Front Seat Belt Retractor problems of the 2000 Chrysler Sebring

On my 2000 Sebring convertible, the seatbelts intermittently lock to the point that they can not be pulled out and used. Other times, they retract while being worn and cannot be released; very uncomfortable. This is an on going problem that is increasing in frequency. Jean hummel.

After taking my 2000 Sebring convertable out of the winter garage storage both front seat belt would not pull out. They are locked inside the seat assembly and unable to be extended or to bucke-up the driver and passenger. Looking on the internet I found this was a common problem that has been filed on this site as well as other auto troubleshooting sites. Both associated fuses were checked and found to be ok. There is a seat belt module between the seats under the console that is part of the circuit and I thought that it would be a good bet to try a new one. A ri crysler dealer refused to allow me to try the fix without purchase of the "electronic" part so I gambled $135 and lost. This was not the solution. A few sites provided stories of dealers proposing diagnostisc and repair esttimates up to $1000 for this problem. I have a hunch that there are hundreds of Sebrings with non-functioning seat belts and folks not able to justify spending $1000 to unstuck the seat belt. Ri seat belt law is now manditiory. I am a lawbreaker if I drive my car in for a reapair. I have had a very bad experience with one Chrysler dealer and am fearful of another. If I knew how to fix this problem myself it would be done but this is a mystery at this point. I am an engineer and can fix most anything so this is not a simple issue.

Contact states the driver and passenger front seat belts were inoperable. Both seat belt retractors have the seat belts locked into place where they could not be moved. The service dealer stated the retractor needed to be replaced in both seats. Also, the manufacturer has been notified of the problem. The consumer did not have the address/phone number of the dealership where the vehicle was purchased*. Daimerchrysler would not authorize repairs. The Chrysler dealer who diagnosed the problem estimated about $1,000 to fix the problem. Manufacturer was not interested in the safety issue.

1. Front seat belts lock preventing use. 2. Front seat belts lock with occupants making difficult to exit. 3. Appt with dealer to repair. . . No resolution at this time.

Driver's restraint jammed. Dealer has inspected vehicle, and ordered replacement part. Part was on back order.