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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  PT LOSER - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Arlisha Anderson - September 24 - 10:26 pm

  I bought my PT Cruiser from Nissan Woodland Hills. It worked great for the first 4 years but now it keeps overheating! I now call it the pt loser or pity cruiser. Just dont buy one!

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  Try the Chevy HHV - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Gaguy - September 13 - 2:46 pm

  I have had more problems with this car than all my other vehicles combined. First off, the head gasket leaked oil before 300 miles and had to be replaced. Then the ventilation system recirculation door opens on its own because the underpowered engine is not capable of providing enough vacuum to keep it closed when going uphill. The infamously bad Chrysler automatic transmission went out at 31,700 miles and had to be rebuilt. The mechanics had the audacity to suggest someone that I put something in the transmission to cause it to fail. If they really thought that they should have refused repairs and given me the chance to take them to court but I think they knew they would lose.

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  many problems with my 02 PT - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Joe - May 30 - 5:20 pm

  The reliability of my pt cruiser is terrible. After the warranty ran out the dealer finally figured out what the problems were. I am putting $300 oxygen sensors in my car every 2 months. I will never buy another chrysler product. I would not take a free chrysler car.

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  Base PT Cruiser... a dissapointment - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ckrivin - April 20 - 8:33 am

  Im happy with the build quality, room and reliability. But the car is not very good for highway cruising; it is noisy, vibrates at speed and doesnt have much passing power. Also the gas mileage ... it gets just what the window sticker says, but not the greatest for a smallish car.

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  Whats with the braking system? - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By bandit1 - April 14 - 10:16 am

  Had the car in 3 times to work on the brakes. They continue to squeak. Dealership says thats the way the PT brakes are (???). Should have gotten turbo because entering the high speed highway is a challenge. Body is great. But it is very noisy driving; drives me crazy. Wonder if I got the lemon? Disappointed. Not great on gas. Wont buy another Chrysler.

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  Poor fuel economy - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Fred - April 6 - 1:33 am

  All in All car is OK. The fuel economy in my mind is very poor for highway conditions. So far, after 9000+ miles my highway average is 21.5 mpg. I owned a 1990 Plymouth Sundance got 31 mpg highway. Im very dissatisfied with this. I talked with the dealer and their statement was "thats about it". TV commericals states PT gets 29 mpg. Not true,very poor.

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  worst car i ever owned and this is my second pt cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By myptcruiser - March 21 - 5:06 am

  I have owned 2 pt cruisers, a 2001 and 2002. I do not know why I bought the second one. Both had the same problems - replaced radiator $1200 both times; suspension problems with tie rods, wheel hub assembly. If I open the hatchback it causes my brake lights to fail, because according to Chrysler dealership, the wiring rubs as I open the hatchback. The camshaft sensor had to be replaced $350. Now it is going out again after being replaced by the Chrysler dealership less than 8 months ago. Very expensive to repair. Do not buy this car! You can find them available for sale everywhere - have you ever wondered why? Be glad they no longer make this car.

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  Water stains seats! - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By psupanda - February 9 - 6:03 am

  Weirdest thing EVER. If a drop of water gets on the seats it leaves a watermark. Ive had my car for only a few months and the interior looks terrible. I tried to clean it, and that only made it worse. Wherever the cleaner went it left a watermark stain.

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  We Wont Get Fooled Again - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Matt - January 31 - 1:03 am

  We loved this car when we first bought it, and thought that maybe the curse of the American made car was finally put to rest (remember the "K Car"?). However, within 3 years, it feels like weve replaced everything in it! Transmission, air conditioner compressor, power steering, ball joints - and those are off the top of my head. Of course, none of these were covered by the warranty due to the high amount of highway miles we put on it from my wifes work commute, which means Ive been basically making 2 car payments for the past 2 1/2 years. Regardless to say, were going back Honda or Toyota when I trade this in next month.

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  Can only Blame Myself - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Unpleased.... - January 25 - 8:56 am

  This is the first car that I got financed and in the spirit of wanted to trade this trash in I finally started reading reviews of other vehicles. I decided to see the reviews on the 2006 PT Cruiser that I currently own and must say AMEN to gas mileage being a joke and I never knew water could stain like coffee. I can only blame myself for not reading reviews before purchasing.