Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 1998 Chrysler Sebring
The 1998 Chrysler Sebring has a varied record, with 267 complaints and 10 recalls. Common issues involve the structure and brakes, and some specific recalls, such as for the fuel pump and lighting, should be reviewed. Due to the diverse data, a thorough inspection is advised for potential buyers.
NHTSA data on file today
The 1998 Chrysler Sebring has 10 NHTSA recall campaigns and 267 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #09E012000 FMVSS 108/AFTERMARKET COMBINATION LAMPS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #07E055000 AFTERMARKET FUEL PUMP MODULE ASSEMBLIES/LEAKS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06E091000 FUEL PUMP MODULES/ENGINE STALL CONDITION NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06E088000 FUEL PUMP/ENGINE STALL CONDITION NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06E064000 FMVSS 108/AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #01I012000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/STEERING COLUMN BOLT/FLOOR MAT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #00V421002 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/LOWER BALL JOINT BOOT NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #99I004000 DAIMLERCHRYSLER/LABEL NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #98V183000 CHRYSLER/IGNITION KEY SHIFT INTERLOCK NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #98V045002 CHRYSLER/THROTTLE PEDAL INTERFERENCE NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Structure 64 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 33 complaints
- Suspension 26 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 22 complaints
- Wheels 22 complaints
- Power Train 21 complaints
Of the 267 complaints on file, 33 report a crash and 5 a fire; across all 267 complaints, owners report 23 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Lower ball joint failure
How to check: Inspect ball joints for corrosion and damage to the rubber boots.
Steering column pinch bolt snag
How to check: Check for fraying or snagging adjacent to driver's floor mat.
Convertible top cover detachment
How to check: Ensure the convertible top cover is securely fastened.
Trapped key condition
How to check: Verify smooth shift from park with ignition key in lock.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Watch for stable idle RPM; check dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Unsteady idle or warning lights.
- 03
Low-speed steering
What to check: Test steering for smoothness and absence of noise.
Red flag: Grinding or excessive play.
- 04
Normal acceleration
What to check: Ensure smooth gear shifts without jerkiness.
Red flag: Delayed or rough shifting.
- 05
Braking
What to check: Test for consistent brake response and absence of noise.
Red flag: Squealing or pulling to one side.
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Watch for engine response and excessive vibration.
Red flag: Unusual vibration or lack of power.
- 07
Ending inspection
What to check: Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle.
Red flag: Puddles or persistent drips.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the convertible top cover ever detached?
- Have the ball joints been replaced?
- Any issues with the steering column?
- Are all recall repairs completed?
- Has the vehicle ever had a fuel leak?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Past maintenance records
- Recall repairs documentation
- Title and registration
- Previous accident reports
- Odometer disclosure statement
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 1998 Chrysler Sebring at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 1998 Chrysler Sebring? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.