The 1998 Chrysler Sebring, part of the first generation (1995-2000), offered a blend of American style and European-inspired design. Available as a coupe, sedan, and convertible, it aimed for a balance of sportiness and practicality. Key trims included the LX and LXi. When new, prices typically ranged from $18,000 to $25,000. Its popularity stemmed from its distinct styling, particularly the convertible, and its accessible price point for a stylish personal vehicle.
The Good
The 1998 Sebring offers an attractive, sporty design, especially in convertible form, appealing to emotional desires for open-air freedom. Practically, it provided a comfortable ride, decent fuel economy for its class, and a generally agreeable ownership experience, making it a good value proposition.
The Bad
Potential buyers should be aware of common issues such as transmission problems, electrical gremlins, and interior wear, particularly on seats and trim. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with harsh weather. The 2.5L V6, while powerful, can be prone to oil leaks.
1998 Chrysler Sebring: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L I4 (base coupe)
- 2.5L V6 (sedan, convertible, LXi trims)
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L I4: Approximately 119 hp
- 2.5L V6: Approximately 157 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.0L I4 (Automatic): ~21 MPG city / 29 MPG highway
- 2.5L V6 (Automatic): ~19 MPG city / 27 MPG highway
- Note: Actual mileage may vary based on driving conditions and maintenance.
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.0L I4: Estimated around 10.5 - 11.5 seconds
- 2.5L V6: Estimated around 8.5 - 9.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not typically applicable or recommended for this vehicle.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX: Standard features usually included air conditioning, power windows and locks, AM/FM stereo with cassette, tilt steering wheel, and 15-inch wheels.
- LXi: Often added a more powerful V6 engine, upgraded interior materials (like leather seating), alloy wheels, a premium sound system, cruise control, and sometimes ABS.
- Convertible: Featured a power-operated soft top, which was a significant draw. Coupe and sedan models offered a more traditional body style.
1998 Chrysler Sebring Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| Make | Chrysler |
| Model | Sebring |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Convertible |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | TOLUCA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3332 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 54.80 inches |
| Overall Length | 192.60 inches |
| Overall Width | 70.10 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 106.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 4 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.4-L L-4 DOHC 16V |
| Engine Size | 2.4L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $20,700 |
| Invoice Price | $19,003 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1998 Chrysler Sebring Have?
The 1998 Chrysler Sebring, like many vehicles of its era, has a history of certain common issues that owners should be aware of. One of the most frequently cited problems revolves around the transmission. Automatic transmissions, particularly on models equipped with the 2.5L V6 engine, can exhibit premature wear, leading to slipping, harsh shifting, or outright failure. Regular fluid changes are crucial but may not prevent issues in neglected vehicles.
Engine-related concerns also appear, with oil leaks, especially from the valve covers and the rear main seal on the V6, being quite common. Overheating can occur due to failing water pumps or radiator issues.
Electrical problems are another area to watch. This can manifest as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, intermittent dashboard lights, or issues with the power convertible top mechanism on convertible models. The window regulators are a known weak point.
Interior wear and tear is also typical for a car of this age; seats can develop rips and tears, especially the driver's seat bolster, and plastic trim pieces can become brittle and break.
Rust is a significant concern, especially in regions where roads are salted during winter. Check the rocker panels, wheel wells, and subframes for corrosion.
While there aren't specific widespread recalls unique to the 1998 model year that stand out dramatically, it's always advisable to check the NHTSA database for any applicable recalls. Overall, long-term reliability can be variable; well-maintained examples can be decent, but those that have been neglected are more prone to costly repairs.
Engine-related concerns also appear, with oil leaks, especially from the valve covers and the rear main seal on the V6, being quite common. Overheating can occur due to failing water pumps or radiator issues.
Electrical problems are another area to watch. This can manifest as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, intermittent dashboard lights, or issues with the power convertible top mechanism on convertible models. The window regulators are a known weak point.
Interior wear and tear is also typical for a car of this age; seats can develop rips and tears, especially the driver's seat bolster, and plastic trim pieces can become brittle and break.
Rust is a significant concern, especially in regions where roads are salted during winter. Check the rocker panels, wheel wells, and subframes for corrosion.
While there aren't specific widespread recalls unique to the 1998 model year that stand out dramatically, it's always advisable to check the NHTSA database for any applicable recalls. Overall, long-term reliability can be variable; well-maintained examples can be decent, but those that have been neglected are more prone to costly repairs.
How long will the 1998 Chrysler Sebring last?
Based on owner data and typical maintenance, the 1998 Chrysler Sebring can reasonably be expected to last for 150,000 to 200,000 miles, or roughly 12-16 years of service. However, this is highly dependent on the owner's commitment to regular maintenance. The V6 engine, with diligent oil changes and attention to cooling system health, can be durable. Conversely, the automatic transmission is often the Achilles' heel and may require rebuilding or replacement before the vehicle reaches higher mileage. Neglecting routine services, especially transmission fluid flushes and engine coolant checks, will significantly shorten its lifespan and increase the likelihood of major component failures over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Chrysler Sebring was equipped with technology and safety features that were typical for its class at the time, but modest by today's standards. Standard entertainment usually consisted of an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. An optional CD player was often available, and higher trims like the LXi might have featured a premium Infinity sound system with more speakers, enhancing the audio experience. Basic features like power windows and locks were standard on most trims, with cruise control often included, especially on LXi models.
In terms of driver assistance, the 1998 Sebring was quite basic. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was typically an optional feature, particularly on the V6 models, and highly recommended for improved stopping power and control during emergency braking. Traction control was not a commonly offered feature for this model year.
Safety features included dual front airbags as standard. Seatbelt pre-tensioners were also part of the safety package. The convertible body style, however, inherently offered less structural protection compared to the coupe or sedan, particularly in rollovers, although some bracing was incorporated.
Crash-test ratings for the 1998 Sebring are not readily available from modern, comprehensive sources like the NHTSA's current database. However, contemporary tests from organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA at the time would have provided some indication of its performance. Generally, vehicles from this era were not designed to meet the rigorous safety standards seen today. Expect marginal to fair performance in frontal and side impact tests, with potential for significant injury in more severe collisions. The lack of advanced safety features like side curtain airbags or electronic stability control is a notable absence compared to contemporary vehicles.
In terms of driver assistance, the 1998 Sebring was quite basic. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was typically an optional feature, particularly on the V6 models, and highly recommended for improved stopping power and control during emergency braking. Traction control was not a commonly offered feature for this model year.
Safety features included dual front airbags as standard. Seatbelt pre-tensioners were also part of the safety package. The convertible body style, however, inherently offered less structural protection compared to the coupe or sedan, particularly in rollovers, although some bracing was incorporated.
Crash-test ratings for the 1998 Sebring are not readily available from modern, comprehensive sources like the NHTSA's current database. However, contemporary tests from organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA at the time would have provided some indication of its performance. Generally, vehicles from this era were not designed to meet the rigorous safety standards seen today. Expect marginal to fair performance in frontal and side impact tests, with potential for significant injury in more severe collisions. The lack of advanced safety features like side curtain airbags or electronic stability control is a notable absence compared to contemporary vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Bright White
Emerald Green
Deep Burgundy
Black
Dark Blue
Silver
Light Tan
Medium Grey
Interior Colors
Grey Cloth
Tan Cloth
Black Cloth
Grey Leather
Tan Leather
Black Leather
1998 Chrysler Sebring Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Chrysler Sebring had a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) that generally ranged from approximately $18,000 for a base coupe to over $25,000 for a loaded LXi convertible. Like most vehicles from this era, it experienced significant depreciation in its initial years. Today, the used market prices for a 1998 Sebring are quite low, typically ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, heavily depending on condition, mileage, and body style (convertibles often command a slight premium). Factors affecting its current resale value include the overall condition, maintenance history, presence of rust, and functionality of the power convertible top if applicable. A well-maintained, low-mileage example, especially a convertible, will fetch more than a neglected sedan.
1998 Chrysler Sebring Cost of Ownership
The 1998 Chrysler Sebring is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and lower replacement value. Fuel costs are moderate; the 2.0L I4 is more efficient, while the V6 consumes more gas, but both are reasonable for their class. Maintenance costs are average for a vehicle of this age, with routine services like oil changes and tire rotations being inexpensive. However, be prepared for potential repair costs, especially for transmission issues or electrical gremlins, which can be significant. Overall, it's more economical than a new car but requires diligent maintenance to avoid costly surprises.
1998 Chrysler Sebring Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
16.00 gallons
City Mileage
18 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
27 miles/gallon
1998 Chrysler Sebring Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1998 Chrysler Sebring Recalls & Defects
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower Ball Joint
Recall date
2000-12-18
Recall no.
00v421002
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. IF THE Rubber Boots ON THE Lower Lateral ARM Ball Joints OF THE Front Suspension Were Damaged During Assembly, Dirt and Water CAN Intrude. Also, MMC HAS Added THE Potential OF Leaking Moisture, Which CAN Cause THE Ball Stud TO Corrode.
Consequence
This Condition Could Cause THE Lower Lateral ARM Ball Joint TO Separate, Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash. This Campaign Supercedes Mmc's Previous Safety Recall Campaign, SEE 99v-066.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Lower Lateral ARM Ball Joint FOR Wear. Ball Joints That Exhibit Wear Beyond THE Established Tolerance Will BE Replaced With Newly Designed Lateral ARM Ball Joints. Ball Joints That ARE Within THE Established Tolerance Will BE Cleaned and A Special Sealant Will BE Applied TO Prevent Intrusion OF Moisture.
Notes
Owner Notification Began MAY 21, 2001.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering: Steering Wheel/Handle BAR
Recall date
2001-07-05
Recall no.
01i012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
This IS NOT A Safety Recall IN Accordance With THE Safety Act. However, IT IS Deemed A Safety Improvement Campaign BY THE Agency. Vehicle Description: 1998-1999 Chrysler Sebring JXI Limited Convertibles. THE Steering Column Intermediate Shaft Coupler Pinch Bolt Retaining PIN Could Snag And/Or Fray THE Edge OF THE Driver's Side Floor Mat.
Consequence
This Could Interfere With THE Steering Control OF THE Vehicle.
Remedy
Dealer Will Replace THE Steering Column Intermediate Shaft Coupler Pinch Bolt and Retaining Pin. IN Addition, THE Front Floor Mats Will BE Replaced.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler HAS Decided TO Conduct A Customer Satisfaction Campaign TO Replace THE Steering Column Intermediate Shaft Coupler Pinch Bolt,retaining Pin, E-Clip and THE Front Floor Mats.owners CAN Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-853-1403, Concerning This Program.
Structure:body:roof and Pillars
Recall date
1999-05-06
Recall no.
99i004000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
This IS NOT A Safety Recall IN Accordance With THE Safety Act. However, IT IS Deemed A Safety Improvement Campaign BY THE Agency. Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. IF THE Convertible Top Cover IS NOT Installed Correctly, IT CAN Separate Unexpectedly From THE Vehicle While Driving.
Consequence
IF THE Cover Separates While Driving, IT Could Distract THE Driver Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Owners Will Receive AN Improved Convertible Top Cover Instruction Label and Installation Instructions.
Notes
Daimlerchrysler HAS Decided TO Conduct A Customer Satisfaction Notification TO Send Instruction Labels TO Owners.owners CAN Contact Daimlerchrysler AT 1-800-992-1997.
Vehicle Speed Control
Recall date
1998-03-03
Recall no.
98v045002
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles. THE Dash Panel PAD CAN Shift Interferring With THE Throttle Cable Control.
Consequence
THE Throttle Cable Control Would NOT Return TO Idle Increasing THE Risk OF A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Remove A Portion OF THE Dash Panel PAD SO IT Cannot Interfere With THE Throttle Cable Control.
Notes
Owner Notification Began April 8, 1998.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-992-1997. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Power Train:automatic Transmission:park/Neutral Start Interlock Switch
Recall date
1998-08-06
Recall no.
98v183000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Equipped With Automatic Transmissions. THE Adjustment OF THE Cable Connecting THE Console Shifter Mechanism TO THE Ignition KEY CAN Cause A Trapped KEY Condition Which CAN Result IN A Low Force Required TO Depress THE Shift Button. A Combination OF Applying A Mis-Adjusted Release Button With A Low Force Attempt TO Shift OUT OF Park With THE KEY IN THE Locked Position, CAN Break THE Connecting PIN IN THE Shifter.
Consequence
IF This Happens, THE "ignition-Park" Interlock System Will BE Nonfunctional.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect FOR Proper Operation OF THE System. ANY Vehicles That ARE NOT Functional After THE Inspection Will Have THE Shift Mechanism and Cable Replaced With A "self-Adjusting" Design.
Notes
Owner Notification Began October 26, 1998. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chrysler AT 1-800-992-1997.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2006-10-23
Recall no.
06e088000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Tigas Fuel Pump Modules Manufactured Between June 1 and September 24, 2006, Sold Under Various Brand Names and P/Nos. These Fuel Pump Modules ARE Sold AS Aftermarket FOR USE IN Certain Daimlerchrysler Vehicles Listed Above. Silicone Material Used IN Manufacture OF THE Flapper Valve WAS Out-Of-Specification, Leading TO Excess Swell OF THE Flapper Valve Restricting THE Flow OF Fuel TO THE Fuel Pump Module.
Consequence
Fuel Restriction Could Result IN Loss OF Power And/Or Engine Stall, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
TI Automotive Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Defective Fuel Pump Modules Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 6, 2006. Owners MAY Contact TI Automotive Toll-Free AT 1-877-461-1834.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Fuel Pump Modules and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles BY Daimlerchrysler.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-07-17
Recall no.
06e064000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Tradesonic Combination Lamps Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Passenger Vehicles. Combination Lamps NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence
Lack OF Amber Side Reflectors IN THE Lamps Will Decrease Lighting Visibility TO Other Drivers and MAY Possibly Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Tradesonic Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During July 2006. Owners MAY Contact Tradesonic AT 626-934-8884.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Tradesonic Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2006-11-02
Recall no.
06e091000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Airtex Fuel Pump Modules, P/Nos. E7089m, E7094m, E7113m, and E7129m, Manufactured Between June 1 and September 24, 2006. These Fuel Pump Modules Were Sold AS Aftermarket FOR USE IN Certain Daimlerchrysler Vehicles Listed Above. Silicone Material Used IN Manufacture OF THE Flapper Valve WAS Out-Of-Specification, Leading TO Excess Swell OF THE Flapper Valve Restricting THE Flow OF Fuel TO THE Fuel Pump Module.
Consequence
Fuel Restriction Could Result IN Loss OF Power And/Or Engine Stall, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Airtex Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Defective Fuel Pump Modules Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 18, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Airtex Toll-Free AT 1-866-867-3759.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Fuel Pump Modules and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles BY Daimlerchrysler.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2007-07-26
Recall no.
07e055000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Airtex Fuel Pump Module Assemblies, P/N E7081h, Sold FOR USE AS Replacement Equipment FOR THE Vehicles Listed Above. THE Wall OF THE Flared Fitting OF THE Fuel Pump IS NOT Thick Enough TO Prevent THE Mating Threaded Fittings From Bottoming OUT Before AN Adequate Seal IS Achieved. This Condition MAY Result IN Leakage OF Fuel AT THE Connection OF THE Vehicle Fuel Line and THE Fuel Pump Module Assembly.
Consequence
IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, A Fuel Leak Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Airtex Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Fuel Pumps Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During July 2007. Owners CAN Contact Airtex Automotive AT 800-880-3056.
Notes
Airtex Recall NO. Fp072007-1.this Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Daimlerchrysler or Mitsubishi.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
1998 Chrysler Sebring Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1998 Chrysler Sebring Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 Chrysler Sebring is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Convertible with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Chrysler Sebring Compare to Other Convertible?
In its segment, the 1998 Chrysler Sebring competed against vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Malibu. In terms of performance, the Sebring's V6 offered competitive power, particularly for its time, though perhaps not as refined as some Japanese rivals. The 2.0L four-cylinder was more economy-focused and a bit lackluster.
Features on the Sebring, especially in LXi trim or as a convertible, were often more stylish and provided a sense of flair that competitors sometimes lacked, particularly the convertible's roof. However, competitors like the Accord and Camry often offered more advanced optional technology or slightly better interior ergonomics.
Reliability is where the Sebring often lagged behind its Japanese counterparts. Toyota Camry and Honda Accord of this era are renowned for their bulletproof reliability and longevity, often far exceeding the Sebring's average lifespan, especially concerning transmissions. The Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Malibu were more comparable in terms of reliability, with their own sets of common issues.
Price was a strong point for the Sebring when new, often offering more style for the money compared to similarly equipped rivals. Today, on the used market, the Sebring is extremely affordable, often cheaper than its more reliable counterparts, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers focused on aesthetics.
Recommendations: For those prioritizing reliability and long-term durability above all else, a well-maintained Toyota Camry or Honda Accord from the late 90s would be superior alternatives. If style and open-air driving are paramount and budget is very tight, the Sebring convertible can be a fun choice, but be prepared for potential maintenance. The Ford Taurus offered a larger interior and V6 power, and the Chevrolet Malibu was a competent competitor, though neither typically matches the Sebring's distinct styling appeal.
Features on the Sebring, especially in LXi trim or as a convertible, were often more stylish and provided a sense of flair that competitors sometimes lacked, particularly the convertible's roof. However, competitors like the Accord and Camry often offered more advanced optional technology or slightly better interior ergonomics.
Reliability is where the Sebring often lagged behind its Japanese counterparts. Toyota Camry and Honda Accord of this era are renowned for their bulletproof reliability and longevity, often far exceeding the Sebring's average lifespan, especially concerning transmissions. The Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Malibu were more comparable in terms of reliability, with their own sets of common issues.
Price was a strong point for the Sebring when new, often offering more style for the money compared to similarly equipped rivals. Today, on the used market, the Sebring is extremely affordable, often cheaper than its more reliable counterparts, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers focused on aesthetics.
Recommendations: For those prioritizing reliability and long-term durability above all else, a well-maintained Toyota Camry or Honda Accord from the late 90s would be superior alternatives. If style and open-air driving are paramount and budget is very tight, the Sebring convertible can be a fun choice, but be prepared for potential maintenance. The Ford Taurus offered a larger interior and V6 power, and the Chevrolet Malibu was a competent competitor, though neither typically matches the Sebring's distinct styling appeal.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Chrysler Sebring a Good Convertible?
The 1998 Chrysler Sebring is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize style, particularly the convertible's open-air experience, over absolute long-term reliability. It's a car that appeals to those who want a bit of flair without breaking the bank. It is generally worth buying if acquired at a very low price point and if a thorough pre-purchase inspection reveals no major impending issues, especially with the transmission.
Buying used is the only option today. The convertible trim is the most desirable for its iconic appeal, but also potentially the most costly to maintain due to the power top mechanism. Sedans and coupes offer similar styling cues and mechanicals but lack the convertible's charm. Thorough inspection for rust and transmission health is paramount. It's a car for someone who understands its potential quirks and is prepared for occasional repairs, rather than someone seeking a set-it-and-forget-it mode of transportation.
Buying used is the only option today. The convertible trim is the most desirable for its iconic appeal, but also potentially the most costly to maintain due to the power top mechanism. Sedans and coupes offer similar styling cues and mechanicals but lack the convertible's charm. Thorough inspection for rust and transmission health is paramount. It's a car for someone who understands its potential quirks and is prepared for occasional repairs, rather than someone seeking a set-it-and-forget-it mode of transportation.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.