2003 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 2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser problems
The Chrysler PT Cruiser, particularly the 2003 model, has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Suspension Problems: PT Cruiser owners have also reported issues with the suspension system, particularly bad control arm bushings and the watt's link in the rear suspension. These problems can cause clunking noises from the rear when driving over bumps. The watt's link can be replaced with DIY instructions available online.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission problems, including gearbox faults, have been reported by PT Cruiser owners. These issues can be spotted during a test drive but may require a professional inspection to confirm. Additionally, electrical glitches and loose, flimsy plastic trim can plague the interior of the PT Cruiser.
- Electrical Problems: The PT Cruiser has been known to have TIPM electrical problems, which can affect various electrical functions of the car. These issues are particularly common in vehicles from Fiat-Chrysler (FCA).
- Dashboard Cracks: The 2001 PT Cruiser has a high number of complaints regarding cracked dashboards. This issue can be costly to fix, with an average cost of $900.
- Chrome Wheels Peeling: The 2001 PT Cruiser also has complaints about chrome wheels peeling, causing air leakage. This issue can lead to more significant problems if not addressed.
- Engine Stalls: The 2006 PT Cruiser has complaints about engine stalls or shut-offs while driving. This issue can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately.
- Misfiring and Check Engine Light On: The 2005 PT Cruiser has complaints about misfiring and the check engine light turning on, which can indicate various engine problems.
- Engine Light On: The 2007 PT Cruiser has complaints about the engine light being on, which can indicate various engine problems.
- Interior Issues: The PT Cruiser has several interior issues, including air bag faults that can be tricky to rectify and loose, flimsy plastic trim.
These are just some of the common problems reported by Chrysler PT Cruiser owners, particularly for the 2003 model. It is essential to address these issues promptly to avoid more significant problems and ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
Is a 2003 PT Cruiser a reliable car?
The 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5. It ranks 11th out of 32 for all car brands.
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.
What are the bad things about PT Cruisers?
Part of it is they were small. They struggled mostly with automatic transmissions in general and they always had janky front ends. And then in the later years they had electrical issues caused by crummy connectors. They are often actually easy and cheap to fix issues… if your mechanic is honest/smart.
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 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.
Why is my 2003 PT Cruiser overheating?
The most common reasons a Chrysler PT Cruiser is overheating are a coolant leak (water pump, radiator, hose etc.), the radiator fan, or a failed thermostat. Coolant leak (water pump, radiator, hose etc.)
2003 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
- Power train problems
- Suspension problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser
The NHTSA has received 257 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-01
- 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.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
- VIN: 3C4FY58B73T
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Front seat belt doesn't engage after many attempts.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-14
- 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.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-09
- VIN: 3C8FY78G63T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: On the way home from work my vehicle began smoking. The next exit off the freeway I80 was taken. As I exited my vehicle became hard to steer. I was able to get it to the closest auto repair shop which was Firestone. The power steering hose had a leak which caused the smoke and my vehicle being hard to steer. After 3 attempts with Firestone and them consulting with Chyrsler Service Department in Fairflied, California I had my vehicle towed to my mechanic. He also had trouble getting the new hose to fit on my vehicle. My mechanic also consulted with the Chrysler Service Department in Antioch, California. They assured him that was the correct replacement hose that Chrysler had replaced because the original hose had been recalled and they no longer carried the orignal hose. The only problem is my mechanic nor the Firestone mechanics could get it to fit. I have contacted Chrysler several times with them not taking reponsibility for the non fitting hose as the claim my VIN is not one of the vehicles affected. Attached you will find the original recall notice sent to me in 2011, the letter I sent to the address on the recall notice and all the receipts of attempts to fix my vehicle. The letter I sent to the address on the recall notice was returned as "unable to forward". I'm hoping other PTs with VIN not listed had the same problem as I and can cause Chrysler to repair and reimburse such vehicles.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-05
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3c8fy68b63t
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: Was warming my car up and drove 2 miles to my mom's house and turned it off. Came out about 30 minutes later and the car was full of smoke. Aired out the car and noticed a burnt hole in the middle of the passenger seat. The seat warmer had malfunction and started the seat on fire. Even with the vehicle turned off.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-12
- VIN: 3C8FY78G63T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: I REPLACED MY VEHICLES BATTERY 2 DAYS AGO(NOV 12, 2019)(VERY OLD BATTERY AND WITH THE COLD IN MASSACHUSETTS IT NEEDED TO BE CHANGED). NOW WITH A PROPERLY FUNCTIONING BATTERY THE VOLTAGE REGULATOR IN PCM (NOT ALTERNATOR) IS SIGNALING ALTERNATOR TO RAISE CHARGING VOLTAGE INTERMITTENTLY TO AS HIGH AS 17.1VOLTS, BUT HAS BEEN FREQUENTLY BOUNCING BETWEEN 14.1V -16.7VOLTS. THIS INCREASE OF VOLTAGE TO A UNSAFE LEVEL CAUSES ALL ELECTRICAL ACCESSORIES THAT ARE IN CONNECTED TO THE CHARGING SYSTEM AND ARE OPERATIONAL TO FLASH/ FLICKER. EXTREMELY DISTRACTING AT NIGHT WITH HEADLIGHTS AND DASHBOARD FLASHING/ FLICKERING. AFTER A LOT OF RESEARCH I FOUND OUT THE PCM NEEDS TO BE REPROGRAMMED WITH THE PROPER UPDATED FIRMWARE IN ORDER TO FIX THE FACTORY WEAK PARAMETERS. I SPOKE WITH A SERVICE MANAGER TODAY(NOV 14,2019) AT MY LOCAL CHRYSLER DEALERSHIP (CENTRAL JEEP CHRYSLER DODGE RAM FIAT @ 56 BOSTON PROVIDENCE TPKE, NORWOOD, MA 02062) ABOUT THE PROBLEM AND ASKED TO HAVE MY PCM REPROGRAMMED SINCE ONLY THAT SPECIFIC MODEL CAR MANUFACTURES SERVICE SHOP WILL HAVE THE CAPABILITY AND PCM FIRMWARE TO REPAIR IT. THE MANAGER REFUSED TO DO ANY WORK ON MY CAR SINCE HE SAID, "I WONT TOUCH CARS OLDER THAN 10YEARS AND CLOSE TO 100,000MILES". THEN ASKED IF I WAS EVEN A CUSTOMER AT THAT SPECIFIC LOCATION, SAYING NO AGAIN AFTER I SAID I WASN'T. THERE IS NO OTHER OPTION THAN THE FACTORY DEALERSHIP TO FIX A FACTORY FLAWED PCM, WHICH MAKES THE RISK OF MY BATTERY EXPLODING DUE TO THE INCREASED REGULATED VOLTAGE VERY LIKELY. THIS PROBLEM ISN'T NEW TO CHRYSLER SINCE THEY HAVE ISSUED SEVERAL TSB(S) IN MY SPECIFIC VEHICLE AND THIS EXACT PROBLEM: 18-112-16 18-026-03 REV.A 18-016-03 18-020-04
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3C4FY48B33T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: THERE WAS AN ELECTRICAL FIRE WHERE THE RADIO CUP HOLDERS AND THE SHIFTER. CAR IS UNDRIVEABLE DUE TO THE DAMAGE. MY CAR WAS STATIONARY AT THE TIME. THE RADIO KEPT TURN ON AND OFF. I HEARD CRACKING WHEN I WENT INTO WORK. WHEN I CAME OUT I SAY THERE WAS A WHOLE LOT OF DAMAGE. I DID GET THE CAR STARTED AND WAS ABLE TO GET IT HOME, BUT IT'S NOT DRIVABLE SINCE THE CAR DIED AS I WAS PULLING INTO MY DRIVEWAY. WHEN I WENT TO PUT IT INTO PARK IT WAS LIKE PARK WAS NOT AN OPTION. AMD THE CAR KEPT MOVING SO I PUT THE E BREAK ON.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-18
- VIN: 3C4FY48B73T
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MY EXTERIOR FRONT LIGHTS ARE VERY DULL AND AREN'T BRIGHT WHEN TURN THEM ON.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-01
- VIN: 3C4FY78G83T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I DON'T TRULY KNOW WHAT'S HAPPEN TO IT N IF IT'S BEEN FIXED BUT I DO KNOW THAT PRIOR IT WOULD HAVE UNCONTROLLABLE SPEED CONTROL N STEERING PROBLEMS N GPS N VIDEO N AUTO RECORDING N RADIO FREQUENCIES.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-03
- VIN: 3C4FY78493T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: VEHICLE IS LEAKING POWER STEERING FLUID. FOUND RECALL NOTICE FOR MY YEAR MODEL BUT CHRYSLER SAYS MY VIN IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. ADDED FLUID ABOUT 3 MONTHS AGO AND STEERING WAS FINE UNTIL A WEEK AGO. SINCE THEN, FLUID ONLY LASTS A DAY BEFORE IT HAS TO BE REFILLED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-23
- VIN: 3C4FY58B83T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS PARKED. TURNED OFF. MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH THAT HAD BEEN REPLACED PREVIOULSY MALFUNCTIONED AGAIN. FOG LIGHTS JUST CAME ON OUT OF NOWHERE LUCKILY I TURNED AROUND AND NOTICED IT. WHEN I OPENED MY CAR DOOR I NOTICED THE SWITCH WAS SMOKING. AFTER SOME QUICK THINKING I PULLED THE FUSE. IF I HAD NOT THOUGHT OF THIS I BELIVE IT WOULD HAVE CAUGHT MY CAR ON FIRE AND THE ONES PARKED NEXT TO IT. I HAVE HAD THE FUSE PULLED FOR A YEAR. FLASH FORWARD TO MY CURRENT STATE IN VA AND IT'S INSPECTION TIME. I FAILED FOR A FAULTY FUNCTION SWITCH. THE GUYS REPLACED THE SWITCH FIRST STOPLIGHT I COME TO NO SIGNAL. TOOK IT BACK TO GARAGE THEY SAID SWITCH WAS BAD OUT OF THE BOX. AFTER THIS EPIDEMIC THIS WILL BE THE 4TH MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH THAT I KNOW OF INSTALLED ON THIS CAR. HOW IN THE WORLD HAS THIS PART NOT BEEN RECALLED YET. PLEASE DO SOMETHING!
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-14
- VIN: 3C4FY78G23T
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAD PURCHESED A USED 2003 PT CRUISER AND ON THE HWY HOME SHORT TIME LATER I HEARD CLUNKING SOUND THREE TIMES FIRST WHEN MERGING ONTO HWY FROM CAR DEALERSHIP. FUTHERMORE, ABOUT 10 MIN INTO MY HWY DRIVE HOME I BECAME FRIGHTEND WHEN MY CAR ENDED UP HAVING A MIND IF ITS OWN AND STARED GOING TO THE LEFT SO I TRIED TO TURN STEARING WHEEL TOWARDS RIGHT AND I WAS UNABLE TO CORRECT IT FOR FEW SECONDS AND ENDED ON THE OTHERIDE OF WHITE LINE JUST ABOUT OFF HWY AND INTO GRAVEL BUT AT THAT POINT I SEENED TO REGAIN CONTROL OF MY CAR STEARING AND PROCEEDING BACK BETEEEN YELLOW AND WHITE LINE ON THE HWY, FOLLOWING WAS ANOTHER INCIDENT WAS WHEN I CAME TO COMPLETE STOP FOLLOWING WITH LEFT TURN (STARTED TO MAKE A CLUNKING SOUND EVEN LOUDER).DURNING MY ROUTE I MADE A RIGHT TURN THE SOUND AGAIN. I ENDED UP TAKING IT TO A DEALERSHIP TO TAKE A LOOK AT . THE MECHANIC SAID HE KNEW AT ONE POINT THEY HAD A SAFTY RECALL ON THE SUSPENSION FOR PT CRUSIERS BECAUSE THEY COULD CAUSE INJURY WITH MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS DUE TO LOSS OF CONTROL AS A RESULT OF LOWER CONTOL ARM /SWAY BAR / AND BAD BALL JOINTS WHICH I PERSONALLY PROB EXPERICEND ON MY WAY HOME FOLLOWING MY PURCHESE OF THE CAR. THE MECHANIC I SPOKE TO CHECKED MY VIN NUMBER AND IT DID NOT HAVE A RECALL ON IT HOWEVER THERE WAS RECALLS FOR A SET AMOUNT AND THAT MINE WASNT ONE OF THEM BUT SHOUKD HAVE BEEN AND THAT I SHOULD INFORM " NHTSA "ABOUT MY SITUATION BECAUSE THERE COULD BE OTHERS EXPERIENCING SAME SITUATION DUE TO MALFUNCTIONING PARTS BECAUSE A MALFUCTION CAN HAPPEN TO EVEN AFTER MARKET PARTS CAN LEAD TO DEADLY ACCIDENTS EVEN DEATH BECAUSE OF LOSS OF CONTROL. I STRONGLY AGREE WITH MECHANIC THAT THE RECALL SHOULD BE UPDATED EVEN ON THE AFTER MARKET PARTS FOR THE SUSPENION SUCH AS CONTROL ARM AND CALLED FOR EVERY 2003 PT CRUSIER GT BECAUSE OF LOSS OF CONTROL THAT ALMOST CAUSED ME TO BE IN ACCIDENT EVEN COULD OF BEEN FATAL. THANK YOU
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-08
- VIN: 3C4FY58B03T
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO JERK AND STALLED WITHOUT WARNING WHILE IN TRAFFIC. THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND WAS ABLE TO RESUME DRIVING. THE FAILURE RECURRED TWICE. WHEN THE CONTACT LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD, SHE NOTICED FUEL AROUND THE ENGINE AND THE AREA WHERE THE POWER STEERING FLUID WAS LOCATED, WHICH CAUSED A FUEL ODOR TO EMIT THROUGH THE AIR CONDITIONER BLOWER. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING FUEL, WHICH CAME FROM THE FUEL LINE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,528.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-09
- VIN: 3C8FY68B93T
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH HAD TO BE REPLACED OR ELSE THE FOG LIGHTS REMAIN ON AND DRAIN THE BATTERY.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-09
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: WHEEL BEARINGS KEEP GOING OUT. THIS TIME IT AFFECTED MY GEAR SHIFT.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-10
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3C8FY68B23T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY CAR CAUGHT FIRE UNDER THE HOOD WHILE I WAS BACKING OUT A DRIVEWAY AND THEN THE WHOLE CAR JUST BURNED TO TOTAL LOSS OF IT AND IT CAUGHT FIRE DOWN IN THE BOTTOM OF THE ENGINE.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-26
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3C4FY48BX3T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: "TAKATA RECALL" I WAS DRIVING A 2003 PT CRUISER WHEN MY WIFE AND I WERE HIT HEAD ON BY A TRUCK THAT WENT LEFT OF CENTER WHEN A VAN TURNED LEFT IN FRONT OF HIM. WE WERE HIT AGAIN ON THE DRIVERS SIDE AND THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED AND THE STEERING COLUMN FELL ON MY LEFT LEG. MY GRANDDAUGHTER STOPPED AT THE SCENE BECAUSE SHE WAS DRIVING PAST AND SAW US. SHE SAW I WAS BLEEDING FROM MY HEAD AND PUT PRESSURE ON IT AS SOON AS SHE COULD. UPON BEING TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL I HAD BOTH OF MY EARS NEARLY SEVERED OFF. IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE SHRAPNEL FROM THE AIR BAGS HAD CUT BOTH MY EARS AND SEVERED THEM. ALSO IT HAS BEEN TWO YEARS AND I AM STILL GETTING MATERIAL OUT OF MY HEAD FROM THEM. I HAVE BIG SORE SPOTS WHERE THE MATERIAL HAS RISEN AND CAME OUT OF MY HEAD.I ALSO GOT MERSA IN MY LEG AND MY WIFE GOT 4 BROKEN BACK RIBS. THEY ALSO DETERMINED I RECEIVED A CONCUSSION. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION BUT GOING ABOUT 25 AS I WAS SLOWING DOWN AS THE VAN IN FRONT OF US WAS TURNING.WE DO HAVE PHOTOS AND MEDICAL RECORDS AS WE HAD A LAWYER WHO SUED THE DRIVER WHO TURNED IN FRONT OF US AND WE CAN GET PICTURES AND RECORDS IF YOU WOULD LIKE.I DO NOT HAVE THEM ON MY COMPUTER.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-30
- VIN: 3C8FY68B03T
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, THE CHECK ENGINE AND AIR BAG WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS WHERE THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER, CPU, SPARK PLUGS, AND FUEL CAP WERE REPLACED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 151,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-04
- VIN: 3C8FY68B53T
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS AND DEPRESSING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, THE THROTTLE MECHANISM SEEMED TO HAVE BECOME STUCK SEVERAL TIMES AT A HIGH THROTTLE SETTING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TOWED TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-27
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3C8FY68B13T
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING 35-40 MPH, THE FRONT AMBER HEAD LAMPS FAILED, WHICH RESULTED IN A FRONT END PASSENGER COLLISION. THE FRONT PASSENGER WHEEL DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE DURING THE CRASH. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GLOVE BOX FRACTURED AND SEPARATED UPON DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIR BAGS, WHICH CAUSED FACIAL INJURIES TO THE FRONT SEAT PASSENGER. THE FRONT SEAT PASSENGER SUSTAINED LACERATIONS TO THE FACE, A FRACTURED EYE SOCKET, AND A FRACTURED NASAL PASSAGE. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS REQUIRED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09E012000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING) AND NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 08E033000 (SUSPENSION). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 112,450. *JS *JS
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-10
- VIN: 3C4FY48B23T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS AND TURNING, THE STEERING WHEEL FAILED TO OPERATE AS INTENDED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE POWER STEERING HOSE AND AUTO BELT TRANSMITTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED TWICE FOR POWER STEERING FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V268000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-05
- VIN: 3C8FY78G13T
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: REPEATED WHEEL FAILURES CAUSING TIRE SEALS TO LEAK AIR. MULTIPLE TIRE REPLACEMENTS (5), MULTIPLE SEAL FAILURES RESULTING IN AIR REPLACEMENT. I AM FORCED TO CHECK MY TIRE PRESSURE EVERY TIME I USE MY VEHICLE SINCE I CANNOT TRUST THAT THE SEALS HAVE HELD OR FAILED AT ANY GIVEN TIME. EVERY AUTO REPAIR AND TIRE SPECIALIST I HAVE SPOKEN WITH IS WELL AWARE OF THIS ISSUE. SO FAR I HAVE SPOKEN TO 3 DIFFERENT AUTO REPAIR SPECIALISTS AND 4 TIRE SPECIALISTS. THE "WHEN DID THIS HAPPEN" OPTION BELOW ONLY AFFORDS ME 1 ENTRY, BUT, THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING SINCE I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE IN 2013.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3C8FY68B53T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. AFTER STARTING THE ENGINE, SMOKE WAS PRESENT UNDER THE HOOD. AFTER DRIVING A SHORT DISTANCE, THE DRIVER PULLED OVER, LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD, AND DISCOVERED FLAMES COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 85,000.
AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-27
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3C8FY68B13T
- Components: AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: DETAILS OF ACCIDENT LISTED IN POLICE REPORT.I WAS DRIVING MY2003 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER WHEN BEING CHASED BY ANOTHER VEHICLE IN ROAD RAGE WHICH CAUSED MY CAR TO GET HIT BY ANOTHER CAR WHICH IS LISTED IN POLICE REPORT.MY PASSEGER AND I RECEIVED BODILY DAMAGES SUSTAONED BY THESE AIRBAGS MY PASSENGER WAS STRUCK BY AN OBJECT THAT WAS INTACT WITH THE AIRBAG ..LACERATION ABOVE LEFT EYE, BROKEN EYESOCKET,BROKEN NASAL PASSAGE,FRACTURED RIBS PASSENGER WILL NEED FACIAL SURGERY DUE TO AIRBAG IMPACTS SEATBELTS WHERE WORN AT TIME OF ACCIDENT.I ALSO HAVE PHOTOS AND HOSPITAL RECORDS OF PASSENGERS INJURIES.PLEASE CONTACT MR.ARTHUR INGRAM OR JACOB PATTERSON AT NUMBER PROVIDED.
2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION
- Components: POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, MANUAL TRANSMISSION MODELS ONLY, A WELDED PIN INTERNAL TO THE DUAL-MASS FLYWHEEL (DMF) ASSEMBLY CAN UNSEAT AND BECOME LODGED BETWEEN THE FLYWHEEL AND THE CLUTCH DISC.
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, THE CLUTCH MAY NOT DISENGAGE WHEN THE CLUTCH PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FLYWHEEL AND CLUTCH ASSEMBLIES WITH THE UPDATED DESIGN PARTS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON APRIL 14, 2003. 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 2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser car reviews
Positive 2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser car reviews
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The PT is a fantastic vehicle! I absolutely love how versatile it is - I can easily transport people, large items, or just cruise down the highway with ease. The seating position is very upright, which gives it an SUV-like feel. I've come to appreciate the centrally located window controls, even though they can be a bit unusual at times. One thing that would make it even better is a warning beep or light when the head/parking lights are on, or even standard auto on/off. The silver exterior with standard painted silver wheels gives the car a sleek, monochromatic look that really shines in the sun and is easily recognizable. Overall, I'm very impressed with this car!
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Wow, it sounds like you got a great deal on your car! I hope you and your wife enjoy driving it for many miles to come. It's always exciting to find a car that rides, handles, and accelerates like a champ. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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We purchased this 'Turbo' to fulfill all of the below noted needs! It serves as a daily driver, bus, moving van, dog carrier, beach car, hot rod, sports car, and even a replacement for my 'Harley' (due to lack of parking space in my Hawaii condo). It does all of the above without fail! Next to our C5 Corvette Coupe, this Turbo 'PT' is the most fun car we have ever had. I would get another 'Turbo' PT in a heartbeat!
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Sounds like you've made some great modifications to your car! With the added dual exhaust and airaid system, your car must be very fast. It's great to hear that you're getting the best gas mileage on the road at 23 MPG. Installing a boost gauge on the PVC line is a good idea to monitor your car's performance. I'm glad to hear that the turbo has been helpful in getting into traffic. Your car must look amazing with the painted factory wheels, chrome door handle insets, and Xeonon rear spoiler. The aluminum floor mats and trim around the dash and console must add a nice touch. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
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Runs well, and there's plenty of room for my 6'4
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser problems:
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Problems and Complaints - 11 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser? Our list of 11 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
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Are you having problems with your 2003 Chrysler Pt cruiser?
Rudy Becker 2024-11-26
Fun to drive and quick to pass. 60 to 80 is a kick. The Turbo is definitely worth the money. The car is very flexible with rear seats that fold, flip and fold or remove, and it can comfortably seat 4 adults. I do wish it was a little wider, but overall it has been very reliable. I really like the AutoStick, which allows you to take off in 2nd gear in snowy weather for better control.
Rylan Langosh 2024-10-09
When I bought this car, it was my first one and I was thrilled. Unfortunately, I had some trouble with it and ended up spending quite a bit on repairs - around $7,000 in total. I only had the car for six months, and for three of those months, it was in the shop. Despite these issues, the car drives nicely. However, it has had a number of problems, including a leaky turbo and radiator, and even overheated with coolant in the car. Ultimately, I couldn't afford to keep putting money into it, so I decided to trade it in for a 2008 Chevy Silverado. The gas mileage isn't much worse, and I'm happy with my decision.
Devante Schaefer 2024-08-29
After driving 75 miles, we unfortunately experienced an issue with the transmission which required a total rebuild due to a leak in the overdrive hub seal that burned up the clutches. We had to replace the first battery under warranty at around 35k miles, and have since had to install two more batteries, with the most recent one being less than a year old. At 70k miles, just after the extended warranty expired, we discovered that the problem was caused by the fog light switch that won't turn off. We have unplugged the fog lights, but the indicator light on the dashboard remains on. Additionally, we had to rebuild the transmission again at 50k miles, with a $100 deductible, and there is a power steering fluid leak that requires daily refilling. We have also experienced issues with the ignition key cylinder not always turning on and the column not locking with the key removed. We understand that these issues can be frustrating, and we are working to resolve them as soon as possible.
Zack Ankunding 2024-07-26
The interior design, suspension system, and noise levels require improvement. Additionally, checking blind spots can be challenging.
Clifton Mayert 2024-06-15
After 70k miles, your car may begin to have a hard time cranking. Unfortunately, at 90k miles, the transmission went completely out due to metal shavings. It's understandable to feel frustrated, especially since you took good care of your car. However, it's important to note that many car brands can experience similar issues. We hope that you can find a reliable car that meets your needs in the future.