4 Star Reviews for 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.35/5 Average
216 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The PT Turbo debuts with a 215-horsepower engine that gives the unique and versatile Cruiser a much needed boost in performance.

Pros:
  • Handling and ride qualities, versatile and spacious cabin, unique styling, low sticker price.
Cons:
  • Acceleration can be sluggish with base engine, awkward seating position for shorter drivers.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 216.00
  • Old fashioned styling..... - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
    By -

    I 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.

  • Poor on Gas Economy - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
    By -

    I 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.

  • Jury not in yet! - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
    By -

    I wanted a PT the first time I saw one,but knew I couldnt go from a 200hp 6 cylinder to a 150hp 4, so I waited. Well after 2 years I got my turbo! Its a hoot to drive, but has been in for a belt replacement at 400 miles, and a new drivers seat is on order due to bad leather on the side bolster( cracked and wearing at 2000miles). Also I got about 12mpg from the first 7 tankfulls, but its up to about 16now. Thats around town with my foot in the turbo! So if it can staw out of the shop ill be one happy CRUISER!!!

  • What I need? - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
    By -

    My wife and I wanted a small wagon to accomodate our child to come and our 50 lb german shepard. The PT was first on our list after renting one to drive 9 hrs from ATL GA to Winchester VA. I drove the rental the entire way without needing to stop aside from gas. I averaged 430 mi to the tank. Very comfortable for my 6 2" 290 lbs football defensive end-esque frame. I just bought a 03 w/ 14k Touring Edition Deep Red. My complaints are a slight vibration between 800 and 1200 RPM through out the car. Im not sure if this is normal or something that needs to be addressed. All 4cyl. engines vibrate. Some car Co. are better at concealing this than others. Will probably move to a GT in a year.

  • Ooohh my god - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
    By -

    Ok first of all I love my car it is cute and fun and I have enjoyed it till now. Brakes went out several times, the front bumper keeps falling off I replaces the head and gaskets and the oil is in the radiator again, I have replaced the thermostat three time as it keeps getting hot, I had to replace motor mounts twice, power steering is out again abs lights have been on a year and ac always leaked, service engine remains on, I have put a lot of money and it still it gets hot and oil still in the radiator, but it runs smooth for the two or three blocks before it gets hot again. Any recommendations? I cant afford to fix again nor get another car.

  • GAS MILEAGE - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
    By -

    Poor Gas Mileage 16 Miles PER GAL Around Town ... On a TRip About 21.

  • Performance review rebuttal - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
    By -

    I read the review in the NY Times test, and I must disagree with the reviewer. While it is not as fast as my 57 Chevy,Pantera or even the 944 Turbo I used to drive, it has plenty of scoot outa the chute. I can light the tires with one quick stomp. Actually, low gear is probably too low, since you have to shift to second before you can cross an intersection, at full go. Also there is to big rpm drop from first to second. As to handling, it corners well in tight stuff, but has to much lean on fast large radius turns. Reliability? Mine had deep rustgrooves in the left front disc, and the right rear disc. Chrysler replaced discs and pads, no questions asked.

  • Bowers Review - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
    By -

    Outstanding except for the power.

  • This is a Smile Car - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
    By -

    This is a fun car to drive. I now have 3 of them. 1-2001, 1-2002 and 1-2003. I just returned to Philadelphia driving the 2003 to Orlando, FL and back. Enjoyed ride and comfort

  • No longevity - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
    By -

    For the first 70,000 miles the vehicle ran perfect with no problems. Just as the warrenty ended, the transmission went out $3,500. Then shortly after that the ac went out $1,200 and has been troublesome since. The interior quality is great and tasteful. I am currently at 100,000 miles and have not replaced the brakes yet. Overall a solid vehicle still tight after 100,000 miles of semi aggressive driving. Great handeling for a little wagon and acceleration is adequate without the turbo. I was told by a dealership that the transmission problems are normal for Chrysler. I am afraid to hit 140,000 to replace the trans again. Poor trade-in value. Pay it up quickly and trade before 70,000 miles

Chrysler PT Cruiser Reviews By Year:
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