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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  Gave Me Nightmares - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Zarkster - December 20 - 2:13 pm

  I bought this car with 13K miles on it, back when Consumer Reports actually recommended the Cruiser. The first two years were OK, but then disaster struck. The whole shock system went down, struts, bushings, brakes, and everything else had to be replaced at around 50K. The next summer, my transmission went KAPUT. Luckily, the car was still under warranty. Now, Ive discovered that all the struts, bushings, axles, and rotors need to be replaced again. This car has caused me to have nightmares about driving it down hills, and then going totally out of control and careening around corners.

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  This is why Chrysler needs bailed out! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By scott - December 11 - 3:03 am

  Had everything go wrong! Spark plugs, front control arms (which is every single pt out there!), motor mount cracked, timing belt, rear windshield motor, battery at 90,000, transmission fluid was dirty, inside electrical display! Need I go on? Not really considering I gave it back to Chrysler! They stink never again!

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  It was so nice at first..... - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By kidsasuke - September 15 - 10:06 pm

  We bought a used one of these for about $7500. It looked brand new and handled fine, but then the problems started. We had to replace the brakes twice, and the check engine and airbag lights both stayed on. It ended up costing us about $2000 in repairs and is crap for mileage. We calculated it at about 13.9 mpg doing mostly city driving. The handling feels smooth, but the turn radius is pretty cruddy considering its size. We wouldve been better off buying a Corolla.

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  Its okay if u reallt needed a car - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Lazette - July 26 - 12:25 am

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  Chrysler is #3 for a reason! - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By bike_canoe2 - July 5 - 4:30 pm

  After owning a PT for 100,000 miles, I can only say it is an ok car. GMs 4cyls get better gas mileage and have more power. Fords are more reliable. The turning radius is too big. The seats are hard, with only one arm rest for the driver and none in the back. Paint has lasted very well, it still shines. There are better options on the market that you should consider. I found out by my mechanic that this engine will be broken if the timing belt breaks

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  Not happy with performance - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By boomers pt - July 3 - 7:16 pm

  Traded in 300m for Cruiser, have 77000 miles on it. I have had passenger side wheel bearing replaced 3 times and drivers side replaced once. Going on the third set of tires. Car is in the shop at least once a month. Numerous front end issues. Thank God I purchased the extended warranty. Added a K/N filter no improvement on gas mileage. Have had struts, tie rods, and numerous other front end replacements

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  So over Chrysler! - 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Chelsea - June 7 - 1:10 pm

  I loved driving my used 2001 Limited Edition PT Crusier but was having some problems with it come 2007 so I decided it was time for a new one..despite the previous problems I had, I figured buying a brand new one I wouldnt have any problems, so I purchased a brand new Cruiser on January 1, 2008. Do you think its been a joy? Not one bit! I have had nothing but problems since day one! It has been in for balancing over 3 times, the tires have been indexed multiple times, and now it squeaks when I go over anything that makes the car bouce. Its so annoying! Body creaks shouldnt be happening on a less then one year old car! I am over my car and will never buy a Chrysler again!

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  Not a great purchase - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By John - May 2 - 4:46 pm

  I have had this car for 3 years and have had a lot of problems door seals replaced 6,000 miles Horrible fuel economy from day 1 15 mpg city 18 hwy premium fuel dealer said would improve with driving 21000 miles now and no better new stereo 8000 miles new wheel bearings 19000 miles has been in shop often Chrysler does not offer rentals either pd 34,000.00 very loaded Inferno Red Gorgeous car they said it was not a high end model like a 300M or Aspen or Crossfire just a PT Cruiser Chrysler no help either Took to another dealer same excuses now just parked till lease up have 2001 Hyundai Santa Fe company car excellent gas mileage and very reliable Hyundai honors their warranty

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  Practical but costly - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By dpatern - May 2 - 4:23 pm

  I have had the car since new and alway serviced at the dealer. I have 43000 miles on it and way to many things have gone wrong. Tie rod ends, water pump, air conditioning and transmission lines. The car rides good and is super practical to own. The amount of items you can haul with the seats out is remarkable. I am just tired of Chryslers bad reliablility. This is the only car I ever got an extended warranty with and I am glad I did. Oh yea, small 4 cyl with little performance and lousy gas mileage.

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  dont waste your money - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Tiffani - March 2 - 4:56 am

  I HAD ALWAYS wanted a PT Cruiser... until I bought one. I bought mine. Transmission Blew out at 50K on the way to vegas. Me and my kids were stuck in the desert. Car has FAILED on me about 3 times now... NOT safe for a Woman and kids. I love the style and am stuck with the PT... it has over 100k now that I have have thousands of dollars in repairs.