Market Position:
Mid-size sedan/coupe, competing with models like Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, and Chevrolet Malibu.
Competitive Analysis:
The 2004 Sebring offered a range of body styles (coupe, sedan, convertible) and engine options, aiming for a balance of comfort, style, and affordability. Its design was more focused on American tastes compared to some import competitors.
Key Features:
Available as a coupe, sedan, or convertible. Offered a choice of reliable powertrains. Comfortable ride quality, particularly for highway cruising. Often equipped with features like power seats, premium audio, and climate control depending on trim level.
Coverage Areas:
General Information, Routine Maintenance, Engine Removal and Installation, Fuel System, Lubrication and Cooling System, Engine Specifications, Transmission, Drive Chain & Sprockets, Steering System, Shocks, Body Work, Intake & Exhaust, Electrical System, Advanced Troubleshooting
Page Count:
Not Specified (Downloadable PDF)
Manual Type:
Repair Manual / Service Manual / Shop Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions control, engine diagnostics.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (41TE/42LE family), manual transmission (Getrag MM5), clutch, drive axles, differential.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front struts, rear multi-link), steering (power rack and pinion), brakes (front discs, rear drums/discs), wheels, tires.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, wipers, power accessories, audio system, body control modules, immobilizer system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body Systems:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system, airbags, safety restraint systems.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt replacement, battery maintenance.
Repair Procedures:
Engine repair (head gasket, timing belt/chain, piston replacement), transmission repair, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams for electrical issues, engine performance diagnostics, transmission shifting problems.
Technical Depth:
Covers a comprehensive range from routine maintenance and basic repairs to advanced diagnostics and complete engine/transmission rebuilds. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and step-by-step instructions.
Engine 1 Variant:
2.4L DOHC I4 (GEMA)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2378 cc
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
86.5 mm x 101.0 mm
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
9.5:1
Engine 1 Horsepower:
146 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
156 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 1 Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 1 Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 Octane)
Engine 1 Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug
Engine 1 Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric fan.
Engine 1 Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change. Refer to manual for exact spec.
Engine 2 Variant:
2.7L SOHC V6 (EER)
Engine 2 Displacement:
2736 cc
Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:
91.1 mm x 69.9 mm
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
9.3:1
Engine 2 Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5200 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine 2 Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 2 Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 Octane)
Engine 2 Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug
Engine 2 Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric fan.
Engine 2 Oil Capacity:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change. Refer to manual for exact spec.
Engine 3 Variant:
3.0L SOHC V6 (3.0L High Output)
Engine 3 Displacement:
2987 cc
Engine 3 Bore X Stroke:
91.1 mm x 76.2 mm
Engine 3 Compression Ratio:
9.0:1
Engine 3 Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5800 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Engine 3 Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine 3 Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 Octane)
Engine 3 Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug
Engine 3 Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric fan.
Engine 3 Oil Capacity:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change. Refer to manual for exact spec.
Transmission Standard Sedan Coupe:
4-Speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)
Transmission Standard Convertible:
4-Speed Automatic (41TE/42LE)
Transmission Optional Sedan Coupe:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag MM5)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
ATF+4 (Chrysler)
Transmission Fluid Capacity Auto:
Approximately 6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters) for a dry fill. Refer to manual for exact spec and level check procedure.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF), SAE 75W-90.
Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:
Approximately 2.4 US quarts (2.3 liters). Refer to manual for exact spec.
Drive Layout:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact Sedan:
★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact Sedan:
★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test Sedan:
Acceptable
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on all models. Traction Control System (TCS) available on some trims/models.
Passive Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional side-impact airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, reinforced body structure, available LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium audio systems with cassette player and/or CD changer. Features varied by trim level.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily ABS and optional traction control. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Auxiliary input for audio devices might have been available on higher trims or as an aftermarket option.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using recommended platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using recommended platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months for severe service. Refer to manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant Flush Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years with approved HOAT coolant.
Engine Oil Grade:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler approved HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, typically Mopar OAT 50/50 mixture. Check manual for specific P/N.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid or equivalent.
Known Issues:
Transmission solenoid issues (especially on 41TE/42LE), potential for internal transmission wear, exhaust manifold cracks (on some V6 engines), power window motor failure, rear suspension sag, some electrical gremlins, early models of the 2.7L V6 had issues with sludge buildup if oil changes were neglected.
Brand Heritage:
Chrysler, a historic American automotive manufacturer, has a legacy of producing a wide range of vehicles from luxury sedans to muscle cars and minivans. The Sebring nameplate has been used for various Chrysler models over the years, often representing stylish and comfortable personal transportation.
Model Evolution:
The 2004 Sebring represents the second generation (JR41), which debuted in 2001. This generation saw a complete redesign from the previous model, adopting the platform shared with the Dodge Stratus and sharing styling cues with the Plymouth Breeze. It offered a more modern design and improved performance, available in sedan, coupe, and convertible body styles, with updated powertrains including the popular 2.7L V6.
Production Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA (formerly Chrysler's Jefferson Avenue Assembly Plant, then moved to Sterling Heights Assembly).
Production Years:
1995-2000 (First Generation), 2001-2006 (Second Generation)