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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Fun Car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Tom - December 28 - 1:16 amThis car has been a commuters dream! The turbo engine is a monster on the highway with no hesitation, and the roll bar design is a real head turner. I drive this year round, and with the addition of studded snow tires in the winter, I have no issues with snow or any weather. The leather is heated, and the headlights are great for night driving. The only issue I have had are front wheel bearings, replaced them twice, but I highly recommend this car to anyone who likes the top down! Plenty of leg and head room, (I am over 61",) and easy to access the back seats for small people! My top MPG highway has been 27, however, I can only reach that using 93 octane fuel.
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great affordable car - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By urfisdan - December 24 - 10:00 amI now own two, a 2002 and my new one. Im aware of the recall, and I admire Chrysler for recalling a half million cars with only 9 reported cases of the problem! How many would Ford/GM wait for? anyway, drove to Texas on cruise 75-85 all the way, good ride, good gas, about 21 mpg on hwy. I dont need a turbo, cars plenty responsive. Its a luxury car for a fair price
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Old fashioned styling..... - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By PTCruisen - December 18 - 2:53 amI like the way the styling is.. classic look. Ive enjoyed my cruiser, roomy. The gas mileage could be improved. And the funky smell that some others have come across is the engine coolant. Ive noticed that smell last winter and occasionally when the AC is on. The AC doesnt get as cold as my first car did. But its comfortable. The rear stabilizer bar was not installed even though its on the window sticker. It needs one for a better ride. The turning radius is not tight enough and there are a few blind spots if you happen to be five foot and under. Had some paint problems with the metalic paint. Dealer finally fixed. After contacting HQ.
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Great Car - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By CK - December 11 - 11:10 pmI have just over 2500 miles on my PT and amreally liking it. Love being back to a stick shift. Like how it sits higher than typical compact sedan. Really like the 06 and newer PT interiors.
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OK vehicle.... - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By PTCMan - November 22 - 11:16 amDoes all the base-line things youd expect from a vehicle like this. Over and above that, it does seat 4 people comfortably, it has ample trunk space and it looks nice. It is not an economical vehicle. Bet on around 21mpg/overall (terrible for a 4- banger). With the auto, the engine is sluggish. It has been fairly reliable. Most issues were covered under the manufacturers warranty and they were mostly minor (except for the CD- player, which just stopped accepting CDs and the battery going dead at 33K miles). The CD-player was replaced (w/a refurbed one). The battery was replaced (the tech told me, Chrysler refurbs all their batteries and then resells them as new in new cars?????)
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A car - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Jerry - October 19 - 3:36 amReplaced Transmission once. Had to upgrade the Rotors. Fixed a faulty Fog light switch myself with glue and worked. Replaced all micro dash lights once because most went out at about 65,000 miles which I think is normal. Chrysler fixed faulty powersteering hose with no cost to me. Otherwise, Alright car.
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Poor on Gas Economy - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By SalemGuy - October 16 - 10:00 amI do like the PT cruiser very much the fit and finish is very good. I do like the ability to remove the back seats with ease. I am a kayaker so I do like that extra room to carry extre gear. However, for a 4 banger I only receive 24 miles per gallon (that is an average local and highway mileage). I do think that they should put some more effort into engine design to improve fuel economy.
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Reliable car over the long haul - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By mikeru669 - October 15 - 7:04 pmWe purchased our 2006 Cruiser with 13K miles on it 66 months ago, we now have 115K miles, we traveled all over the country on all kinds of roads. The Cruiser has been one of the most reliable cars we have owned. Only recurring problem, camshaft positioning sensor replaced twice since car went over 80K. Takes about 15 minutes to replace. Had a Neon prior which the Cruiser is based on. The Neon was one of the 2 or 3 worse cars we ever owned.
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Great alternative to an SUV - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By lmatracia - October 4 - 9:51 amI have always wanted a car with a back-hatch (due to always owning large dogs). I purchased this car in 2011 with 132k from my mechanic. He combed through it with a fine tooth comb, so i knew it would be reliable. My car has leather seats, power everything and a sunroof. I enjoy the leather seats, being a dog groomer means lots of dog hair, but the leather is easy to clean. My only complaints are that the ride is a little noisy and rough (but i think it needs new shocks, being a 12 year old car), and i have had issues with the alloy wheels. the rims have slightly corroded (nothing visible to naked eye) but it was causing my tires to lose air regularly. bead seal was quick inexpensive fix.
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Still like the car. - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
By Shotgun - October 2 - 4:30 amBought the car used in 2005 at about 56,000 miles. Have thoroughly enjoyed the car. Havent had many problems, but when I did, I was appalled at the repair price, and the unusual failing of parts that normally dont fail. In 2006 the transmission failed. Cost $3,250 for a rebuilt one. Since then, the sunroof has jumped the track and screwed up the linkage. No repair parts are available from Chrysler. Cost $1,200 for a new one. Then the starter when out. Cost $500 to fix. Its time now for the timing belt replacement (95K miles)& dealer quoted about $1000 to replace it (includes new water pump). Transmission is acting up again but may be low fluid problem. I just topped it up & so far ok.
