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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  overview - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jim biles - December 4 - 10:56 am

  Fair- peeling chrome on all wheels, computer chip replaced to correct firing of fourth cylinder, flickerimg headlights due to misfiring of 4th cylinder, power steering leaks(4 different)-replaced hoses. Handling on curves a problem

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  The small red pt - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By opcfan - October 9 - 1:18 pm

  I got this car used in a very good shape with a manual. After a new clutch and a full tune-up i drove this car from Nyc to Miami and back. The car was extremely comfortable, able to cruise at 90-100mph with no drama, good handling and 30mpg. Driving in stop and go traffic and getting 20 mpg is not fun but hear compliments from old people. The car never had a mechanical issue.

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  Nice car, but... - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By wiscman - August 31 - 5:30 pm

  Nice car. Comfortable, with high seating. Aligning the mirrors is important since there are some potential blind spots. Gas mileage poor. This fairly light weight wagon only gets about 22 - 24 mpg on long drives. My 1995 explorer with 275,000 miles got the same. City mileage is far better, however. Highway ride is a bit noisy, but not objectionable. Sporty maneuvering is not in the cars job description. My explorer again could hold a tight curve much better, and the turning radius was tighter. However, the car looks cool, with nice amenities. For replacement, I will be looking at the Kia soul or forte, or the Hyundai elantra touring.

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  Junk in Miami - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Junk in Miami - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Great concept, poorly executed! We loved our car when we first bought it. Dark Blues with the Woody package. Still turns heads to this day. However, front wheel bearings went out at 20K, transmission went out at 37K, water pump went out at 52K and overheated warping the head. Luckily this all was covered under the extended bumper to bumper warranty. When the water pump went out, it still cost me over $800 for misc repairs that the car needed. Four months later the car started running rough, so back to the dealer and another $1100. None of the work they did before was now covered since the warranty expired and so did the warranty on their work! Really? Yes. I can not afford this junk!

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  Regrets - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By SOFLA - June 18 - 6:00 pm

  The mileage is just awful. How could a 4 cyl compact car in 07 get such bad mileage? Shame on you Chrysler. I have under 20K Mi and have been to the dealer 4 times. My PT stalled out on me 2 times! Embarassing for a new car. Check Eng light came on and off regularly, finally it was diagnosed as oxygen sensor. Clear lens on dash developed 2 cracks, A/C made noise when recurculate was turned on and off. All fixed politely by my accomodating dealer, however it is a hassle. I dread long term reliability and would sell right now if not for huge loss. Front seats have stains from water spills? Should have gone for the HHR for the extra 3-4K $. I do not recomend this car

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  Why I will never buy another chrysler - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By podolj - June 11 - 2:00 am

  The power steering constantly dies, Dealership has not been able to find out why, Chrysler is no help

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  car is junk. - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ptmike - June 6 - 5:26 pm

  oil leaks,oil leaks.oil leaks!!!!!!! brakes,rotors,cyl head replace!!! tires at 30000 miles. poor service from dealers & chrysler.don`t buy one!!!!!!.

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  If I had only known - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By BarbaraSomething - April 18 - 10:00 am

  I should have known when I had to take my car back to the shop the very first day I drove it off the lot, and it stayed there for a week, that I was going to have a problem. It has been back since then for the same problem, and it doesnt even have 6000 miles on it yet. It is nice looking though and gets alot of comments, while it is sitting broken down at the side of the road! (that was added for sarcastic value by the way)

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  My college daughters PT cruiser - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By jlsh - April 13 - 9:56 am

  For what we have spent fixing this car in the past 3 years, we could have purchased a better vehicle. The physical shape of the car is great and it has many extras but, the garage where we have repairs made knows my daughters voice when she call!. We just spent 1500 dollars on repairs this winter and today she called and her steering wheel is locked up and wont turn.

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  Not as good , as it looks - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By journey1010 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Had an accident a year later and none of the air bags deployed. Dealership was not honest on delails important to safely. Would not buy from Chrysler ever again.