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Engine & cooling

2001 Chrysler Sebring Engine problems

Owners have filed 97 complaints about the 2001 Chrysler Sebring's engine & cooling with NHTSA - 36% of all its complaints, most recently on August 2, 2016. They describe 2 crashes, 2 fires and 2 injuries. Stalling, loss of power, oil consumption, overheating, head gaskets, timing chains and engine failure.

Complaints
97
Recalls
1
Crashes
2
Fires
2
Injuries
2
Deaths
0

Engine recalls for the 2001 Chrysler Sebring

Engine

00V299002554 vehicles affected

The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The harness for the crankshaft position sensor could come in contact with a new protective shield causing a grounded circuit.
The risk
Prolonged wiring harness contact with the heat shield will cause the wiring insulation to wear and eventually to ground out. This could cause the engine to die-out, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Dealers will re-route the crankshaft position sensor harness.

Engine complaints

Engine & cooling

Engine failure due to sludge buildup despite better than recommended maintenance.

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 10892678
Engine & cooling

Tl* the contact owns a 2001 chrysler sebring. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph, she noticed an abnormal rubber smell as the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was driven onto the emergency lane and was restarted after approximately one hour. Additionally, the contact added freon to the vehicle. The vehicle was drivable but continued leaking freon. The vehicle was taken to a private mechanic, who indicated that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 131,000. *Tr

Filed Incident EngineNHTSA 10567649
Engine & coolingElectrical systemCrash

2001 Chrysler sebring turns off while driving - the exact same problem as the hundreds of thousands of chryslers recalled last year. Everyone wants to try a body control module, fuel pump, new crank shaft but the problem keeps occurring - perhaps because they were not aware of this recall/problem as not even my local chrysler dealership knew. This has happened to me frequently over the past 1.5-2 Years or so, it comes and goes. I was rear ended once but it was light enough (thank god) that it did not cause any...

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damage. Extremely dangerous. Almost a quarter of a million chrysler vehicles were recalled last year for this problem. As of right now, I believe just van/crossover models - why not all models with this same problem? Please leave your complaints on the message boards alone and bring them to nhtsa so that chrysler can be held accountable for these issues. *Kb

Filed Incident Engine and engine cooling · Electrical systemNHTSA 10446387
Engine & coolingFire

Tl* the contact owns a 2001 chrysler sebring. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning. In addition, there was smoke coming from under the hood. The dealer advised the contact that the recall under nhtsa campaign id number: 00v299002 (engine and engine cooling: engine) was not associated with the contact's vin. A local mechanic inspected the vehicle and diagnosed that antifreeze leaked into the engine, causing the vehicle to stall. The failure and the current mileage was 138,000.

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10437509
Engine & cooling

This was the second failure of chrysler's 2.7 V-6 engine. Neither engine failure warranty was upheld by providers. First one was at 49000 miles and failed due to engine sludge, extended warranty was not honored due to owner neglect, even though I provided all receipts for all oil changes required. This problem seems to be common for premature failure of this engine. I purchased a new engine and 3 years and 14000 miles another failure occurred. This time no reason could be found for the failure and in spite of...

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mechanics statement that all fluids were present at time of engine removal to be shipped for inspection, it was determined to be owner caused and warranty not honored. Currently engine is being examined by a third party independent facility to determine cause for a future legal action. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10432264
Engine & cooling

While driving my newly bought 2001 chrysler sebring, I started hearing some rattling sounds and saw smoke coming from the engine. I was in the middle of the highway and I prayed that it would die on me as I tried to exit to the next gas station. Luckily I managed to exit and parked at the station. I quickly took out my two sons and my wife from the car because I didn't know what was going to happen. I then called a mechanic and had the car towed to a chrysler dodge dealership. I was told that the car needs a new...

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engine at a cost of $5000. I am still in shock. Looking online I found out that there are thousands of people who have reported similar engine problems on this particular 2.7L engine. I think that chrysler should be held accountable for their inadequate standards especially with this kind of engine. My family's life was in danger and I hope that you will help me resolve this issue. I don't have any money to buy a new engine. Thanks. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10368025
BrakesEngine & coolingAcceleration & cruise controlCrash

On friday june 11, 2010, I was involved in an automobile accident. My car, a chrysler 2001 sebring lxi failed to stop when the brakes were applied. I steered the car away from rear-ending the vehicle in front of me avoiding a crash. However, I steered my car between two lanes of stationary traffic.While going into traffic exiting off highway 270. I tried to apply the brakes but the car wouldn't stop. The engine revved up and the car wouldn't stop. My car made contact with a mini van. My passenger side view...

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mirror struck the mini van causing damage to both the mini van and my car. I contacted my insurance company immediately. The driver of the mini van and I exchanged information and I called a tow truck to tow my car to my home. The following wednesday june 16, 2010.. Farmers insurance adjuster paul gallagher contacted me. I received a rent-a-car from enterprise leasing. Today, june 16, I contacted the chrysler coporation to voice my complaint and I was told that a contact investigator would contact me within 3 days. I told them I need authorization for a rent-a-car while they investigate the crash. I asked that a supervisor contact me to advise about the rent-a-car. Shortly after, I was contacted by the supervisor and he told me to get my car fixed and I would not receive any assistance from chrysler. I went online and contacted your agency and found that chrysler knew that my 2001 chrysler sebring lxi, was on the recall list since november 2000. I would like your assistance with this matter because my granddaughter, the driver of the mini van, and myself could have been seriously hurt. I need cooperation from chrysler corporation. I will contact my adjuster to inform him of the recall notice that I discovered on your website. I'm afraid to drive that car and my car only has 68,000 miles and is in mint condition. I have records of every oil change and other repairs that have been made. I need help. *Tr

Filed Incident Service brakes, hydraulic · Engine and engine cooling · Vehicle speed controlNHTSA 10340875
SuspensionEngine & coolingTransmission & drivetrainVisibility & wipers

S10 appropriate handling-letter from regarding 2001 chrysler sebring *tgw the consumer stated when he turned the steering wheel to the left or the right, he could hear a grinding sound. The dealer found the left lower ball joint was worn, which was the cause of the noise. Also, the front struts, oil pan and cooler lines were all leaking, and the drive belts were cracked. The heating and air condition controls were not performing as designed. *Jb

Filed Incident Suspension · Engine and engine cooling · Power train · VisibilityNHTSA 10336979
Engine & cooling

I have a 2001 chrysler sebring that stopped running on the express way and come to find out it was my motor that had failed. The only thing that happened prior to the engine blowing was a slight noise and then it quit. I changed my oil every 3000 miles like recommended but obviously that didn't matter. I've replaced my whole engine with a rebuilt one but I'm extremely disappointed in chrysler. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10331706
Engine & cooling

Tl*the contact owns a 2001 chrysler sebring lxi. While cruising at speeds of less than 35 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. He was unable to restart the vehicle. The dealer stated that the water pump caused the radiator fluid to leak into the engine. He would also need to replace the engine. There were no recalls for the failure. No repairs were made to the vehicle. The failure and currently mileages were 137,000.

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10302984
Engine & coolingTransmission & drivetrain

Tl*the contact owns a 2001 chrysler sebring convertible. While driving 75 mph on the freeway, the engine shut off and the vehicle lost all power. The contact pulled the vehicle over and had it towed to an independent mechanic. After inspecting the vehicle, the mechanic noticed sludge build-up. He also observed leaks in the head gasket and radiator, and engine and transmission failure. The contact feels that the vehicle is unsafe to drive because a crash could have occurred on the freeway. The current and failure mileages were 98,000.

Filed Incident Engine and engine cooling · Power trainNHTSA 10269083
Engine & cooling

Tl*the contact owns a 2001 chrysler sebring. While driving 50 mph, the vehicle decelerated and completely shut off. The vehicle would not restart and was towed to an auto service shop. The technician stated that the 2.7 Liter engine failed, which was a common issue. The dealer has not been notified and the vehicle has not been repaired. The vehicle is still at the repair shop and will cost $6,000 to repair. The failure and current mileages were 117,000.

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10265430
Engine & coolingTransmission & drivetrain

My son bought his fist car, a used 2001 chrysler sebring with the 2.7 Engine. Day two of driving the car he blew the motor. Dealer says he can't find a replacement motor so I talked to my mechanic about it and he said the 2.7 Chrysler motor has a problem with oil sludge that causes the motor to fail. It is a very common problem. Now my son is making car payments on a car that isn't fixable. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine cooling · Power trainNHTSA 10262997
Engine & cooling

I have a 2001 chrysler sebring lxi 2.7L v6 sedan. On february 28, 2009, engine overheated and failed on highway i-77 north. I pulled out of traffic as asap. Engine locked up and would not start. Engine ruined. Car had to be towed from hwy. Car ran perfectly before going on the hwy. I have service records to prove the oil was changed with synthetic oil every 3,000 miles. I have a receipt to prove I topped off the coolant prior to the engine failure. My extended warranty denied the claim on march 3. I found that...

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extended warranties either reject these claims automatically or pay them and then cancel your coverage. After denial, I researched the problem and found that this chrysler model has had numerous complaints due to engine and cooling defects, including the engine itself, the water outlet/coolant arm, and head gasket. Engine failure happens frequently to consumers driving 60 mph or faster (highway conditions). Consumers report that this problem occurs despite proper maintenance of the car. There is no warning prior to engine overheating and failure. You don't know there's a problem until smoke starts. My car smoked long before the temperature gauge showed red hot. The hand was still in the middle when smoke first started. Local mechanics, salvage yards, and even chrysler master techs confirmed these problems and that you cannot foresee them. Chrysler should have issued a recall regarding these problems but never did. The only engine-related recall actually issued was for the harness for the crankshaft position sensor. Obviously, chrysler has tried to avoid such costly replacements. A new, remanufactured engine (without the original defects) costs around $6200 in my area. My problem came from chrysler defects. Chrysler should be required to install a brand new, remanufactured engine and all other damaged parts at no charge to me. Chrysler should also pay for the towing of my car to a chrysler service shop and reimburse me for the previous tows. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10262503
Engine & cooling

Oil light started coming on when car was idling or driving slow, kept oil changed regularly and had no leaks or anything. Engine went out while driving down road almost causing an accident. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10261604
Engine & coolingTransmission & drivetrain

I have a 2001 chrysler sebring coupe. I bought the vehicle on 11/15/2008. The "check engine soon" light came on 3 months later, on 2/15/09 and I got the vehicle serviced at the sheridan ford dealership. They claimed there was an oil leak that was leaking into my engine, and were going to fix that. Then, 4 days later (i drove the vehicle twice), the car broke down in the middle of a highway and had to be towed. I was told the transmission died due to a ring that broke and clogged a pipe which caused the transmission...

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to fail. Also, when my car was being fixed, another oil leak was found and an antifreeze leak had also ocurred. I have only had the vehicle for 3 months and for 1,455 miles. I have had to but over $3100 worth of work into it already, getting a new transmission and fixing the oil and antifreeze leaks. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine cooling · Power trainNHTSA 10261333
Engine & cooling

2001 Chrysler sebring 4.7Liter engine. Had oil changed two weeks ago. The next morning oil was all over top of engine. Returned to shop and determined that oil pressure low. Making loud knocking noise when idle sounds like diesel engine! Mechanic stated engine fixing to go.It has only 92,000 miles. Understand that there is a design issue with engine and has still not been recall. Chrysler is well aware of this continuous issue and assume they feel its the consumers problem now since you purchased it. Will never buy another vehicle from chrysler. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10258415
Engine & cooling

Chrysler 2.7 Liter engine complaint. 2001 Sebring lxi. 77,000 Miles. Didn't pass inspection. Emissions and visible smoke coming from the tailpipe. Just had the car checked and was advised that the engine needs a lot of work. Advised that the 2.7 Engine has had many problems. Many people have filed complaints. I am adding my name to the list of people that are complaining. Bottom line is I was told that I could fix all that is wrong and engine will still fail. I was told that the engine needs to be replaced. I should not have a smoking engine at 77,000 miles. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10256373
Engine & cooling

Tl*the contact owns a 2001 chrysler sebring. Intermittently, the vehicle experiences catastrophic engine failure. The vehicle also locks up without warning. The contact's son is a mechanic and inspected the vehicle with the oil dipstick. He started the engine and heard a knocking sound, and then the vehicle shut off. The manufacturer advised the contact to take the vehicle to an authorized dealer for a diagnostic; however, the contact would be responsible for the expenses. The failure mileage was 60,100.

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10253605
Engine & coolingElectrical system

Tl*the contact owns a 2001 chrysler sebring. Whenever the contact comes to a complete stop, the vehicle will suddenly shut off. Occasionally, the vehicle does not immediately restart. He also noticed that the vehicle would suddenly stall while accelerating past 60 mph. In addition, the radio and instrument panel lights stop working whenever the check engine indicator illuminates. The vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealer. The current and failure mileages were 82,000. Updated 11/28/08 *bf the...

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consumer believed the camshaft sensor was rubbing the wiring causing it to heat the wiring under the protective shield and slowly grounding out the electrical system. Updated 12/02/08.*Jb

Filed Incident Engine and engine cooling · Electrical systemNHTSA 10247253
Engine & cooling

Engine failure only 67,000 mi. Caused by defective engine 2.7L. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10245293
Engine & cooling1 injury

Engine failure driving in traffic- just luck I was not hit by another vehicle... Was able to pull over to curbside with forward momentum and then get vehicle towed. Could have been catastrophic on a busy day or on a more crowded highway. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10234467
Engine & cooling

Tl*the contact owns a 2001 chrysler sebring. The contact heard a loud noise coming from the engine while driving. She had a mechanic perform an oil change and remove all of the sludge in the engine. Two days later, while driving 20 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. She was relatively close to her home at the time of the failure; therefore, some of her peers pushed the vehicle back to her house. The mechanic inspected the vehicle and stated that there was a continuous issue with sludge build up and they...

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also noted that the timing chains were failing. The dealer stated that her vin was not included in nhtsa campaign id number 00v299002 (engine and engine cooling:engine). The manufacturer did not provide any assistance. The failure and current mileages were 71,000.

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10225636
Engine & cooling

Smoking (oil burning everywhere) oil pressure switch failed apr. 07. Had major tune up done in aug. 07. Then had battery trouble car died had towed to shop, mec. Checked battery and recharged it said to replace it soon, then the next day heard a ticking noise and a big clunk on my way to work but went to the shop instead they found intermix through-out, head gasket failure. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine coolingNHTSA 10225531
Engine & coolingEquipment & accessories

My 2001 chrysler sebring just stopped running while I was driving down the highway motor had seized up and was junk. *Tr

Filed Incident Engine and engine cooling · EquipmentNHTSA 10221084

Chrysler Sebring engine complaints by year

Sebring engine problems, every year

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Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) complaints and recalls, checked . Complaints are owners' own reports and are not verified. How we use the data

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