A Guide to the Drum Brake Hardware Kit for the 1995-2001 Chrysler Sebring
Eliminate brake noise and restore your parking brake by replacing the small parts that matter most.
- You MUST verify if your Sebring is a Coupe or a Convertible/Sedan before ordering; the parts are not interchangeable.
- Always replace the drum brake hardware kit as a set when installing new brake shoes to ensure safety and prevent noise.
- All listed aftermarket brands (Carlson, Centric, Dorman, etc.) offer reliable, standard-quality replacements for this vehicle.
- Symptoms like a weak parking brake, dragging, or scraping noises from the rear wheels point to worn hardware and shoes.
Critical First Step: Is Your Sebring a Coupe or a Convertible/Sedan?
Before you buy any brake parts, you must know if your 1995-2001 Sebring is a Coupe or a Convertible/Sedan. The Coupe was built on a Mitsubishi platform, while the Convertible and Sedan were built on a Chrysler platform. The rear brake systems are completely different, and the parts are not interchangeable. Always verify the part you are ordering is for your specific body style.
Symptoms of a Worn Drum Brake Hardware Kit
Failing hardware can cause a range of issues, from annoying noises to safety concerns. Since the hardware is always replaced with the brake shoes, these symptoms often point to a complete rear brake job being needed.
- Scraping or Clicking Noises: Weak or broken springs can allow the brake shoes to shift, causing metallic clicking or scraping sounds from the rear wheels, especially during braking.
- Dragging Brakes: If the return springs are rusted or weak, they may not be strong enough to pull the brake shoes away from the drum after you release the pedal. This causes the brakes to drag, which can lead to overheating and poor fuel economy.
- Weak or Ineffective Parking Brake: The hardware is essential for the parking brake mechanism. If the lever and springs are worn, the parking brake may not hold the car securely.
- Loud Bang After Parking: In damp weather, a shoe held loosely by weak hardware can rust to the drum overnight. When you first drive away, it breaks free with a loud pop or bang.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
For a vehicle from this era, original equipment (OEM) Mopar hardware is generally unavailable. The good news is that aftermarket brands provide quality, affordable solutions. All the listed brands—Carlson, Centric, Dorman, Dynamic Friction, and Raybestos—are well-known suppliers of reliable "daily driver" quality parts. For a simple mechanical kit like this, there is little practical difference in quality or performance between these brands. They are all designed to meet or exceed original factory specifications. The most important factor is ensuring you buy a complete kit for your specific vehicle model (Coupe or Convertible/Sedan) and that you replace it whenever you install new brake shoes.
Pro Tip: Always buy a new hardware kit when replacing your brake shoes. Reusing old, fatigued springs with new shoes is a common cause of noise and adjustment problems down the road. The small cost of a new kit is cheap insurance for a quiet and properly functioning brake job.
Estimated Replacement Costs
The cost consists of the parts and the workshop labor to install them. Labor for a rear drum brake job, which includes the hardware, typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Drum Hardware Kit | $15 - $31 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $300 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Hardware Only) | $165 - $331 |
| Note: This cost is typically part of a full rear brake shoe replacement. | See our guide on Brake Shoes for full job cost. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I really need to replace the hardware with my brake shoes?
Yes, absolutely. Industry experts agree that to ensure maximum performance and safety, the hardware should be replaced every time the brake shoes are. The springs endure thousands of heat cycles and can lose their tension, even if they don't look broken. Reusing them is a common cause of brake noise and performance issues.
What parts are included in a typical drum brake hardware kit?
A complete kit includes all the small, wearable parts for both rear wheels. This typically contains brake shoe return springs, hold-down springs, retainer clips, pins, and sometimes the parking brake lever springs and self-adjuster components.
Can I just buy the one spring that broke?
While possible, it is not recommended. If one spring has failed from age and fatigue, the others are likely in similar condition. Replacing the complete kit for both wheels at the same time ensures a balanced, safe, and long-lasting repair.
Is replacing the drum brake hardware a good DIY job?
For an experienced DIY mechanic, this is a manageable job. However, it is more complex than changing disc brake pads because of the numerous high-tension springs. Special tools like brake spring pliers and a hold-down spring tool make the job much easier and safer. If you are not comfortable working with strong springs, it's best to have a professional do the work.
Technical Specifications
Kit components vary. Order based on your vehicle's specific year and sub-model (Coupe or Convertible/Sedan) to ensure correct fitment.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Chrysler Sebring: