2004 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 2004 Chrysler Pt cruiser problems
The 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most prevalent issues is electrical problems, with one in five complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) related to electrical concerns.
Another significant problem with the 2004 PT Cruiser is related to the front end of the suspension. A recall was issued in 2008 due to issues with aftermarket ball joint assemblies, which could cause the front end of the suspension to pop loose, leaving the vehicle sitting on the axle. Complaints about this issue have continued to be reported as late as 2020, with some owners simply stating that the "ball joint is missing."
Engine and powertrain complaints have been relatively few, with most transmission issues ultimately being electrical rather than mechanical in nature.
The PT Cruiser is expected to last at least 200,000 miles, with some owners reporting that their vehicles have reached 400,000 miles.
In terms of reliability, the 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, with most owners reporting only regular maintenance required.
The cooling system of the 2004 PT Cruiser is known to be inadequate for travel in hot climates with inclines while trying to operate the air conditioning.
In summary, the 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser has several common problems related to electrical issues, suspension, and cooling system, but it is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle with a reasonable reliability record.
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 many miles will a 2004 PT Cruiser last?
The PT Cruiser is still a relatively new nameplate on the market so there's not a ton of data available on how long it will last, but drivers typically report 200,000 miles as a bare minimum life expectancy for the car.
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 a 2004 PT Cruiser a good vehicle?
Is the 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser a Good Used Car? Overall Rating 7/10 – Almost everything about the 2004 PT Cruiser is mediocre. A solid C- car from top to bottom. Interior, Comfort & Cargo 6/10 – Awkward seating and limited cargo space make the PT Cruiser feel smaller than it really is.
What is the most common problem with a PT Cruiser?
Chrysler PT Cruiser Common Problems and Solutions
- Engine Not Engaging. Problem: The engine turns over and seems as if it is about to engage, but then stops. ...
- Starting problems. Problem: ...
- Clutch failure. Problem: ...
- Interior rattling. Problem: ...
- Engine misfiring. Problem:
What was the bad year for the PT Cruiser?
Years to Avoid
- 2006. 182.
- 2001. 167.
- 2002. 100.
- 2007. ...
- 2004.
Is the PT Cruiser engine 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.
2004 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
- Suspension problems
- Steering problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Chrysler Pt cruiser vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Chrysler Pt cruiser
The NHTSA has received 216 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Chrysler Pt cruiser. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Chrysler Pt cruiser vehicles.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-09
- 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
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-14
- VIN: 3C4FY58854T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING HOSE LEAKING.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-14
- VIN: 3C4FY48B74T
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: BALL JOINT ARE MISSING
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3C4FY48BX4T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: IT STARTED WITH THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS AND THE MIDDLE STICK LIGHTS (P,D,R,N++) I CAN'T SEE AT NIGHT WHAT SPEED I'M GOING OR MY LEVELS OR ANYTHING BC THE LIGHTS QUIT WORKING, I HAD THE BATTERY REPLACED I'VE HAD THE BATTERY CHANGED TWICE, I'VE HAD THE THERMOSTAT CHANGED TWICE BUT IT STILL OVER HEATS NOT TOO LONG AGO WITH BOTH OF MY TODDLERS IN THE CAR ON A 3 LANE HIGHWAY LOCKED UP ON ME COULDN'T USE THE STEERING WHEEL OR BRAKES HAD TO PULL THE EMERGENCY BREAK IT'S JUST BEEN REPETITIVE I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM MY SISTER WHO'S GRANDMOTHER GOT TIRED OF PUTTING MONEY INTO IT IT STUTTERS SOMETIMES LIKE IT'S SLOW TO SHIFT INTO GEAR TO ACCELERATE IT CAN HAPPEN ANYWHERE. IT WAS MY FIRST CAR IT'S NEVER BEEN WRECKED, I NEVER THOUGHT TO CHECK FOR ANY RECALLS, I BOUGHT IT IN JULY OF 17. IT'S ONLY HAD A TOTAL OF 2 OWNERS. IT USED TO SHAKE REAL BAD I COULDN'T GO OVER 55MILES AN HOUR BUT EVEN 55 WAS IFFY. THE SCARIEST THING FOR ME WAS IT LOCKING UP ON A HIGHWAY WITH AN INTERSECTING LANE I HAD JUST HAD EVERYTHING REPLACED FOR A SECOND TIME BEFORE IT STARTED SMOKING AND LOCKED UP AND COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN MY KIDS 3 & 1 WERE IN THE BACK ALL I COULD THINK TO DO WAS PULL MY EMERGENCY BREAK I DRIFTED AND SWERVED UNTIL THE CAR FINALLY CAME TO A STOP LUCKILY NOT WRECKING OR INJURING ANYONE, JUST FEAR OF DRIVING I REALLY TRUSTED THIS CAR. I HAD TO CALL THE POLICE TO GET AHOLD OF A STATE TROOPER WHO GAVE ME A COUPLE DAYS TO MOVE IT GIVEN MY CIRCUMSTANCE AND 45 MIN AWAY FROM HOME, A STRANGER STOPPED TO HELP AND OFFERED TO GIVE US A RIDE BACK TO IRONTON FROM THE WEST PORTSMOUTH HIGHWAY HE LIVED IN PORTSMOUTH OUT OF KINDNESS MOVED MY CAR TO HIS HOUSE THERE AFTER DROPPING US OFF THAT NIGHT TO KEEP FROM GETTING IT TOWED. OFFICER NOTED EVERYTHING. I DIDN'T THINK OF ANYTHING UNTIL I JUST RECENTLY GOT ANOTHER 2004 PT THAT STARTED FIRE IN THE HEADLIGHTS AND GOING THROUGH A LOT OF THE SAME PROBLEMS.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-04
- VIN: 3C8FY68864T
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I BOUGHT THIS CAR LAST YEAR FROM A PRIVATE OWNER I DID NOT KNOW THAT IT HAD A OVER HEATING PROBLEM I REALLY HAVE TRIED EVERYTHING SO I THEN STARTED LOOKING IT UP AND FOUND OUT THAT SO MANY PEOPLE ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM AS ME AND FROM WHAT I HAVE READ ABOUT IT THE DEALERSHIP SHOULD FIX MY PROBLEM SINCE THE PROBLEM REALLY COMES FROM THEM FROM IT WAS MADE
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-08
- VIN: 3C8FY68864T
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THIS VEHICLE HAS A P0037 AND A P0037 DTC'S THAT WON'T CANCEL. FINDLEY CHRYSLER REPLACED THE OXYGEN SENSORS. IT DIDN'T FIX IT. THEY SAY THE COMPUTER IS BAD. I SENT THE COMPUTER 5033293AF TO BE REPAIRED. THEY SAID THE COMPUTER IS OK. I GOT THE CODES TO GO AWAY FOR A BRIEF TIME BY MESSING WITH THE COMPUTER WIRE LOOM. IHAVE HEARD THERE WAS ARECALL FOR THIS. IS IT STILL AVAILABLE?06/08/2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-18
- VIN: 3C4FY48B44T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE ENGINE WILL SPUTTER AND DIE. WHEN PULLING UP TO A STOP LIGHT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WILL COME ON AND THE ENGINE WILL IMMEDIATELY DIE. WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY AT 65MPH THE ENGINE WILL SUDDENLY DIE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-09
- VIN: 3C8FY78G14T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: JUST UNDER 78,000 MILES TURBO GOES OUT, TOOK TO DEALERSHIP, REPLACED TURBO (TOOK 6 MOS) FINALLY RETURNED THE VEHICLE AND WITHIN 1 MONTH HEAD GASKET GOES OUT (BLOWING WHITE SMOKE), WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH ON A SIDE ROAD (DEALER SAYS KNOWN PROBLEM, WANTS ANOTHER $2000 FOR HEAD GASKET, LOCAL DEALER SAYS "THE HEAD GASKETS FOR THAT CAR ARE THE WEAK POINT, WHEN YOU RETURN THE COMP RATIO TO NEW/NORMAL WITH A NEW TURBO. IT WILL BLOW THE HEAD GASKET OUT") REPLACED MYSELF (CANT AFFORD DEALER) NEW HEAD GASKET (MULTI LAYERED POS), NEW BOLTS (REQUIRED), NEW TIMING BELT, NOW IT WONT START, TESTED ALL SENSORS, CAM, CRANK, O/P, WATER, THROTTLE POS, REPLACED COIL, REPLACED PCM, CHASED AND INSPECTED ALL WIRING, STILL NOTHING ENGINE CRANKS OVER, BUT-IT WILL NOT START. MECHANICS AND DEALERS ALIKE SAY ITS NORMAL FOR THIS CAR BUT THEY HAVE NO IDEA OR REASON FOR IT NOT STARTING, I KEEP BEING TOLD TO CHECK THIS SENSOR, REPLACE THAT $300 PART, LOOK HERE, LOOK THERE, REPLACE THAT (ANOTHER$300) AGAIN. CHRYSLER HAS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH THIS PIECE OF CRAP AND HAS NEVER DONE ANYTHING ABOUT IT I HAVE BEEN FIGHTING THIS FOR 4 YEARS NOW CHRYSLER NEEDS TO REPAIR THIS AND REIMBURSE FOR ALL THE CRAP I'VE HAD TO REPLACE AND ALL THE B/S I'VE GONE THROUGH. THEY KNEW THE HEAD GASKET WOULD BLOW OUT AFTER A NEW TURBO WAS INSTALLED, AND DID NOTHING ABOUT IT, THEY HAVE KNOWN ABOUT THIS NO START/NO CRANK ISSUE THESE CARS HAVE, BUT HAVE NEVER DONE ANYTHING TO ADDRESS OR FIX THE POOR CONDITION OF THEIR VEHICLES. NOW THERE'S A LINE THAT SAYS ITS POSSIBLY THE IGNITION SWITCH THAT'S CAUSING THE PROBLEM. SOUNDS TO ME LIKE THEY SOLD THE PUBLIC A LEMON AND GOT AWAY WITH IT. CHRYSLER SHOULD BE MADE TO FIX THESE PIECES OF GARBAGE OR BUY THEM ALL BACK AT WHAT THEY SOLD FOR ORIGINALLY I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER CHRYSLER AS LONG AS I LIVE. NOT WORTH EVEN USING AS A BOAT ANCHOR.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-28
- VIN: 3C8FY68B94T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE MULTI-FUNCTION ELECTRICAL SWITCH, WHICH CAUSED THE FOG LIGHTS TO REMAIN ILLUMINATED. THE FAILURE CAUSED THE BATTERY TO DRAIN. THE CUSTOMER REMOVED FUSE #8 DAILY TO REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF AN ELECTRICAL FIRE. THE CONTACT HAD THE MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH REPLACED AT HENKEL CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE (1275 W DICKMAN RD, SPRINGFIELD, MI 49037, (800) 865-6185). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 108,773.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-03
- VIN: 3C8FY78G84T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING LEAKAGE ON TURBO MODEL ENGINE HOT POSSIBLE FIRE HAD FIXED ONCE AND IT BROKE AGAIN , THERE IS A RECALL ON THE NON TURBO MODEL ALREADY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-08
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3C8FY78G34T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER SHOPPING FOR 1/2 HOUR, I RETURNED TO MY CAR IN THE PARKING LOT. I OPENED THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR AND DISCOVERED GRAY COLORED SMOKE COMING UP FROM THE STEERING COLUMN HAZARD BUTTON. IT SMELLED ODD. NOT LIKE WOOD SMELL. THE AUTO CLUB TOWED MY CAR TO MY LOCAL MECHANIC AND DISCONNECTED THE BATTERY CONNECTIONS AS HE SAID TO PREVENT FIRE. MY MECHANIC SAID THE WIRES CAUGHT FIRE AND MELTED THE CONNECTORS. THE PARTS: COMBINATION SWITCH, COMBO SWITCH CONNECTOR & ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS, SHRINK TUBING = TOTAL $320 PARTS. LABOR: REMOVE & REPLACE ALL APPLICABLE MODELS (MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH); REPLACE MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH HARNESS (BURNED OUT CONNECTORS) = TOTAL $380 LABOR THE DAY OF THE INCIDENT, I DROVE AN ESTIMATED 15 MILES TOTAL WITH TWO PRIOR STOPS.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-18
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3C8FY68814T
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES AND WHIPLASH. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS NOT RECEIVED. THE DRIVER OF THE OTHER VEHICLE SUSTAINED HEAD INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT CALLED MCHENRY AUTO MART (LOCATED AT 725 MCHENRY AVE, SUITE A, MODESTO, CA 95350 (209) 408-8802) WHERE THE CONTACT WAS ASKED IF SHE WAS LATE ON HER PAYMENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-01
- VIN: 3C4FY58B64T
- Components: SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, SOMETIMES WHEN DRIVING, THE CAR WILL JERK TO THE LEFT OR THE RIGHT WITHOUT PROBACATION. VECHILE ACCELERATES WITHOUT FOOT BEING ON THE PEDAL. ONE TIME I WAS AT A STOP LIGHT. MY FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE, BUT THE CAR LURCHED FORWARD AND THE ENGINE STARTING REVING. I HAD TO USE BOTH FEET WITH EXTREME FORCE TO SLOW THE CAR DOWN. FINALLY, I JUST THREW THE CAR INTO PARK; ONCE IN PARK, THE CAR KEPT REVING. THE PEDAL WAS NOT PRESSED.THIS HAS HAPPENED ON THREE OCCASIONS. THIS MAKES FOR UNSAFE DRIVING, AND ONLY DUE TO MY GOOD DRIVING SKILLS DID I AVOID AN ACCIDENT. THIS HAS BEEN OCCURING FOR THE PAST THREE MONTHS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-14
- VIN: 3C4FY48B24T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INSTRUMENT PANEL IS INOPERATIVE ALL FUSES AND RELAYS ARE OKAY.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-14
- VIN: 3C4FY48B04T
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: VEHICLE ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN, UP TO 4,000RPM WITH MY FOOT OFF THE GAS PEDAL. WHEN I STOMPED ON THE BRAKES CAR WOULD NOT SLOW DOWN, ENGINE CONTINUED TO RUN AT 4,000RPM. TO SAVE MY LIFE AND OTHERS SHIFTED CAR INTO NEUTRAL, PULLED OVER AND TURNED OFF IGNITION. AFTER A MINUTE OR TWO RESTARTED THE CAR AND SAME SYMPTOM WERE PRESENT, ENGINE REVIVING TO 4,000RPM, FOOT OFF THE GAS PEDAL, ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AS A PRECAUTION. NOTE THAT WHEN THIS FIRST HAPPENED THE CAR WAS NOT IN CRUISE CONTROL MODE, SIMPLY DRIVING AROUND TOWN RUNNING ERRANDS. THIS SITUATION IS SCARY BECAUSE I DO NOT KNOW WHEN, HOW, IF IT IS GOING TO HAPPEN AGAIN, TOTALLY UNPROVOKED AND NON-SENSICAL AS TO WHY IT IS HAPPENING, WHAT TRIGGERS THE PROBLEM. THIS HAS NOW OCCURRED TWICE RECENTLY AND BECAUSE OF THIS NIGHTMARE SCENARIO I AM HESITANT, VERY VERY HESITANT TO DRIVE THE CAR. IT IS A DANGER TO MY, MY WIFE'S LIFE AND OTHER PEOPLE ON THE ROAD WE MAY ACCIDENTALLY PLOW INTO IF THE CAR DECIDES TO GO INTO RUNAWAY MODE OF ITS OWN VOLITION. YOUR CONSIDERATION OF A RESPONSE WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-08
- VIN: 4FY58864T28
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL GAUGE SUDDENLY DROPS TO EMPTY. EVEN AFTER A COMPLETE TANK REFILL. IT WOULD SEEM TO BE AN ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTION IN EITHER THE SENSOR OR DASH GAUGE ITSELF. IT CAN BE "CLEARED" FROM BEING STUCK ON EMPTY BY SHUTTING OFF THE ENGINE AND THEN RESTARTING IT. ALSO, SPEEDOMETER SUDDENLY DROPS TO ZERO FOR SEVERAL SECONDS AND THEN JUMPS BACK TO THE PRESENT SPEED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-29
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3C4FY48B34T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY PT CRUISER BY CHRYLR 2004 GOT ON FIRE IN THE CONTROL AREAS FOR THE GEAR CONTROL AREAS, I WAS DRIVING HOME ON THE 29TH OF FEBRUARY 2016, AND I WAS ABOUT A MILE FROM MY HOME WHEN MY GRAND DAUGHTER SAID SHE SMELL SMOKE AND SEEN IT AS WELL, BUT WE DIDN'T KNOW WHERE IT WAS COMING FROM. I GOT HOME FROM DRIVING A REGULAR CITY STREET, WHICH WAS ABOUT 5 MINUTES FROM MY HOME. I PARK THE CAR AND RAISE THE HOOD TO SEE IF THE FIRE WAS UNDER MY HOOD, NO NOT THERE. SO I PARK MY CAR AT MY HOME AND SAID I WOULD INVESTIGATE IT IN THE MORNING SINCE IT WAS NIGHT TIME. I WENT TO MY CAR THE NEXT MORNING ON THE 1ST OF MARCH 2016 AND TRY TO CHANGE GEARS, MY GEAR WOULDN'T MOVE. I HAD MY CAR TOW TO MY MECHANIC TO FIX THE PROBLEM. HE TOLD ME I HAD A FIRE IN THE GEAR AREAS, HE WAS DUMBFOUNDED ON HOW THE FIRE STARTED, BUT SAID THE ONLY THING HE COULD COME UP WITH WAS THE CIGARETTE LIGHTER COULD HAD STARTED THE FIRE.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-23
- VIN: 3C4FY588X4T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO CONTROL. THE CONTACT PARKED THE VEHICLE AND ADDED STEERING WHEEL FLUID TO THE VEHICLE. THE NEXT MORNING, THE CONTACT NOTICED FLUID UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT INFORMED THE MANUFACTURER WHO VERIFIED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V268000 (STEERING) AND WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE A FREE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,618.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-20
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3C8FY68B24T
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE HEATED SEAT CAUGHT FIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS NOTIFIED AND WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNAVAILABLE.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-13
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3C8FY68B74T
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE AT A COMPLETE STOP, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE SEAT BELT FAILED AND CAUSED THE CONTACT TO HIT HER HEAD ON THE STEERING WHEEL. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 71,000.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-10
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: NEED TO PUT THIS VEHICLE IN SHOP TO HAVE THE RECALLS DONE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-01
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE LEFT TURN SIGNAL WAS ACTIVATED AND THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE LEFT TURN SIGNAL SWITCH NEAR THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FOG LIGHTS REMAINED ILLUMINATED AND THE CONTACT HAD TO LIFT THE STEERING WHEEL UPWARDS IN ORDER TO ENGAGE THE HORN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURES RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-07
- VIN: 3C8FY78G24T
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE BEING INSPECTED, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE SUSPENSION NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED AND THAT THE POWER STEERING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 04V268000 (STEERING) AND 08E033000 (SUSPENSION) HOWEVER IT WAS INFORMED THAT THE RECALLS HAD EXPIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 81,000. UPDATED 3/31/15*CN UPDATED 7/8/2015*JS
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-17
- VIN: 3C4FY58854T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE MAKING A TURN, THERE WAS A GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE STEERING WHEEL. ON ONE OCCASION, THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED AND THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE POWER STEERING FLUID WAS LEAKING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE POWER STEERING HOSE WAS EXPOSED TO THE TRANSMISSION AND RUPTURED CAUSING THE POWER STEERING FLUID TO LEAK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 85,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-03
- VIN: 3C4FY58854T
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING HOSE FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO REPLACED THE POWER STEERING HOSE ON TWO OCCASIONS BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE POWER STEERING HOSE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V268000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000.
2004 Chrysler Pt cruiser recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2004 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.
Negative 2004 Chrysler Pt cruiser car reviews
Positive 2004 Chrysler Pt cruiser car reviews
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This is my second PT and I can't find any negative aspects to report. My 'old' 2002 PT Limited Edition was great in all areas but power, it was just too gutless and had to be floored to get out of everyone's way. Hence the upgrade to my new 2004 Turbo Platinum Series. Stunningly sharp looking, chrome everywhere, luscious leather and suede seats, loaded with all the goodies I'd ever want .. and POWER! Chrysler really stepped up to the plate on this series. Bravo!
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Congratulations on your new 04 platinum turbo! It looks beautiful and I can tell you're excited to drive it. The reviews are definitely promising and I'm sure you won't be disappointed. The style of the car is very impressive and I can understand why you're so excited about it. Enjoy your new ride!
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My wife and I both loved the styling of the PT Cruiser. During test drives and renting one on a Florida vacation, we decided that we would buy one if Chrysler ever put a real engine in it. Well, they finally did it! In 2004, Chrysler put in a 220 horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter four-banger and followed it with a Getrag 5-speed tranny and limited-slip differential. Who would have thought that my wife parked her chic car Cabrio and won't let me get the keys to the PT-GT? She comes home with reports of blowing the doors off Mustangs and the like. It's a good thing it has traction control! Do we like the car, you ask? No, we absolutely LOVE this car! It tows our 2 jet-skis or our 16-foot jet boat with ease.
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Great little car! It's amazing how it whips around all the curves with ease, even in the mountain region where I live. I travel 70 miles up and down 2 mountains and it has great pick up. I'm so happy with it!
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A small car that I can comfortably fit my 6'3
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Chrysler Pt cruiser problems:
2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Feb 20, 2023 ... Kelley Blue Book users were generally disappointed with the 2004 PT Cruiser, giving it a weak 77% recommendation. One reviewer calls it a “great ...
2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser Problems and Complaints - 13 Issues
Problem with your 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser? Our list of 13 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Trouble diagnosing issues with 2004 PT Cruiser turbo | Allpar Forums
Jul 14, 2017 ... The gas cap isn't mentioned in the P0499 test procedure. Allpar's mission statement: A forum community dedicated to Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, ...
Chrysler PT Cruiser Questions - Have any of the PT Cruisers been ...
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!
Chrysler PT Cruiser Owners: Problems & Solutions - Page 6 — Car ...
Oct 23, 2002 ... This is one of several problems I have had with my 2004 PT. There is a recall notice for spark plug wires and a computer update that needs to be ...
Other years of Chrysler Pt cruiser
Are you having problems with your 2004 Chrysler Pt cruiser?
Bell Durgan 2024-10-03
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my cruiser. It's been a reliable car for me, even with over 40,000 miles added to it in just 15 months! While I enjoy driving it, I have to admit that the seats are quite uncomfortable, like sitting on a park bench. Additionally, the car doesn't have much power and the fuel economy is not as good as I had hoped. On the bright side, there are many fun extras that you can add to the car. However, I do want to mention that the resale value is not great. If you purchase from a dealer, you may find yourself upside down after the first year and the car won't be worth as much as you owe on it. Thanks for listening!
Linwood Bechtelar 2024-08-21
This car is fun to drive and easy to handle, although it can be a bit challenging when it comes to turning as it tends to make wider turns. Additionally, the car sits quite low in the front, which can cause some issues with bottoming out. It may also struggle a bit when going up hills or inclines. Overall, it's a great car to drive!
Jeff Morissette 2024-08-13
Although my previous car, a 2001 Hyundai Elantra, was relatively trouble-free, I have unfortunately experienced a number of mechanical issues with my PT Cruiser since purchasing it used. Within just two days of buying it, I had to address several problems, including replacing the torque converter, battery, PVC hose, a torn CV joint, and front left axle. The car also makes a grinding noise between 45-60mph, vibrates during idle and starting first thing in the morning, and this morning it almost stalled on me while driving 75mph. Additionally, the car is not very comfortable to drive, as the seats are quite hard. The placement of the wiper controls and window controls are also not very intuitive. Despite these issues, I am confident that I can address them and make the car more reliable and comfortable to drive.
Roger Kozey 2024-06-08
My experience has not been great, but I am confident that the issues are related to the wheels and not a reflection of the car's overall quality. Despite the dealership's confusion over the wheel bearings and premature brake wear, I still love the style and versatility of the car. While the gas mileage is not ideal, averaging at 19-20, I am confident that the car's other features make up for it.
Bo Erdman 2024-02-09
Although the fuel economy provided by the 2.4 L engine is not up to my expectations, I am impressed with the options available for the interior configuration. Interestingly, my dog seems to have developed a fear of this car, which is quite unusual as he used to be eager to go anywhere with me.