The 1996 Chrysler Sebring has 6 recalls, with two equally serious issues: a power mirror switch that can corrode internally and cause a vehicle fire, and a brake booster vacuum hose that can disconnect and strip away power brake assist without warning.
The mirror switch fire risk and the brake booster hose issue each appear in separate filings but describe the same underlying defects. On the brake side, a disconnected hose also causes engine idle speed to rise unexpectedly, leaving the driver with a harder pedal and less stopping power at the same time. On vehicles with the 2.5L V6 engine, the throttle control cable can fray and cause the throttle to stick or bind, which can make the vehicle accelerate unintentionally or prevent it from slowing down. There is also a convertible-specific structural concern: if the convertible top cover is not properly secured, it can tear away from the vehicle while driving and distract or startle the driver.
At a glance
What can fail
The throttle control cable can fray, causing the throttle to bind or stick.
What the fix does
The dealer will replace the throttle cable assembly at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
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At a glance
What can fail
The convertible top cover may separate unexpectedly from the vehicle while driving if it is not installed correctly.
What the fix does
An improved instruction label and installation instructions for the convertible top cover will be provided to owners.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Road salt can accumulate on electrical contacts inside the power mirror switch when water enters it. This may cause a high-resistance short circuit that could start a fire.
What the fix does
The power mirror switch will be replaced with a redesigned switch.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Road salt can accumulate on the electrical contacts inside the power mirror switch when water enters the switch, potentially causing it to malfunction.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the power mirror switch with a newly designed switch that prevents water intrusion.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The power brake booster vacuum hose may not be properly connected to the engine's intake manifold. If disconnected, the engine idles faster than normal and your brakes lose power-assist.
What the fix does
The vacuum hose will be fully seated onto the intake manifold nipple to restore the proper connection.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The vacuum hose connecting the brake booster to the engine's intake manifold was not fully seated on its connection point, which can reduce braking power.
What the fix does
The dealer will fully connect the vacuum hose to the intake manifold nipple to restore proper brake booster operation.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
