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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used and nothing but issues - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By nicoleo - August 24 - 10:09 amthis is my very first car. ive had it since October for my birthday. nothing but problems the thing leaks oil like no tomorrow breaks had to be changed a week or so after I got it while changing the breaks my dad noticed that the outside tire rods where hanging on by a thread that scared me quite a bit. the acceleration sucks! in Canada gas is cheap like 90cents a L so it takes about $25 to fill it from just under half. driving to school there and back is 30 ish km and 30 to the city cant wait to get rid of it!
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2006 PT - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By speedo - August 12 - 1:40 pmRoomy Interior for bigger people with great leg room. Nice cargo space.Poor Fuel Mileage on automatic standard 4 cyl. Poor steering wheel placement for long rides. Easily fatigued on long rides over 150 miles for large/tall people. Performance lacks in every aspect.Rides like a cheap import. Brakes are somewhat lacking. Could use 4 wheel disc standard.
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Great car with lousy engine - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Hayabusa4u - July 6 - 2:33 amThis car was very reliable and I never had a problem with it, but is horribly underpowered. The gas mileage is awful as well. I was actually scared a few times getting on the freeway because I couldnt accelerate fast enough. I will never buy another PT Cruiser. To top it all off, the resale value is a joke. The car was not even worth half what I paid for it just 2 years earlier. I just bought a Toyota Camry and what a difference. It gets great gas mileage and can actually accelerate up a hill. I hope the next PT Cruiser has some power, and better resale value, because I really do like the styling.
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PT Nightmare Cruise - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By mbit - June 26 - 8:56 amHonestly the worst car I have ever owned. I am ready to push it over a cliff to take it out of my misery. It has been a maintenance nightmare. I have spent almost $6000 in maintenance this year alone.
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Too Many Repairs - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By kt - June 16 - 3:06 amLoved my cruiser for first 32,000 miles. I traveled extensively in my job so maintenance is always a priority. In 50,000 miles bushings replaced, left front wheel bearing and its still not fixed. The other wheel bearings will need replacing which shouldnt have occurred for a much longer time. Transmission problems, over 4 RPM going 50 mph even though the dealership said it was fine. Difficult to handle on the highway which wasnt a problem in beginning. Met other 2006 owners who travel a lot experiencing similar problems. One who buys PT Cruisers said 2006 has more problems than all the other PT Cruisers he has owned. Maybe this is why they didnt put the 100,000 mile warranty.
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Less then a year major problems - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Semmii - May 14 - 2:00 amOnly having the vehicle for less then a year and only 15k + miles this vehicle has had major transmission and drive axle problems. Unbelievable that we have experienced such problems early in this vehicle?s life. Within the last two months it has been in the shop 50 of those 60 days in attempt to be repaired. Although we were once in love with the vehicle?s concept, we have lost all confidence in the safety of this car.
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Disappointed - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By VADA - April 25 - 2:00 amI am extremely disappointed in the value that my car has held. I bought almost a top of the line care and it is already worth less than 1/2 of what I paid for it. This car was not a good investment on my part. I am also disappointed in the power. Come on for 20,000 couldnt we get a little more power??
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Unreliable - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By soulsistar - April 19 - 4:00 amAt first I loved my car it was everything I had been looking for! Drove it a little over and I have had to change the brakes ever 2 months. It started overheating about 3 hours away from home. Replace temperature gauge and water pump, A month later had to do it all again! This car is SOLD! Never again will I have a PT. Too many problems has about 50,000 miles. NOT reliable at all.
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Average - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Ralph turker - April 19 - 2:00 am4 cyinder front wheel drive some automatics. It is quite clearly a girls car. It looks the part. That is all.
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Bad Brakes at 20K - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By wwkwcw03 - November 14 - 9:16 amI always loved the look of the PT so I broke down and bought one in 2007. Since my purchase have had it in the shop 4 times for check engine light and now I am having to replace the brakes and rotors and barely have 20K miles. Service personnel said they have had this trouble with the PT Cruisers. Why didnt they tell me that when I bought it? No wonder Chrysler is needing a bailout when they make such bad cars. I have never bought a new car that needed any major mechanical work before 30K and most didnt need work until 60K miles. I am very disappointed in this car and will never buy a Chrysler again.
