Vehicle Segment:
Compact/Mid-size Car (Coupe/Convertible)
Key Competitors 2002:
• Ford Focus
• Honda Civic
• Toyota Corolla
• Nissan Sentra
• Chevrolet Cavalier
Platform Shared With:
Shares platform elements with Dodge Stratus and Plymouth Breeze of the same generation.
Body Style Appeal:
Offered stylish coupe and convertible options, appealing to a younger demographic and those seeking open-air driving.
Value Proposition:
Positioned as an affordable yet stylish option in the compact segment, often with good feature content for the price.
Engine Service:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, and specifications for all engine variants.
Powertrain Service:
Comprehensive coverage of transmission (automatic), drive axle, and clutch (if applicable) systems.
Suspension Steering:
Diagnosis and repair of front and rear suspension components, steering gear, and power steering system.
Brake System:
Detailed information on hydraulic and parking brake systems, including ABS and related components.
Body Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, and repair procedures for interior and exterior lighting, power accessories.
Climate Control:
Service and diagnosis for air conditioning, heating, and ventilation systems.
Restraint Systems:
Information on airbags, seat belts, and associated sensors and modules.
Chassis Systems:
Coverage of frame, body structure, and related components.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed instructions for routine maintenance tasks and service intervals.
Engine Repair:
Internal engine component repair, timing belt/chain service, head gasket replacement, and more.
Transmission Service:
Fluid changes, filter replacement, and internal transmission repairs.
Brake Repair:
Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, bleeding procedures, and ABS component replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics Repair:
Component testing, wiring harness repair, module troubleshooting, and sensor replacement.
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, and related trim component service.
Exhaust System Repair:
Catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe replacement.
Fuel System Service:
Fuel pump, filter, and injector service.
Cooling System Service:
Radiator, water pump, and thermostat replacement, flushing procedures.
Technical Depth Level:
Comprehensive Factory Level
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics, including wiring diagrams and pinout data for electronic modules.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds and major component overhauls.
Specification Data:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical data.
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (41TE/42LE variants likely)
Optional Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (available on some 2.0L and 2.4L models)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, with overdrive.
Manual Transmission Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios available in the manual.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 9602) is standard for the automatic.
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
4 stars (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:
4 stars (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front seat pretensioners and load limiters.
Rollover Protection:
For convertible models, often includes reinforced windshield frame and optional pop-up hoops.
Audio System Options:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium Infinity sound system.
Navigation System:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, front and rear fog lamps available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Approximately every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
For the 2.4L and 2.7L V6, likely around 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles for automatic transmissions, or as per severe service schedule.
Coolant Flush:
Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check owner's manual for exact viscosity and API service category).
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent OAT coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Issue 1:
Transmission problems (especially in automatic transmissions, like solenoid issues or torque converter shudder).
Common Issue 2:
Oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan.
Common Issue 3:
Suspension wear (ball joints, control arm bushings).
Common Issue 4:
Power window regulator failures.
Common Issue 5:
Convertible top mechanism issues (leaks, motor failure).
Chrysler Legacy:
Chrysler has a long history of producing stylish and well-equipped vehicles, often targeting a more premium or design-conscious buyer.
Sebrings Lineage:
The Sebring nameplate has been used on various Chrysler models, evolving from coupes and convertibles to sedans and minivans over its history. The JR platform represents a specific iteration focusing on coupe and convertible body styles.
Production Years Jr Platform:
2001-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Jdpowers Initial Quality:
While specific awards for the 2002 model are not widely publicized, the Sebring family generally received mixed to average ratings in initial quality studies during this era.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Past models of the Sebring have often received average to below-average reliability ratings, particularly concerning the powertrain and electrical systems. The manual would detail how to address common issues.
Safety Certifications:
Meets all federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) applicable for the 2002 model year.
