1996 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

By Ed Sunkin

The Chrysler Sebring convertible, launched in 1996 as the sister car to the Sebring Coupe, didn’t share many components with the coupe. And, this model was also unique to Chrysler, as unlike most other Chrysler brand cars, no Dodge or ­Plymouth counterpart was offered.

One of the biggest differences in servicing the Sebring convertible from other Chrysler models was its battery location — behind the driver’s side wheel well.

Servicing the first-generation Sebring convertible battery caused quite a bit of complaints from DIYers who had trouble replacing this component, and it created some confusion when it came to charging a dead battery or testing for electrical draws.
Figure 1

(Eventually, Chrysler changed the battery location in its convertible Sebrings to make it more accessible. But, the carmaker continued to use this wheel well location design in other Chrysler vehicle models in years following.)

Chrysler claims battery removal is possible on its first-generation convertibles without removing the driver’s side wheel — providing the vehicle is on a lift.

To remove the battery, make sure that the ignition switch is in the OFF UNLOCKED ...