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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  Poor Quality Control - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Brad0487 - January 13 - 10:00 am

  Cyl head leaked oil from day one. Took Chrysler & dealer over 30 days to diagnose & repair. At 4000 miles I found CV joint boot leaking greese. Took 2 weeks to order part & 3 days to fix.

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  GT Turbo - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Michael - January 8 - 8:00 am

  This PT is fun to drive and has more than enough power. Gas mileage is not great but respectable. Handles good on the highway. Manufacturer paid a lot of attention to detail and it shows. Turning radius needs to be corrected, cannot make a u turn and expect not to hit curbs. Needs light in glovebox and under the hood. Owners manual should be for each model instead of multi-models.

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  PT Cruiser Convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By texas lady - January 6 - 1:43 am

  The way the trunk lid opens could be improved. My butt is actually sticking out to the public as I have to bend over to put my things into the trunk. Gas mileage is not as good as one would think with it being a small car with a four cylinder. I average 19 around town and 22/24 on the highway. Fun car to drive. I absolutely love my convertible top. Easy to put down and back up.

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  2005 PT Cruiser Turbo 5speed.... - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By smokinghalo - January 5 - 11:32 pm

  LOVE this car. I bought it to replace my falling apart 1998 Honda Accord. Sure Ive had some mechanical issues with it, but nothing thats left me stranded. Car came with the extended Chrysler Gold Plan that covered the front control arms (common problem, the bushings like to fail), the oil pressure switch (common failure in a LOT of Mopars) and the front wheel bearings. I work for a dealer so I know the issues these have (multifunction switch, wiper nozzles like to die, but the biggest problem was the control arms. The A/C suction line died too but that was also covered under warranty. Gas mileage sucks, but hey, its a 220HP turbo monster convertible!

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  I LOVE It - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Pauline Dugal - December 31 - 2:00 am

  Its yesterdays car with todays featuers, Its about time we get someone with a good eye desining the cars again

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  its been good to me - 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By ptbubba - December 30 - 10:00 am

  So far so good the build quality has been a very pleasant expierence. In the year and a half ive had this pt, it has not had, one problem at all that it needed to go back to the dealer for any warrenty work. And is it usful little hauler the amount of stuff it can hold is surprising. Even with auto. trans. performance is okay 90% of the time. im very happy with my PT

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  Design Flaws Kill this car for me. - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By aut0savant - December 29 - 10:52 am

  The problems start by design. This car is not user friendly when it comes to roadside emergency. the way the engine is set up, its almost impossible to simply replace a tire under an hour. the spare tire retainer is bolted under the car that must be accessed from the trunk. If you ever wanted to replace your spare tire with a full sized tire, the retainer is far to small. The thermostat retainer is very poorly designed. Chrysler has made it in such a way that its almost necessary to remove the intake manifold rather work around/under it. When the thermostat seizes -- rather than have a high-pressure release, it will just rupture a hose (usually the smallest near the air filter.)

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  Great, fun car! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Nanc - December 21 - 10:00 am

  Have had car for 2 months now and have had no bad experiences. Gas milage is as promised, the turbo gives all the power you would expect and what a good looking car! I got the chrome package and it adds a lot to the look. I would highly recommend this vehicle.

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  Cruisin with a Cruiser - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Phil - December 20 - 3:13 pm

  The first real driving was to Massachusetts, 2600 mi, it was a great trip up and back. Very comfortable as a driver and passenger. Ease of handling, and viewing out all windows and mirrors. Its a great retro vehicle, I have since added more chrome and flash. All in all it is a great car to own and drive.

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  Not enough gears/ room - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By KEN KNOWLES - December 20 - 2:46 am

  Needs to have more gears 4 isnt a enough. Rpms go way too high at higher speeds.