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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Never Again - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By JoeCool - February 20 - 5:46 pmI got rid in my Jeep Liberty for this car looking for better mileage. As it was a nice looking car and 0% the salesman talked me into it. I dont think I am getting any better mileage. I too have had with water/snow staining the seats,they look terrible. I have had my car at the dealer 5 times now over the last month. The power steering unit went out. I had also reported a leak. The first time was reported over-filling off fluid, continued leak. I believe an oil ring was replaced, still a leak. Today I am told the head gasket needs replaced. I will never buy a Cruiser/Chrysler vehicle ever. I am greatly dissapointed in what I cant wait to get rid of it!
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BAD PT - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By hcskitchns - January 7 - 2:00 amAfter just 3400 miles car experienced "dead clynider" after 8 visits to dealer/29 days in shop, Chrysler took back car for "mech. faults" and provided us with a new 2003. Until Md. Att. General got involved neither DAR CARS or Chrysler took notice of repeated letters about problems. New 2003 works great, however Chry. will not give me the same 7/100,000 powertrain warranty I had on other car. This remains a sticking point.
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PT Cruiser - over rated - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By unitrorent - January 1 - 7:16 pmThe very poor gas mileage for a small car in not acceptable. My car has been back to the dealer (s) 3-4 time for major problems (dash board cluster, front end problems (still need fixing), radio and the list goes on. Their dealers dont check for anything that isnt on the job order. The warranty for 36000 miles is way behind other cars. I wouldnt but another PT Cruiser
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Overated and no resale value - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Dwighthp - December 16 - 10:16 amI bought this GT June 2004 the sticker was well over $26K absurd for this car! While paying far less it was still way overpriced for a econobox. Resale value is abysmal! I decided to sell the car after 3 months of liking it and the next 6 realizing it was a poor choice. Those who claim not to have engine noise must have the stereo turned up. On the highway Chryslers poor insulation with elevated DB levels and wind noise. Shut the doors tin can sound. Besides the Leather seats interior trim materials are cheap. Engine warning light turned out be a wire upgrade with plugs no factory notice. My suggestion get a Subaru WRX if you want performance and quality in a small car.
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If I could set this car on fire..I WOULD - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Miserable - December 9 - 4:03 amIve had my Limited Edition for 9 years now. Its been a nightmare for 7 of those years. At 15K miles the brake system had to be overhauled to the tune of $600. 30K...brakes AGAIN...38K both tail light assemblies had to be replaced...40K Headlight assemly this time...56K Rotars and Calipers...68K Radiator AGAIN...and on it goes. Just hit 80K and Im still having issues with the brake system. I started out loving this car...now I loathe it...final words? BURN BABY BURN!
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Pain in the Butt - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By unhappy in GA - December 3 - 6:13 amI bought this car for a franchise that I later sold but kept the car. At 20K miles it needed new brake pads & rotors and again at 40K miles!! The A/C compressor died at 30K. Now, the check engine light is coming on and it is driving very rough. There is only 40K miles on this car, folks! I would never have bought a Chrysler if it was not the car of choice for the franchise I owned at the time and will NEVER buy one again.
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Frustrated with this car! - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Missy - November 2 - 11:36 pmFirst I have to say I love the look of this car (I have a convertible) and it is fun to drive BUT the problems I have had are disappointing. First the computer was bad and it had to be towed 6 times before they found it. (Thats me standing in a parking lot with a dead car that many times.) Luckily, then it was under warranty. Then the list began: the battery has exploded, the air conditioner went out and cost a thousand dollars, there is some kind of short they cant find that causes a pop and the dash to go out when Im driving. I could go on. Its sad because I love it but Im ready to punt! The amount of money Ive had to spend on this car already is ridiculous.
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great looks, poor return for the money - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By rizzo - October 2 - 10:00 amStyling is great, interior versatility best in class. BUT, engine performance worst Ive ever had, no power, poor fuel economy, poor quality fit and finish, and now Chrysler ruins the resale with incentives on new models. Last Chrysler product Ill ever own.
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Fun but underpowered - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By curler1 - September 12 - 10:00 amI think they really engineered the interior space well. Plenty of roo both in the front and back. Like therear cargo area although cant get golf clubs tolie flat. The engine is a dog but I knew that going in. Abit noisy with road noise.
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Reliability Cruises down Highway - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By doug koman - September 6 - 6:50 amgas gauge sticks at "full" then drops to below empty. Dealer says dirt in gas. First American car in 25 years; funny all those imports used same variety of gas without this problem. Clutch goes right to floor without resistance. Stranded on interstate vehicle trucked to dealer. Slave valve worked loose & dropped into transmission. First time dealer ever saw this. 25 years of imports with manual transmissions; never even had a clutch adjustment. Will not buy an American car again. This was a mistake, but thought US quality had improved. Now I cant even trade it as Chrsyler has cut the cost of 05s. Do not buy a PT cruiser.
