Overview & Reviews
Inspired by the panel vans of the1930s, the Chrysler PT Cruiser caused quite a buzz when it was first released, for model year 2001. It was one of a few vehicles to herald the new retro trend and became an instant success.
As an entire decade passed, the PT's utility and versatility remained intact, but the hype surrounding it faded. Such was the life of the PT Cruiser: a bright spot for Chrysler that was ultimately left alone while other practical yet smartly styled hatchback/wagons were introduced. From a used car purchase standpoint, however, the PT is still a respectable choice, especially considering that you'll have plenty of examples to choose from given its decade in production.
Most Recent Chrysler PT Cruiser
The Chrysler PT Cruiser was produced from 2001-'10 as a four-door wagon, and from 2005-'08 as a two-door convertible. Despite sharing its platform with the much-maligned Neon, it drove better than its DNA would suggest. It was also versatile, with a maximum cargo space of 76 cubic feet, and there was ample seating space and headroom. The rear seats could fold down or be removed completely, and a two-tiered luggage area further enhanced the PT's usability.
Throughout its run, the standard engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produced 150 horsepower. A five-speed manual and four-speed automatic were available. Acceleration was adequate, but fuel economy was poor for a small wagon. For 2003, Chrysler added a turbocharged GT model; it originally produced 215 horses and later 230 for 2006. It was discontinued for '07. Those desiring more power after that time could opt for a 180-hp turbo engine on certain trims from 2004-'09.
Besides a minor interior styling refresh for '06 and the gradual addition of more features such as an auxiliary audio jack or Bluetooth, the PT Cruiser was otherwise unchanged.
In road tests, our editors found the Chrysler PT Cruiser to be an entertaining drive. It handled adequately, and its overall ride quality was smooth. The Cruiser's utility also bettered that of many compact crossovers. The main downsides included the tepid acceleration of the base engine and poor fuel economy. In its later years, the PT's design also became stale compared to newer competing hatchbacks and wagons. As for the convertible, its fixed roll bar made access to the backseat tricky and top-up visibility was a perpetual issue. We weren't enamored with it at the time, but it could be a good pick if you're looking for an affordable and stylish drop top.
User Reviews:
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I HATE IT - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By I HATE IT - March 19 - 11:26 pmi have had my Pt for about a year now and it gets REALLY BAD GAS MILAGE, and WATER STAINS MY SEATS !! i bought this car bc the sales man cond me into it and i have a daughter and if she spills anything i cant clean it up bc the liquid makes the stain worse the inside of my car looks like a NASTY person owns it and im a clean freak I CANT WAIT TO SELL IT I will NEVER OWN ANOTHER ONE !!!!
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Mistake - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Fred Tuttle - February 7 - 2:02 amPurchased new. Underpowered, yet relatively poor mileage (16 city, 24 highway), has always consumed an excessive amount of oil (about 0.1 qt per 100 miles), and a turn radius that once got caused a traffic stop for suspicion of DUI. Besides ordinary and expected service: A/C fan controller failed at 35 K, again at 70 K and again at 100 K; A/C evaporator core at 80 K; cam shaft sensor at 66 K, followed by a cylinder head at 80 K; passenger seat airbag sensor failed at 70 K; transmission failed at 90 K; and weirdly, three of four in the initial set of tire went flat within first 25 K, with no further problems after they were replaced. Approximate excess repair cost to date: $15 K. Total cost to purchase and operate to 100K: $0.47 per mile plus insurance/interest. Bottom line: nice styling, reasonably roomy and comfortable, but better, cheaper options were available.
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Pt cruiser a lemon in disguise - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By It may be pretty but - November 10 - 9:26 amFrom the start this car has had serious problems Chrysler does not know how to repair, computer changed 3 times, transmission,shaking stawling, engine lights turning and on and on and on. the car has been at the dealership now on and off since I have had the car at least once to twice a month for a week or two at a time. I have used up my towing allowance with AAA. Chrysler keeps saying theres nothing wrong or they dont know how to fix it, it is a great looking lawn ornament dont be fooled like I was by the great style it is not worth the aggravation and expense. We have all the receipts from the repairs to prove these claims.
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Dont Buy One - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Ron Sliter - October 10 - 1:23 amWe purchased a brand new PT Conv and we have had nothing but trouble with it. The original dealer was no help in repairing it and we took it to another dealer Integrity Chrysler Dodge with the same results. To add insult to injury Chrysler Corp has been no help at all. The car stops running for no reason and wont start back up again until its ready. I have had this happen at 70 mph on the freeway and at just about any other speed. The radiator also cracked and had to be replaced and the car doesnt even have 10,000 miles on it. Buy a Mustang at least they run and you can get them repaired. I will never buy another Chrysler product and neither should you.
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Horrible! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By jillf - October 7 - 2:16 amThis car is so disappointing! I bought it used with 54k miles on it. The electrical system has always been wacky - dash indicator lights come on and off randomly and the fog lights wouldnt turn off, constantly draining the battery. Ive had it in to fix various power steering problems EIGHT times!!! A/C broke twice. Back liftgate broke. DO NOT BUY THIS CAR!!! Ive easily spent twice as much in repairs as I originally spent to buy the car.
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Piece of Junk - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By delrosen - September 29 - 4:56 amAvoid the temptation of buying this car with the thoughts of cruising with the top down. Severe suspension problem. Major repairs/replacements required, including control arms and hub bearing before the car even had 40,000 miles. Now the motor mounts have failed at 41500. Looking through other reviews, I see the same issues reported. Wish Id found this site and read the reviews prior to my purchase.
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It is O.K. - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By John Caporusso - August 5 - 2:00 amIt is ok but bad gas mileage.
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Bad Car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By e starling - March 28 - 10:00 amMy Husband purchase a PT Curiser for me while on 2 weeks R&R. Want to asure his family would be in a safe car while he was deployed to Iraq. The car has been in the shop for repairs 4 times in less then 3 months. Due to " a glitch in the system". but this glitch cost me $56.00 and nothing was found or problem not fixed/ word of advise "never buy a Chrysler product"
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Worst Car Ever - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Christina - February 7 - 12:36 pmI had a 2001 Hyundai Elantra before this car and never had as many issues as Ive had with the PT Cruiser. Granted I purchased it used, but within two days of purchasing it the mechanical issues began. Ive had to replace the torque converter, battery, PVC hose, a torn CV joint and front left axle. It 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. Its also very uncomfortable. I feel like I am sitting on a bag of rocks. This is the only car Ive driven where you have to push up for the wipers, not down and the window controls are in the center of the vehicle.A true lemon
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Disappointed - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Soccer Mom - February 1 - 8:13 pmI have had this vehicle for a little less than 2 years and I am seriously worried that it will not last another 3 years. I downsized from an SUV to save on gas only to find out that I average 23.5 mpg in this 4 cyl car. My SUV got 20-21 avg. I am very disappointed with the overall structure and mechanical performance. My 6 year old broke the glove box latch by trying to open it. Wont buy another Chrysler.
