2002 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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Common 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser problems
The Chrysler PT Cruiser, produced from 2001 to 2010, has been known for several common problems that have affected its reliability and overall performance.
- Dashboard Cracking: The 2001 model of the PT Cruiser is particularly prone to dashboard cracking, which can be a significant inconvenience and affect the car's aesthetics.
- Electrical Issues: Electrical problems, such as battery draining quickly, malfunctioning radio LEDs, and faulty cruise control and auto-locking systems, have been reported in the PT Cruiser, particularly in the 2002 model.
- Gearbox Failures: Some PT Cruiser owners have experienced gearbox failures, which can cause the gears to slip or the clutch to chatter, accompanied by a burning smell.
- Cooling System Problems: Cooling system issues, such as overheating, have been reported in the PT Cruiser, which can be caused by a faulty cooling fan motor, bad thermostat, clogged radiator, or bad radiator cap.
- Suspension and Gearbox Problems: Owners have also reported suspension and gearbox problems, which can be spotted on a test drive or by paying someone who knows what they are looking for to crawl underneath the car and check for wear and tear.
- Air Bag Faults: Air bag faults have been reported in the PT Cruiser, which can be tricky to rectify.
- Fuel Line and Fuel Pump Faults: There have been recalls on the PT Cruiser range due to fuel line and fuel pump faults, which can pose a risk of leakage in the event of a roll-over accident.
- Control Arm Bushings: Suspension problems, such as bad control arm bushings, are fairly common in the PT Cruiser, which can cause clunking noises from the rear when driving over bumps.
- Crankshaft Position Sensor: A bad crankshaft position sensor can cause the code P0340 and driveability issues, including stalling.
- Timing Belt: The PT Cruiser has a timing belt that needs to be replaced at recommended intervals, which can be labor-intensive and costly.
- Powertrain: The PT Cruiser has a cramped engine compartment, making it difficult to work on, and the car's reliability is below average, with many complaints about electrical, front-end, engine, and other problems.
- Low Resale Value: Due to its reliability reputation and aging design, the PT Cruiser might have lower resale value compared to more reliable and updated models.
- Transmission Choices: Transmission choices include a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, which can have their own set of issues.
These common problems with the Chrysler PT Cruiser can affect the car's performance, reliability, and overall value, making it essential for potential buyers to be aware of them before making a purchase decision.
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.
How long do 2002 PT Cruisers last?
The estimated lifespan of a Chrysler Pt Cruiser is 179,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
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 a PT Cruiser a good reliable car?
Chrysler PT Cruiser Reliability Rating Breakdown. The Chrysler PT Cruiser Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 30th out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $641 which means it has average ownership costs.
Is the Chrysler PT Cruiser reliable?
The Chrysler PT Cruiser Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 30th out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $641 which means it has average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average and the frequency of those issues is low, so major repairs are uncommon for the 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.
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.
How long do 2002 PT Cruisers last?
The estimated lifespan of a Chrysler Pt Cruiser is 179,000mi, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Fuel type is a major factor when looking into a vehicles lifespan/life expectancy.
2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chrysler Pt cruiser problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Steering problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser
The NHTSA has received 525 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser vehicles.
2024-06-20
VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-13
- 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.
2023-07-31
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-20
- 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.
2023-06-11
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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).
2021-11-21
STEERING,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-13
- VIN: 3C8FY68B52T
- Components: STEERING,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Answers and explanations to all of the above questions: My power steering assembly is leaking pretty bad and is only getting worse. I have a bad shoulder that I had surgery on and if it goes completely out I am afraid i wont be able to turn the steering wheel & cause an accident. The rims on the vehicle are cracked/cracking & I believe one has a hole or 2 & another 1 is forming one. It's also scratching & ruining the rotors. Its not the pads they are fine but I need at least 1 new rotor & can't because the rims are defective causing it to happen again which can easily damage the calipers locking up the wheel causing a crash plus sometimes theres a loud crunching noise not grinding like the pads are bad cause they are not. I know the difference. The trac off & airbag lights are on then they go off then come back on again.The dashboard is cracked and it caused the vent to break where anything can get in it.The clear coat is peeling and yet the paint under it is in great shape.I also believe that the instrument cluster is causing the lights to come on the dashboard.The vehicle can be picked up when ever you have a spot open for it. I would like 48 hours notice due to work. This is a safety issue if the power steering goes while driving I cant steer it because I didn't know it was leaking it went out and I was stuck blocking traffic and couldn't turn it the passenger had to do it for me, If the rims get worse or hole bigger it can crack or break in half while I am driving. The defrost vent is open to particles that can get in there that shouldn't. The airbag light on could be a defect or the air bags defective. Nothing has been inspected on it since I just found out when looking up this make, year and model a price on power steering to find out there's a recall on it as well as other issues. There were no warnings and the only code that came up was the high fan relay switch. Since then the trac off light goes on and off as well as airbag light and now is currently on.
2021-07-27
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3C8FY68B42T
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: While driving the vehicle I could begin to smell a strong odor of gas them almost like the smell of plastic melting and the vehicle engine started running hot temperature so I immediately turned off the engine as I pulled over to the side of the road and as I stepped out of the car aflame began under the hood and ended up burning my entire engine. Fire department had to come and extinguish the car.
2021-01-04
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-02
- VIN: 3C8FY68B42T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE AIR BAG SENSOR WARNING LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. AN UNKNOWN DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE BUT, NO ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.
2019-10-28
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3C8FY68B32T
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: DROVE THE VEHICLE 12 MILES TO GET HOME. (THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY) IMMEDIATELY TURNING OFF ENGINE AFTER MAKING IT HOME. POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKAGE (BIG LEAK) FROM HOSE AND SMOKE SMELL FROM UNDER HOOD. (ENGINE LOOKS CHARD)
2019-08-08
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-21
- VIN: 3C8FY68B72T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
- Summary: MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT GOES OFF AND ON. CRANKSHAFT AND CAMSHAFT SENSORS WERE READING AS THE ISSUE ACCORDING TO THE ODOMETER CODE SYSTEM.. MY CAR SHUTS OFF AT ANYTIME EVEN WHILE DRIVING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. MY BATTERY TERMINAL SEEMS TO BE WEAK POSSIBLY HAVING SHORTAGE MOMENTS FROM TIME TO TIME. MY VEHICHLE WILL PULL ONE WAY OR THE OTHER. MY BREAKS FEEL LIKE THERE GOING TO GIVE OUT OR ARE BRAND KNEW . MY VEHICHLE MAKES A NOISE AS IF THE FRONT CV AXELS OR BALL JOINTS NEED TO BE GREASED. MY WIRING AND ENGINE IS MY MAIN CONCERN. MY AC DOESN'T WORK MY RADIATOR SEAL HAS BEEN REPLACED MY CAR WILL MAKE A GUZZLING NOICE DUE TO THE COOLANT . THE LIST GOES ON. I BOUGHT MY VEHICHLE APPROX. 4MONTHS AGO. THE ISSUES HAVE PROGRESSED OVER THE PAST MONTH.
2019-07-22
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-01
- VIN: 3C8FY68B12T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: UPON STARTING VEHICLE ALL WARNING TEST LIGHTS SUCH AS AIRBAG,OIL PRESSURE ETC. COME ON AS NORMAL,BUT OFTEN THE RED "AIRBAG" LIGHT STAYS ON INDEFINITELY OR GOES OFF THEN BELLS AND "AIRBAG" RED LIGHT REAPPEAR AND STAY ON 5 TO 10,SECONDS THEN GO OFF EVERY FEW MINUTES FOR SEVERAL SECONDS. THIS SEEMS TO OCCUR WHEN I AM IN 1000 TO 1500, LOW ROOMS LIKE WHEN I'M SLOWING TO MAKE A STOP.YESTERDAY, THE AIRBAG LIGHT STAYED ON THE ENTIRE 20 MINUTE TRIP. I TOOK CAR IN FOR REPAIR ON MY OWN $ BUT PROBLEM RETURNED. PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED AT ALL,HIGHWAY AND STREET SPEEDS BUT MOSTLY WITH DECELERATION TURNING THE AIRBAG OFF. VERY DANGEROUS. WHY HAVEN'T YOU PUT THE PT CRUISER ON THE AIRBAG RECALL LIST? I BOUGHT THE CAR NEW IN 2002 AND AM,THE SOLE OWNER.
2019-06-12
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-11
- VIN: 3C8FY68B52T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HIGH BEAM HEAD LAMPS WOULD ILLUMINATE RANDOMLY DAY OR NIGHT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED AT LEAST SIX TIMES IN ONE WEEK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH THAT CONTROLLED THE HEADLIGHTS WAS REPLACED BY HIM. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE PLASTIC CLIP HOLDING THE ELECTRICAL HARNESS TO THE SWITCH HAD BURNED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 153,000.
2019-04-13
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-01
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT WITH MY WIFE AND I AND IT ALMOST TOOK OUR LIVES BUT I WAS ABLE TO GET OUT OF IT ALIVE AND THE INSURANCE AND THE ATTORNEYS GAVE ME SOME MONEY SO I WENT OUT AND BOUGHT ME A CHRYSLER PT CRUISER FOR $4, 700 FOR A 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER FROM LARRY H MILLER HONDA I STARTED HAVING OVERHEATING ISSUES RIGHT AFTER I PURCHASED IT FROM THEM AND EVENTUALLY BLEW THE HEAD GASKET IN IT NOT KNOWING THAT THE WATER PUMP WAS ALSO GOING IN IT I HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS FROM THE FIRST DAY I BOUGHT IT I SPENT MY WHOLE $4, 700 FROM MY SETTLEMENT TO GET THIS VEHICLE AND I HAVE NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS ON IT'S GOT 60, 000 MILES ON IT AND IT'S IT'S IN MY BACKYARD MY WIFE AND I DON'T HAVE A VEHICLE BECAUSE THIS OVERHEATED AND CAUSED IT TO BLOW THE HEAD GASKET I CHANGE THE WATER PUMP TIMING BELT EVERYTHING AND THEN IT BLEW A HEAD GASKET PLEASE HELP ME MY WIFE AND I ARE STUCK BECAUSE WE HAVE NO WAY TO GETTING AROUND AND I'M NOT ABLE TO WORK BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE A VEHICLE WE STRUGGLED SINCE OUR AUTO ACCIDENT AND THIS IS JUST BEEN ONE HURDLE THAT WE ARE NOT ABLE TO GET OVER IT PLEASE HELP ME
2019-03-15
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-27
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Number Of Deaths: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3C4FY58B22T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL THIS VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A T-BONE ACCIDENT IN WHICH DRIVERS SIDE BACK SEAT TO REAR HATCH WAS T-BONED. BOTH FRONT AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AT IMPACT. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG WAS PRISTINE WHITE WITHOUT ANY FRAY WHEN DEFLATED. THE DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG WAS FULL OF GUN SHOT RESIDUE AND BAG FRAYED. THE DRIVERS SEAT BELT WAS BURNED (BELT WAS CHARRED) ONTO DRIVERS CHEST AND THERE WAS AN APPARENT PUNCTURE WOUND LEFT OF CENTER CHEST AND MY SIGNIFICANT OTHER WAS DECEASED. THIS HAPPENED JAN 27, 2019. I'M WAITING ON CERTIFIED REPORTS FROM LA COUNTY CORONER AND CHP. DUE END MARCH, EARLY APRIL. *DSY
2018-01-17
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-01
- VIN: 3C8FY68B92T
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: DOME LIGHTS DO NOT ALWAYS GO OUT WHEN DOORS ARE CLOSED. SOMETIMES DOME LIGHTS COME ON WHEN SIGNALS ARE USED. COULD RUN BATTERY DONE IF NOT NOTICED
2017-12-28
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-22
- VIN: 3C4FY48B12T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MY LIGHTS SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING. NOT ONLY DID MY HEADLIGHTS SHUT OFF BUT MY DASH BOARD LIGHTS AND THE LIGHTS ON MY GEAR SHIFT DID AS WELL. MY DOORS WILL NOT LOCK AS WELL.
2017-11-13
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-17
- VIN: 3C8FY68B82T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: VEHICLE RECALLED IN 2004 FOR POWER STEERING PRESSURE HOSE LEAK POTENTIAL. RECALL WAS COMPLETED. POWER STEERING PRESSURE HOSE IS NOW LEAKING. CHRYSLER WILL NOT HONOR A REPAIR.
2017-06-16
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-10
- VIN: 3C8FY68BX2T
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TAKARA RECALL. WHILE CHANGING UPPER AND LOWER MOTOR MOUNT I NOTICED SUB FRAME ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE WAS ROTTED AND AFTER I PUT MOUNTS IN THE CAR PULLS WHEN ACCELERATING
2017-03-25
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-24
- VIN: 3C4FY58B22T
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: ON RETURNING HOME FROM AN EVENT IN THE EVENING I PARKED MY VEHICLE IN THE GARAGE. I TURNED OFF LIGHTS AND THEN THE IGNITION AND EVERYTHING SHUT DOWN EXCEPT THE FOG LIGHTS STAYED ON (THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY SHUT OFF). I NEVER HAD THE FOG LIGHTS ON THAT EVENING. I TRIED VARIOUS A TEMPS I.E. PUSHING THE BUTTEN IN, TURNING THE VEHICLE ON AND THEN OFF AGAIN, ETC., BUT DID NOT HAVE ANY SUCCESS. MY WIFE WENT ONLINE AND FOUND (FROM MANY PEOPLE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THEIR PT CRUSIERS) TO PUT THE LEFT TURN SIGNAL ON, SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE, THEN PUSH THE FOG LIGHT BUTTEN IN. THIS WORKED SO THAT I DIDN'T WAKE UP TO A DEAD BATTERY. IF YOU GO ONLINE YOU WILL FIND MANY PEOPLE WHO OWN PT CRUISERS WITH THE IDENTICAL PROBLEM INCLUDING SOME HAVING SMOKE COMING FROM THE MULTI FUNCTION SWITCH. I HOPE TO HEAR FROM SOMEONE SOON!!
2017-03-02
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3C4FY58BX2T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL: I WAS DRIVING NORTH, TURNING RIGHT ON A 20 MPH CURVE, WHEN SOMEONE HEADING SOUTH, TURNED LEFT ON THE CURVE, WENT OVER THE LINE AND HIT ME HEAD ON. WHEN I CAME TO, I HEARD MYSELF SCREAMING THAT I WAS ON FIRE! ( BUT MY CAR WAS NOT ON FIRE.) THEN I DIDN'T REMEMBER ANYTHING UNTIL I WOKE UP IN THE HOSPITAL. I WAS COVERED IN THIS HOT POWDERY SUBSTANCE AND I HAD BURNS WHERE EVER MY SKIN WAS SHOWING. I HAD CUTS EVERYWHERE AND DARK MARKS IN MY SKIN FOR YEARS. I HAD CORNEAL SCRATCHES AND IRRITATED EYES TOO, ALONG WITH DISLOCATED JAW, SEAT BELT INJURIES AND A FEW OTHER INJURIES. MY TMJ SPECIALIST REALIZED I HAD METAL IN MY FACE, LOOKING AT MY MRI. A FEW DAYS AFTER THE MRI, MY FACE SWELLED UP ON THE RIGHT SIDE, MY RIGHT EYE WAS SWOLLEN SHUT AND MY FACE HAD A HUGE BUMP WHERE THE METAL FESTERED UP FROM THE MRI, THE ER LANCED IT OPEN, FOUND PARTICALS BUT DIDN'T DO A BIOPSY, JUST THREW IT AWAY. I NEVER HAD FACE SURGERY OR ANYTHING LIKE THAT AND IT WAS TOO HIGH ON MY CHEEK TO BE FROM DENTAL WORK. I HAVE DOCUMENTS ON ACCIDENT REPORTS, DRS DOCUMENTS, X RAYS, MRI'S SHOWING THE BLOOM OF METAL HIDING MY BROKEN JAW. I HAVE PICTURES TOO OF ME AND DEPLOYED AIRBAGS. ALTHOUGH I DON'T HAVE THEM HERE TO SCAN. HOPEFULLY I CAN COME BACK TO MY FORM AND UPDATE ANY INFORMATION THAT IS MISSING. THANK YOU. MY TMJ DR AND MY MAXIO FACIAL SPECIALIST SAID IT HAD TO BE SHRAPNEL AND THEY CANNOT MAKE ANY PROPER DIAGNOSIS OF MY TMJ OR BROKEN JAW. I STILL HAVE PAIN AND STILL HAVE SHRAPNEL THAT HAS BEEN COMING OUT OF MY EYE AREA AND FACE FOR SOME TIME. I KNEW OF ALL OF THIS PRIOR TO THE TAKATA ISSUES, I HAVEN'T BEEN WELL ENOUGH TO FOLLOW THROUGH WITH YOU UNTIL NOW. THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME.
2016-10-30
STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-30
- VIN: 3C8FY68B92T
- Components: STRUCTURE,ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE CRADLE, OR FRONT SUBFRAME, IS RUSTED TO THE POINT I'VE STOPPED DRIVING THE CAR. I'M IN THE PROCESS OF FINDING A REPLACEMENT BUT CHRYSLER NO LONGER MAKES THE PART! NOTHING HAS HAPPENED TO THIS POINT BECAUSE OF MY CAUTION BUT THE FRONT END WAS STARTING TO MAKE POPPING NOISES WHEN I STARTED OUT FROM A DEAD STOP. THE PROBLEM IS ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE. I UNDERSTAND FROM READING ARTICLES, MANY OTHER PTS HAVE THIS SAME PROBLEM. FOR YEARS, I HAVE TRIED TO PRIME AND SPRAY OIL ON THE PART TO EXTEND IT'S LIFE. TIME HAS COME.... *TR
2016-10-29
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-13
- VIN: 3CBFY68862T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AND MY HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT I PULLED OVER AND I DIDNT HAVE DOOR LOCKS TO UNLOCK THE DOORS. ALL THE FUSES ARE GOOD. I WAS RESEARCHING ONLINE AND ALOT OF PT CRUISERS ARE HAVING THE ISSUE IT SEEMS THAT THE CONNECTOR FOR THE FUSE BLOCK GOES BAD I HAVE BEEN DEALING WITH THIS FOR A FEW MONTHS NOW. I THINK ITS REDUNDANT THAT YPU HAVE TO PAY 150-250 DOLLARS EVERY TIME THIS HAPPENS. WHEN NO ONE REALLY HAS THAT KINDA MONEY
2016-10-26
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-11-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE RAN A RED LIGHT AND CRASHED INTO THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND METAL FRAGMENTS STRUCK THE CONTACT'S FACE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 120,000.
2016-10-04
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-28
- VIN: 3C8FY68B32T
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: ..ON MY 2002 PT CRUISER THE FRONT SUSPENSION CROSS MEMBER HAS ROTTED SO BAD THAT IT BROKE IN A FEW PLACES CAUSING THE LOWER A ARM TO MOVE IN SUCH A WAY AS TO CAUSE THE STEERING WHEEL TO PULL OUT OF YOUR HANDS ALL THE WAY TO THE LEFT AND OR RIGHT,THE CAR COULD NOT BE DRIVEN MORE THEN 15 MPH,..AND THAT WAS WHILE HOLDING THE WHEEL TIGHTLY....IF THIS CROSS MEMBER WAS TO BREAK WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH THERE WOULD BE A VERY BAD CRASH,..I SUGGEST ANY ONE THAT HAS A PT CRUISE HAVE IT CHECKED FOR THE CROSS MEMBER ROTTING BEFORE A CRASH TAKES PLACE,,,I WAS ABLE TO BUY A NEW CROSS MEMBER AND THE CHEAPEST PRICE WAS $514 PLUS TAX AND SHIPPING,..NOW COMES THE COSTS TO INSTALL IT...WHAT IS ODD THE CROSS MEMBER ROTTED OUT ON THE PASSENGER SIDE ONLY,...I HAVE SOME PICS OF IT WITH THE A ARM OFF THE CROSS MEMBER..
2016-08-19
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-18
- VIN: 3C8FY68B62T
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: STRUCTURE - NOTICED SLIGHT CLUNK FROM FRONT SUSPENSION ON BUMPS. ON MECHANIC'S LIFT, FOUND ALL SUSPENSION PARTS STILL GOOD OR RECENTLY REPLACED, BUT FRONT K-MEMBER SEVERELY RUSTED THROUGH. DECLARED UNSAFE AND UNFIXABLE, ALTHOUGH AT 112,000 MILES THE REST OF THE CAR IS STILL IN GREAT SHAPE.
2016-06-22
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-31
- VIN: 3C8FY68B02T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED, A WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED, AND AN ALARM SOUNDED. THE FAILURE RECURRED TEN TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ALARM SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE RESET. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
2016-06-05
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-02
- VIN: 3C8FY68B62T
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: ENGINE STARTS AND RUNS, BUT AS SOON AS I PUT IT INTO ANY GEAR BUT PARK, THE CAR IMMEDIATELY DIES. IT WILL RESTART, BUT AGAIN DIES WHEN PLACED IN A GEAR. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON SO I HAD MY MECHANIC LOOK AT IT. HE CHECKED FOR CODES AND THIS IS THE CODE THAT CAME UP (P0601). IT HAS 83500 MILES. HE SAYS IT NEED A NEW COMPUTER. THIS INITIALLY STARTED BACKING INTO TRAFFIC, THE CAR JUST QUIT. I STARTED IT BACK UP AND WENT TO PUT IT IN DRIVE AND IT AGAIN QUIT. THIS HAPPENS OVER AND OVER, UNTIL SOMEONE PUSHED ME OUT OF THE STREET. CAR IS NOW PARKED UNTIL IT IS REPAIRED.
2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser.
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.
2008-04-14
- Manufacturer: FEDERAL-MOGUL CHASSIS PRODUCTS
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FEDERAL MOGUL IS RECALLING 6,903 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES SHIPPED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 9, 2007 AND MARCH 26, 2008, WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS. THE PART NUMBERS PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS ARE: K7147, K7329, K8683, AND 104353. THESE PARTS WERE MADE FOR USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE.
- Consequence: THE NUTS INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGING FOR THESE BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES ARE MISSING THE INTENDED PREVAILING TORQUE (SELF-LOCKING) FEATURE. IF THE INCORRECT NUT WAS TO BECOME LOOSE, THE JOINING MEMBERS MAY LOOSEN LEADING TO A SEPARATION OF THE BALL JOINT. THIS MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: FEDERAL MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 22, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL MOGUL AT 877-489-6659.
2004-06-03
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.4L NON-TURBOCHARGED ENGINES AND AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLES, THE POWER STEERING PRESSURE HOSE MAY CONTACT THE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DIFFERENTIAL COVER, POTENTIALLY DAMAGING THE HOSE.
- Consequence: POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND RELOCATE, OR REPLACE AS NECESSARY, THE POWER STEERING HOSE AND CONFIRM TORQUE OF THE HOSE FASTENER AT THE STEERING GEAR END. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
2002-08-08
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL PUMP MODULE MOUNTING FLANGE COULD LEAK FUEL IF THE VEHICLE IS INVOLVED IN A ROLLOVER CRASH.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SECONDARY SEAL OVER THE FUEL PUMP MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 12, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
2001-09-10
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES ARE BEING RECALLED FOR A SOFTWARE ERROR IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER MICROPROCESSOR. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THE CLUSTER, WITH THE MAJORITY OF ITS GAUGES, ILLUMINATION, AND WARNING LAMPS, COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE.
- Consequence: DRIVING THE VEHICLE WITH AN INOPERATIVE CLUSTER COULD CAUSE A DISTRACTION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL RE-FLASH THE CLUSTER SOFTWARE TO CORRECT THE CONDITION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 8, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Negative 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser car reviews
Positive 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser car reviews
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I'm so glad I bought this vehicle! It's been such a pleasure to drive and I haven't had any issues with it at all. Plus, it's a station wagon, but it's so fun to drive that I often forget what I'm driving!
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This is the first car we ever bought new. The only issue we experienced was when the car had around 50,000 miles on it and it would overheat. However, we took it to the local Chrysler dealer and they kept it overnight to locate the problem. Although they couldn't find anything wrong, the car has not overheated again since then and it now has over 80,000 miles on it.
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Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share a little bit about our experience with our PT Cruiser. We actually bought it back in August of 2002, about 9 months after my aunt had purchased one of her own. Out of all our Daimler-Chrysler models (including a '97 Jeep Cherokee and an '03 Dodge Dakota), the PT Cruiser has held up the best. It gets great gas mileage and the biggest issue we've had with it is having to change the tires at only 20k miles. Our repairman mentioned that DC has been using lower grade tires (20k or less) on all new models to save money. Just thought I'd share our experience with you! Let me know if you have any questions.
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Hey there! I wanted to share my experience with the Cruiser we recently purchased. It's fully loaded with Woody, sunroof, spoiler, and more! I've noticed that it's unusually quiet and feels really solid when driving. The interior and exterior are extremely well done and very comfortable. While the automatic gearing could be better suited, it still gets me where I need to go. The braking and handling are first rate and the seat movement options are staggering and well laid out. Overall, it's a really fun car that could only use a bit of power boosting. Thanks for letting me share!
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I went from a 1998 Ford Expedition to the Cruiser and I absolutely love it! I may be having a bit of a mid-life crisis, but I didn't go out and buy an expensive sports car. Anyway, the car is really cool and great to drive. The pick up (engine) is pretty good, although it could be a bit quicker, but that wasn't the reason I bought it. The interior is comfortable and I like sitting up a little higher.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser problems:
2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2002-chrysler-pt-cruiser/problems
Top 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser Problems · Multifunction Turn Signal Switch May Fail · Locked up WCM may cause engine cranking problems · Recall to reposition high ...
Chrysler PT Cruiser Questions - 2002 PT Cruiser Transmission ...
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-t12552_ds1134606
Nov 21, 2020 ... PT Cruisers are notorious for electrical problems involving the TCM (Transmission Control Module) and the TIPM (Total Integrated Power Module).
2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser Reviews and Owner Comments
https://repairpal.com/reviews/2002-chrysler-pt-cruiser
The average rating is a 3.6 out of 5 stars. The 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5. It ranks 11th out of 32 for all car brands.
Common 2002 PT Cruiser Problems: O2 Sensor Troubles
https://www.justanswer.com/chrysler/fjqgu-o2-sensor-problems-pt-cruiser-2002-replaced-o2.html
Nov 22, 2020 ... Are the wires leading to and from each intact and in good shape? Yes. Mechanic's Assistant: What is the model/year of your Chrysler? Pt cruiser ...
Chrysler PT Cruiser Questions - Have any of the PT Cruisers been ...
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Discussion-t12549_ds633972
Jan 28, 2015 ... Have any of the PT Cruisers been recalled for overheating problems??? It seems to be a common problem no matter what year the car is!
Other years of Chrysler Pt cruiser
Are you having problems with your 2002 Chrysler Pt cruiser?
Darron Bosco 2024-10-20
Hi there! It's great to hear that you've been enjoying your 2002 PT for almost 4 years now! With just over 100,000 miles, it's amazing that you've had very few issues with it. It's wonderful to have a reliable car that you can count on to start and get you where you need to go. Plus, it's great to hear that it runs smoothly and can get some good speed on the freeway. While the PT might not be everyone's cup of tea, it's definitely a beautiful car, especially with a spoiler, chrome accents, and aftermarket mags. The interior is also well designed and comfortable, making it a nice family car. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us! If you're looking for something more sporty, we hope you find the perfect car for you.
Lawrence Emmerich 2024-07-14
I see that you bought a PT Cruiser for its looks and the 4-cylinder engine's fuel efficiency. However, it seems that the gas mileage is not as good as you expected, with only 15 mpg. Additionally, the brakes are too small for the car, and you had to replace the rotors at 40k miles, which cost you $400. If you're looking for an economical vehicle, there may be better options out there. Keep shopping!
Guiseppe Upton 2024-06-19
Although I have experienced some issues with my PT Cruiser, I am confident in my assessment that the reliability of this vehicle is subpar. Despite the dealer taking some time to diagnose the problems after the warranty expired, I have had to replace the oxygen sensors in my car every two months, which has been a frustrating and costly experience. Based on my personal experience, I have decided that I will not be purchasing another Chrysler product in the future.
Johnnie Rogahn 2024-05-26
My girlfriend purchased this vehicle three years ago. Although the first year was alright, the poor gas mileage and lack of performance were noticeable. Unfortunately, in the second year, the brakes and suspension went out, and we had to replace both the front and rear brakes, as well as the struts, despite the vehicle only having 50,000 miles on it. In the third year, we encountered major problems with the transmission not shifting gears, and despite having to get it towed, we are still unsure of what needs to be fixed. However, I am confident that we will find a solution and ensure that this does not happen again in the future.
Ernie Barrows 2024-02-29
I really like the design, comfort, interior, passenger and cargo capacity of this car, and it's very easy to get my grandson in and out of his car-seat in the back seat. However, I have had some issues with the car, including two full sets of brakes in three years, a new transmission at 80,000 miles, fog lights that won't turn off, and engine overheating. I also had to replace the water pump, thermostat, timing belt, and serpentine belt at 97,000 miles. Although I'm sad that I won't be buying another PT Cruiser, I'm shopping for another hatchback. If Chrysler could improve the reliability of their cars, I would definitely consider buying a PT Cruiser again.