MotorDeets

Chrysler Pt Cruiser problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every Pt Cruiser from 2001 to 2010: 2,524 owner complaints and 15 recalls across 10 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2001 (618), 2002 (511), 2006 (349). Best fuel economy: 23 mpg combined (2009).

Chrysler Pt Cruiser
Photo: IFCAR · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons. Representative photo of this generation; trim may differ.

Problem areas across all years

Electrical560
Engine & cooling249
Airbags226
Suspension222
Steering220
Exterior lights220
Transmission & drivetrain213
Engine193

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
2001561820
2002351122
2003225822
2004121722
2005318722
2006134922
2007015022
2008011523
200909723
201002221

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Chrysler Pt Cruiser.

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Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Chrysler Pt Cruiser?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2001 (618), 2002 (511), 2006 (349).

How many recalls has the Chrysler Pt Cruiser had?

Across 2001–2010, NHTSA lists 15 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).