Used 1997 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Consumer Reviews
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1997 chrysler sebring JXI 2.5l convertible 202,000 km (126,000 miles)
lanalee, 08/12/2014
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
21 of 21 people found this review helpful
I recently purchased this car in june. I made a quick purchase with out researching it, but when I test drove it it felt solid, no rust, and the motor sounded good and I needed car fast.. First week, it broke down, and it was a trasmision scensor. It was a big job, but doing so, we knowticed the spark plugs and wires were original since 1997, seems it's just as big a job to change those. very dificult car to work on. even the battery is not accessible. Next problem was the throttle cable. it started to unravel, and the peddle would not come back. BY luck I called chrysler, and they told me it was a recall for that problem, and another recall was fixed on ths 17y old car :-)
the car i didnt want
barleypopplz, 02/14/2011
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
16 of 17 people found this review helpful
this was a last option buy for us, our honda was totaled and we needed a car now. we paid 2600 for it, it has 80k original miles now we have had her for 6 months now and have fallen in LOVE with this care
1997 Chrysler Sebring for sale near you
Showing 1 of 1 listings
- LXi CoupeMSRP: $2,9992,205 mi away
Car from hell
blacabanne, 02/26/2013
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
14 of 15 people found this review helpful
Positively the worst car I've ever owned. Bought this piece of crap for $1,500 with 105,000 miles on it and over the course of 10 months was able to drive it only 2,000 miles. Spent over $5,000 in repairs and finally couldn't take it any more. Replaced: Brakes, calipers, seat belt module, timing belt (after it broke and destroyed the cylinder head valves) cam position sensor, crank position sensor, distributor, oil pressure sending unit, transmission module, shift soenoid, ball joints, sway bar links, just to name a few things. Mechanics hate this car, it's a nightmare to work on. I wish I had listened to the guy who said his mechanic used to run and lock the door, he wasn't kidding.
A True A+ Chrysler
BLPro, 05/07/2005
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
-I owned this car for three years, and had NO major problems with it. The only repairs were the Battery, Front Breaks, and average Tune-ups. A fantastic Wisconsin winter & summer car. I get 30 miles/Gal. Quick pick-up for Highway Driving. I knew about the drain holes ahead of time, so I avoided wet floors. If you have the "Flooding Problems" & "Standing Water" inside on the floors, just keep the drain holes along the frame under each door uncloged, that should solve the problem with water on the floors. I have had no problem getting people in the back seats either, rather roomy back there. Basic preventative maintainance, and the car has been great. Better then the Benz I had, & cheaper.;)
Buffalo chips
buffalo, 10/20/2010
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Dependable fun convertible looks brand new recently paint not a scratch or a bump good take off; feel like you are borrowing daddy's car every time you drive it but it's yours
Great Car
Larryran, 05/27/2004
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The Sebring Convertible is an exceptional car. I purchased mine in Sept 1997, and still own it. Tire life of the original Michelin tires was 75000 miles, and it has never needed an alignment. The replacement Michelins now have 50000 miles on them, and appear good for at least another 20000. The 2.5L V6 SOHC 24V FI engine gas milage ranges from 21 (city) to 31 mpg. Average road mpg is 28. Total maintenance cost has been from normal maintenance (oil, filter, 60000 mile transmission service, 100000 mile tuneup, and 3 sets of brake pads).
Great car!
Larryran, 01/01/2005
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Purchased new in 1997. Most economical vehicle (total cost of ownership) I have ever owned. Now has 120000 miles. Initial Michelin tires lasted 75000 miles, and still had over 1/8 inch tread. One alignment, at 100000 miles - after being hit HARD from rear (knocked 50 feet from a dead stop!). (Checked every 30000 - always in spec.) First tune-up at 100000 miles. Having random teenagers wave and yell "Great car!" to a 50+ man - priceless. Chrysler quality over 5 consecutive vehicles is the reason we purchased a 2000 Grand Voyager for my wife. We will replace that with a Durango in 2005. My Sebring? Looks great, runs great, and no payments. We will be together for a long time to come
A greatly built car.
andy, 04/01/2007
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car since new and the engine, transmission, A/C, and electrical system never gave me a problem. The only major maintenance I did was replace the motor mounts, installed a new top and new carpet. This is a very underrated car. The engine and transmission are Japanese and these can go the distance like Toyotas or Hondas.
175,000 miles and counting
Scott1963, 04/09/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Yes I drive for a living. I change the oil every three weeks, tranny fluid once a year. other than that no real problems. At this point I don't think the car owes me anything. I am in pure bonus miles. And it is a joy to drive!
Buyer Beware
Chef, 12/27/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Among the numerous problems I have had with my well-cared-for Sebring convertible are (1) a top that literally started coming apart at the seams after 3 years, (2) an AC system which shot craps, (3) a rear window defroster that stopped working despite 3 replacements under warranty, (4) a rear window switch rarely used, and (5) Interior and exterior plastic trim which has become faded and dull. Incidentally, I have confirmed with convertible top replacement dealers that Chrysler has has MANY problems with these tops. Forget support from the dealer or their service organization.
Love My Car
Carmine, 04/18/2003
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the best large convertable for the price. It's great in all weather seats 5 with leg room. Great sterio system, it's dependable and handles great.
Medicore at best
iso, 05/06/2007
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my Sebring Convertible with 98K on it. Not new, I know. My biggest complaint is oil issues. The oil light came on, I took it in and they replaced the oil sending unit. 10 miles later, it came on again. Every mechanic I took it in to gave me a different explanation and a different price. I drove it for a year with the light on. The rear window broke and cost around $1000 to replace. The turning radius is horrid. The interior of the door came away from the door. Crappy Chrysler quality. It was fun to drive, but a headache overall. I'm buying Japanese next time.
Never again!
Carl R., 04/05/2003
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Since day one this car has been nothing but problems. I have replaced the ball joints, axles, brakes twice, ty-rods 3 times. The digital odometer stopped working at 90K. It has had electrcial problems such as the power windows, seats, mirrors anad dash board lights will speratically not function. The top leaks. The battery has died three times in the course of one year. The door hinges have broken and the cooling system has sprung leakes everywhere. My mechanic runs and locks the door everytime I or the tow truck pull up with the car. This car has been a non stop mechanical disater!
I Love It
Harrison, 04/11/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought used and have had no problems; still turns heads after 6 years; seats 4 and has a suitable trunk; will buy the 2nd generation in a year or two without a blink
Reliability Par Excellence
D. B., 04/24/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has never been in the shop for repairs other than routine maintenance, brakes, oil changes, etc. It has a new battery but nothing else has been needed except brakes. The transmission is a typical Chrysler trans- mushy and slow. The engine can be over-reved while the car is running!!!!! This is due to the mushy response of the trans.
Breaking
RobNAUTICA, 05/18/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Good car, but i got it in the middle of an aging period. Its gonna nickle and dime me to death unless i get rid of it. The top broke, windows/door do not sit correctly. New parts are beyond expensive. Do not purchase this car unless you have money to spend on repairs
Happy until...
Happy?, 08/29/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Enjoyed the Car Until 85,000 miles- then the check engine light comes on. Multiple trips to 3 different mechanics over the last 8 weeks and it is still not right. Summary: Unannounced engine jumps (revs)while driving Stalling at stop lights Rough idling Slight window leaks Fogging in rear tail light assembly Recently Replaced Head Gasket Heater hose Fuel pump O2 sensors Brakes, Rotors
Best Convertable for the money
Richard Hughes, SR., 09/29/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Our 1997 Chrysler Sebring is sharp looking (black), fun to drive, has excellent pickup, plenty of room for passengers and luggage. With almost 75,000 miles it is still tight and handles like new. We have garaged the convertible from day one and the original top is in great shape. Regular maintenance and operating expenses have been very reasonable.
My Mid-life Crisis
Lorrie S, 10/08/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A wonderful,fun, reliable, roomy car. I love it and will buy another in a heartbeat. When broadsided by a BMW, it received little damaged, while BMW was totaled. It is the best car I have ever driven and I absolutely love it!
no complaints
mray, 02/03/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my car with 17,000 miles on it and have put 50,000 more on over the past four years. After an initial problem with the air conditioning pump, the balance of the miles have required only routine maintenance, brakes and a new set of tires. Highway mileage of around 30 mpg with the six cylinder engine, about 24 in mixed driving. Not a performance car, but it is a capable cruiser.
Excellent vehicle
SOPHIA, 12/27/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my '97 Sebring convertible JXI in Sept. 2002 with 87500 miles. it has alot of miles on it but it runs like brand new. Gas mileage is great. I can't believe it still runs like brand new with that many miles on it. I would greatly recomend this car to anyone.
FUN IN TH' SUN
puttinfool, 01/14/2003
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Beautiful car, has exellent styling and is much more attractive than the 2001 and newer models. Overlooked by many critics due to lack of horsepower.
Repair Guzzler
Luigi, 02/13/2003
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned this car from day one. The top was replaced in year 3. Since hitting 60k miles my engine light has continued to light up my dash with its lovely vibrant yellow. I had brought it to 3 different dealers, all giving me different diagnosis'. Evaporate fuel seal leak was one of the popular answers. Needless to say my fuel system was redone twice costing me over a thousand bucks. The 96-97 Sebring has been rated one of the worst used cars to own. I think that sums it up.
Good looking - Bad problems
tonid, 02/19/2003
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Don't get me wrong I love to drive my car, I put an air intake on her and this bumped the bhp to 177 and she turns heads. But she has been in the shop every couple of months, it is so bad they know my cell phone number by heart at the dealer. The roof has always leaked, I have had to have a new roof and a new carpet it has been so bad. I went through four batteries in four years due to a slight leak and corrosion. I now am experiencing a rough idle, an oil warning light, a break warning light, roof leaks and the interior panels are breaking down. I don't expect cars to last for ever but I definately will not be buying a new one.
1997 Chrysler Sebring Review
Fred, 05/18/2005
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is fun to drive and hugs the road at all speeds. It rides real smooth on open highway best. Shifting at high RPMs is smooth and powerful. Convertible model smart looking and by far the best design is the 1997. I will have no problem selling this vehicle when the time is right.
Topless Nut
highlandgolfnut, 05/01/2004
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car! Sure, there are some things that I wish were better designed, and I would like to get a little more performance out of a car that looks so good, but for the price I paid for a four year old convertible that was in perfect condition inside and out, you have to give up a little. I get comments everywhere I go about what a great car I have(especially in supermarket parking lots). An added bonus is that I can fit my weekly foursome AND four sets of clubs in the car, something I couldn't do in a Mustang, Camaro/Firebird, BMW, or Solare!
Going Topless
Kevin Hicks, 06/21/2004
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My review: I am writing because I have been so pleased with this car (Sebring JXi convertible.) The 4 cylinder model is not what you want. Get the 6 cylinder. No major issues in the past 4 years and now she is at 112,000 miles. My only manufacturing complaint is the seams on the convertible top should of been double stiched - or at least done better. So I am now getting a new cloth top as a result. I'm going to keep her 1 more year. The 2004 models have a very poor color selection. Sea foam green? PUKE! White=boring. Black- too hot in Florida. If Chrysler will offer a nice blue, or bring back firemist pearl red ( like mine) I will buy another one.
A Classy Topless
PLJSB, 07/26/2004
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Father purchased my 97 Sebring Jxi for me when I was 15, at a year old it was an awesome car everything I wanted. To this day I still get complimants on it everywhere I go I have a LexusRX, and A Mercedes SLK230 and will still take my Red Jxi convertible out before them. Very reliable car my only problem has been brake pads wearing to fast probably my fault, and the electric antenna up until this year. The past year I spent $600 on her, It needed a tune up and it needed a new radiator, a few minor oil leaks which can be expected for a car with 120,000 miles on her. But everything was fixed and she runs like a car with only 20,000 on her again.
A fun car to drive
redalert, 03/16/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has proved 5 years of reliable service and has only had minor problems including repair of the CD player. Other problems have been minor. The car handles and rides well and is a good vehicle priced reasonably for a convertible in this size class.
i love my car
razze69697, 03/30/2008
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i love this car the only thing is having to change the timing belt but i have never been stranded and good on gas sand pretty roomy for a convertible. Still runs strong w/167,000k miles
Fun to Drive
xray, 03/26/2002
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love the car. It has all the design elements lacking in most convertibles. I have had an unusual amount of service problems, leaky top, electronic compass, oxygen sensor, etc., but somehow it doesn't take away from the pleasure of driving it.
No more Chryslers
Chrysler Never Again, 10/06/2004
1997 Chrysler Sebring JX 2dr Convertible
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
New trnsmission at 80,000 miles. The top began falling apart after 2 1/2 years. The rear defrost died after 4 years. The car is taking on water in the drivers side whenever the rains are heavy. Just a poorly built car.
More features and fun for the bucks
Paul Lower, 03/23/2003
1997 Chrysler Sebring JXi 2dr Convertible
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have always owned convertibles from the Oldsmobile to the Mustang. I bought the 1997 Sebring JXi and traded in a Mustang 5.0. I have never regreted it. I just traded in the 1997 JXi and bought a 2003 Limited. Both are peppy, quiet, reliable, and look good. The rear seat and trunk space is great. No mechancial problems at all. Dealerships very good. Love the AutoStick(manual shifting for stop and go traffic. Created as a convertible...not a redo...double cloth water tight top. Gearing makes it fast from a stop.