2008 Chrysler Sebring Has Rough Idle

Diagnosing Causes of Rough Idle in Your 2008 Chrysler Sebring and How to Restore Smooth Performance

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2008 Chrysler Sebring has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2008 Chrysler Sebring has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Brake caliper failure occurs in two different ways, and they create different symptoms.

The caliper can become stuck, in which case it won't release the brake pads. The seized caliper will cause the vehicle to brake constantly on one side, forcing the car to move toward that side. This pulling will be accompanied by a strong odor from one wheel.

Another way calipers fail is by leaking. If the caliper leaks, the brake pedal will feel too easy to push, and will sink all the way to the floor when held. Braking will become less effective the longer this goes on. There may also be brake fluid leaking onto the wheel.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Customers with drum brake systems often specify they have lost braking power, or that the vehicle's brakes are making noise. This is because brake drums do not dissipate heat very well, so the heat from hard braking will cause stress fractures. These fractures make can make noise on the brake shoes as the drum revolves around the shoes. Lastly, the brake shoes may not be problematic, but may cause a grinding noise while stopping. This would indicate the shoes have no braking material left, and the brake shoes must be changed before the vehicle can be safely driven.

Learn more about brake shoe symptoms

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What are the steps to diagnose a rough idle in a 2008 Chrysler Sebring?

When diagnosing a rough idle in a 2008 Chrysler Sebring, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Begin by connecting an OBD II scanner to check for any trouble codes, especially if the check engine light is illuminated, as these codes can guide you toward the root of the problem. Next, inspect the spark plugs and the air intake system for visible signs of wear or blockage, as these components are often culprits in rough idling scenarios. Pay close attention to the ignition coils, as symptoms like engine misfires or stalling can indicate they may need replacement. Additionally, even if misfire codes are present, they can offer valuable insights into potential underlying issues. It's also wise to consider common causes such as fuel system problems or air intake irregularities, which can significantly affect engine performance. Lastly, consult service bulletins for your vehicle model and perform basic checks under the hood, such as ensuring the engine oil level is appropriate, to rule out simple fixes. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the rough idle issue in your Chrysler Sebring.

What are the common causes of a rough idle in a 2008 Chrysler Sebring?

When dealing with a rough idle in a 2008 Chrysler Sebring, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting your vehicle's performance. One of the primary culprits is a vacuum leak, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to unstable engine operation. Additionally, worn or faulty spark plugs can cause misfires, resulting in a rough idle as the engine struggles to maintain a consistent rhythm. Another potential issue is a malfunctioning ignition coil, which is crucial for delivering the spark needed for combustion. Furthermore, if the engine is not receiving the correct balance of air, fuel, and spark, it can exacerbate idling issues. For those who notice the check engine light illuminated, checking for OBD II codes can provide valuable diagnostic information, helping to pinpoint the exact cause of the rough idle. By understanding these common problems, DIYers can take the first steps toward diagnosing and potentially resolving the rough idle in their Chrysler Sebring.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle in my 2008 Chrysler Sebring?

Addressing a rough idle in your 2008 Chrysler Sebring is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and longevity. A rough idle can signal various underlying problems, such as dirty fuel injectors, a clogged air filter, or faulty spark plugs, which, if ignored, may lead to more severe issues like engine misfires or decreased fuel efficiency. The longer you wait to diagnose and fix these symptoms, the greater the risk of incurring costly repairs down the line. Additionally, a rough idle can compromise your vehicle's safety, as it may indicate that the engine is not operating as it should. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these symptoms not only help prevent further damage but also ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently. Therefore, if you notice a rough idle, it is advisable to take action sooner rather than later to avoid potential complications and keep your Chrysler Sebring in optimal condition.

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