Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Chrysler PT Cruiser
Chrysler PT Cruiser Models:
Chrysler PT Cruiser Problems
Erratic Operation of Turn Signals and/or Hazard Lights
A defective turn signal lever (multifunction switch) can cause erratic operation of the turn signals and other exterior lights. Depending on the fault, a dead battery could result. Our technicians recommend replacing the failed switch.
Odor from HVAC vents
Some vehicles may develop a musty odor coming from the HVAC system, Dodge has issued a cleaner/disinfectant and a coating for the evaporator designed to inhibit bacterial growth.
Power Steering Hose Leak
Certain 2001-2005 models were recalled because the high pressure power steering hose could contact the transaxle differential cover and wear prematurely, causing a fluid leak. A Damaged hose should be replaced and correctly routed to prevent future damage. For more information on the recall, please click here»
Software Updates for Powertrain Control Module Mayl Improve Shift Quality
2.4L 4 cylinder (non-turbo) Software updates to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) are available that can improve shift quality for rough up and/or down shifts. On higher mileage vehicles, other problems may cause shifting issues. Diagnoses may be required to isolate the cause. Anytime major transmission repairs are made the PCM software should be checked and updated as necessary.
Click Noise when Turning Steering Wheel
A click heard when turning the steering wheel may be solved by aligning the steering column or installing revised parts in the column (requires removal of the steering column).
Chrysler PT Cruiser Recalls (Recent)
Chrysler Recalls Certain 2001 PT Cruisers Due to Safety Seat Anchor Wire Issue
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The right rear anchor wire for a child safety seat may be too large. As a result, a safety seat using an anchor cable may not latch correctly, which can increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash. Dealers will inspect and re-size the anchor wire.
Learn more »Chrysler Recalls 2005-2006 PT Cruisers Because the Rear Quarter Glass May Fall Off
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The rear quarter glass may separate from the vehicle. If the glass separates while driving, it could strike another vehicle or injure a pedestrian. In most cases, the glass will become loose before falling off completely. Dealers will replace the quarter glass on affected vehicles.
Learn more »Chrysler Recalls Certain 2005 PT Cruisers Due to Damaged Left Front Brake Tube
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The left front brake tube may rub on the manual transaxle. If the brake tube were to rub through, fluid loss would occur, which could result in a loss of braking force to the left front and right rear wheels. A soft or low brake pedal may be noted and/or the low brake fluid warning light may illuminate prior to loss of braking ability. Dealers will install revised brake tubes to correct this concern.
Learn more »Chrysler Recalls 2003 PT Cruisers Because the Clutch May Fail to Disengage
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The clutch may fail to disengage due to a welded pin disengaging from the dual mass flywheel. It most cases, you will hear a significant rattling type noise if the pin disengages. Dealers will replace the flywheel and clutch assemblies with updated parts.
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Chrysler Recalls 2001-2005 PT Cruisers Due to Power Steering Fluid Leak
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The power steering pressure hose may contact the automatic transaxle, potentially damaging the hose. An underhood fire could result from the leaking fluid. Dealers will inspect the power steering pressure hose and retain or replace it as necessary.
Learn more »Chrysler PT Cruiser Questions and Answers
how do I change the thermostat on a 2002 PT Cruiser
Can't find estimate for power sttering switch for 2001 P.T. cruiser - can you help?Dealership has given me an estimate of $110.95 Is this in the right range?
sitting at a stop light and car just died. No power to the car at all. Checked the battery and it still had power. Tried to jump it and and no responce. No lights no nothing inside the car any ideas
43,586 trouble free miles. Car misfires and goes to complete stall. Rest for 5 minutes and will re-start. Runs fair and advances to good for indefine period. Returns to problem. Runs good at sh...
heated seat on pass side comes on by itself a few times a week & can not be turned off.i replaced the switch on the seat & the relay under the dash.no change.
Chrysler PT Cruiser Stories
I took my 2005 cruiser into a local crysler dealership and was told, before it was even looked at, that I needed to have the timing belt replaced - at a cost of $1,5-600. Without looking at the car, how do they know that this item needs to be replaced? I am stumped. I have only 35,000 miles on my 2005 cruiser. The manual says the timing belt should be replaced at 90,000 miles. Have other dealerships' service centers recommended this action WITHOUT even looking at your car?
I like the car style and the interior is comfortable. I don't have a turbo, so it doesn't have a lot of power and the gas mileage seems pretty bad. I have had ongoing issues with the air conditioner for two years or more now and am VERY unsatisfied with that. Still not resolved. Had a power steering problem awhile back that cost me some bucks along with a few other minor annoyances. The big problem now is the transmission. I have a 2003 model that I bought in 2005 and it had 12,000 miles on it. I just went over 100,00 on it and it appears that the transmission is dead. It went into the shop today and I am waiting for the verdict. If this car didn't come with so many inherent issues and if the transmission could get 150,000 to 200,000 miles, I would like it; however, replacing the transmission at 100,000 miles and not being able to figure out what the heck is messing up the A/C, I can't say I would buy another Chrysler product ever again. I had a horrible experience with a Chrysler vehicle in ther 1980's and swore I would never buy one again...then the PT Cruisers came out and I really like the style. Plus, Chrysler was supposed to be so much better! Mistake. If I had the money, I would go for another Honda in a heartbeat.
Bought my 2005 Limited Edition PT in 2011, and purchased extended warranty from dealer. Almost immediately started having shifting difficulties. VERY delayed shift, accompanied by much chugging. This problem comes and goes--always gone when taken to the dealer for repair. The first time I took it in, I was told the right front wheel was about to come completely off, so that issue was fixed, but they couldn't find any problem with the transmission or shifting. Now, on top of the STILL ongoing shifting problem, it is taking longer and longer for the ignition to catch. It cranks and cranks and cranks, and just when you're about to give up, it starts. Got my Consumer Reports auto edition just last week--2005 PT listed in Worst of the Worst. Gee, I wish I'd known that sooner!
I have a 2003 PT Cruiser basic. I absolutly love my car. He has 138,000 miles. Runs great. I change the oil, every 3 months. Never had problems with it. Just recently I had the timing belt changed and water pump. Gave it a tune up and and he is running like he was at 21,000 miles when I bought him 5 years ago. As he is getting older tho, he moans and groans just a bit. My mechanic said it could be his low control arm bushings. Overall love my 2003 Cranberry PT.
March 2012
At 23,000 miles has to fix air conditioning leak. Between 80,000 and 100,000 miles had to replace front struts and bearings, have rotors sanded down, I've replaced brake pads twice, replaced ball joints and control arm, replaced both O-2 sensors in engine, had to have front headlights sanded due to failed visibility test. Also had to get a tune up. At 110,000 miles needed timing belt replaced. I drive responsibly and always service my car but it's a PT Loser money pit lemon! I will never buy another Chrysler.