The Chrysler Sebring existed for three generations and came as a coupe, sedan, and convertible. This post reviews the top 5 most common Chrysler Sebring problems owners have run into with the 3rd generation, comprised of model years 2007 to 2010.
Top 5 Problems with the 3rd Generation 2007 to 2010 Chrysler Sebring
1. Throttle Body Issues
Symptoms of Throttle Body Problems on the 2007 to 2010 Chrysler Sebring
- Engine misfires
- Poor acceleration
- Poor fuel economy
Causes of Throttle Body Problems
The throttle body is located at the end of the intake tube and is electronic. The throttle body regulates the amount of air drawn into the engine. Carbon can collect on the throttle body and negatively affect engine performance.
How to Fix Throttle Body Problems
If the throttle body has carbon, clean the throttle body or replace it.
When cleaning the throttle body, do not push on the flap since it is electric. Moving the flap manually can decalibrate the throttle body and cause other issues with the engine.
Read more for tips on cleaning the throttle body
2. Front Wheel Bearing Failure
Symptoms of Front Wheel Bearings
- Humming noise from the front of the car that decreases or increases in volume when turning
- ABS light is on
Causes of Front Wheel Bearings
The wheel bearings are sealed, which means moisture should not be able to collect inside. Wheel bearings are a wear-item, and sometimes the seal wears out. If you hear the wheel bearing when turning, the failed wheel bearing is usually on the opposite side. For example, if you turn left, the humming sound will be on the right.
How to Fix Front Wheel Bearings
If the ABS speed sensor failed, replace the wheel bearing.
To diagnose the wheel bearing, lift and secure the front of the car with a jack and jack stands and shake the wheel in and out from the 12 and 6 o’clock position and the 3 and 9 o’clock position and feel for play. See if the tie rods and ball joints feel secure. If they do, the front wheel bearing assembly likely needs to be replaced. After the repair is complete, have the wheels aligned by a professional.
3. AC Condensation Drain Problems
Symptoms of AC Condensation Drain Problems on the 3rd Generation Chrysler Sebring
- Musty smell after running the A/C or the defrost
- In severe cases, a puddle of water on the passenger side
Causes of AC Condensation Drain Problems
Every time the A/C or defrost is run, the A/C condenser builds up condensation, which drains from the drain tube that travels from behind the dash to underneath the car. This is why a puddle of water can be found underneath the car after it has been run with the AC on. The drain tube may be clogged by debris like pine needles or something similar. This can cause the water to collect inside of the dash and cause a musty smell or in severe cases a puddle of water on the passenger side floor.
How to Fix AC Condensation Drain Problems
This problem should be fixed as soon as possible. Find the drain tube underneath the car and remove any debris inside the tube with compressed air or a tool or object that will fit inside like a coat hanger. Be careful not the puncture the drain tube. The condensation may drain out once the tube has been cleaned.
If a musty smell is emitting from the vents, clean the vents with an antibacterial spray to remove any bacteria that may be contributing to the smell.
4. Blend Door Actuator Failure
Symptoms of Bad Blend Door Actuators
- Thumping or clunking noise inside the dash
- Temperature doesn’t change when adjusted with the HVAC controls
- Airflow doesn’t change when adjusted with the HVAC controls
Causes of Bad Blend Door Actuators
There are vents in and behind the dash that lead to various areas on the car. The blend door actuators divert air down different channels to direct airflow and airflow temperature. The actuator is an electrical component that can fail.
If the recirculation actuator is defective, it might stay on and click when the car is turned off after the recirculation control was selected. Listen to this symptom at 5:20 in the video above.
How to Fix Blend Door Actuator Failure
Diagnose which blend door actuator is faulty. Turn the key to the on position, press the recirculation control button, and listen for the sound in the dash. If you can hear the door actuator clicking, replace it.
5. Occupant Restraint Control Module Failure
Symptoms of Occupant Restraint Control Module Failure
- Airbag light is on for a code with the airbag system or the module
Causes of Occupant Restraint Control Module Failure
The occupant restrain control module is located behind the center console on the passenger side. It is very important for the safety of the passengers inside of the car, and it is an electrical component that can wear out. If moisture collects inside of the casing, it can reach the circuit board and possibly the diodes or the electrical components inside. A short circuit can turn the airbag light on and means there is a problem with the airbag system. More than likely there will be an issue with communicating with the seatbelt pretensioners, which is the lock that restrains the seatbelt from pulling and loosening.
How to Fix Occupant Restraint Control Module Failure
We recommend having a qualified professional fix this problem because this problem affects the safety of all passengers in the car and a mishandling can set off the air bags inside the passenger compartment, which may harm the DIYer. Airbags are also expensive to replace and service, so if the air bag releases during the repair, it can add to the replacement cost.
If the air bag light is on, test the seat belt pretensioners and see if they are working.
If you believe there is an issue, there is a recall. Call the Chrysler dealership with your VIN number ready, and they will be able to tell you if your car is covered.
Fix Parts on Your Own Chrysler Sebring
Learn how to replace parts on many different generations of the Chrysler Sebring and more makes and models with 1A Auto’s how-to videos that have step-by-step instructions to guide your repairs.
3rd Generation Chrysler Sebring Model Years
Related Content
- Throttle Body Cleaning Tips [Expert Advice]
- Bad Wheel Bearing Symptoms
- What Does a Bad Wheel Bearing Sound Like?
- How to Tell Which Wheel Bearing Is Bad While Driving
- A/C Not Working? Here’s How to Diagnose It
- DIY Alignment
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