Used 1996 Chrysler Sebring Consumer Reviews
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Original Owner
LegalEagle, 06/04/2004
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
I am the original owner and took care of it since day 1. Problems with brakes needing replaced every three months or so after 36,000. Has over 105,000 and am now having problems ... distributor needs replaced, tune up cost $600, did not pass emissions testin, engine idles rough, had to replace electonic circuit board because tach and odometer stopped working ($600 repair). Stereo shorts out. Parts are expensive but the car is fun to drive. I will be selling within the next 6 months and do not plan to buy another. Too expensive to maintain.
expensive to fix
iloveramey, 02/14/2006
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Every single part on this car is ridiculously expensive to replace. It has all of the drawbacks of a foreign car but none of the perks. The parts are expensive and it is difficult to work on, but it has the same lifespan as your typical domestic car. The good things about it are the handling and the appearance, its a beautiful car. The gas mileage is okay, nothing impressive. The Sebring is fun to drive but upkeep is very costly I have owned mine for less than 3 months but I've already had to make over $600 in repairs and that does not include labor.
1996 Chrysler Sebring for sale near you
Showing 1 of 1 listings
- JXi ConvertibleMSRP: $5,1781,843 mi away
I don't see the problems everyone has???
money1973, 12/11/2002
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought my JXi w/ 74K miles on 11/01 and thought I would have the typical "Chrysler" problems. 13 months later has 89,300 and I couldn't be happier. It ALWAYS starts and never left me stranded. Temps can get to -15 in winter and the 2.5 V6 always starts instantly. The only repairs, new wheel bearings and tranny cooler lines. The valance on the bottom of the rear window has separated from the glass, but the it's only an appearance item so no water leaks. I do dread the $1300 100,000 mile tune up and timing belt change. I don't baby my cars and this JXi just keeps running. Could I have the only reliable Chrysler Sebring JXi ever built??!! LOL!
Fun but not worth the trouble
Bob D, 07/30/2009
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
After reading other reviews it has become apparent to me that my experience with the Sebring is somewhat typical. In general, lots of things need tweaking and repairs are costly and frequent. 125k miles - replaced/repaired - panel cluster - many radio components - brakes through and through - fan assembly - soon to replace the rubbers that seat the spark plug tubes (rough idle - arcing) gotta remove the engine cover... we all know what that can cost. Lots of rust spots on the way. When I buy a used car the next time I will consult Edmunds first. Sebring - not again, but the car still remains a head turner. Too much invested to sell but worried what will go next.
Affordable Fun
Ray, 10/17/2008
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
We bought it last fall with 52K miles. Computer slippery with strong Chrysler retro styling. Roomy, great road trip for two. We read the club's web site cover to cover. We anticipated all the ankle-biter stuff (the "leaks" from clogged drains, instrument cluster solder joints, suspension fixes, etc.). By learning the root cause of these problems we saved hundreds. Purchase price was low, so we invested in long term things (seals, an original blend Candy Apple Red paint job, some body work, some suspension work). Now we enjoy it. We have done a couple of 1K+ road trips. We have less than 60K on the car now and around 10K invested -- and no car payments. It's 12 yrs old, ready for another 12.
Bad car
teresa, 03/21/2008
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought this brand new put over 115,000 miles on it in 6 yrs before the engine caught fire. Not to mention right after warranty expired the AC froze up and tore up the serpentine belt rendering us helpless on Interstate in Arkansas..the LED readout for mileage went out in year 2 and the convertible leaked horribly from year 4.
Love It!
joes, 02/24/2003
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought this JXI convertible with 25,000 mi on it. It now has over 100,000 mi and has had no major problems. Very reliable and as smooth and good looking as the day I bought it. Only real problem has been the tach going out.
A really underrated car
Stan, 09/03/2010
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
Bought my used 1996 Sebring JX ragtop 2 and a half years ago. The engine had caught fire due to a problem that had been misdiagnosed by the previous owner so I got it cheap. I also made all the necessary repairs. Now I have a good looking (candy apple red) rag top that I can take on 1000 mile road trips and get 28 mpg. I replaced the top (yes ladies, all rag tops leak to some extent and at some point tops will wear out)It handles well and is a very practical car that is a rag top. The Mitsubishi 2.5 V-6 is a much better engine than the Chrysler engine used in later sebrings. It is a tough car to work on though. When my engine finally dies I will replace it with a 3000 GT engine.
Great car
G Barbo, 01/17/2010
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car brand new. Car has not been repair free but is any car with 255000 plus miles. This car had two transmission replacements but I believe that was the fault of the first driver. I drove the car from 63000 miles to the present 255000 plus on the same transmission. I also had the rear main seal replaced once. It is in need of it again. There were some recall notices on the front ball joints. Other than those major items I had no complaints with this car. At 255000 miles I still get 27 miles to the gallon and as high as 32 on the original engine. This car is very well built, I loved the solidness that you could feel when driving this car.
overlooked little gem
ken brill, 11/21/2009
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I bought my Sebring slightly used at a Chrysler dealer. It was a great buy. The little car gets no publicity, but in my opinion it is an overlooked gem. Great looks, terrific handling, and good gas mileage. Have only had a crank sensor go out in the 6 years I have had it.
My Thoughs
Crystal Hannak, 12/13/2005
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love the Sebring Conv. it's a great car and drives very nice. i will only drive this car for the rest of my life i love it. the only problem is it's a lot of money but totally worth it.
Sebring
K, 06/29/2005
1996 Chrysler Sebring LX 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car from my mother, who bought it new. We both have enjoyed it. My only disappointment is the sound system. The controls on the console do not work properly. Other than that it would be perfect.
Buyers Beware!!!!!
Halley, 07/10/2005
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I haven't even had my Sebring LXI for 1 year and I have already had problems! My sunroof doesnt shut and to fix it will be over $500, my transmission is slipping, the side panel of the exterior passenger side door is coming off, my drivers side door is loose and does not close properly (bolts need to be tightened and to do that I have to take off the fender = big project,not fun), windows don't always like to close. I thought I was in love with the car when I first bought it but now I know it was just a huge waste of money!!!!
My Sebring Experience...
Joshua, 07/21/2008
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I got this car for my 16th birthday, it was pretty cheap and looked ok, i took it to the shop for the mechanic to check it out and it was ok. Then I learned that it leaks, A LOT when there are hard rains. It soaks into the floor board and starts smelling god awful. Also this shorted out my passenger side speaker. I drives ok. But now I'm 18 and look for something that will not shake when I start it. I would seriously think before buying another convertible.
Like it most
bjoates, 04/08/2006
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Although I purchased a 2004 Conv. Sebring this is the one I like the most. I still drive it and let my daugther drive the 2004. I feel comfortable driving it in Beverly Hills and parking with Jaquars, Mercedes, etc.. and still get compliments on it.
Very nice for now!
Chrysler Sebring LXI, 01/21/2009
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've received this car only a month ago. I can say that I am a car fanatic, very fast. Even though I have had this car for only a month I have heads turning and women telling me that it is a very nice car. No problems but a frozen battery in Chicago, of course. And it leaks when it rains, which will be fixed by adding window deflectors. I can't complain. The car was free and I am enjoying its luxury but sporty style. If something goes wrong, it would be a pleasure to fix it and keep it another 13 years. Good job Chrysler!
the best car i ever had
washka_rus, 07/03/2006
1996 Chrysler Sebring LX 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my 96 chrysler sebring in september of last year and i had a chevy tahoe 98 but i feel way safer in my car than i did in the tahoe. i mean i like chevy a lot but this car is so good in the winter. I live in anchorage, alaska and let me tell you its the best ever. The best of all its nice and it's a head turner and its fast.
Sebring - My Favorite Car
t smith, 10/01/2002
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This has been the best car I have ever had. My Sebring LXI Coupe looks great, runs great, has an Infinity stereo that sounds wonderful. I have had no problems with it. I have put 100,000 miles on it and would not be afraid to drive it across country. I am saving this car for my daughters.
OK Car
Jordon, 11/14/2005
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought the car with 140,000 miles on it at the end of 2004. Now it has 156,000 miles on it. It is hard to tell the mpg that it gets because the Odometer goes out for long periods of times (like 2 to 6 weeks at a time), though it does keep accurate mileage. My front passenger side wheels lug nuts came one day and the wheel came off when I pulled in my drive way. The Engine has begun to shake violently and consistently and I don't know why. The ride is OK, but could be better. The convertible top is tearing along the seams, and will be very costly to fix, approximately $1200.
I LOVE IT
Miles , 10/18/2002
1996 Chrysler Sebring LX 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my 96 jx with four cylinder for a year now and have reached the 100,000 mile mark and stil going. I have had only minimal problems and love the car very much.With preventive maintance as with anything you can keep these cars from reaching into you wallet.I would not listen to heavily to the reviews that are completely negative.The sebrings are roomy convertibles and comfortable to drive.
Mitsubishi at Heart = Saving Grace
Matteo J, 08/10/2004
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Pretty happy overall. Fairly normal maintenance items (except for 3 replacement TPSs). Cramped V6 means costly labor and difficult maintance at home (like getting to those back three plugs to change them). Automatic transmission sluggish. Comfortable and fun to drive regardless. Real problem is dealing with Chrysler. Very poor customer service, unwilling to give customer benefit of the doubt in any case (even when they made the original mistake-no service contract docs despite multiple requests), mediocre technicians at dealerships, big markups on Mopar parts (bigger on Mitsubishi). Willing to try Mitsubishi again. Never owning another Chrysler. Ever.
1996 Sebring-fun car
ssab, 12/31/2002
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have enjoyed my Sebring for six plus years now. This is an excellent vehicle that is fun to drive and well built. I have had only very minor mechanical problems (horn, electric door lock).I now have 100,000 miles on it and it still runs like a fine clock.
10 years old and still going
Alex, 04/01/2006
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I own a couple of cars, the Sebring is my daily driver. I like the gas milage it gets, last check was 28 mpg in town. I also like the sunroof and quality leather seats. I haven't had any transmission trouble yet (108k). the steering is all kinds of messed up. It jerks all over, but only when touring. The cup holder (yes, there is only 1) is in a weird place. I have been battling a leak of antifreeze for a while. The passenger side lower outside door panel is loose and will probably fall off shortly. I have seen a few with the same problem. Overall it's a good car.
Luv it
Mark, 04/28/2009
1996 Chrysler Sebring LX 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Just bought my Sebring coupe in March.I got a great deal on it and it's a fun car to drive,This is the 68th car I've owned and I love it.Great mileage,handles well(except on washboard roads)and accelerates quickly!No problems to speak of.I've owned Mopars from '72 to '96 and this is the best one yet.Does have a hesitation from a stop,but I'll work that out this Summer.I highly recommend this car to anyone who wants a good,fun car that's dependable and stylish and reasonably priced.
beautiful
lindsay marie, 10/05/2004
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i love these cars
Don't do it
Jim, 01/14/2005
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I rolled the dice and hoped I wouldn't have trouble, I was persistent at dealer during warranty and got water pump, power steering pump, alternator replaced. Electrical problems cost $800 after warranty. Never again.
First Car
Sean, 06/29/2005
1996 Chrysler Sebring LX 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car was a great first car. The major problem that I had with the car was that everything started to break at aroung 75,000 miles. The air-conditioner is a real problem. I had it fixed once, but it broke again a year later. The compressor broke in two. That is a fundamental design problem. Also this car is very expensive to fix. I would suggest if you like the looks of this car get a newer one and trade it in before it reaches 75,000 miles. If you are on the tall side the seat may be a little uncomfortable on long trips. It tends to round your shoulders forward which on short trips is fine, but it really starts to hurt your back after a while.
My toy
James, 08/14/2010
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned this car for 3 years and i have had no problems at all with it. I have replaced the battery. I average about 32 mpg on the road and 25 around town. 4 cyl is peppy and reliable.
sebring
Russell S., 04/17/2006
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i have had my sebirng for bout 8 months and i live in alaska and the roads are bad during winter and this car man oh man it is the best car you can drive in alaska. i handles really well and abs breaks make it even better. the brakes i had to replace 1 time but it's ok
Great car... the first month.
Troy O., 07/24/2003
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Quick review. Bought it in June of 2000 with 22,000 miles. Drove off and was excited and enjoyed the wind through my hair. Then the problems started. The back passenger floorboard would flood after heavy rains which then shorted out the entire interior electronics. I have no radio, interior lights, keyless entry, etc. The dealer said it wasn't under warranty and would very costly to fix. the interior began to mold and I've gone through all my bathroom towels as well as my patience. I now have a company car and my Sebring slowly rots until I pay off enough to sell it. Worst purchase I've ever made. BEWARE!
My Sebring is perfect
SebringIS1337, 10/15/2008
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We have had this car for about 6 or 7 years now and the only things we have had get fixed are two flat tires (damn nails) and a new starter. Other than that is has had oil changes. I have one complaint and that is about the tiny front brakes, they are about the size of a coffee can lid, and this car weighs a ton to slow down. But you can take a turn going so fast and you won't loose traction and it is perfect int the snow, just plows right through the snow. Since it weighs so much you can burn out if you want really easy, just step on the gas a tad and you fly!
best car i have owned
soster, 02/16/2004
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i bought my sebring convertible 6 months new, with 20,000 miles on it. it has been the best car i have owned (including a toyota i once owned). i now have 111,000 miles on it and outside the normal wear and tear have not done anything major to it. i would recommend better speakers and stereo to be heard better when the top is down. i plan on giving this car to my son to drive and i will buy a newer model for myself.
Can be a good car....
sjp, 07/17/2002
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am at 107,000 miles and still rolling. I just replaced the timing belt and all the belts. I did have to replace the brakes up front early on but I have been lucky so far. I like the car but I can see where the maintenance issues could be a killer for this vehicle.
Not too bad
rose, 01/06/2007
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love driving my car. It's great. The passenger door, below the handle rusted right through. A weird place to rust. Maybe that's why they're not suppose to be driven on the winter.
The PLAGUE
pjr, 06/06/2002
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
You'll become close friends with the service department(quarterly visits the norm). Everything has been repaired/replaced: Engine,trans, rotors,computer twice; A/C four times; window, ragtop,water pump twice. The word is out! This nicely styled car has zero resale value.The extended warranty is done and so am I. I would rather walk than own another Chrysler family product again.
Chrysler Sebring Convertible
Deb, 11/22/2006
1996 Chrysler Sebring LX 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I absolutely love my Sebring Convertible!!! It's a fun and sexy car. It handles like a dream. My only complaint is that for the size of the car, the gas mileage should be much better. Other that that... it's a fantastic ride. After almost 11 years, it sill looks new. No major problems at all. I'll buy another one as soon as this one gives out.
Beautiful Car
Chases, 04/13/2004
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
First car I ever owned! I loved this car. Very sporty, but better on gas and cheaper insurance. The V6 gave it ALOT of power. The only bad thing is it doesn't make very tight turns
Is it really that good?
KgRomeo, 11/26/2005
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the almost perfect car. All it would need is all my personalizations. It's good the way it is. It has luxury with style. This is good for whomever the driver may be.
7 Years -- Still running great!
silas, 08/06/2003
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Original owner -- no major problems - normal maintenance (tire wear, battery replacement. . .) Will buy another when ready!
Biggest Mistake
TB, 06/18/2005
1996 Chrysler Sebring LX 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car seemed like a great investment at 60,000 miles. It was initially very fun to drive, the pick up was great. Then one thing after another started to go: power locks, power seat, brake problems, the wheel literally fell off of the axle, the struts needed to be replaced, the transmission is going, cruise control works sometimes when it wants to and sometimes shuts my car off, problems with the battery connectors... I've put way too much money into this car. Also, the seats are not comfortable for long trips and there's very little cup holder space.
I Miss My Convertible Already!!
crazykatiemae, 08/01/2009
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I loved my Sebring convertible! Most reliable little care I've had! Owned her for 2 years and just sold so I could buy something that is a tad more WI winter friendly! Loved dropping the top on my hour commute home from work after a long day! Made for several fun road trips over summer! Never had a problem with it other than the air condition and heat didn't always work when I wanted them too and I had to chase the boot down the highway a few times...
Owner of a 1996 Sebring LXi
dvannort28, 10/30/2002
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Car seemed to run extremely well. I have 128,000 on my car and it runs like a champ. The only 2 problems I've had with the car are as follows: 1). Front End-going through set after set of tires. About 3 sets in one year. Had to replace all of lower front end at 120,000 miles. 2).Transmission pan leak at 128,000. Other than that I love my car!!!!
...and keeps on going!
Ed J, 04/23/2003
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new...and it still looks new...after 230,000 miles!!!! Most fun is telling people the miles when they feel the need to say "Nice car". No major problems. I still have the original shocks, exhaust, front end. Only complaint is the front brakes. They wear out too fast, even with a lot of highway miles. I was so pleased with this car that I bought a 2001 last year. 18,000 miles on that one and no problems either. I can't imagine buying another car with a hardtop even though I don't get to drop it in the winters of New England.
Looks good on the outside, but...
varnk, 11/04/2004
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love the look. It definitely turns heads for its uniquness. However, there are design problems in the interior that disappointing. Horn is hard to find. Map lights on the mirror will drain the battery dry if you forget to shut them off. Only one cheesy cup holder. Creaky and flimsy plastic interior. Confusing heating/cooling control. Keyless remote has very poor range. I also have had to replace several very expensive computer sensors in addition to water pump and tensioner pully. Total cost over $800. Also has an expensive exhaust system. If it ever has a problem, the whole thing is one very expensive piece.
LOVE THIS CAR!
S. Williams, 10/13/2003
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this silver car when it was a year old with 12,000 mi. on it; it now has 92,000 miles and runs really well. No problems! Regular maintainence, new tires and recently new frnt breaks is all I've put into it. I don't know why some are trouble-free and some aren't, but I feel lucky to have it. It's big enough for me to feel safe, and sleek enough to be stylin'! I get compliments on it all the time and people always think it's worth more than it is. I agree with the other review that '96 is the best looking of all the styles.
Wonderful fun car
flygirl, 03/07/2008
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car was a great find at $5.5K. As long as you keep an eye on & prevent/repair the usual Chrysler stuff (timing at 100k, belts, on time maintenance, regularly clean trans) you'll find it lasts forever. I have no garage, the car is 13 w/158k and is just starting to show rust speckles, but few. Front end has been a challenge, but overall this car hasn't cost much more than normal maintenance. Love the pep and sleekness of the car. I even tow packaged it and tow my canoe/trailer.
Great first car!
adominique3, 06/20/2007
1996 Chrysler Sebring LXi 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with over 100k miles, and had few problems with it over the 4 years I owned it. The biggest problem that I had was a worn out head gasket, but that was after I had the car 4 years and put 92,000 miles on it. Dependable, good gas mileage (28-33 mpg w/ the V6), and sporty look. Got it at a great price, and definitely got my money's worth.
Red Rag Top
AL. ROMANO, 04/02/2007
1996 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
It has been a wonderful car to drive and has never let me down or stranded. The power top and power windows have never failed to open or close. The top has a year or two left and it needs a couple of new tires. It may also need a new muffler soon. The top is not ripped and there are no dents just some minor scratches on the bumpers. The leather interior has no rips.
I wish I had bought it sooner
Neil, 01/05/2007
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Corners well with speed sensitive steering, reasonable acceleration, fantastic brakes - I should have bought one when it was new. Plenty of room in the trunk for golf clubs, too. Try packing your clubs in a Mustang ragtop sometime -NOT!--maybe *miniature* golf. My sebring had a quirk *had* that is-- the tach and odometer were intermittent until I fixed a loose solder connection- an easy fix. Comfortable, comfortable, comfortable-- even in the back seat. A very sexy car.
Driving a ragtop
sirjerryk, 08/16/2010
1996 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I had a pony convertible before and did not realize when I sold it I would miss having a small convertible. I found the '96 Chrysler Sebring to be both stylish and fun to drive. The car handle well on the freeway and hills slow it down. I realize that this car has some problems as the Tack and Odometer did not work as well as the gas gauge. I am looking at some $$$ ahead but I still think it worth it.