Market Position:
The Chrysler Sebring (2001) was positioned as a mid-size car, available as a coupe or convertible, targeting a broad consumer base seeking comfortable and stylish transportation with a focus on value and optional luxury features.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Toyota Camry Solara, Honda Accord Coupe/Sedan, and Nissan Altima.
Key Features:
Distinctive styling (especially the convertible), available V6 engines, comfortable ride, and a range of available trim levels and options catering to comfort and style.
Value Proposition:
This manual empowers owners and independent technicians to perform a wide range of maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, saving on dealership costs and ensuring quality workmanship.
Engine Mechanics:
Detailed coverage of all engine types for 2001 Sebring, including removal, disassembly, inspection, assembly, and installation.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, fuel pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control system.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan operation and diagnosis, coolant types and capacities.
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, ignition control module, timing specifications.
Transmission Automatic:
Detailed repair procedures for the 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE/42LE variants), including torque converter, valve body, clutch packs, and seals.
Transmission Manual:
Repair procedures for the manual transmission (if applicable to this model year/variant), including clutch service, gear replacement, and bearing adjustments.
Drivetrain Components:
Front wheel drive axles, CV joints, differential service, wheel bearings.
Suspension Front:
MacPherson strut system, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment specifications.
Suspension Rear:
Independent rear suspension (if applicable) or multi-link design, shock absorbers, springs, alignment.
Steering System:
Power steering pump, steering rack/gearbox, tie rods, steering column, hydraulic fluid specifications.
Brake System Front:
Disc brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Brake System Rear:
Disc or drum brake components, parking brake system.
Anti Lock Brakes:
ABS control module, wheel speed sensors, hydraulic unit, diagnostic procedures.
Electrical System Overview:
Wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations, power distribution.
Battery Charging:
Alternator, battery specifications, testing and replacement.
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, bulb specifications.
Instrument Panel:
Gauge cluster, warning lights, information displays.
Comfort Controls:
HVAC system operation, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor, refrigerant types and service.
Body Exterior:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass replacement.
Body Interior:
Seat removal, dashboard trim, headliner, door panels, carpet replacement.
Safety Systems Airbags:
Airbag module operation, SRS system diagnostics, airbag sensor replacement, safety precautions.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, oxygen sensors, emissions control components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common fault diagnosis.
Component Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for repairing or replacing major and minor components across all systems.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using OBD-II scanners, specific Chrysler diagnostic tools (e.g., DRBIII if applicable), and sensor readings.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures (e.g., suspension components, engine timing).
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and bodywork repair.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (Second Generation models generally performed well in this area, though specific 2001 ratings can vary by body style.)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (Second Generation models generally performed well in this area.)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable to Good (Varies by test year, but generally improved in this generation).
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (Optional/V6 models)
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, Side airbags (Optional/on some trims), pretensioner seatbelts, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil).
Service Intervals Filters
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles, or as needed.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (using HOAT coolant).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN/SP, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6; SAE 5W-30 (preferred for most conditions), SAE 5W-20 or 10W-30 may be specified for certain climates/engines.
Coolant Type:
Chrysler OAT (Organic Additive Technology) or HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) compliant, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
ATF+4 or specified Mopar power steering fluid.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L:
Approx. 5.0 quarts (with filter)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter)
Common Issues Engine:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan seals, potential head gasket issues on the 2.7L V6 (though less common on this generation than earlier ones), timing belt/chain maintenance (if applicable, consult manual).
Common Issues Transmission:
Slipping or delayed engagement in the automatic transmission, potential valve body issues. Regular fluid changes are critical.
Common Issues Suspension:
Worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and tie rod ends leading to noise and steering issues. Strut mounts can also wear out.
Common Issues Electrical:
Issues with power windows, door locks, and intermittent electrical gremlins. Window regulator failure is relatively common.
Common Issues HVAC:
A/C system leaks, blower motor resistor failure, blend door actuator issues.
