Chrysler Pt cruiser problems

The Chrysler PT Cruiser is a compact car that was built by the American company Chrysler from 2001 until 2010. Introduced as a five-door hatchback wagon, a two-door convertible variant was also made from 2005 until 2008.
Originally planned as a Plymouth model, the PT Cruiser was ultimately marketed as a Chrysler when Plymouth was discontinued. Intended to invoke 1930s aesthetics, the exterior of the PT Cruiser was designed by Bryan Nesbitt. The model received an intermediate facelift for the 2006 model year. Interior packaging was noted for its high roof, high h-point seating, and flexible cargo and passenger configurations enabled by a multi-level rear cargo shelf and rear seats a user could fold, tumble, or remove.
The PT Cruiser was produced in Mexico and Austria at the Toluca Car Assembly and Eurostar Automobilwerk factories. By the end of production in July 2010, worldwide production had reached 1.35 million.
In its nameplate, PT stands for "Personal Transport" or "Personal Transportation". PT was the PT Cruiser's product code for the Mexican-made units.
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Chrysler Pt cruiser model years
Common Chrysler Pt cruiser problems
The Chrysler PT Cruiser has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.
One of the most common engine problems is engine misfiring, which is especially prevalent in some of the older models. This issue is due to a design fault with the spark plugs, which can cause poor idling and engine misfires. Chrysler addressed this issue by issuing new spark plugs, and fixing the problem is mainly a matter of sourcing and fitting them.
Another engine problem is the engine not engaging, which is often caused by a worn or damaged flywheel. This issue can lead to rapid wear and burnout of the starter motor, so it is crucial to replace the flywheel and starter motor quickly if this problem is encountered.
Starting problems are also common with the Chrysler PT Cruiser, particularly when the engine is cold. This issue is most likely caused by a faulty camshaft position sensor, which monitors the camshaft position and speed and feeds that information back to the Engine Control Unit. If the ECU doesn't have access to this information, it will switch off fuel and spark delivery, resulting in engine failure.
The clutch slave cylinder can also fail on the PT Cruiser, leading to a weak or sagging clutch pedal. This issue can result in an inability to change gears, and it is a relatively simple fix that requires replacing the clutch slave cylinder.
Interior rattling is another common problem, particularly around the passenger side wheel arch area. This issue is due to a poorly fitted dashboard, and it can be fixed by removing the glove box and packing around the area behind the dashboard.
Other common problems with the Chrysler PT Cruiser include faulty ignition, faulty engine, and poor build quality.
What is the biggest problem with a PT Cruiser?
Worst Issues
- cracked dashboard in the 2001 PT Cruiser. ...
- chrome wheels peel causing air leakage in the 2001 PT Cruiser. ...
- engine stalls/shuts off while driving in the 2006 PT Cruiser. ...
- misfiring and check engine light on in the 2005 PT Cruiser. ...
- engine light on in the 2007 PT Cruiser.
What was the bad year for the PT Cruiser?
PT Cruiser owners have made 823 complaints about the 2001–2010 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 24th out of 29 Chrysler generations in overall reliability , with real engine and electrical concerns.
Is the PT Cruiser a reliable car?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 14% for the Chrysler PT Cruiser, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
How many miles will a PT Cruiser last?
PT Cruiser drivers typically report a minimum lifespan of 200,000 miles, with maximum lifespans extending well past 250,000 miles. But, you're unlikely to see 300,000 on the odometer in a used model, as you can't vouch for the previous owner's maintenance habits. Expect to reach 250,000 on the original powertrain.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chrysler Pt cruiser years
We have researched Chrysler problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chrysler Pt cruiser cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chrysler Pt cruiser model years:
- Chrysler Pt cruiser 2001
- Chrysler Pt cruiser 2002
- Chrysler Pt cruiser 2006
- Chrysler Pt cruiser 2003
- Chrysler Pt cruiser 2005
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chrysler Pt cruiser model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chrysler Pt cruiser years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chrysler Pt cruiser car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chrysler Pt cruiser , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chrysler Pt cruiser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Pt cruiser model years
A total of 199 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Pt cruiser model years
There were a total of 109 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Pt cruiser model years
There were a total of 219 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Pt cruiser model years
There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2607 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chrysler Pt cruiser . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chrysler Pt cruiser vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 3C4FY58B95T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle started shaking with and an abnormal odor emanating through the vents. Additionally, the steering wheel became firm. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the power steering system needed to be repaired because the hose was disconnected. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage unknown.
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 3C4FY58B95T
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. The contact stated that while the A/C defroster was activated, there was no air blowing through the vents. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the blower motor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 194,000.
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-15
- VIN: 3C4FY58B73T
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Front seat belt doesn't engage after many attempts.
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-15
- VIN: 3C4FY58B73T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHen the fog lights are engaged, smoke and burning smell appears to be coming inside the steering wheel on the left side.
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: 3C8FY68B83T
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The clutch will not disengage every time and never fully disengages. I noticed my car had a recall for this problem in the past, so before doing the work, I called a dealer for Chrysler and was informed that the recall had already been performed. So I took it upon myself at my own expense to have the clutch replaced. It worked fine for a few months, but it started doing the same thing again.
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-20
- VIN: 3C4FY48BX2T
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. The contact stated that the rear quarter glass fasteners on both sides of the vehicle had started to separate from the vehicle. The contact stated that the windows were violently shaking while driving at various speeds. The contact was concerned that the windows might fall out while driving and cause injury to a pedestrian. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-12
- VIN: 3C8FY68BX4T
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I purchased the 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser on 1/10/2024. I learned that the Chrysler Dealership does not make keys for the vehicle when locked out, nor does it Service the vehicle. They will "address" a Recall Notice and will do an oil change and will do an inspection only. Chrysler Dealership told me to "Come back tomorrow" when a Recall Notice was issued and they said it was not Safety Related, however a Power Steering Pressure Hose was found to be leaking/exploding oil and this IS a safety related issue. I was rear ended 1/23/24 with 2 dogs in the car. I did not purchase Uninsured Motorists Insurance because I thought under CA State Law that I was legally compliant with insurance I had purchased. I thought between two cars in a potential accident, one had to be able to cover fault for any reason if not both equally. I was told by my Insurance to go after the other Man's Insurance, even if he was not the driver and this did not seem right. The other Man's Insurance Policy had lapsed and I was told there is no coverage for being rear ended. The man said I hit him and said something about "not seeing" the light or turn signal which I demonstrated for functionality. Vehicle has been given different assessments and inspections from 1/10 when purchased to present. I paid $500 at one AAA ASE Facility and $15,000 out of Retirment plus hotel for 3 weeks for the vehicle "dying" and the problem cannot be identified. Car is doing weird things mechanically and no one can locate the problem. There is unaddressed Body Damage where the Rear Left Light (plastic and housing) broke. The vehicle has to have body repair and a new light ordered at a cost greater than what is available through an Auto Dismantler. Chrysler does not make parts for this vehicle. There was rust and corrosion in coolant and metal found in Transmission. I paid full price for a used Transmission. I need someone to review traffic footage to determine when the window went down and dog went out and why
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-28
- VIN: 3A8FY48B78T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: Problems reside in the total integrated power management module. TPIM whereas vehicle will shut off while driving. No indicator lights to give warning before the vehicle shuts off. Has on occasion shut off and recovered power multiple times within a minute This is a very dangerous scenario to conduct a road test or have someone confirm the issue on the road.
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-20
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-31
- VIN: 3C8FY68B72T
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, she could smell fuel in the interior of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who located a fuel leak on the fuel trail line. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 02V215000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 138,000.
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-24
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-24
- VIN: 3C4FY58B23T
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Chrysler equipped with Douglas, Tire line: Dug Xtra-Trac II, Tire size: 205/55R/16 91T and DOT number: N60FN11R. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed that the vehicle started to perform slowly when the front passenger side tire inadvertently exploded. No warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Walmart where the tire was replaced. The contact stated that the front passenger side tire started to leak air. The contact then stated that she noticed that a bubble had developed on the sidewall of the tire. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 157920.
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-11
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-11
- VIN: 3C8FY68B22T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Hello My name is [XXX]. I own a 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser and for some reason the power steering went out while I was driving! I was able to make it home because I wasn’t far away! My power steering stopped out of no where and my fluid is full and my belt is attached I was also told my pump was in great condition! I’m really concerned because I had my 6 year old child in the car! I now can’t make appointments work or even take my child to school I’m in need for help! INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-05
- VIN: 3a8fy58b06t
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Air bag warning light on
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-30
- VIN: 3C3EY45XX5T
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The car (manual 5-speed) has issues going into reverse and hits hard shifting into other gears. I see where online it shows this issue happened quite a bit with the 2002 PT Cruiser. I don't drive my care every day and I keep it maintained very well. I have not had any accidents in it so I believe this may also be a recall issue.
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-17
- Date Complaint: 2022-07-13
- VIN: 3C4FY4BB81T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The electrical system is malfunctioning the fans do not kick on at all,even after reaching temperature.Even when the "Air" condition is turned on full blast or the "Heater" it doesn't matter which one is used it still doesn't engage the "Fan".
Chrysler Pt cruiser 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-17
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-17
- VIN: 3a4fy48b07t
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I'm driving along, cruise set to 65. Ac on. Radio on. No sounds or weird feels from the car. Every light on the dash comes on. They went off after two seconds, with the seatbelt light being last to shut off. Then the car hits 113k miles about ten miles later and just... shuts off. All gauges drop to zero. Ac shuts off. Radio still playing. Full tank of gas. Headlights still on, brakes worked, power steering worked, and emergency flashers worked. I managed to get out of traffic and pull over without causing an accident. I turn the radio off and turn the key off for a few minutes. It cranked right back up and ran a little rough for a moment before smoothing out. I drove home without incident, but kept the radio and cruise off. And stayed under 65. Thankfully, traffic was light. The car has not been fixed as of this posting, nor has it been seen by anyone due to the weekend. Unsure of when I can get it fixed due to finances, but if this happens in heavy traffic or on one of many roads with no shoulder, lives will be at risk.
Latest 5 recalls Chrysler Pt cruiser
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 25 recalls for different components of the Chrysler Pt cruiser.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Chrysler Pt cruiser 2002
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Model: Chrysler Pt cruiser 2004
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Model: Chrysler Pt cruiser 2003
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Model: Chrysler Pt cruiser 2005
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Model: Chrysler Pt cruiser 2001
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Latest negative Chrysler Pt cruiser car reviews
Latest positive Chrysler Pt cruiser car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2001
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my 2001 PT Cruiser Limited Edition that I bought back in March 2002. I got a really good deal on it since it was last year's model and the 2002's were already out. I have to say, it's been such a fun car to drive! The acceleration is better than many V-6 engines I've driven (5-speed). Plus, there's plenty of room for tall adults in both the front and back, and lots of storage space too. I absolutely love the look and design of both the interior and exterior. Even though I've only put 6,000 miles on it so far, it's been a really reliable car.
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Vehicle year: 2009
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I'm really impressed with these vehicles. In fact, I loved my first PT so much that I bought another one to replace it. And guess what? The PT I found at this private dealership is actually ONE of the 500 that were made! It's a Sunset Boulevard Street Edition PT Cruiser, and it's absolutely gorgeous. I'm so excited to call it mine!
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Vehicle year: 2001
Hi there! I wanted to share with you that my husband and I are proud owners of two PT's - one from 2001 and the other from 2002, which we purchased just a month apart. We absolutely love them and have been enjoying them for about three years now. I wanted to share a story with you - I was recently rear-ended by a young girl going 55 mph, but thankfully, neither me nor my PT suffered any damage. It's amazing how sturdy these cars are!
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Vehicle year: 2006
Hey there! I wanted to share my experience with the GT wagon. I found that it rides and handles exceptionally well, and once you get the turbo to wake up, it accelerates briskly. Although the riding position is surprisingly high, I got used to it fairly quickly. I noticed that not many people have the turbo and a stick, so I thought I'd share my thoughts. Also, I'm happy to report that my mpg is a lot better than what I've read here - I'm getting around 22-23 combined on 89 octane. Lastly, I wanted to mention that with these cars out of production, the resale value is sinking rapidly, which is great news for potential buyers. I purchased mine with 56k miles and it's still very tight and rattle-free. Thanks for reading!
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Vehicle year: 2002
Your first car is always special, and I can tell that your 2002 Pt Cruiser Limited edition automatic held a special place in your heart. Despite not being your first choice, you fell in love with it and had some great experiences with it. You purchased it from a dealership in 2013 and it served you well with its amazing durability and smooth driving. Although you had a few accidents in it, it held up well until unfortunately a deer totaled it with 119,000 miles on it. Overall, it sounds like you had a great time with your Pt Cruiser and it will always hold a special place in your memories.
Barney Doyle 2025-07-27
Vehicle year: 2005
After owning the car for 3 years, I have mixed feelings. Coming from a background of driving Honda/Subaru products, I had high expectations and unfortunately, Chrysler failed to meet the bar. However, I must say that the dealership has been very helpful and accommodating. Although I have had to visit them at least once a month since getting the car, they have been able to fix several control arms, molding items, and various suspension components that broke during the first few years of ownership. Additionally, I noticed a significant improvement in fuel economy right around 10,000 miles, where both city and highway miles doubled.
Kraig Kuhn 2025-07-25
Vehicle year: 2002
This was my first car, a 2002 PT Cruiser Touring Edition with an automatic transmission. I absolutely loved this car! I purchased it at 127,000 miles and it performed amazingly in the snow and on long trips. Unfortunately, once it hit 160,000 miles, it started to experience some issues. The timing belt went out, which cost around $1,000 to fix. We ended up putting over $2,000 into it, but 6 months later it broke down again. Then, 3 months after that, it broke down again. Despite these issues, overall it was a good car until the miles got up there. It's worth noting that it has a horrible resale value and the value decreases very quickly. However, if it has low miles, it's a great car that's also very roomy.
Toy Jerde 2025-07-24
Vehicle year: 2005
I've owned this car for three years and unfortunately, I've had a lot of issues with it. The door seals have had to be replaced six times in just 6,000 miles, and the fuel economy has been terrible from the very beginning, with only 15 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway, even though I was told by the dealer that it would improve with driving. Despite driving 21,000 miles, the fuel economy has not improved at all. I did have a new stereo installed at 8,000 miles and new wheel bearings at 19,000 miles, but the car has been in the shop frequently. Although the car is very attractive in Inferno Red and was quite expensive at $34,000, it seems that it is not a high-end model like the 300M, Aspen, or Crossfire. Unfortunately, Chrysler has not been helpful in resolving these issues, and they do not offer rental cars. In contrast, my 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe company car has been very reliable and has excellent gas mileage. Hyundai also honors their warranty. I'm disappointed with the PT Cruiser and have decided to park it until the lease is up.
Torrey Russel 2025-07-22
Vehicle year: 2003
Unfortunately, we purchased this car when it was on Consumer Reports
Gerard Keebler 2025-07-19
Vehicle year: 2010
I am extremely disappointed with my used 2008 car. Despite having only 12,000 miles, I have already experienced multiple issues, including a dead alternator and a loose wire. Even after taking it to the dealership for repairs, the speedometer is still not working. As a result, I have lost confidence in this car and am hesitant to take it on long trips. This is a stark contrast to my previous 2002 car, which I loved and trusted. It is frustrating to have to deal with these issues and I expect better reliability from a car of this caliber.