Segment:
Mid-size convertible, often positioned as an affordable, stylish option.
Competitors:
Ford Mustang Convertible, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible (earlier models), Ford Thunderbird (older generation), Volkswagen Eos, potentially some European convertibles.
Convertible Operation:
Power-operated soft top or optional power-retractable hardtop, depending on specific trim/options.
Design Philosophy:
Focus on expressive styling and open-air driving experience.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, maintenance, fluid specifications, basic troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Operation, fluid checks, basic maintenance.
Braking System:
Operation, fluid checks, warning lights.
Steering System:
Operation, power steering fluid check.
Suspension:
General information, tire pressure.
Electrical System:
Fuse identification and replacement, battery maintenance, lighting operation.
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, maintenance tips.
Infotainment:
Radio, CD player, speaker system operation.
Instrument Cluster:
Gauge and warning light identification and meaning.
Driver Controls:
Steering wheel controls, pedal operation, gear selection.
Locks And Security:
Door locks, keyless entry, alarm system operation.
Seating And Safety Restraints:
Seat adjustment, seatbelt usage, airbag system information.
Convertible Top System:
Operation, care, troubleshooting (likely basic).
Cleaning:
Exterior and interior care recommendations.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance items, fluid checks, filter replacements.
Fluid Checks:
Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid.
Tire Maintenance:
Inflation pressure, rotation (mention).
Basic Troubleshooting:
Indicator lights, minor operational issues.
Fueling:
Correct fuel type, cap operation.
Keyless Entry/Remote Operation:
Programming, function descriptions.
Reporting Safety Defects:
Information specific to US owners.
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance and operation. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repairs or diagnostics typically found in a service manual.
Engine Code:
ECA (for 2.7L V6), High Output version likely GEMA (for 2.4L I4) or similar for higher trims.
Displacement:
2.7L (V6) or 2.4L (I4) - specific to engine option
Configuration:
V6 or Inline-4 (I4)
Horsepower:
Approx. 189 hp (2.7L V6) or 173 hp (2.4L I4) - subject to specific engine variant.
Torque:
Approx. 191 lb-ft (2.7L V6) or 169 lb-ft (2.4L I4) - subject to specific engine variant.
Type:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Length:
Approx. 191.5 inches
Width:
Approx. 72.5 inches
Height:
Approx. 55.3 inches (top up)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 109.0 inches
Front Track:
Approx. 61.5 inches
Rear Track:
Approx. 61.7 inches
Trunk Volume Convertible Top Down:
Approx. 7.6 cubic feet
Trunk Volume Convertible Top Up:
Approx. 12.6 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,650 - 3,850 lbs (depending on engine and options)
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Likely 4 Stars (for similar Chrysler models of the era)
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Likely 4 Stars (for similar Chrysler models of the era)
IIHS Front Offset Crash:
Acceptable or Good (for similar Chrysler models of the era)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) - marketed as Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced windshield frame and potentially pop-up rollover bars (check specific trim).
Audio System:
AM/FM/CD player, SiriusXM Satellite Radio ready (subscription required), optional Boston Acoustics premium audio system.
Display:
Basic LCD display for radio and climate controls. No touch screen.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking assist system.
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack.
Bluetooth:
Optional Uconnect Bluetooth hands-free communication system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on oil type and driving conditions. Check manual for specific recommendation.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 6,000-8,000 miles or as part of oil changes.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Typically every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter, or as specified by coolant type.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 (for 2.7L V6 and 2.4L I4). Check manual for confirmation and API service rating (e.g., API SN/SP).
Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Engine Coolant (OAT 10-year/150,000 mile).
Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon spec fluid.
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Dedicated washer fluid (not just water).
Common Wear Items:
CV joints, suspension components (ball joints, control arms), wheel bearings, power convertible top mechanisms (motors, linkages, seals).
Engine Specific:
Potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan on higher mileage V6 engines. Some reports of water pump issues on early models.
Transmission Specific:
The 6-speed automatic can sometimes exhibit delayed shifting or rough engagement if fluid is neglected or internal wear occurs.
Electrical Issues:
Intermittent electrical gremlins, particularly related to window regulators, power locks, and convertible top controls can occur with age and water intrusion.
Convertible Top Issues:
Leaky seals, slow operation, or failure of the hydraulic pump or motors are not uncommon on convertibles of this age.
Heritage Context:
Chrysler has a long history of producing coupes and convertibles, dating back to the 1950s and 60s with models like the Chrysler 300 Letter Series and New Yorker.
Generation:
Fourth Generation Sebring (2007-2010). This generation was a significant redesign based on the Chrysler/Dodge JS platform.
Platform:
Chrysler/Dodge JS platform, shared with Dodge Avenger.
Production Years:
2007-2010 for this generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Notable Awards:
While not heavily award-laden, the Sebring was often cited in reviews for its comfortable ride and attractive styling within its price bracket.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for this generation of Sebring were generally average to below average, often due to electronic and powertrain issues.
Certification Type:
N/A (Owner's manual is informational, not a certification itself)