEM. ANY VEHICLES THAT ARE NOT FUNCTIONAL AFTER THE INSPECTION WILL HAVE THE SHIFT MECHANISM AND CABLE REPLACED WITH A "SELF-ADJUSTING" DESIGN.

97V201000SuspensionNovember 13, 1997 · 599,000 units

Defect

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT CAN SEPARATE DUE TO LOSS OF LUBRICATION.

Consequence

SEPARATION OF THE BALL JOINT COULD CAUSE A LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BALL JOINT END HOUSING COVER SEAL FOR LEAKAGE WITH A HIGH PRESSURE AIR TESTER AND THE RUBBER BOOT WILL BE VISUALLY INSPECTED FOR DAMAGE. IF THE COVER SEAL LEAKS OR THE BOOT IS DAMAGED, THE LOWER CONTROL ARM WILL BE REPLACED.

97V015000Visibility & WipersFebruary 10, 1997 · 39,000 units

Defect

THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS IN THE POWER MIRROR SWITCH CAN ACCUMULATE ROAD SALT DUE TO WATER ENTERING INTO THE SWITCH.

Consequence

THIS CAN RESULT IN A HIGH RESISTANCE SHORT CIRCUIT AND POSSIBLY CAUSE A VEHICLE FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER MIRROR SWITCH WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED SWITCH.

96V123000BrakesJuly 2, 1996 · 22,500 units

Defect

THE POWER BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM HOSE WAS IMPROPERLY INSTALLED ON THE INTAKE MANIFOLD VACUUM NIPPLE.

Consequence

A DISCONNECTED VACUUM HOSE CAUSES AN INCREASE IN ENGINE IDLE SPEED AND LOSS OF POWER ASSIST DURING BRAKE APPLICATION INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL FULLY INSTALL THE INTAKE MANIFOLD VACUUM HOSE TO THE VACUUM NIPPLE ON THE INTAKE MANIFOLD.

Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA

Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.

WHILE DRIVING LOWER CONTROL ARM/ BALL JOINT SEPARATED CAUSING LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL WHICH RESUTLED IN THE VEHICLE HIITTING A EMBANKMENT. VEHICLE NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL NUMBER 97V201000 DUE TO VIN. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Suspension · October 5, 2001 · crash

DRIVING VEHICLE ABOUT 35MPH & STARTED TO APPLY BRAKES; HEARD LOUD POPPING NOISE; AFTER LEAVING TOLL BOOTH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CUT OFF SEBRING; HIT BRAKES HARD, HEARD POPPING SOUND; BRAKES DIDN'T CATCH; WENT INTO SPIN & HIT RETAINER WALL, FRONT END CAME UP & SMASHED WINDSHIELD; SEAT BELT CAME UNLATCHED…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Brakes · October 26, 1996 · crash

1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING HAS PROBLEMS WITH ROOF LEAKING, FRONT PASSENGER TIRE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE AS WELL AS PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSAXLES FLOOR SHIFTER/PARK INTERLOCK WHICH CAUSED DRIVER TO HIT NINE CARS AND BE EJECTED THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD. THERE WAS A RECALL REGARDING THE PARK /NEUTRAL…

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Transmission · February 1, 2005 · crash

CONSUMER WAS APPROACHING A TRAFFIC LIGHT APPLIED BRAKES WHEN THE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD, RESULTING IN A COLLISION. TWENTY SECONDS AFTER THE COLLISION THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT, CAUSE OF THE FIRE UNDETERMINED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Engine · August 11, 1998 · crash · fire

DRIVING THE VEHICLE DOWN THE ROAD AND STARTED SEEING SMOKE COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE PLASTIC OF THE GEAR SHIFT INDICATOR. PULLED VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. THE FIREMAN SAID IT WAS AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. *AK

Complaint filed with NHTSA · Electrical System · February 8, 1998 · fire

1996 Chrysler Sebring — common questions

Is the 1996 Chrysler Sebring reliable?

NHTSA data argues against it: 481 complaints put the 1996 model at #2 of 19 Sebring years. It is one of the Sebring years to avoid.

What are the most common 1996 Sebring problems?

According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are suspension (81 complaints), brakes (61 complaints), transmission (55 complaints).

Does the 1996 Chrysler Sebring have recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 12 recall campaigns affecting the 1996 Chrysler Sebring. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.

Is the 1996 Chrysler Sebring under NHTSA investigation?

NHTSA opened 5 investigations into this model year; all are now closed.

Which Chrysler Sebring years should you avoid?

Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Sebring years to avoid are 2007, 1996, 2008, 1998. The cleanest record among Sebring years belongs to 2013.

Related

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.