SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, TOP DOESN'T WORK, DIAGNOSIS TIPS...

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My background; I started working on cars at 14 years old, then became a professional mechanic in 1981. My first ASE certification was in 1990 and I became master certified in 1997, becoming Advanced Level or L1 certified in 1999. I have about 40 years experience, even building a few vehicles myself from the ground up. Welding, fabrication, minor engineering, electrical, programming and more.

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

I was hoping the customer would approve further diagnosis so I could dive into this one for you guys. But, it was not meant to be.

[@kellyy4660]

I have an '08 that needs fixing, but haven't found a mechanic I am confident they know what they're doing to fix it. Could be latch motor...but how do I know that's all it is?

[@t4tulip]

Where are the switches ??? I can't read the diagram in the video. I know this is an old video, but I hope you'll see this. I put in a new header latch motor, and everything was working great. The third time I went to put the top down, nothing. The motor isn't running, and I can't get to it because the black metal piece won't come off this time. I'm losing my mind over here. If you can help me out, I would be eternally grateful. I checked all the wires and mended two that were broken, but that wasn't the problem, apparently. The manual doesn't show me any of the switches and I can't find any diagrams online that show me where to locate them. Please help!

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

The switches will be anywhere a latch is nearby, or sometimes near hinges also. If you have a scanner you can force it to run and over ride faulty switches. There is some risk of damage if you aren’t careful though since it will run whether or not it should with a forced over ride. As long as the motor is still working.

[@skyking643]

Jimmy...thanks for posting your video . I just bought a 2009 Chrysler Sebring Limited Convertible-Hardtop is there a "shop manual" available for my car...where can I get one ???? Thanks

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Check out eManualonline, they have a huge library of software you can buy at a reasonable price and download or access as you need it. Tell them I sent you in an email. www.emanualonline.com/?product_country=&product_id=&placement=&adtype=&keyword=emanualonline&gclid=Cj0KCQjwsrWZBhC4ARIsAGGUJuqaDzCoVbWYMjnIRFwpJ2WuwWPoL8Y-4vGrJIszpPNz4EdWhGBr37saApdOEALw_wcB Thank you for watching!

[@angiemorrison2823]

I wish I lived in Florida! My 2008 is currently in the shop… it was fully closed… but trunk won’t latch and the top is only partly locked by the windshield. I’m scared to call the repair shop to check on it

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Yeah, sounds like there might be two separate problems. Hope it works out for you!

[@rtrdrocket1000]

Hello Jimmy My mother has a 2010 Sebring Hardtop that is malfunctioning. Used to work sometimes but once she got it to come down (close) she stopped using it. It’s said it’s not locked and the trunk release won’t work but it’s down. Would a basic OBD scanner work with those codes you’re talking about? Odds are I’ll get that Emanuel you posted in a previous comment and I’ll certain tell them who sent me there to get one. Thank you in advanced!

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

This will need a mid level scan tool to access the top module. It could be done without one, but would take much more time checking circuits with a volt meter to find a bad switch or broken wire. Could just check wires near flex points, hinges and the like.

[@internetexplorer7149]

I’ve got an ‘08 mine won’t lock like it sits flush on the metal hooks but they don’t lock the top I don’t care if it works just wondering where to start to get it to close? Sorry very limited subject matter on this online I mean

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

The header latch sounds like it stopped working. If the top module doesn’t see it state, or position from it’s switch it won’t work it. Or the latch could also have an issue. Might need a bidirectional scan tool to do a force function. If it won’t do that it’s likely a latch failure, which means replacement. As a last resort you might be able to open it up and latch it manually? I’ve never tried it though.

[@richardortz6595]

I have a 2008 sebring convertable when I put the top down it stops and I have to release the button and push it again and the top goes down but the trunk lid will not close unless I leave it set for approx 10 minutes going back up the top closes fine but again the trunk lid will not close unless I let it set I have changed the motor and pump and in the trunk and refilled the fluid but same thing any help would be great

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Usually this means either a switch isn’t showing the correct position, or a wire is broken making the computer think a switch is out of position. Check the wiring in all the areas it flexes the most, near hinges and moving parts. Carefully of course. Hope this helps.

[@bailie30]

I have a 08, when opening the top all windows go down but nothing else happens, any ideas on where to start?

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Adam, if the rear decklid is where it stops, there is something happening with a switch or wire in that area usually. I’d check codes and go from there. I’ll usually use a bidirectional scanner that enables forced operation, which disregards the switch positions, to test the function of the top. Hope this helps.

[@ricardogomez5541]

Hey Jimmy where could I go to get the header latch fixed? The top doesn’t want to go down

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Either the dealer or a good local shop should be able to diagnose and repair the top latches and switches.

[@cc-cc1dc]

My boyfriend has a 2011 Chrysler 200 and it says convertible top malfunction when he goes to put it down. The windows roll down but it doesn’t go all the way down. What do you think that would be?

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

I’d have to check for codes, but usually a broken wire is what I find. The code helps me figure out where usually.

[@frankiefalabella]

I have a 2008 Sebring trunk gets stuck up, sometimes it works fine. where can i get a scan tool to use do you have a model number?

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

I use the TOPDON Phoenix Lite 2 in the shop, capable of helping with the top. It is a bit pricey for a do it yourselfer at $700 or so. But less expensive tools won’t usually give data for a convertible top. I have it on my Amazon store, along with a few other good options.

[@kellyy4660]

I never knew there was any reliable scan tool outside of the dealership for my '08 top. Any guidance on getting the correct tool and access to the correct software?

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Kelly, any scan tool with bidirectional or two way capability should be able to perform a top over ride. All the scan tools I use can do it, but I’d check with Launch or Autel to see which of theirs can do it directly. Thank you!

[@jonahnuetzel4243]

@@JimmyMakingitwork could to put a link to a reliable one that would work for an 08 Jimmy?

[@user-nm8kn3hx7q]

2008 chrysler sebring limited convertible how do I add and bleed the convertible pump , in trunk rear of spare tire

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Need too fluid and a small funnel, sometimes a rubber hose and trickle it in up to the full line. Run the top, recheck the level. If it goes low, likely a hose or cylinder is leaking.

[@user-nm8kn3hx7q]

I can not find the fill hole, where is the fill hole?

[@davehemmingsen833]

Jim, what would I need to do to get an appointment for you to repair my Sebring convertible hardtop? I am in South Carolina and would gladly make the trip. Is there a way to manually close the trunk lid. My top closes but the trunk will not close.

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

You can make an appointment online, but the best method is to call the shop and talk with Katie or Rob. Not sure about transporting the car with the trunk open though? I’d recommend a local dealership if they have a good convertible tech. Usually a bad switch or broken wire in areas where they hinge.

[@robynisrael1156]

So should I take my car into the Chrysler dealership or to a place that replaces convertible tops?

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

The dealership or any good local repair shop should be able to diagnose and repair it for you.

[@rotcivg59]

let top goes up and down but it make a piping noise whenever i put the top back up. any suggestions?

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

It sounds like you may have a problem with hinge or bushing wear at the pivot points? Hard to say without seeing it in person though.

[@jonahnuetzel4243]

Hello I’ve been reading the comments but have my had any thing useful to my situation. I have the 2008 base model convertible and my top is in a stuck down and the deck lid won’t u los más but I can hear the hydraulic pump trying to work it. The car also isn’t saying top fail at any point it just doesn’t unlock for me to electronically or manually open the deck. What should I try to fix this. I’ve tried fuses top modules and unplugged the batter to try and reset my system but nothing seems to work.

[@jonahnuetzel4243]

It’s stuck locked in the up position. The top is currently up as if it were raining.

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

You’ll need a scan tool or a competent local shop that has one to check codes. Most like it’s either low on fluid from a leak, or sees a bad switch signal so won’t move the top. If it is up, best to leave it up for now.

[@speedy7906]

Hi Jimmy the cover pannel isnt flush on one side and doesn't go down or move and gets caught on the convertible rood when we try to put it back on do you know what to do to fix this and how much would it cost if i need to take it to the mechanic

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

It sounds like there could be either something caught in it, or something is worn?

[@speedy7906]

@@JimmyMakingitwork how much would it be to fix it if I were to go to the mechanic

[@speedy7906]

@@JimmyMakingitwork I fixed it thank you Jimmy there was a spring broken in it that held the panel in place to make it flush but I shoved it into the car panel to fix it

[@myciaisha8978]

I attempt to open the top The trunk flipped up and the roof disconnected from the car about 6 inches... I panicked and tried to close it but it didn't move forward ...to close .... I drove with the trunk straight up in the air. Til I found a stop to pull over ... I realized the shelf in the trunk was in the up right position... It was jammed under the partially opened roof... I forced it down... Then the top proceeds to fold into the trunk and the cycle completes no problem... I get home to put the roof up and nothing happens not even a sound .. no window movement nothing...also the trunk lid is unaligned with the car ... What to do ....I have to fix this myself no choice short on cash...

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

It sounds like something is wrong in the latch and the lid is now bent a bit?

[@DualSportDad1]

What scanner did you use on this car?

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

A TOPDON Phoenix Lite 2.

[@davissvhs]

Jimmy where can I find that schematic you are looking at in the video

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

I got it on Identifix. But there should be wiring diagrams and flow charts if you google your application?

[@frankiefalabella]

i have a artidiag pro how can i get the top up

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Hav to bring up the top date in it's ECU and look to see which switch is setting codes and not switching state. If the top doesn't see the correct signal from every switch it will not work the top to avoid damaging it. Once you know which one, look for a broken wire near a flex point, or the switch might be bad.

[@adelmarei5336]

Hi Jimmy, Where are you located? My trunk doesn’t open after the windows go down. If not too far or expensive, I’ll drive with you and fix it :)

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

I’m in Kissimmee Florida.

[@adelmarei5336]

NYC unfortunately. Anyone you know and trust who could help from my area?

[@garysvr2402]

I have an '08 Sebring convertible The trunk opens but the top will not go down it is not opening the release bars but I have no codes coming up on my dash or anything am I supposed to and what is the computer you are using

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

I use a TOPDON scan tool for access to the top module. It will likely have codes related to the latch in one of the mechanisms. Usually I find broken wires where they hinge often. But switches can also go bad.

[@garysvr2402]

Thank you I wish I lived in Florida because I just bring it to you to fix here in Ohio other than the dealer that's the only place we can take it and I hate to take anything to the dealer

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Yeah, they can be expensive. But I’d hope they could fix it correctly most of all! :)

[@theologicallife.....1103]

My top does not open and the runk does not open either, also the top is not locked at the top where it meets the front of the car above the windshield, I cannot understand what it is.

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

This requires a scan tool that can force it to disregard the switches that tell the computer what position everything is on. Likely a bad switch or broken wire makes it go into fail safe to avoid damaging something when it isn’t sure of positions.

[@deonshamoten5410]

Did you get this issue fixed I’m having the same issue car reads top malfunction but latches isn’t latched at the windshield 😩some said it’s the latch motor but I don’t think it’s that

[@theologicallife.....1103]

Nope!

[@theologicallife.....1103]

Nope!

[@billhecht5291]

I bought my daughter a 2008 Sebring and the convertible just started have the same problem as yours I think. It says convertible top in operation but when you hit the button to open it says convertible top malfunction. I just started the journey to see if I can fix it.

[@mecoeddie4141]

What do u use to test mind out

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

You’ll need a scan tool to force open or close, which disregards the switch positions that warn about trunk not opening and things like that. If it works when forced then it’s a matter of finding out which switch doesn’t change when the position does. So a good scan tool with bidirectional capability is required.

[@amymounce7979]

​@@JimmyMakingitwork so as long as it says it is bidirectional it'll work? My 2008 convertible top worked great then it sat for several months bc it has a transmission issue and this was a spare car. Just fixed the transmission issue to find out top won't go down. Figured out the head latch was bad replaced that panel but the trunk part won't open up. The windows go down we don't get the malfunction warning but the trunk won't open we never had an issue until now. Any recommendations? Going to look into the hydraulic pump tomorrow is that in the spare tire area or behind the back seat. Thanks in advance for any and all advice!

[@cindycyr4272]

What year is this Sebring?

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

I believe it is a 2008, but it was a few months ago. If I can help with any questions just let me know.

[@timmorris3216]

Where are you located?

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Tim, I'm in Kissimmee Florida, not far from the rat, errr, mouse. Thanks for watching!

[@donna8854]

where are you located...Jim, your the guy I am looking for

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Central Florida, by appointment only for crowd control reasons. ;)

[@billhecht5291]

Is it possible to purchase this tool and information on the check list? If so where could I find it.

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

The scan tool is available in my Amazon store and the information I got on Identifix. It might be available on google or a similar search engine under Sebring Convertible Top wiring diagram?

[@HorsepowerHouse]

What a piece of crap car. My mother has one (bought it new in 2012). Numerous stupid "electrical" issues like this. Runs fine, but many features do not work, and it's not worth the money to get it all fixed! FAIL, Chrysler!!! 😮‍💨👎

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

Yeah, they are really tuff to keep in great working order.