1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi
3C3EL55H6TT295710
Vehicle history report for the 1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi (VIN 3C3EL55H6TT295710). Red, convertible/cabriolet, 2.5L 6-cyl, gasoline. 1 mi reported. Registered in Ca. 12 NHTSA recall campaigns for this model year. Unlock full title, salvage, lien & accident history.
Should you buy it? Worth a look — but negotiate
Weighed from safety recalls, known problems and market price.
- 12 recall campaigns exist for this model year. Check this VIN on NHTSA.gov to confirm the repairs were done.
- Owners most often report suspension trouble on this model — inspect it closely.
- Lower mileage than typical for the year.
Full vehicle history report
Everything below is in the paid report for VIN 3C3EL55H6TT295710, compiled live from NMVTIS and licensed providers the moment you unlock it. Not every vehicle has every record type — the report shows what is on file, and says so when nothing is. The 12 recall campaigns for this model year are shown further down.
📜 Title & ownership
- Title statusClean, salvage, rebuilt, junk, flood or lemon — from the national title database (NMVTIS)🔒
- Title brand historyEvery brand ever applied, by state, with what each one means🔒
- Title & registration recordsHow many times it has been titled, where, and the years-per-owner pace🔒
- Decode consistency checkThe provider's decode cross-checked against ours — a mismatch is a cloned-VIN warning sign🔒
🛞 Odometer
- Odometer timelineEvery reported reading with its date and state, drawn as a timeline🔒
- Rollback checkFlags any reading that goes backwards🔒
- Miles per yearThis car's pace against the US average🔒
💥 Damage, loss & theft
- Total-loss recordsInsurance total-loss declarations, with the reporting insurer type and date🔒
- Salvage & junk-yard recordsSalvage, junk and auction dispositions, including export flags🔒
- Theft screenActive and recovered theft records🔒
- Accident indicatorsDamage events reflected in title data (NMVTIS does not carry police crash reports)🔒
- Flood-exposure checkTitle activity in a disaster area soon after a major flood or hurricane🔒
💰 Liens & value
- Liens, impounds & exportOpen liens with the lender, tow/impound and export records🔒
- Market value for this exact carRetail adjusted for its mileage and state, trade-in, loan value, auction low/avg/high and retail by condition🔒
- DepreciationDrop from original MSRP, yearly rate and a one-year projection🔒
- Sticker vs dealer invoiceWhat it cost new, and what the dealer paid🔒
🧰 Factory warranty & equipment
- Remaining warrantyBasic, powertrain and rust coverage left, estimated from the first title date and odometer🔒
- Standard equipment & coloursWhat this trim came with from the factory, and the colours it was offered in🔒
🚨 Recalls on this VIN
- Per-VIN recall statusWhether each campaign has been repaired on THIS car, remedy availability, do-not-drive and stop-sale flags, dealer labour time🔒
At a glance
Vehicle identity & specifications
🧾 Window sticker / build sheet → All 1996 Chrysler Sebring data →
📋 All factory specifications on file6 more fields from the manufacturer's VIN record (NHTSA vPIC)
⚙️ Engine, fuel & battery
📐 Body, chassis & dimensions
🛡️ Safety & driver assistance
🏭 Manufacturing & other
Values are as reported by the manufacturer for this VIN pattern; blank or "not applicable" fields are omitted.
MPG & running costs
U.S. EPA fuel-economy estimates for the 1996 Chrysler Sebring with this engine.
Source: U.S. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov. Actual mileage varies with trim and driving conditions.
Crash-test safety ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings for the 1996 Chrysler Sebring.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program, tested as the 1996 Chrysler Sebring 2-DR.. Ratings can differ by body style and drivetrain.
Estimated 5-year cost to own
A rough guide to what running a 1996 Chrysler Sebring costs over five years and 75,000 miles.
How this is estimated: fuel is the U.S. EPA annual cost at 15,000 miles a year. There aren't enough comparable listings to estimate depreciation for this model, so it is left out. Not included: insurance, maintenance, repairs, taxes, registration and finance costs. Treat it as a comparison guide, not a quote.
Dimensions & weight
Manufacturer-reported figures for the 1996 Chrysler Sebring — ranges cover the 2 body / drivetrain versions on record. Source: Transport Canada vehicle specifications via NHTSA.
Investigations & service bulletins
NHTSA defect investigations 6
AUTO TRANS IGNITION-PARK INTERLOCK Closed
THE MANUFACTURER REPORTS ABOVE ARE BASED ON DAIMLERCHRYSLER¿S (DC) ANALYSIS OF MODEL YEAR (MY) 1998 (POPULATION = 356,384) AND 1999 (POPULATION = 486,948) JA, JX AND LH FAMILY SUBJECT VEHICLE DATA (EARLIER MYS EXCLUDED). THE POPULATION NUMBER INCLUDES ALL MYS. THE PRECISE NUMBER OF DUPLICATES BETWEEN ODI AND DC REPORTS CANNOT BE DETERMINED DUE TO MISSING OR INCOMPLETE INFORMATION. THE FATALITY INCIDENT INVOLVED AN EL…
NHTSA #EA03011 · Power Train · opened Jul 2003 · closed Jan 2004SAFETY BELT CINCHING LATCH PLATE Closed
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 E…
NHTSA #PE02082 · Seat Belts · opened Nov 2002 · closed Apr 2003LOWER CONTRTOL ARM BALL JOINT Closed
NHTSA #RQ00015 · Suspension · opened Aug 2000 · closed Apr 2001AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE IGNITION INTERLOCK Closed
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 THE IGNITION KEY FROM BEING REMOVED WHEN THE TRANSMISSION GEAR SELECTOR IS IN THE "PARK," OR ANY OTHER, POSITION.
NHTSA #EA98014 · Power Train · opened May 1998 · closed Sep 1998CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER DISENGAGEMENT Closed
ALLEGED THAT THE CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER MAY DISENGAGE FROM THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WHILE DRIVING.
NHTSA #EA97025 · Structure · opened Nov 1997 · closed Nov 1998CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER DISENGAGEMENT Closed
ODI HAS RECEIVED THREE REPORTS ALLEGING DISENGAGEMENT OF THE CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER FROM THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WHILE DRIVING.
NHTSA #PE97029 · Structure · opened Jun 1997 · closed Nov 1997An investigation means NHTSA is examining a possible defect — it is not a recall, and many close without one.
Manufacturer service bulletins 132
Technical notes the manufacturer sent to dealers about known issues and fixes. Useful to mention to a mechanic — they are not recalls and repairs may not be covered. Showing the 10 most recent of 132.
Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
Bulletin 08-049-20 · Electrical System, Equipment · Apr 2020Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
Bulletin 31-003-19 · Equipment · Nov 2019Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
Bulletin 3100519 · Structure · Nov 2019Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
Bulletin 3100619 · Structure, Equipment · Nov 2019Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
Bulletin 3100319 · Structure · Nov 2019Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
Bulletin 31-006-19 · Structure · Nov 2019Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary. When testing b…
Bulletin 0807317 · Equipment · Aug 2017Return: Wiring Assy - Engine You have been identified as either having stock, or have stock in transit to your dealership. Please return stock packaged before 2016/07/31 (31 July, 2016)of follow ing part numbers:68176457AF, 68176459AF. Please return suspect pa…
Bulletin 23027 · Electrical System · Aug 2016Inspect and Return: Trim Cover Assy - A-Pillar Rt/Lt You have been identified as either having stock, or have stock in transit to your dealership. Please return suspect stock of part numbers: 1ZA04DX9AE, 1ZA05DX9AE. See attachments for identifying suspect stoc…
Bulletin 23137 · Equipment · Aug 201605182535AD - Lamp Assy ?Tail Light LT You have been identified as either having stock, or have stock in transit to your dealership. Please return suspect stock of part number 05182535AD . See attachments for identifying suspect stock. Please return suspect par…
Bulletin 23104 · Equipment, Exterior Lighting · Aug 2016Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, listed for the SEBRING. Model-year data, not specific to one car.
Canadian recalls 7
Transport Canada recall campaigns for the 1996 Chrysler Sebring. Relevant if the car was first sold in, or imported from, 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 cr…
Transport Canada #2001062 · Mar 2001Steering
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 f…
Transport Canada #1999144 · Jul 1999Other
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 INTER…
Transport Canada #1998165 · Aug 1998Emissions
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.
Transport Canada #1998010 · Jan 1998Suspension
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 ar…
Transport Canada #1997205 · Nov 1997Electrical
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.
Transport Canada #1997037 · Feb 1997Source: Transport Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls Database.
About the Chrysler Sebring
The Chrysler Sebring is a mid-size automobile manufactured and marketed by Chrysler from 1995 to 2010 in convertible, sedan, and coupe body styles. Both coupe generations were a Chrysler design with engineering input from Mitsubishi and were built at Mitsubishi’s Normal, Illinois facility. The range was introduced in 1995, with the Coupe replacing the Chrysler LeBaron coupe. In 1996 Chrysler introduced the convertible, replacing its LeBaron counterpart.
From Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Describes the model line in general, not this model year specifically.
Safety recall campaigns 12
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.
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.
NHTSA Campaign #09E012000 · 07/04/2009FUEL 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 MODUL…
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.
NHTSA Campaign #07E055000 · manufacturer #FP072007-1 · 26/07/2007FUEL 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 TH…
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.
NHTSA Campaign #06E091000 · 02/11/2006FUEL 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 FU…
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.
NHTSA Campaign #06E088000 · 23/10/2006VEHICLE 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.
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.
NHTSA Campaign #02V186000 · manufacturer #B22 · 08/07/2002SUSPENSION: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.
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
NHTSA Campaign #00V421002 · manufacturer #967 · 18/12/2000STRUCTURE: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.
Remedy: OWNERS WILL RECEIVE AN IMPROVED CONVERTIBLE TOP COVER INSTRUCTION LABEL AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS.
NHTSA Campaign #99I004000 · 06/05/1999SUSPENSION: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.
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.
NHTSA Campaign #99V066003 · manufacturer #827 · 05/04/1999POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
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…
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.
NHTSA Campaign #98V183000 · 06/08/1998SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE LOWER CONTROL ARM BALL JOINT CAN SEPARATE DUE TO LOSS OF LUBRICATION.
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.
NHTSA Campaign #97V201000 · 13/11/1997VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
THE ELECTRICAL CONTACTS IN THE POWER MIRROR SWITCH CAN ACCUMULATE ROAD SALT DUE TO WATER ENTERING INTO THE SWITCH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE POWER MIRROR SWITCH WITH A NEWLY DESIGNED SWITCH.
NHTSA Campaign #97V015000 · 10/02/1997SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST
THE POWER BRAKE BOOSTER VACUUM HOSE WAS IMPROPERLY INSTALLED ON THE INTAKE MANIFOLD VACUUM NIPPLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL FULLY INSTALL THE INTAKE MANIFOLD VACUUM HOSE TO THE VACUUM NIPPLE ON THE INTAKE MANIFOLD.
NHTSA Campaign #96V123000 · 02/07/1996These are NHTSA recall campaigns for this model year, last checked 7 Oct 2026. They don't show whether this particular car has had the repair done — check this VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer. Recall repairs are done at no charge.
We'll email you the moment a new safety recall is issued — no spam, unsubscribe any time.
Common problems & what to inspect
Based on all 483 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 1996 Chrysler Sebring, here are the most-reported problem areas — and what to check before you buy.
💥 51 involved a crash 🔥 14 involved a fire 🚑 37 reported injuries
🔍 Listen for clunks over bumps, check the car sits level, and look for uneven tire wear and worn shocks or struts.
🔍 Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.
🔍 Drive through every gear: watch for slipping, hard or delayed shifts, and shudder. Check for transmission/driveline leaks and noises.
🔍 Have a trusted mechanic inspect this system as part of a pre-purchase inspection.
🔍 Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
🔍 Inspect for rust, fresh undercoating, mismatched paint, uneven panel gaps and any sign of prior collision or frame repair.
Pre-purchase checklist
- Match the VIN on the dash, door jamb and title — they must be identical.
- Cold-start the engine; listen for knocks and check for blue or white exhaust smoke.
- Test-drive through all gears at low and highway speed — no slipping, shudder or pulling.
- Confirm every warning light clears at startup (none should stay on).
- Check fluids — oil, coolant, transmission — for level, color and leaks.
- Look underneath for rust, fresh undercoating or signs of collision repair.
- Always get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic.
Owner complaints 483
Complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of the 1996 Chrysler Sebring.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,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 hav…
NHTSA ODI #11491258ELECTRICAL 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.
Fire · NHTSA ODI #11470156ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
AIR BAG COMES ON AND THE ALL DIALS ON THE DASHBOARD GO BLANK.
NHTSA ODI #11271320AIR 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 ODI #11265367SUSPENSION,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
THE SHIFTER IS NOT WORKING
NHTSA ODI #11153406UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,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 …
NHTSA ODI #10789032ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I JUST SPENT 12.95 ON GETTING A CAR HISTORY REPORT BECAUSE MY TITLE SAYS THE CAR IS A RECONSTRUCTED,TOTALED TITLE,BUT RECEIVING YOUR REPORT IT SAYS THEY CAN'T EVEN FIND TITLE AND LOW AND BEHOLD IT ISN'T A RECONSTRUCTED CAR????I'M CONFUSED ...WHAT THE HELL DID I PAY FOR..THE FAMILY DOESN'T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THIS,IT'S THERE DECEASED MOM'S CAR..I'M WRITING Y…
NHTSA ODI #10682043ELECTRICAL 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. T…
NHTSA ODI #10679492+ 475 more complaints on record.
