Before you buy
This 2002 Chrysler Sebring has 234 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Engine Problems.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2002 Chrysler Sebring Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 8 2002 Chrysler Sebring trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 8 trims analysed.
2002 Chrysler Sebring Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program3 variants tested — showing 2002 Chrysler Sebring ConvertibleOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
Not RatedFrontal Crash
Not RatedSide Crash
Not RatedRollover
Not RatedSource: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
CHRYSLER SEBRING 2002 has 234 NHTSA complaints, with engine problems (63) and suspension failures (45) as top concerns. It also has 5 recalls and 18 crash-related complaints. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Chrysler
- Model
- Sebring
- Model year
- 2002
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 234
- Crash-related complaints
- 18
- Safety recall campaigns
- 5
- Top reported component
- Engine Problems
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 21
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 19 / 26
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- Electronic stability control
- No
Common problems
Most common 2002 Chrysler Sebring problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Engine Problems
Suspension Failures
Transmission / Drivetrain
Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Suspension Failures, Transmission / Drivetrain. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2002 Chrysler Sebring?
The 2002 Sebring is a high-risk purchase due to frequent engine and suspension complaints. Only consider if thoroughly inspected and priced accordingly.
Engine and suspension failures can lead to costly repairs and safety concerns, making pre-purchase inspection critical.
May Suit
Budget-conscious buyers willing to accept higher maintenance risk and have a trusted mechanic.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking reliable daily transportation or those unable to absorb unexpected repair costs.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2002 Chrysler Sebring
Inspection Focus
- Inspect engine for unusual noises, leaks, and check engine light.
- Check suspension components for wear, especially struts and control arms.
- Test transmission for smooth shifting and any slipping.
Before You Close the Deal
- Have a mechanic inspect engine for common issues.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for suspension and transmission repairs.
- Test drive to check for steering and brake anomalies.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2002 Chrysler Sebring, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2002 Chrysler Sebring shows a high volume of owner complaints, particularly for engine problems (63) and suspension failures (45). With 5 recalls and 18 crash-related complaints, buyers should approach this model year with caution. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Compared to later model years, the 2002 Sebring has a notably high complaint count, especially for engine and suspension.
Recall context: With 5 recalls, verify all recall repairs were completed before purchase.
- Engine problems account for 63 complaints, the highest of any component.
- Suspension failures total 45 complaints, indicating a common issue.
- 18 crash-related complaints suggest potential safety implications.
- Engine Problems (63 complaints)
- Suspension Failures (45 complaints)
- Transmission / Drivetrain (30 complaints)
Full breakdown
All 2002 Chrysler Sebring complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2002 Chrysler Sebring. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 63 | 1 | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 45 | 3 | 1 | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 30 | 1 | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 24 | 3 | 1 | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 18 | 7 | 1 | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 17 | — | 2 | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 14 | 1 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 13 | 1 | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 13 | — | — | — | |
| Hydraulic | 12 | 1 | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 9 | 2 | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 8 | 2 | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 4 | 1 | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 3 | — | 1 | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment Adaptive/Mobility | 2 | 1 | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2002 Chrysler Sebring. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
Rear Disc Brakes.I had a repair shop and a dealership assess what they both found to be what's called a Backplate.It mounts onto both Left and Right Spindles.The Backplate on Left and Right hold or guide the Pads in place on both sides of the caliper.The pins show to be almost ru…
ONCE I TURN ON THE CAR THE AIRBAG LIGHT GOES ON AND OFF CONSTANTLY
WHEN UR DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD THE ENGINE JUST SHUTS DOWN LIKE U TURNED OFF THE KEY. IT ISN'T OVER HEATING AND NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT SO I CANNOT FIGURE OUT WHY IT KEEPS DOING THIS AND IT HAS A NEW BATTERY . I JUST BOUGHT THE CAR. *TR
I HAVE ATTACHED THE PAPERWORK 4 MY 2002 CHRYSLER SEBRING. AS YOU CAN SEE MY FIRST PAYMENT WAS APRIL 13TH 2018 THIS WAS MY DEPOSIT $700. AGAIN ON APRIL 24TH I PAID ANOTHER $600. MAY 20TH I PAID ANOTHER $700. JUNE 5TH I PAID $105. JUNE 5TH IS WHEN I TOOK POSSESSION OF THE CAR. JULY…
2002 CHRYSLER SEBRING. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO FOLLOW UP ON MULTIPLE MECHANICAL ISSUES CASE . *AS *TR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 CHRYSLER SEBRING. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A TURN, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CRASH INTO A CONCRETE DIVIDER. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTA…
VEHICLE WAS RUNNING WELL AND WELL MAINTAINED. THEN HAD ISSUES STARTING AND SUDDENLY DIED WITHOUT WARNING. SEEMS TO BE A SIMILAR ENGINE FAILURE OF THESE MODELS.
I TAKE GOOD CARE OF MY CAR IT'S MY ONLY TRANSPORTATION TO TAKE MY NEW BORN BACK AND FORTH TO OUR APPOINTMENTS I BRING MY CAR IN EVERY 4 MOTHS TO MAKE SURE MY CAR IS STILL SAFE FOR MY CHILD. MY ENGINE KNOCKS IT'S REALLY LOUD 3 DIFFERENT PEOPLE TOLD ME 3 DIFFERENT THINGS SO I BROU…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHRYSLER SEBRING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS NOT OPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
BALL JOINTS BROKE RIGHT AND LEFT FRONT.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHRYSLER SEBRING. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, A LOUD POPPING AND ROLLING NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE DASHBOARD. THE CONTACT NOTICED PIECES OF THE DASHBOARD FALLING AND CRACKING FROM THE DRIVER TO THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE TOW…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHRYSLER SEBRING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, THE REAR DRIVER SIDE WHEEL SLIGHTLY SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THE ALL FOUR BALL JOINTS AND STRUTS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. IN ADDITI…
CAR COMPLETELY STALLED WHEN DRIVING ON HIGHWAY. MECHANIC SAID IT WAS EXTREMELY COMMON IN THESE CARS.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHRYSLER SEBRING CONVERTIBLE. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER WITHOUT WARNING . IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT SMOKE FUMES APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER AND …
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHRYSLER SEBRING. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, THE DRIVER SIDE TIE ROD FRACTURED AND THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TIE ROD WAS REPLACED. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE VEHICLE HESITATED…
ON MAY 17,2010 WHILE DRIVING TO COLLEGE, I NOTICED A LOUD WHINING ROUGH SOUND, AND EVERY TIME I HIT A BUMP IT WOULD SOUND LIKE SOMETHING WAS LOOSE COMING FROM MY TIRES. BEFORE, I COULD STOP TO SEE WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS, MY STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND MY CAR RAN OFF THE ROAD WHEN I …
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHRYSLER SEBRING SEDAN. WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH, THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 12…
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 CHRYSLER SEBRING. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH. THE AIR BAG ON THE DRIVER SIDE EXPLODED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED AWAY. THE DRIVER HAD METAL FRAGMENTS IN THE ARM AS A RESULT OF THE EXPLOSION. BOTH …
I HAVE ALWAYS HAD ISSUES WITH THE BALL JOINT ON THE CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLY CAN FAIL CAUSING THE BALL STUD TO WEAR THROUGH THE CONTROL ARM HOUSING RESULTING IN NOISE AND/OR SEPARATION OF THE BALL STUD FROM THE HOUSING. CONSEQUENCE: THE FEDERAL-MOGUL HAS NEVER NOTIFIED ME AS OWNER…
I DROVE INTO A GAS STATION AND AS I PULLED IN THE TIRE SOUNDED AS IF IT WAS FLAT I CHECKED IT AND IT LOOKED FINE.I TRIED TO DRIVE OF AND THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE WHEEL DID NOT MOVE.I REMOVED THE TIRE IN THE PARKING LOT TO TRY AND FIND OUT WHAT WAS WRONG, I COULDN'T SEE ANY VISUAL I…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2002 Chrysler Sebring.
Safety recalls
2002 Chrysler Sebring recalls
5 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2002 Chrysler Sebring. With 5 recalls, verify all recall repairs were completed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2002 Chrysler Sebring buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2002 Chrysler Sebring reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 234 owner complaints, 18 crash-related complaints, and 5 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2002 Sebring is a high-risk purchase due to frequent engine and suspension complaints. Only consider if thoroughly inspected and priced accordingly. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2002 Chrysler Sebring?▾
#1: Engine Problems (63 complaints). #2: Suspension Failures (45 complaints). #3: Transmission / Drivetrain (30 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2002 Chrysler Sebring?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2002 Chrysler Sebring?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2002 Chrysler Sebring, NHTSA complaints include 18 crash-related reports and 5 fire reports out of 234 total complaints. 18 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2002 Chrysler Sebring have any recalls?▾
Yes. 5 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2002 Chrysler Sebring. A major recall area is AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE. With 5 recalls, verify all recall repairs were completed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2002 Chrysler Sebring?▾
The 2002 Sebring is a high-risk purchase due to frequent engine and suspension complaints. Only consider if thoroughly inspected and priced accordingly. Engine and suspension failures can lead to costly repairs and safety concerns, making pre-purchase inspection critical. Pay extra attention to Engine Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpectorAI.
Wider context: See the full Chrysler Sebring reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2002 Chrysler Sebring based on your ownership experience.
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.