Summary
The Chrysler Sebring has 29 recalls spanning the 1995–2007 production run, with the most serious recent issue being a software defect in the anti-lock brake system on 2007 models that can cause the rear brakes to lock up during braking and result in a crash without warning.
Several other 2007 concerns are worth knowing. The hood latch striker on 2007 vehicles can break and let the hood fly open while driving. On 2007 models with a 2.4L engine, coolant from the overflow bottle can be drawn into the radiator fan motor connector, short the circuit, and start an engine compartment fire. The airbag system on 2007 vehicles has two related issues: front seat track position sensors can fail, causing the passenger airbag to inflate at full pressure regardless of how close a smaller occupant is seated, and the HVAC software on 2007 models with automatic temperature control can disable the windshield defrost and defog functions, reducing visibility in cold or wet conditions.
The 2005 model year has rear seat belt retractor bolts that may not have tightened properly, allowing the belt to give way in a hard collision. The 2004 convertible has a similar issue with the left rear seat belt retractor bolt, leaving that rear occupant poorly restrained in a crash. On 2001–2005 two-door coupe models, the passenger airbag can strike the sun visor if it is in the down position during deployment, potentially detaching it and sending it into the cabin. A separate issue on 2001–2002 coupes with beige interiors involves an earlier repair attempt that used an incorrect part, and that same visor separation risk applies to those vehicles as well. The 2001 model year has additional concerns: a crankshaft position sensor wiring harness can wear against a heat shield, ground out, and stall the engine; a fuel return hose can deteriorate and leak fuel; transmission cooler hoses can degrade and drip fluid onto hot exhaust components, raising a fire risk; and the passenger airbag door can detach during deployment and strike an occupant.
Going further back, the 1998 convertible has a steering column intermediate shaft pinch bolt that can snag the driver's side floor mat and interfere with steering. The 1997 model has a passenger headrest support bracket weld that can fail. The 1996 model carries several issues: water and road salt entering the power mirror switch can cause a high-resistance short and a fire; the brake booster vacuum hose can be improperly seated, raising idle speed and removing power brake assist; and the throttle cable on 2.5L V6 models can fray, causing the throttle to stick. The 1995 model has two suspension-related recalls where ball joints on the lower control arm and lower lateral link can lose lubrication, wear, or sustain boot damage and eventually separate, causing sudden loss of vehicle control.
