Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2009 Chrysler Sebring
The 2009 Chrysler Sebring has notable issues with its fuel system and power train, reflected in recalls and complaints. Fuel gauge inaccuracies and a potentially faulty transmission control module are key concerns. Electrical and braking complaints are also frequent, suggesting minor reliability issues.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2009 Chrysler Sebring has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 43 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #09V047000 INSTRUMENT CLUSTER SOFTWARE/FUEL PUMP MODULE NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V528000 POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE/FUEL PUMP RELAY NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 9 complaints
- Power Train 8 complaints
- Air Bags 6 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 4 complaints
- Engine 4 complaints
- Service Brakes 4 complaints
Of the 43 complaints on file, 3 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 43 complaints, owners report 6 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Fuel gauge mismatch
How to check: Verify fuel gauge reading matches actual fuel level
PCM circuit board breaks
How to check: Ensure transmission shifts smoothly without hesitation
General electrical system faults
How to check: Check all electronic controls and lights function normally
Brake system complaints
How to check: Test brakes for any noise or vibration during stopping
Engine complaints
How to check: Listen for unusual engine noise during operation
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noise or vibrations
Red flag: Loud knocking or persistent noise
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for smooth idling without fluctuations
Red flag: Idling is rough or erratic
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test transmission for smooth gear shifts
Red flag: Hesitation or rough shifting
- 04
Braking
What to check: Apply brakes to test for smooth stopping
Red flag: Vibration or squealing during braking
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Ensure steady acceleration without lag
Red flag: Noticeable delay in power delivery
- 06
Cruise control
What to check: Engage to ensure it stabilizes speed accurately
Red flag: Cruise control does not engage
- 07
Parking
What to check: Check for steering ease and alignment
Red flag: Steering feels heavy or drifts
- 08
Fuel gauge final check
What to check: Verify fuel gauge reading before and after drive
Red flag: Mismatched readings after refueling
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the fuel gauge issue been fixed?
- Any problems with transmission shifting?
- Have electrical issues been repaired?
- Brake system maintenance history?
- Engine repairs or unusual noises noted?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Fuel system repair invoices
- Transmission service records
- Electrical repairs documentation
- Brake service history
- Engine maintenance logs
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2009 Chrysler Sebring at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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