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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  High cost/&high repair cost - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Mike C - September 11 - 9:16 am

  The overall value of the car is far less than the value of the car. Ratio of 1/5. Because of the many problems, an hard to service per mechanics, an cluster panel failure, this car should be restricted to hobby driving to grocery store, but not suitable for city an high traffic driving. You will end up paying for it twice based on repairs.

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  Dont Expect Too Much - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By techshark - September 5 - 11:33 pm

  We have a 2001 PT Cruiser. While its fun to look at it is seriously underpowered and has lots of issues. Despite that we have a "bumper to bumper" extended warranty, it never seems to cover any of the issues and each service is several hundred dollars a time and at least $100 to diagnose. The car has a VERY dangerous blind spot so you must adjust the mirrors exactly and take your eyes off the road to look behind you in both directions to change lanes. The car is so underpowered that it cannot make more than 60 mph up a hill with 2 people in it. The gas mileage is on its best day 20 mpg highway so dont buy this for fuel economy. If all you want is styling, this is the car for you.

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  Car from HELL - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Charrissa - May 6 - 1:06 am

  I HATE this car. I can not wait to get rid of it. My main computer went out a few months after I bought it which cost me $3000 to fix. Few months later my fog lights wouldnt turn off, which killed my battery stranding me many times. I had to remove the fuse that controls it. Currently my car makes a horrible noise (similar to a cats fighting) only when I turn to the right. It also makes horrible sounds when I first turn it on and drive. Turning radius stinks and so does the gas. I will NEVER EVER buy a Chrysler again.

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  I am glad Chrysler folded, they deserved it - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By gbw123 - April 30 - 11:25 pm

  This car is the biggest piece of junk ever built. I bought it for a college student with a long commute for semester breaks. Everything that could go wrong with this car did. Brakes, calipers, air conditioning, radiator, electrical, engine leaks, engine light coming on, heavy vibrations when idling. I have to believe this vehicle was built as a bad joke. Someone at the head of the old Chrysler must have had an inept kid they gave a job to and they designed this car. The value dropped by 80% in one year. The only positive thing about this vehicle is the amount of interior space. We can fit a lot of stuff. Gas mileage is also pathetic. Shame on you old Chrysler. Your car is a disgrace

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  Love this car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dewyonna - April 24 - 4:23 am

  I would never suggest buying a pt cruiser. 1st off the Chrysler dealer has had my car more than I have. I really do hate this car. Every time I turn around something is wrong and I am always told by the dealer that the car is fine well then in about 2 weeks the car is tore up again. I really cant wait to get sell this car and just b/c I have had bad customer service with this car I would never buy another Chrysler again. Oh, wait, and when its raining if the rain gets on the seats it will stain big time. It has a really wide turning radius. Dont buy a PT.

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  First Year Gremlins Plaque My PT Cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By PT-Loser - February 24 - 7:10 pm

  This car is the worst ever owned. Poor mileage (average 16 MPG), poor performance. It stalls when cold. The clutch slipped from day one. The engine has always had a rough idle, and is the loudest ever owned. Paint started flaking after 6 months. Door trim has broken off twice. Drivers seat has been replaced. The clock wont keep time, and every CD played skips. On windshield number 4. They seem to crack from stress. Front windows have came off the track twice. Burns a quart of oil a week.

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  mechanic failures - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By angee sommers - December 30 - 8:10 am

  This viehicle had to have two front transmission seals replaced before it had 2400 miles on it, yes two thousand four hundred miles. This vehicle vibrates at 45mph and while in idle. Very disappointed in vehicle and reliability. Brakes shutter at breaking at high speed, will be a problem at a later date.

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  Gas Gouper - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Sharon Gantt - December 23 - 10:00 am

  This car uses Sooo much gas its not funny. The cars temp gauge is always above the middle, you dont know if it is hot or not. The handling is kind of rough on the freeway. The brakes are starting to squeal at only 12,000 miles. You cant acelerate on the freeway.

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  Lemon Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Nancy M - November 20 - 9:20 am

  I have had nothing but problems with it since I bought it. The transmission has been slipping since 2 weeks after I brought it home! The dealers computer cant find a problem, so they wont fix it. Now Im past my warranty period and they tell me that the repair is at my cost! also, I had numerous problems with it that arent supposed to happen. The Strut spring snapped in half, covered under warranty (but should never happen), the engine mounting bolt flew out and took out my power steering pump with it (that should never happen), the battery cable spontaneously burned up (mechanic was surprised my car didnt catch fire!) and that should never happen,either! Im trading it for a Honda!

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  Worst vehicle Ive ever owned. - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Lori - September 30 - 8:46 am

  Cheap vehicle. At 60,000 miles the cooling system quit, had to have entire system replaced. Thermostat stopped working and car overheated, almost ruined the engine! Next the a/c compressor quit making the car stall or jump forward at lights. This vehicle is a hazard. Leather is not durable at all, and the paint flakes off, cant wash it with out finding new exposed metal!