Owners have filed 481 complaints
about the 1996 Chrysler Sebring with NHTSA between 1996 and 2022.
The largest single group is the suspension.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 16 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 94
Against the median year of the Chrysler Sebring. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 99
19.1% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 27
16% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 1996 compares with every other Chrysler Sebring
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
10,000 – 24,999 miles
24.4%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
1022.2%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
1022.2%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
1022.2%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
715.6%
150,000+ miles
613.3%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Mar 1996peak 15Oct 2022
NHTSA investigations into the 1996 Chrysler Sebring
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
PE02082Opened 6 Nov 2002Closed 23 Apr 2003SEAT BELTS
SAFETY BELT CINCHING LATCH PLATE
THERE ARE NO INJURIES OR FATALITIES ASSOCIATED WITH THIS ALLEGED DEFECT.WHILE CONDUCTING THIS INVESTIGATION, ODI FOUND THAT THE SUBJECT CINCHES MEET THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 208, AND THAT MANY OF THE REPORTED FAILURES WERE DUE TO INCORRECT CHILD SAFETY SEAT INSTALLATIONS. ADDITIONALLY, THE REPORT RATE IS LOW (1.60/100K).THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE FAILS TO ESTABLISH THE EXISTENCE OF A DEFECT TREND AT THIS TIME.FURTHER ALLOCATION OF AGENCY RESOURCES TO THIS ISSUE IS UNWARRANTED AND THE PRELIMINARY EVALUATION IS BEING CLOSED.
RQ00015Opened 2 Aug 2000Closed 20 Apr 2001SUSPENSION
LOWER CONTRTOL ARM BALL JOINT
EA98014Opened 29 May 1998Closed 14 Sep 1998POWER TRAIN
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE IGNITION INTERLOCK
ALLEGED FAILURE OF THE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE IGNITION INTERLOCK SYSTEM THAT EITHER ALLOWS THE IGNITION KEY TO BE REMOVED WHEN THE TRANSMISSION GEAR SELECTOR IS NOT IN THE PARK POSITION AND THE TRANSMISSION GEAR SELECTOR TO BE SHIFTED WHEN THE IGNITION KEY IS REMOVED OR PREVENTS THEIGNITION KEY FROM BEING REMOVED WHEN THE TRANSMISSION GEAR SELECTOR IS IN THE PARK, OR ANY OTHER, POSITION.
EA97025Opened 24 Nov 1997Closed 17 Nov 1998STRUCTURE
CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER DISENGAGEMENT
ALLEGED THAT THE CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER MAY DISENGAGE FROM THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WHILE DRIVING.
PE97029Opened 17 Jun 1997Closed 24 Nov 1997STRUCTURE
CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER DISENGAGEMENT
ODI HAS RECEIVED THREE REPORTS ALLEGING DISENGAGEMENT OF THE CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER FROM THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WHILE DRIVING.
Recalls on the 1996 Chrysler Sebring
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
09E012000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
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.
Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
07E055000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
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.
Risk: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FUEL LEAK COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
06E091000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
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.
Risk: FUEL RESTRICTION COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF POWER AND/OR ENGINE STALL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
06E088000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
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.
Risk: FUEL RESTRICTION COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF POWER AND/OR ENGINE STALL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
02V186000
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.5L V6 ENGINES, THE THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE CAN FRAY CAUSING THE THROTTLE TO BIND OR STICK.
Risk: THIS COULD POTENTIALLY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THROTTLE CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
00V421002
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
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.
Risk: 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.
99I004000
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
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.
Risk: IF THE COVER SEPARATES WHILE DRIVING, IT COULD DISTRACT THE DRIVER INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
99V066003
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
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.
Risk: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE LOWER LATERAL ARM BALL JOINT TO SEPARATE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 200106218,687 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, the lower lateral arm ball joint can separate due to loss of lubrication. There is a potential for moisture to leak past the protective boot which can cause the ball stud to corrode. This corrosion, acting much like contamination, can also lead to premature wear and separation of the ball joint. This could result in loss of vehicle control and a possible crash. Correction: Lower lateral arm ball joints will be inspected for wear and replaced as necessary with newly designed lower lateral arm ball joints. Ball joints that are within the established tolerance will be cleaned and a special sealant will be applied to prevent the intrusion of moisture.
Recall 199914410,789 units in Canada
Steering
On certain vehicles, the rubber boot on the lower lateral ball joint could be damaged, allowing the intrusion of dirt and water, leading to extraordinary wear on the ball joint and possible separation. This could result in loss of vehicle control and a possible crash without prior warning. Correction: Lower lateral ball joints will be inspected and if cut or damaged boots are found, the lower lateral arm will be replaced.
Recall 199816561,866 units in Canada
Other
NOTE: VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A FLOOR MOUNTED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER. A COMBINATION OF APPLYING A MIS-ADJUSTED SHIFTER RELEASE BUTTON WITH A LOW FORCE ATTEMPT TO SHIFT OUT OF PARK WITH THE KEY IN THE LOCKED POSITION MAY BREAK THE CONNECTING PIN IN THE SHIFTER. IF THIS HAPPENS, THE "IGNITION-PARK" INTERLOCK SYSTEM WILL NOT FUNCTION. CORRECTION: THE CONSOLE SHIFT INTERLOCK MECHANISM WILL BE INSPECTED FOR PROPER FUNCTION. ANY VEHICLES THAT ARE NOT FUNCTIONAL AFTER THE INSPECTION WILL HAVE THE SHIFT MECHANISM AND CABLE REPLACED WITH A CURRENT PRODUCTION "SELF ADJUSTING" DESIGN.
Recall 199801012,494 units in Canada
Emissions
Certain vehicles do not comply with CMVSS 1103 - exhaust emissions. The calibration of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) may fail to adequately control CO emissions. Correction: PCM will be reflashed with a new calibration.
Recall 199720553,134 units in Canada
Suspension
On certain vehicles, the lower control arm ball joint may separate due to loss of lubrication. This separation could result in loss of vehicle control and a crash without prior warning. Correction: Ball joint end housing cover seal will be inspected for leakage and the rubber boot will be inspected for damage. If the cover seal leaks or the boot is damaged, the lower control arm will be replaced.
Recall 19970371,549 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain Sebring convertible vehicles, the electrical contacts in the power mirror switch may accumulate road salt due to water entering into the switch. This could result in a high resistance short circuit and possibly cause a fire. Correction: Power mirror switch will be replaced with a redesigned switch.
Recall 19961021,313 units in Canada
Brakes
On certain Sebring convertible vehicles, a power brake booster vacuum hose may be improperly installed on the intake manifold vacuum nipple. A disconnected vacuum hose can cause an increase in engine idle speed and loss of power assist during brake application without prior warning. Correction: The intake manifold vacuum hose connection will be fully seated to the intake manifold vacuum nipple.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Waconia, MNFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I was driving on the highway; all of a sudden my right dash speaker started on fire. I had a Bubbler in my vehicle, so I used that to put it out. Since then, my radio no longer works, nor does mileage show & gas gauge fluctuates, & cannot tell when it is actually empty.
NHTSA complaint #11470156 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dover, DECrash
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT CRASHED THE VEHICLE INTO A DITCH. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC REPAIRED THE BRAKE CHAMBER, BOTH REAR BRAKE LINES, AND THE ADJUSTER; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10631677 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesSpringfield, ILCrashFire1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING CONVERTIBLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS STRUCK BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND THE CONTACT WAS TRAPPED IN HER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS RELEASED DEBRIS THAT BEGAN BURNING HER FACE. THERE WAS ALSO A LARGE CLOUD OF SMOKE AS IF CHEMICALS WERE BEING RELEASED FROM THE AIR BAGS. SHE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL AND A PHYSICIAN STATED THAT SHE RECEIVED SECOND DEGREE BURNS. THE CONTACT HAS A COPY OF THE POLICE REPORT AND PICTURES OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER CONCLUDED THAT THAT AIR BAGS WERE NOT MANUFACTURED WITH ANY HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 140,000.
NHTSA complaint #10255983 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middlefield, CTCrash1 injured
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
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 START SWITCH BEING FAULTY. THE CONSUMER WANTS DAIMLER CHRYSLER TO COMPENSATE HER FOR ANOTHER VEHICLE. *BF
NHTSA complaint #10119012 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middlefield, CTCrash1 injured
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
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 START SWITCH BEING FAULTY. THE CONSUMER WANTS DAIMLER CHRYSLER TO COMPENSATE HER FOR ANOTHER VEHICLE. *BF
NHTSA complaint #10119012 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 76,000 milesHatfield, PACrash
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
NHTSA CAMPAIGN 00V421002; DAIMLER CHRYSLER ISSUED A LOWER BALL JOINT RECALL. THIS VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE CONSUMER WAS DRIVING 55 MILES PER HOUR WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN HE HEARD A POPPING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE BEFORE COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE SHOP AND RESULTS SHOWED THAT THE LOWER BALL JOINTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *JB BALL JOINT SNAPPED AND RESULTED IN THE WHEEL TURNING SIDEWAYS. AS A RESULT THE DRIVEER LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. WHEN VEHICLE FINALLY CAME TO REST THE TIRE WAS TOTALLY DESTROYED AND UNDER CARRIAGE SUSTAINED DAMAGE. *SB
NHTSA complaint #10105478 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Minneapolis, MN
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I was driving my car & listening to music. All of a sudden my passenger side dash speaker started smoking, then was shooting fire. I had a Bubbler drink & splashed it across the dash onto the speaker. It was scary, as I thought my engine might blow up. I took it to the shop, but they were so busy, it sat for a week, & I finally said forget it(I would have been too costly) & I needed my vehicle to get to work. Many things failed after that; gas gauge; speedometer needle; right turn signal; & radio.Other things but just can’t remember at the moment.
NHTSA complaint #11491258 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Minneapolis, MN
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
I was driving my car & listening to music. All of a sudden my passenger side dash speaker started smoking, then was shooting fire. I had a Bubbler drink & splashed it across the dash onto the speaker. It was scary, as I thought my engine might blow up. I took it to the shop, but they were so busy, it sat for a week, & I finally said forget it(I would have been too costly) & I needed my vehicle to get to work. Many things failed after that; gas gauge; speedometer needle; right turn signal; & radio.Other things but just can’t remember at the moment.
NHTSA complaint #11491258 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Minneapolis, MN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I was driving my car & listening to music. All of a sudden my passenger side dash speaker started smoking, then was shooting fire. I had a Bubbler drink & splashed it across the dash onto the speaker. It was scary, as I thought my engine might blow up. I took it to the shop, but they were so busy, it sat for a week, & I finally said forget it(I would have been too costly) & I needed my vehicle to get to work. Many things failed after that; gas gauge; speedometer needle; right turn signal; & radio.Other things but just can’t remember at the moment.
NHTSA complaint #11491258 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Waconia, MNFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I was driving on the highway; all of a sudden my right dash speaker started on fire. I had a Bubbler in my vehicle, so I used that to put it out. Since then, my radio no longer works, nor does mileage show & gas gauge fluctuates, & cannot tell when it is actually empty.
NHTSA complaint #11470156 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 99,500 milesLemon Grove, CA
AIR BAGS
AIR BAG COMES ON AND THE ALL DIALS ON THE DASHBOARD GO BLANK.
NHTSA complaint #11271320 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 99,500 milesLemon Grove, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
AIR BAG COMES ON AND THE ALL DIALS ON THE DASHBOARD GO BLANK.
NHTSA complaint #11271320 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 49,000 milesLemon Grove, CA
AIR BAGS
AIR BAG LIGHT GOES OFF AND ON WHEN STARTING AND DRIVING THEN THE GAGES ON THE DASHBOARD STOP WORKING. SOMETIMES JUST THE RED AIR BAG LIGHT GOES AND THE DIALS STILL WORK. WHEN THE RED AIR BAG LIGHT GOES OFF USUALLY THE DIALS COME BACK WITHIN 10 MINITES OR 5 MILES.
NHTSA complaint #11265367 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 168,000 milesLOS Angeles, CA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I TOOK MY CAR TO GET DIAGNOSTIC FOR SMOG. THE SHOP I TOOK IT TO SMOG SMART EXPLAIN THEY HAVE DISMATELED MY CAR CLAIMING ENGINE, COOLANT, AND TIMING BELT. THEY HAVE REMOVED PARTS AND CLAIM THEY CONTACTED CHRYSLER AND ITS COMPANY STATES ITS REPAIRS IS NOT WORTH THE VEHICLE. THE ENGINE CLAIM, THE COOLANT CLAIM AND TIMING BELT THEY HAVE MADE AGAINST THE MANUFACTURE. THE ENGINE CHECKED FINE BEFORE DROPPING THE CAR OFF. THE CAR WOULD STOP DUE TO HEATING THE FUEL RUNNING SINCE THE CAR HAD BEEN A NON OP FOR 3 YEARS ANDREASON FOR SMOG. THE CAR WAS DELIBERATLEY DISMANTELED CAN I GET ITS INFORMATION OF THE CLAIM THE SMOG MART 7070STOCKTON SACRAMENTO CA 95820 IS MAKING SO I CAN SETTLE WITH THE SHERIFFS IN THERE DISTRUCTION OF MY PROEPRTY WITHOUT INVOICE SIGNATURE TO REMOVE ANY PARTYS ON MY CAR EXCEPT ORDERED TO RUN DIAGNOSITCIS.
NHTSA complaint #10789032 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 168,000 milesLOS Angeles, CA
ENGINE
I TOOK MY CAR TO GET DIAGNOSTIC FOR SMOG. THE SHOP I TOOK IT TO SMOG SMART EXPLAIN THEY HAVE DISMATELED MY CAR CLAIMING ENGINE, COOLANT, AND TIMING BELT. THEY HAVE REMOVED PARTS AND CLAIM THEY CONTACTED CHRYSLER AND ITS COMPANY STATES ITS REPAIRS IS NOT WORTH THE VEHICLE. THE ENGINE CLAIM, THE COOLANT CLAIM AND TIMING BELT THEY HAVE MADE AGAINST THE MANUFACTURE. THE ENGINE CHECKED FINE BEFORE DROPPING THE CAR OFF. THE CAR WOULD STOP DUE TO HEATING THE FUEL RUNNING SINCE THE CAR HAD BEEN A NON OP FOR 3 YEARS ANDREASON FOR SMOG. THE CAR WAS DELIBERATLEY DISMANTELED CAN I GET ITS INFORMATION OF THE CLAIM THE SMOG MART 7070STOCKTON SACRAMENTO CA 95820 IS MAKING SO I CAN SETTLE WITH THE SHERIFFS IN THERE DISTRUCTION OF MY PROEPRTY WITHOUT INVOICE SIGNATURE TO REMOVE ANY PARTYS ON MY CAR EXCEPT ORDERED TO RUN DIAGNOSITCIS.
NHTSA complaint #10789032 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 168,000 milesLOS Angeles, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I TOOK MY CAR TO GET DIAGNOSTIC FOR SMOG. THE SHOP I TOOK IT TO SMOG SMART EXPLAIN THEY HAVE DISMATELED MY CAR CLAIMING ENGINE, COOLANT, AND TIMING BELT. THEY HAVE REMOVED PARTS AND CLAIM THEY CONTACTED CHRYSLER AND ITS COMPANY STATES ITS REPAIRS IS NOT WORTH THE VEHICLE. THE ENGINE CLAIM, THE COOLANT CLAIM AND TIMING BELT THEY HAVE MADE AGAINST THE MANUFACTURE. THE ENGINE CHECKED FINE BEFORE DROPPING THE CAR OFF. THE CAR WOULD STOP DUE TO HEATING THE FUEL RUNNING SINCE THE CAR HAD BEEN A NON OP FOR 3 YEARS ANDREASON FOR SMOG. THE CAR WAS DELIBERATLEY DISMANTELED CAN I GET ITS INFORMATION OF THE CLAIM THE SMOG MART 7070STOCKTON SACRAMENTO CA 95820 IS MAKING SO I CAN SETTLE WITH THE SHERIFFS IN THERE DISTRUCTION OF MY PROEPRTY WITHOUT INVOICE SIGNATURE TO REMOVE ANY PARTYS ON MY CAR EXCEPT ORDERED TO RUN DIAGNOSITCIS.
NHTSA complaint #10789032 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesST. Petersburg, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 75 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE OR REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.
NHTSA complaint #10679492 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dover, DECrash
SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT CRASHED THE VEHICLE INTO A DITCH. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC REPAIRED THE BRAKE CHAMBER, BOTH REAR BRAKE LINES, AND THE ADJUSTER; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10631677 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 175,000 milesRockford, IL
POWER TRAIN
TRANS CABLE BROKE CAUSED THE CAR NOT TO SHIFT OUT OF GEAR AT ALL.
NHTSA complaint #10503506 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 200,000 milesAlameda, CA
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WITHOUT DRIVER INTENT. SHE FINALLY GOT IT STOPPED BY PUTTING IT IN PARK, USING THE BRAKES HAD NO EFFECT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY STATED THERE WAS NO RECALL ON HER VEHICLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 200,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10357047 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Amherst, OH
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING WHEEL CAME OFF WHILE DRIVING ON THE OHIO TURNPIKE. WHILE THE DRIVER PULLED OFF TO THE RIGHT BERM, THE WHEEL CROSSED THE MEDIAN AND STRUCK ANOTHER VEHICLE. *KB ACCORDING TO THE POLICE REPORT, THE LUG NUTS SHEARED OFF. OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0734-90.
NHTSA complaint #10284362 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesSpringfield, ILCrashFire1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING CONVERTIBLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS STRUCK BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND THE CONTACT WAS TRAPPED IN HER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS RELEASED DEBRIS THAT BEGAN BURNING HER FACE. THERE WAS ALSO A LARGE CLOUD OF SMOKE AS IF CHEMICALS WERE BEING RELEASED FROM THE AIR BAGS. SHE WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL AND A PHYSICIAN STATED THAT SHE RECEIVED SECOND DEGREE BURNS. THE CONTACT HAS A COPY OF THE POLICE REPORT AND PICTURES OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER CONCLUDED THAT THAT AIR BAGS WERE NOT MANUFACTURED WITH ANY HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 140,000.
NHTSA complaint #10255983 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 167,000 milesBakersfield, CA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT CONTROL PANEL. THE VEHICLE THEN IMMEDIATELY STALLED. SEVERAL MINUTES LATER, THE VEHICLE RESTARTED. THE DEALER REPLACED THE CAM SHAFT SENSOR AND THE BATTERY. THE VEHICLE FAILED AN EMISSIONS TEST DUE TO SMOG. THE DEALER REPROGRAMMED THE PCM. ON FEBRUARY 21, 2008, THE VEHICLE HAD A SECOND EMISSIONS TEST AND FAILED AGAIN DUE TO SMOG. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 167,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 204,083.
NHTSA complaint #10218810 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 118,000 milesSimpsonville, SC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
MY 1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING CONVERTIBLE ALMOST CAUGHT FIRE FROM THE DASH STEREO SPEAKERS MID 10/05 .. SCREECHING NOISES CAME FROM MY SPEAKERS AND THEN SMOKE BEGAN TO COME OUT OF THEM. I TURNED OFF THE STEREO AND SOON AFTER WENT TO MY MECHANIC. WHEN THEY TURNED MY STEREO ON SMOKE CAME OUT OF THE DASH SPEAKERS AGAIN. I ASKED THEM TO PULL THE FUSE SO THAT IT WOULDN'T HAPPEN AGAIN. ON 2/16/06 I CALLED CHRYSLER. I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM THEM DATED 2/21/06 STATING THAT THEY WOULD NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT BECAUSE THE TIME OR MILEAGE WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED. ON RECALL SIGHTS I HAVE FOUND WHERE THERE WERE RECALLS FOR THE SAME PROBLEM IN SLIGHTLY NEWER MODELS. THIS COULD HAVE ENDED IN INJURY OR EVEN DEATH TO MYSELF AND MY TWO NIECES THAT I WAS DRIVING TO SCHOOL THAT MORNING. I AM HOPING THAT YOU CAN HELP ME HAVE THE PROBLEM CORRECTED BY CHRYSLER. THERE ARE ALSO OTHER ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS AND I'VE ALSO HAD A FEW PROBLEMS WITH THE STEERING AND TIMING BELT. I AWAIT YOUR REPLY.
NHTSA complaint #10186678 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesNEW Berlin, WI
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
LOWER LATERAL ARM BROKE ON OUR 1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING. DEALER AND CHRYSLER HAVE REFUSED TO FIX THE CAR UNDER RECALL. THIS IS THE 3RD MAJOR FAILURE AND INCONVENIENCE OF THIS PART. THE LAST FAILURE WAS 8 MOTHS AGO. THERE IS CLEARLY A SAFETY ISSUE HERE AS WELL AS A MECHANICAL DEFECT.
NHTSA complaint #10179050 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 90,000 milesNEW Berlin, WI
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
LOWER LATERAL ARM BROKE ON OUR 1996 CHRYSLER SEBRING. DEALER AND CHRYSLER HAVE REFUSED TO FIX THE CAR UNDER RECALL. THIS IS THE 3RD MAJOR FAILURE AND INCONVENIENCE OF THIS PART. THE LAST FAILURE WAS 8 MOTHS AGO. THERE IS CLEARLY A SAFETY ISSUE HERE AS WELL AS A MECHANICAL DEFECT.
NHTSA complaint #10179050 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 18,396 milesFarmington Hills, MI
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
MY AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT PERIODICALLY COMES ON FOR APPROX 30 SECONDS AND THEN GOES OFF. ON 10/12/06 I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND IT CAME ON AND OFF AND THEN REMAINED ON. I IMMEDIATELY TELEPHONED THE NEAREST DEALERSHIP (LIVONIA CHRYSLER JEEP, MICHIGAN) AND TOOK THE VEHICLE IN. THE LIGHT WAS ON AND THE TECHNICIAN HOOKED UP A HAND HELD DIAGNOSTIC MACHINE AND A "PASSENGER SQUIB OPEN" CODE CAME UP. I WAS ASKED TO LEAVE THE VEHICLE. I SUBSEQUENTLY RECEIVED A TELEPHONE CALL STATING THAT THE AIRBAG LIGHT WENT OFF AND THERE WERE FOUR STORED INACTIVE CODES. HOWEVER, SINCE THERE WERE NO ACTIVE CODES, THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE DIAGNOSED. I INQUIRED IF THE VEHICLE WAS SAFE TO DRIVE AND WOULD MY AIRBAGS WORK IF IN AN ACCIDENT OR COULD THE AIRBAG DEPLOY FOR NO REASON. THE REPRESENTATIVE COULD NOT ADVISE ME. I STRESSED MY CONCERN BUT WAS TOLD TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE UNTIL THE LIGHT CAME ON AGAIN AND TO BRING IT BACK IN. WELL, THAT IS WHAT I DID THIS LAST TIME. I MUST ADMIT THAT THE REPRESENTATIVE WAS VERY NICE AND TRIED TO HELP, BUT HONESTLY DID NOT HAVE THE ANSWERS. ON 10/16/06 I PICKED UP THE VEHICLE. NO LIGHT WAS ON. ON 10/17/06 I TELEPHONE CHRYSLER CUSTOMER SERVICE AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO GO BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP. I AM VERY CONCERNED WITH MY SAFETY, AS WELL AS MY FAMILY'S, AND AM GETTING THE RUN AROUND WITH NO ANSWERS. I RELY ON THE EXPERTS AT DEALERSHIP AND DO NOT UNDERSTAND HOW THEY CAN ACKNOWLEDGE THERE ARE TROUBLE CODES AND NOT BE ABLE TO ADVISE IF THE VEHICLE IS SAFE. PLEASE HELP! I SHOULD ALSO NOTE THAT EVENTHOUGH THE VEHICLE IS A 1996, THERE ARE ONLY 18,396 ORIGINAL MILES ON IT.
NHTSA complaint #10171045 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 107,000 milesMarshfield, WI
SUSPENSION
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE FLIPPED SIDEWAYS, THE FRONT DRIVE SHAFT SHEERED OFF THE OIL FILTER AND KNOCKED IT FROM THE MANIFOLD. THIS OCCURRED ON AN ICY ROAD DURING NORMAL BRAKING WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED TO THE CONTACTS HOME. THE DEALERSHIP AND MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED HOWEVER, NO REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE.
NHTSA complaint #10149901 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 107,000 milesMarshfield, WI
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE FLIPPED SIDEWAYS, THE FRONT DRIVE SHAFT SHEERED OFF THE OIL FILTER AND KNOCKED IT FROM THE MANIFOLD. THIS OCCURRED ON AN ICY ROAD DURING NORMAL BRAKING WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED TO THE CONTACTS HOME. THE DEALERSHIP AND MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED HOWEVER, NO REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE.
NHTSA complaint #10149901 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesWest Alice, WI
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:UPPER BALL JOINT
DT: JUNE 30 2005 THE LEFT FRONT BALL JOINT BROKE WHILE DRIVING. THE CONSUMER WAS DRIVING 35 MPH. THERE WAS A NOISE, SPARKS WERE FLYING, AND THE CONSUMER LOST STEERING CONTROL AND BOUNCED OFF A CURVE. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS RECENTLY INSPECTED IN MAY AND NO PROBLEMS WERE REPORTED. THERE WAS A RECALL, BUT THE CONSUMER WAS NOT AWARE OF IT. THE CONSUMER NOTICED THERE WAS A CORROSION PROBLEM WITH THE BALL JOINT. THE CONSUMER DIDN'T HAVE THE RECALL NUMBER. THE VEHICLE IS NOW HAVING REPAIR WORK DONE. CHRYSLER IS WILLING TO PAY THE REPAIRS. THE BEARINGS HAD TO BE REPLACED, THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL BEARING WAS REPLACED TWICE.
NHTSA complaint #10128557 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Middlefield, CTCrash1 injured
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
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 START SWITCH BEING FAULTY. THE CONSUMER WANTS DAIMLER CHRYSLER TO COMPENSATE HER FOR ANOTHER VEHICLE. *BF
NHTSA complaint #10119012 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.