Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (service brakes, ABS, rotors and pads, parking brake).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 2001 Chrysler Sebring owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
While driving approximately 30 MPH brake pedal fell apart, causing vehicle to hit a temporary concrete wall in a construction zone. Upon impact, front air bags did not deploy. Driver sustained minor injuries to the head and arms. The rubber grip on the brakes popped off when brakes were applied. Consumer noted the air bags were a design flaw since they didn't deploy even though there are two sensors. Vehicle has been repaired. (father on behalf on son).
Anti-lock brake failure. Hit black ice and started to skid. Applied moderate and then heavy pressure to the brake pedal. Wheels locked up without the anti-lock feature engaging at all, inducing loss of control, resulting in spin and crash.
On Friday June 11, 2010, I was involved in an automobile accident. My car, a Chrysler 2001 Sebring lxi failed to stop when the brakes were applied. I steered the car away from rear-ending the vehicle in front of me avoiding a crash. However, I steered my car between two lanes of stationary traffic.while going into traffic exiting off highway 270. I tried to apply the brakes but the car wouldn't stop. The engine revved up and the car wouldn't stop. My car made contact with a Mini van. My passenger side view mirror struck the Mini van causing damage to both the Mini van and my car. I contacted my insurance company immediately. The driver of the Mini van and I exchanged information and I called a tow truck to tow my car to my home. The following Wednesday June 16, 2010.. Farmers insurance adjuster paul gallagher contacted me. I received a rent-a-car from enterprise leasing. …
This is another example of the oil sludge issue with the Chrysler 2.7 l engine. I bought the car used with low miles, and had my tension arm go out a few months later due to sludge buildup. This second instance came up pretty quickly. The started knocking on hard acceleration, then 2 days later started missing badly going uphill on my way home form work. The engine dies on the downhill side of the most dangerous road in portland (germantown rd.). This is a very steep extremely curvy road and I came all too close to not being able to make the first turn with no power steering or brakes. Making my way down the remainder of the hill was a bit frightening, to say the least. …
In aug 2003 I had my brakes done, I was planning on just changing the pads and turning the rotors but I was told that they were below min specs and had to be replaced. So I replaced them now in April 2004 I had my car in for it's regular oil change and had them do a brake inspection because my car was shaking when I applied the brakes. I was told again that all 4 rotors were below min spec and had to be replaced and they had deep groves in them. I'm not a crazy driver I have not had any speeding ticket or accidents. Ever. I was not told what could be causing these groves or why I will have to replace my rotors for the 2nd time with a car that has only 42K miles on it. I would like to know what is causing these deep groves and how to correct this problem. I have not had them fixed yet as I can't afford it.
Consumer states brake and gas pedal positions are too close. On 10/01/02 consumer was at a red light and unbeknownst the consumer's foot was on both the accelerator and brake pedals. The vehicle rolled forward and a minor collison occurred. Nlm
When the brakes were applied the pedal went to the floor which resulted in extended stopping distance. The dealer was notified. The dealer inspected the brakes system and stated everything was fine.
Tried to stop approx. 1 month ago and first applied barkes, went to floor. I released them and applied them a second time and they stopped me but to avoid a rearend accident, I veered my car to the shoulder. I contacted the service department of tupelo auto sales they asked me where the car was. I told them that it only failed the one time so I was just cautious as I drove on into work. They told me that it would be hard to find until it messed up more often so they could see the problem. I had no more problems until dec. 5th on my way home from work..I started hearing a clanking sound that sounded like I was having a flat tire so I pulled over to check. The tires appeared to be fine. I was only a mile or so from home so I drove on home. Once home, I inspected the underside of the car and the wheels but could not see anything different. …
The following recall is for year 2007 models. My 2001 Chrysler Sebring sedan anti lock brake system (ABS) unit/module is broken and needs to be replaced. I think the recall 06V493000 should apply to older models as well. ............................................................................................................................................................ Following is reference only::: ............................................................................................................................................................ NHTSA campaign number: 06V493000 component(s): service brakes, hydraulic ............................................................................................................................................................ …
Two incidents occurred with subject vehicle, the first on 12/27/01. When approaching an intersection while slowing for a traffic light, the car lurched forward and accelerated. I immediately applied the brakes but the car continued to move foward toward a double parked vehicle. After pushing hard on the brakes while pulling my body up off the seat, the car finally stopped. I brought the car to the dealership and they could not find any problem. The next mishap occurred on 1/27/02, wherein I was to back out of my driveway. I had my foot on the brake pedal while shifting the car into reverse. The 2001 Sebring convertible lurched but could not move because my foot was on the brake pedal. This being the second time, I calmly placed the car in park. …
Brake complaints in other Sebring years
Frequently asked questions
How common are brake problems on the 2001 Chrysler Sebring?
NHTSA has 24 complaints about the brakes of the 2001 Chrysler Sebring, 6% of the model year's 387 complaints. The component named most often is foundation components (4 mentions).
Is there a recall for 2001 Chrysler Sebring brake problems?
No. NHTSA lists no brakes recall for the 2001 Chrysler Sebring, though it has 9 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 2001 Chrysler Sebring brake problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 39,000 miles, and 29% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 5 crashes, 0 fires and 5 injuries to brakes problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.