🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chrysler Model: Sebring Year: 1998 Codes Platform Code: JA Chassis Type: Unibody 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size coupe/convertible/sedan Original Purpose: To provide a stylish, front-wheel-drive alternative in the popular mid-size segment, offering both coupe and convertible variants. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Toyota Camry Solara (later models), Honda Accord Coupe/Sedan Key Features Design: Distinctive cab-forward design, available in coupe, convertible, and later sedan body styles. Engine Option: Primary focus on V6 engine for performance and refinement. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas All Models Covered: Yes (all Sebring variants for 1998) Repair Scope: A-Z (comprehensive repair and maintenance) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul for all 1998 Sebring engines (2.5L V6) Transmission: Service, repair, and overhaul for automatic transmission (e.g., 41TE) Brakes: Disc and drum brake systems, ABS diagnostics and repair Suspension Steering: Front and rear suspension components, steering system, alignment specifications Electrical: Complete electrical schematics, component testing, diagnosis of lighting, ignition, charging systems HVAC: Air conditioning, heating, and ventilation system service and repair Body Interior: Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, seat mechanisms, glass Diagnostics: Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic procedures for all major systems Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups Repair: Component-level repair, system overhauls, troubleshooting specific faults Overhaul: Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures Diagnostic Codes: OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation Wiring Diagrams: Detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle circuits Technical Depth Depth: Technician-level, detailed specifications, torque values, clearance measurements, diagnostic procedures Target Audience: Professional technicians, experienced DIY mechanics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Printed Print Quality Quality: High-resolution printing, clear diagrams and text Binding Type Binding: Durable binding (e.g., spiral-bound or perfect bound) suitable for shop use Paper Type Paper: Heavy-duty paper stock designed to withstand shop environments ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: ECL Engine Type: SOHC V6 Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2507 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84.5 mm x 73.3 mm Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 Horsepower: 164 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque: 217 Nm (160 lb-ft) @ 4400 rpm Performance Fuel Requirement: Unleaded Regular (87 octane) Fuel System Injection: Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine Management ECU Type: Chrysler's Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Ignition System: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack arrangement 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-speed Automatic Transaxle Model: 41TE / 42LE (depending on specific application and drive system) Optional Type: Manual Transaxle (less common for 1998 Sebring models, primarily the Dodge Avenger) Features Fluid Type: ATF+4 (Mopar) Gear Ratios: Specific ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 1st: 2.81, 2nd: 1.57, 3rd: 1.00, Rev: 2.20) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 103.7 inches (2634 mm) Length: 187.9 inches (4773 mm) Width: 70.4 inches (1788 mm) Height: 54.7 inches (1390 mm) (Coupe), 53.5 inches (1359 mm) (Convertible) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3100 - 3300 lbs (depending on body style and options) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Refer to vehicle placard Towing Capacity: Not recommended Wheels Tires Wheel Size: 15 or 16 inch alloy wheels Tire Size: P205/60R15 or P205/55R16 (depending on trim and wheels) Bolt Pattern: 5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches) Lug Nut Torque: 100 ft-lbs (135 Nm) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Refer to NHTSA records for specific model year; likely 3 or 4 star ratings IIHS Ratings: Refer to IIHS records for specific model year Active Features ABS: Standard or optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional Traction Control System (TCS) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags Seat Belts: 3-point front and rear seat belts 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim. Climate Control: Manual or optional automatic climate control. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional cruise control. Connectivity OBD Interface: OBD-II compliant for emissions and diagnostic scanning. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (conventional oil) / 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil) Air Filter Replacement: Every 15,000-30,000 miles Spark Plug Replacement: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type) Transmission Fluid Change: Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter (2.5L V6) Engine Oil Type: API SG, SH, or SJ certified, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations) Coolant Capacity: Approximately 7.5 quarts (7.1 liters) (2.5L V6) Coolant Type: Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant or equivalent Brake Fluid: DOT 3 Known Issues Engine: Timing belt inspection/replacement (crucial for V6 engine to prevent catastrophic failure), potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, intake manifold gaskets. Transmission: The 41TE/42LE can be prone to issues with solenoids or torque converter clutch (TCC) failure if not...
Approximately 3100 - 3300 lbs (depending on body style and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard
Towing Capacity:
Not recommended
Wheels Tires
Wheel Size:
15 or 16 inch alloy wheels
Tire Size:
P205/60R15 or P205/55R16 (depending on trim and wheels)
Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
Lug Nut Torque:
100 ft-lbs (135 Nm)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Refer to NHTSA records for specific model year; likely 3 or 4 star ratings
IIHS Ratings:
Refer to IIHS records for specific model year
Active Features
ABS:
Standard or optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control.
Connectivity
OBD Interface:
OBD-II compliant for emissions and diagnostic scanning.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (conventional oil) / 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months (synthetic oil)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on driving conditions)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter (2.5L V6)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, or SJ certified, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for climate-specific recommendations)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 quarts (7.1 liters) (2.5L V6)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler/Mopar HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant or equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Engine:
Timing belt inspection/replacement (crucial for V6 engine to prevent catastrophic failure), potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, intake manifold gaskets.
Transmission:
The 41TE/42LE can be prone to issues with solenoids or torque converter clutch (TCC) failure if not maintained.
Electrical:
Power window motors, power lock actuators, and HVAC blower motor are common failure points.
Suspension:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can lead to steering looseness and tire wear.
Body Convertible Specific:
Convertible top hydraulic system leaks or motor failures; weatherstripping degradation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chrysler Legacy:
Chrysler has a long history of producing stylish and often innovative vehicles, particularly known for luxury and performance in earlier eras, transitioning to more mainstream offerings.
Model Evolution
First Generation:
The Chrysler Sebring debuted in 1995 as a coupe, followed by a convertible in 1996, replacing the Chrysler LeBaron. The 1998 model year represents the second year of the first generation (JA platform).
Platform Sharing:
The JA platform was also used for the Dodge Avenger and the Eagle Talon, though Sebring had a more distinct Chrysler identity.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
Production Years:
1995-2000 (First Generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Reception:
The Sebring was generally well-received for its styling and V6 power, especially the convertible model, offering a more accessible price point than some luxury competitors.
Specific Awards:
While specific awards for the 1998 model are not prominently documented, Chrysler models of this era often received praise for design and feature content relative to their price.