Chrysler Sebring Rear Brake Drum Guide: 1995-2001
Everything you need to know before replacing the rear brake drums on your first-generation Chrysler Sebring.
- You MUST verify if your Sebring is a Coupe or Convertible/Sedan before buying, as the brake drums are not interchangeable.
- For best results and safety, always replace drums, shoes, and hardware springs at the same time and in pairs.
- Symptoms like a rear-end vibration when braking, grinding noises, or a weak parking brake point to worn drums.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Bendix, Raybestos, and Centric offer excellent performance and value for this vehicle.
Is Your Sebring Telling You It Needs New Drums?
Worn-out or damaged brake drums create obvious symptoms. Ignoring them can reduce stopping power and lead to more expensive repairs. Listen and feel for these common signs.
- Vibration or Pulsing: If you feel a pulsing in the brake pedal or a vibration from the rear of the car when braking, the drums may be "out-of-round" and no longer perfectly circular.
- Scraping or Grinding Noises: A metallic scraping or grinding sound from the rear wheels is a serious sign. It often means the brake shoes are completely worn and metal is grinding against the drum, damaging it.
- Weak Parking Brake: If the parking brake handle pulls up much higher than it used to or doesn't hold the car securely, it can be a sign of worn shoes or drums.
- Visible Damage: When you have the wheel off, inspect the drum. Deep grooves, cracks, or a large lip on the outer edge mean the drum is worn out and must be replaced.
CRITICAL: Coupe vs. Convertible/Sedan Models
The most important thing to know when buying brake parts for a 1995-2001 Sebring is that the Coupe is a different vehicle from the Convertible. The Coupe was built on a Mitsubishi platform, while the Convertible was built on a Chrysler platform. Brake drums are NOT interchangeable between them. Always verify the part is listed for your specific body style (Coupe or Convertible) before ordering.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Drum
For a vehicle of this age, original OEM Mopar drums are likely hard to find and not necessary for safe, reliable braking. Quality aftermarket drums meet or exceed original specifications and offer excellent value. Some owners have even found that good aftermarket parts can solve noise problems that were common with the original brakes. Aftermarket drums are typically balanced to prevent vibration and are ready to install without any extra machining.
Brand Quality Tiers
While all listed brands will work, they generally fall into different quality tiers based on reputation and materials.
- Premium Brands (Bendix, Raybestos): These brands have a long-standing reputation for quality. They are often considered equivalent to or better than original equipment and are a top choice for longevity and performance.
- Standard / Daily Driver Brands (Centric, Beck Arnley, Dynamic Friction): These brands offer a great balance of quality and price. Centric, in particular, is a popular choice known for good performance for the money. Beck Arnley focuses on meeting OE form and fit, while Dynamic Friction drums are noted to be mill-balanced to reduce vibration.
- Economy Brands (Pronto): Economy-tier parts are the most affordable option to get your car back on the road safely. While they meet basic safety standards, they may not have the same long-term durability or corrosion resistance as higher-priced options.
Pro Tip: Always Replace in Pairs
Brake drums, like brake shoes and rotors, must always be replaced in pairs (both rear wheels at the same time). Replacing only one side will cause a dangerous braking imbalance, making the car pull to one side when you stop. For best results, install new brake shoes and a new hardware spring kit along with your new drums.
Estimated Costs for Brake Drum Replacement
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Brake Drums (Pair) | $70 - $155 |
| Brake Shoes & Hardware Kit | $40 - $80 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $260 - $485 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to replace my brake shoes with the drums?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Installing old, worn shoes with new drums will cause poor performance and can damage the new drums quickly. For the best and safest results, always replace the drums, shoes, and hardware kit together.
Is replacing rear brake drums a good DIY job?
This job is possible for a DIYer with some mechanical experience, but it is more complex than changing disc brake pads. The system contains many springs and clips under tension. Special tools like brake spring pliers can make the job much easier and safer. If you are not comfortable, it is best to have a professional mechanic do the work.
What is the self-adjuster?
The self-adjuster is a small mechanism inside the drum that automatically adjusts the shoes to keep them close to the drum surface as they wear down. This ensures your brake pedal feels consistent. It's important to clean and lubricate this part when changing your brakes.
Were there any recalls for the 1995-2001 Sebring brakes?
Searches of the NHTSA database did not show any specific recalls for the rear brake drums on the 1995-2001 Chrysler Sebring. Some owners have reported persistent squeaking or grinding noises, which were often resolved by cleaning the brake assembly or replacing the brake shoes with quality aftermarket parts.
Technical Specifications
Fitment is specific to Coupe or Convertible/Sedan models. Drums are for the rear axle only.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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