Chrysler Repair: sebrings, volvo 740 gl, neon 4

Question
I'm thinking of getting a Sebring convertible but have heard of a lot of issues with the transmission. What is your opinion? I'm currently driving a 1989 Volvo 740 GL and really enjoy the ride of that car but my husband's car is dying... and we'd like to get a convertible but he needs a larger car for his work... so we are looking at him taking my car and me getting a convertible. The Sebring seems like a good option... except for people telling me they have bad transmissions? Any particulars years or thoughts you have? I also need a good ergonomically correct car as I have whiplash.

Answer
The particular transmission in use in the sebring convertible has had it's share of problems.  It's called the 604 or 41TE transmission and it is found in everything from the neon 4 speed, stratus, breeze, minivan, and even the non-turbo 95 and newer eclipses with the auto.

The biggest killer of those transmissions is heat and lack of maintenance.  The fluid and filter should be changed no less than every 30,000 miles and you should only use ATF+3 or ATF+4 (preferred) fluid in them.  

It's an electronically controlled transmission which introduces a few more problems including speed sensors, solenoid packs and Transmission control modules that could all act up from time to time.

All in all it's not a horrible car to have but one thing to remember is that it's a convertible and it's going to have more squeeks, rattles and wind noises than most cars.  I've been in a few volvos too so I don't think this will be a big change for you.  Buy a service contract if you're getting it from a dealer and keep it serviced and you should be able to enjoy the wind in your hair and sun on your face.
Doug