Chrysler
Sebring
Ford
Fusion
Chrysler Sebring vs Ford Fusion: 2018 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Ford Fusion comes out ahead of the Chrysler Sebring on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Sebring
Overall
Overwhelmingly negative sentiment across the community. The Sebring is consistently described as one of the worst, most unreliable vehicles ever produced, with frequent mentions of it being a "pile of shit," a "dumpster fire," and the "reigning POS" in the Chrysler lineup. This reputation is attributed to widespread mechanical failures, poor build quality, and a general lack of durability.
Best version to buy
The 1995-2000 coupe variant is identified as the best version. It is noted as being a completely different vehicle: a rebadged Mitsubishi Eclipse with a Mitsubishi-built drivetrain (2.4L I4 or 3.0L V6), which is considered significantly more reliable than the later Chrysler-engineered models.
Known issues
- ⚠Severe engine problems (2.7L V6): notorious for oil sludge, internal failure, and being a "disaster." Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠General unreliability: described as having constant mechanical issues, leaving owners stranded, and being a "reliability disaster." Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Transmission failures: automatic transmissions noted for common problems and complete failure. Frequency: recurrent.
Fusion
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on the specific powertrain and generation. The Fusion is widely praised for its value proposition, offering a comfortable, quiet, and refined ride with a well-equipped interior at a price point often significantly lower than Japanese competitors like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. Long-term owner reports frequently highlight satisfaction with the vehicle's driving dynamics, comfort for long commutes, and overall build quality when purchased used at a good price.
Known issues
- ⚠**6F35 automatic transmission problems**: Rough shifting (especially 1-2, 2-3), laggy throttle response, premature failure requiring replacement. Sensitivity to incorrect or degraded fluid. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠**Ecoboost engine reliability concerns**: Higher incidence of issues compared to the 2.5L and hybrid powertrains. Carbon buildup on direct-injection engines (2014+ non-turbo?)*. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠**Internal water pump failure (V6 engines)**: The water pump is located inside the engine timing cover. Failure can lead to coolant mixing with oil and catastrophic engine damage. A noted maintenance item around 100,000+ miles.
The verdict
The Ford Fusion is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Chrysler Sebring, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Chrysler Sebring is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chrysler Sebring or the Ford Fusion?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chrysler Sebring and the Ford Fusion. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chrysler Sebring or the Ford Fusion?
The Ford Fusion seats more passengers than the Chrysler Sebring on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Chrysler Sebring is classed as a Cabriolet, the Ford Fusion as a Sedan.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chrysler Sebring or the Ford Fusion?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chrysler Sebring or the Ford Fusion?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Chrysler Sebring than the Ford Fusion. See the known issues comparison above.