1997 Chrysler Sebring Problems

A valve in the fuel pump assembly of the Sebring can cause sudden power loss.pompe ?? essence image by Jerome Dancette from Fotolia.com

The 1997 Chrysler Sebring was offered in two versions: a convertible and a coup. The Sebring gave drivers a sporty alternative to other mid-size cars. A few recalls on 1997 Sebrings have created some unsafe operating conditions for anyone driving or riding in the vehicle. All of these recalls can be repaired by a Chrysler dealer's service department free of charge.

Fuel Pump

Some fuel pumps in 1997 Chrysler Sebrings were manufactured by Airtex. These fuel pumps feature a flapper valve that was not made within correct specifications for the fuel pump system. The flapper valve can swell too much, causing a decreased flow of gas to the car's engine. In some cases the gas flow to the engine can become completely cut off. The sudden loss of power could cause the power steering and other systems in the car to seize, which could result in an accident. The effected Chrysler Sebrings were recalled in 2006.

In 1997, Chrysler issued a recall on 1997 Chrysler Sebrings for a potential problem with the lower ball joint on the vehicle. If the boot surrounding the lower control arm-ball joint cracks, the lubricants in the boot can leak out. The lower ball joint can then suddenly separate, resulting in the vehicle not responding to the steering wheel's movements. A potentially effected 1997 Chrysler Sebring can be taken to a dealer's service department, where a technician will examine the lower ball-joint boot for damage. If damage is found, the dealer will replace the ball joint.

On all 1997 Chrysler Sebrings, a defect was found with the passenger front-seat headrest. A guide bracket on the seat back was not properly welded to the seat's frame. In a collision, the bracket can break, causing the head restraint to come loose. The result could be injury from the exposed metal, spinal injuries from the lack of a head restraint, or other personal injury risks. If the vehicle is taken to a Chrysler dealer, the seat back will be replaced with a new one.

In 1998, Chrysler issued a recall for 1997 Sebrings equipped with automatic transmissions. A defect in the transmission can cause the key to become trapped in the ignition when the transmission is in park. Drivers attempting to move the gear selector out of the park position can inadvertently break a connecting pin in the gear selector, causing the gear selector to cease functioning.