“Tl* the contact owns a 2001 chrysler pt cruiser. The contact stated that the service engine warning light flickered and suddenly remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the underbody prematurely rusted and could fracture at any moment. The vehicle was also taken to an independent repair who diagnosed that the casing for the frame needed to be replaced.”
Owner complaint, filed Sep 9, 2015 at 155,621 miles
“While driving the down the highway, the entire rear quarter window on the passenger side including the frame and the glass separated from the body of my vehicle and went into the roadway. This is already a recall issue for the 2005 and 2006 models of the pt cruiser, but since it is not an existing recall issue with the 2001 models chrysler refused to replace the window that fell out or the remaining rear quarter …”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 22, 2014 at 84,000 miles
Complaints and recalls over time
By year of filing
All complaintsAbout the body and frameRecall (red: the body and frame)NHTSA investigation opened
Complaints about the 2001 PT Cruiser peaked in 2007, with 76 filed that year. No recall on file covers the body and frame, the subject of 10% of the complaints. In 2025 owners filed 1 so far.
Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Defect. FEDERAL MOGUL IS RECALLING 6,903 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES SHIPPED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 9, 2007 AND MARCH 26, 2008, WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS. THE PART NUMBERS PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS ARE: K7147, K7329, K8683, AND 104353. THESE PARTS WERE MADE FOR USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE.
Risk. THE NUTS INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGING FOR THESE BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES ARE MISSING THE INTENDED PREVAILING TORQUE (SELF-LOCKING) FEATURE. IF THE INCORRECT NUT WAS TO BECOME LOOSE, THE JOINING MEMBERS MAY LOOSEN LEADING TO A SEPARATION OF THE BALL JOINT. THIS MAY RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. FEDERAL MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 22, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL MOGUL AT 877-489-6659.
Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist › Hose, Piping, and Connections04V268000
Filed Jun 3, 2004438,391 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation
Defect. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.4L NON-TURBOCHARGED ENGINES AND AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLES, THE POWER STEERING PRESSURE HOSE MAY CONTACT THE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DIFFERENTIAL COVER, POTENTIALLY DAMAGING THE HOSE.
Risk. POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND RELOCATE, OR REPLACE AS NECESSARY, THE POWER STEERING HOSE AND CONFIRM TORQUE OF THE HOSE FASTENER AT THE STEERING GEAR END. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings02V214000
Filed Aug 8, 200297,779 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation
Defect. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL SUPPLY LINE COULD CONTACT THE AIR-CONDITIONING TUBE SERVICE PORT. THIS CAN CAUSE CHAFING OF THE LINE RESULTING IN A FUEL LEAKAGE.
Risk. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL LINE FOR ABRASION AND INSTALL A CLIP TO ENSURE ISOLATION. IN CASES WITH EVIDENCE OF FUEL LINE ABRASION, THE FUEL LINE WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 12, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Filed Aug 8, 2002345,436 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation
Defect. ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL PUMP MODULE MOUNTING FLANGE COULD LEAK FUEL IF THE VEHICLE IS INVOLVED IN A ROLLOVER CRASH.
Risk. FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SECONDARY SEAL OVER THE FUEL PUMP MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 12, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Filed Jun 14, 200277,000 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation
Defect. CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." THE RIGHT REAR "65%" SEAT CENTER LOWER ANCHOR WAS MANUFACTURED WITH A WIRE DIAMETER THAT IS GREATER THAN THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE DIMENSION AS SPECIFIED IN THE STANDARD.
Risk. IF THE CONNECTOR FOR A LATCH-TYPE CHILD RESTRAINT IS NOT ATTACHED CORRECTLY TO THE ANCHORAGE POINTS, THE RESTRAINT WILL NOT PROPERLY PROTECT A CHILD IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE RIGHT REAR SEAT CENTER ANCHOR AND, IF NECESSARY, RESIZE THE ANCHOR TO MEET THE DIAMETER SPECIFIED WITHIN THE STANDARD. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 4, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Filed Nov 9, 20001,211,756 vehiclesDaimlerchrysler Corporation
Defect. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." SOME OF THE OWNER'S MANUALS FOR THESE VEHICLES ARE MISSING INSTRUCTIONS THAT PROVIDE A STEP-BY-STEP PROCEDURE, INCLUDING DIAGRAMS, FOR PROPERLY ATTACHING A CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM'S TETHER STRAP TO THE TETHER ANCHORAGE.
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE CHILD SEAT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY ATTACHED INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE CHILD.
Remedy. OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN ADDENDUM TO THE OWNER'S MANUALS.
All 7 campaigns on file, newest first.
NHTSA investigations
Office of Defects Investigation
Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 3 name the 2001 PT Cruiser.
Opened Mar 15, 2004Closed Jun 18, 2004Led to recall 04V268000steering
Pe04-028 was opened to investigate seven complaints alleging that the engine compartment caught fire on my 2002 pt cruiser vehicles.on june 3, 2004, daimlerchrysler (dcc) notified NHTSA of a safety defect in my 2001-2005 pt cruiser vehicles equipped with naturally aspirated 2.4l engines and automatic transaxles (recall 04v-268).the notification identified variation of the high pressure power steering hose routing, which allowed the hose to contact the transaxle differential cover, as the factor contributing to this defect.contact between the power steering hose and the transaxle differential …
SAFETY BELT CINCHING LATCH PLATEPreliminary evaluation PE02082Closed
Opened Nov 6, 2002Closed Apr 23, 2003seat belts
There are no injuries or fatalities associated with this alleged defect.while conducting this investigation, odi found that the subject cinches meet the load bearing requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard 208, and that many of the reported failures were due to incorrect child safety seat installations. Additionally, the report rate is low (1.60/100k).the information available fails to establish the existence of a defect trend at this time.further allocation of agency resources to this issue is unwarranted and the preliminary evaluation is being closed.
Opened Jul 19, 2002Closed Oct 4, 2002Led to recall 02V214000throttle and acceleration
Technical service bulletins
90 on file
Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2001 PT Cruiser. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.
equipment 16electrical system 15body and frame 11engine 9transmission 9steering 7visibility 4fuel system 4
23-015-20Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsApr 30, 2020body and frame
Disinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19
31-006-19Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 20, 2019body and frame
Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.
3100319Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 20, 2019body and frame
Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.
3100519Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 20, 2019body and frame
Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.
9002519Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 20, 2013body and frame
82212076, 82203694 - Fabric Cleaner This "fabric cleaner" is not intended for sale in California, the otc states (Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington dc), and some ladco states (Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio). Mopar offers an alternative product (82213192) which is a water …
2300801Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 11, 2001body and frame
A CONDITION MAY EXIST WHEN THE HVAC UNIT BLOWER IS TURNED ON HIGH, A TICKING SOUND CAN BE HEARD FROM THE REAR SEATING POSITION. THE CAUSE OF THE TICKING SOUND IS THE BODY EXHAUSTER FLAPS HITTING THE BODY EXHAUSTER HOUSING RETAINER. THIS BULLETIN INVOLVES REPLACING THE REAR BODY EXHAUSTER ON VEHICLES THAT EXHIBIT THE SYMPTOM. *TT
Showing the newest 6 of 11 bulletins about the body and frame, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Air Bags
Filed Feb 12, 2025WI
See attached document for complaint.
Engine
Filed Jul 13, 2022KY
The electrical system is malfunctioning the fans do not kick on at all,even after reaching temperature.Even when the "Air" condition is turned on full blast or the "Heater" it doesn't matter which one is used it still doesn't engage the "Fan".
Air Bags
Filed Oct 28, 2019130,000 milesVA
AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS ON ALL THE WHILE ENGINE IS RUNNING..... STOPPED OR MOVING
Structure › BodyCrash
Filed Oct 25, 2019150,000 milesNC
WAS HIT IN REAR AS I WAS SLOWING AT STOP LIGHT
Engine
Filed Sep 1, 201985 milesPA
CAR HAS PROBLEM WITH OVERHEATING (ALSO FOUND OUT THIS IS COMMON WITH THIS MODEL AND MAKE). THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AS YOU CAN BREAK DOWN ON ROAD WHICH CAN EITHER CAUSE AN ACCIDENT OR CAUSE ROAD BLOCKAGE. *JS
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jul 16, 2019171,000 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE SLOWING DOWN TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN, THE VEHICLE WAS STRUCK IN THE REAR BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WENT AIRBORNE, WAS TURNED AROUND 180 DEGREES AND THEN STRUCK AGAIN IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED WHIPLASH AND SEVERAL BRUISES AND CONTUSIONS AND SORE RIBS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE TOWING FACILITY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. NEITHER A DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 171,000. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. *AS *TR
Engine
Filed Aug 7, 2018159,245 milesPA
ENGINE FAN DOES NOT TURN ON CAUSING CAR TO OVERHEAT. I HAVE SPOKEN TO OTHER OWNER THAT HAVE A PT CRUISER (DIFFERENT YEARS) AND THEY ALSO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THE FAN. I CALLED THE CHRYSLER DEALER WHICH DID NOT HAVE ENOUGH COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS SO THEY ARE NOT ISSUING ANY RECALLS YET. I TOOK THIS CAR TO MY MECHANIC AND HE COULD NOT DETERMINE WHAT IS CAUSING THIS BUT HE DID NOT HAVE THE EQUIPMENT TO CHECK THE CAR COMPUTER. ANOTHER PLACE HAS THE EQUIPMENT BUT WANTS $200. TO SEE IF IT IS A PROBLEM WITH THE COMPUTER. I FEEL THAT CHRYSLER SHOULD COVER THIS SINCE IT DOES NOT JUST EFFECT MY VEHICLE BUT MANY PT CRUISERS.
Electrical System
Filed Sep 18, 2017127,000 milesOH
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT, A CERTIFIED MECHANIC, REPLACED ALL OF THE SENSORS ON THE VEHICLE, THE RELAYS, AND THE ELECTRICAL FUSES; HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START WHEN PROMPTED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 127,000.
EngineFire
Filed Aug 15, 2017107,000 milesMA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONTACT NOTICED WHITE SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE VEHICLE THEN BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES. THE CONTACT EXITED THE VEHICLE AND RUSHED AWAY FROM THE SCENE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXPLODED. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACTED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. IT WAS NOT INDICATED IF A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO A SALVAGE YARD. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND SENT A TECHNICIAN TO INSPECT THE VEHICLE. NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS OFFERED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 107,000. THE VIN WAS NOT PROVIDED.
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jun 2, 2017FL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FOG LIGHT WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND SMOKE APPEARED FROM THE STEERING COLUMN. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO PULL THE VEHICLE OFF THE ROADWAY, TURN OFF THE ENGINE, AND RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT SMELLED BURNING WIRES, BUT THERE WERE NO FLAMES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT FOUND A RECALL FOR THE FOG LIGHTS ONLINE, BUT WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Electrical System
Filed Mar 4, 2017146,000 milesMI
LET ME START BY SAYING I JUST BOUGHT THIS 2001 LIMITED EDITION PT CRUISER THREE DAYS AGO FROM A PRIVATE DEALER. I WAS ON THE HIGHWAY, HEADING HOME FROM WORK IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT, AND WANTED TO TRY THE CRUISE CONTROL. I TURNED IT ON AND SET IT FOR 67MPH TO SEE IF IT WORKED FIRST. THEN I WENT TO RESET IT TO MY ACTUAL DESIRED SPEED BY TAPPING MY BRAKES, THEN I TRIED THE SWITCH ON THE ARM OF MY STEERING WHEEL BUT THE CRUISE CONTROL WOULDN'T SHUT OFF. I GOT OFF AT THE NEXT EXIT AND WAS ABLE TO SLOW DOWN TO 40MPH BEFORE MY BRAKES LOCKED UP AND I WAS FORCED TO RUN THE STOP SIGN AT THE END OF THE OFF RAMP. (THANK GOD IT WAS AT 3AM AND MY BABY WASN'T WITH ME!). I WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER DOING 20MPH BEFORE THE BRAKES LOCKED UP AGAIN. I QUICKLY SHUT IT OFF, PUT IT IN PARK, AND WAITED A FEW MINUTES TO TURN IT BACK ON. BUT THE ENGINE JUST KEPT REVING, AS IF I WAS HOLDING MY FOOT ON THE GAS BECAUSE THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS STILL ON! I TRIED RESETTING IT BY TURNING THE KEY BACK AND FORTH A FEW TIMES. I TRIED TO SEE IF IT WOULD THROW ME A CODE BUT ONLY "DONE" APPEARED ON MY DASH. EVERY TIME I STARTED THE CAR, THE LED FOR CRUISE CONTROL WOULD COME ON AND THEN SHUT OFF AFTER A FEW SECONDS. I WAS ABLE TO COAST HOME DOING 40MPH WITH ACCESS TO MY BRAKES AGAIN. NOT VERY WELL, BUT ENOUGH TO MAKE IT HOME, (WHEN I'D LET OFF THE BRAKE THE CAR WOULD TAKE OFF AGAIN). I'VE BEEN DOING RESEARCH SINCE I GOT BACK AND FOUND A FEW OTHER REPORTS OF THIS HAPPENING, EXCEPT THEY WERE ALL ABLE TO STOP. FOR EXAMPL
Unknown or Other
Filed Feb 16, 2017200,000 milesMI
THE CAR WILL SHUT OFF AND NOT RESTART FOR AT LEAST 10 MINUTES. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO SEVERAL MECHANICS AND WHEN THE TESTER IS APPLIED NO CODE APPEARS AND NONE HAVE BEEN ABLE TO TELL US WHAT THE PROBLEM IS. I TOOK TO THE INTERNET AND FOUND NUMEROUS INSTANCES OF THE SAME CIRCUMSTANCES BUT NO SOLUTION. THIS IS DANGEROUS BECAUSE THERE IS NO WARNING, IT JUST STOPS. DO TO THE HIGHLY DANGEROUS SITUATION WE ONLY TAKE IT ON THE STREET WHERE THE LIKELIHOOD OF COLLATERAL INJURIES CAN BE BETTER CONTROLLED. THIS HAS BEEN ONGOING FOR ABOUT (6) MONTHS, THE LAST TIME WAS ABOUT 6 WEEKS AGO
Steering
Filed Nov 26, 201698,500 milesPA
POWER STEERING FLUID IS LEAKING FROM THE HIGH PRESSURE HOSE WHERE IT IS ROUTED UNDER THE ENGINE CASING. THE HIGH PRESSURE HOSE APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN WARN THROUGH BY RUBBING AGAINST ONE OF THE CLAMPS WHICH SECURE THE HOSE TO THE BOTTOM OF THE ENGINE CASING. POWER STEERING PUMP WAS MAKING WHINING NOISES. POWER STEERING FLUID RESERVOIR WAS CHECKED. DIPSTICK WAS DRY.
Steering
Filed Oct 24, 2016101,295 milesMI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT OBSERVED A HEAVY LEAK FROM THE UNDERCARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT DETERMINED THAT THE FLUID WAS POWER STEERING FLUID. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V268000 (STEERING). THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 101,295.
Air BagsCrash
Filed Oct 21, 2016100,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 TO 20 MPH, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO A BODY SHOP. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
Service BrakesCrash1 injured
Filed Sep 26, 201658,000 milesSC
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING OUT OF THE DRIVEWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH, THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND HEARD A CRACKING SOUND. THE BRAKE PEDAL IMMEDIATELY STUCK TO THE FLOORBOARD ON TOP OF THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL, WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO ACCELERATE OUT OF CONTROL. THE CONTACT MANAGED TO SLOW DOWN THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO TWO TREE TRUNKS. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED FRONT END DAMAGE AND WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL DEALER. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE FAILURE WOULD BE INVESTIGATED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 58,000.
Suspension
Filed Aug 8, 2016100,000 milesSD
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRSYLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE MADE A LOUD NOISE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CROSS MEMBER FRAME HAD RUSTED OUT. THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V387000 (SUSPENSION). THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED, BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
Steering
Filed Mar 24, 2016162,400 milesOR
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE MAKING A TURN AT 5 MPH, AN ABNORMAL NOISE WAS HEARD AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO MANEUVER WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED CONSTANTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE POWER STEERING HOSE FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V268000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 162,400.
Engine
Filed Feb 24, 201660,245 milesMI
"TAKATA RECALL " IN MY PT CRUISER THE ENGINE DROPPED DOWN IN THE CAR AND THE FRONT AXLE BAR AND FRAME WAS BROKEN AND THE WHEELS COULD NOT TURN OR CONTROL THE CAR I AM LUCKY TO BE ALIVE THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION ON A CITY STREET TRYING TO TURN INTO A ICE CREAM SHOP THE CAR IS STILL DOING A SUDDEN JERKING WHEN DRIVEN AND AFTER PAYING A LOT OF MONEY TO GET IT STARTED AND FIXED I AM STILL HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR AND NO MONEY TO GET ANOTHER.
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jan 26, 201653,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONT END COLLISION WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH. THE SEAT BELT PRE-TENSIONER DID NOT LOCK AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WAS ONE INJURY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT SUFFERED FROM A BRUISED CHEST, HANDS, SHOULDER PAIN, NECK PAIN, AND LEG PAIN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 53,000. UPDATED 05/04/16*LJ *CN
Suspension
Filed Jan 12, 201642,000 milesIN
WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE PULLED THE STEERING WHEEL HARD TO THE RIGHT. WE WERE DRIVING SLOW IN TOWN, HAD THIS HAPPENED AT HIGHWAY SPEED A WRECK WOULD HAVE BEEN UNAVOIDABLE . GOT THE VEHICLE TOWED HOME AND TOOK A LOOK AT IT . FOUND THE FRONT SUB FRAME (TO WHICH THE STEERING GEAR, LOWER CONTROL ARMS AND SUCH ARE BOLTED TO) HAD RUSTED TO THE POINT THAT IT CRACKED , ON THE RIGHT HAND SIDE. THIS ALLOWED THE RIGHT LOWER CONTROL ARM TO SHIFT BACKWARD CAUSING THE DEATH PULL TO THE RIGHT.
Wheels
Filed Jan 7, 2016IN
I HAVE ALWAYS HAD TROUBLE KEEPING AIR IN THE TIRE OF THIS CAR. I HAVE TALKED TO OTHER OWNERS AND THEY TO HAVE HAD TROUBLE. IT IS THE CHROME WHEELS THAT IS CAUSING THE PROBLEM. WE HAVE NOT HAD AN ACCIDENT BUT I'M SURE SOME ONE HAS. IT ALSO HAPPENED IN MY DAUGHTERS STRATUS RT , CHROME WHEELS. I TALKED TO GM PEOPLE THAT HAD CHROME WHEEL FROM THAT ERA AND THEY TO HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE CHROME WHEELS. I WAS WONDERING IF YOU HAVE HAD ANY OTHER COMPLAINTS OF THIS NATURE. I STILL HAVE THE CAR BUT MY DAUGHTER GOT RID OF HERS. WE HAD TO PUT ANOTHER TIRE ON THE CAR THIS WEEK BECAUSE THE TIRES KEEP LOSING AIR. I TALKED TO THE DEALERSHIP YEARS BACK AND THEY SAID THERE WAS KNOW PROBLEM. I SHOULD HAVE DONE THIS YEARS AGO BUT NEVER DID.
Structure › Body
Filed Sep 9, 2015155,621 milesMD
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SERVICE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT FLICKERED AND SUDDENLY REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE UNDERBODY PREMATURELY RUSTED AND COULD FRACTURE AT ANY MOMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE CASING FOR THE FRAME NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT POWER STEERING FLUID HAD TO BE CONSTANTLY ADDED TO THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V268000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 155,621.
Seat Belts
Filed Sep 6, 201585,540 milesKY
THE DRIVER SEAT BELT WILL NOT STAY FASTENED IT COMES LOSE AND HITS ME IN THE FACE OR HEAD AS IT RETRACTS THE FAILURE OF IT TO LOCK IN IN THIS TYPE OF CIRCUMSTANCE IS DANGEROUS AND THE SEAT BELT IS INEFFECTIVE AND MAKES THE CAR UNSAFE
Steering
Filed Jul 27, 201546,403 milesMI
FRONT SUB FRAME (CROSS MEMBER) BROKE APART AT WELD.
TiresCrash
Filed Jun 16, 2015MN
AFTER REGULAR ROAD DRIVEING FOR A MONTH HAD FRONT TIRES WEAR DOWN TO STEEL BELT, PURCHASED TIRES AT WALMART SO TOOK CAR BACK IN TO HAVE TIRES LOOKED AT WAS TOLD IT WAS AN ALIGNMENT ISSUE. I KNOW THIS IS NOT THE CASE BECAUSE CAR HAD JUST BEEN SERVICED AND ALIGNMENT CHECKED THE SAME DAY TIRE WERE PUT ON CAR. THE WEAR OUT IS ON THE INSIDES OF BOTH FRONT TIRES, AND MINOR WEAR ON THE INSIDES OF THE REAR TIRES AS WELL AS MAJORITY OF THE TREAD IS WORN OFF AS WELL ON ALL 4 TIRES. THIS WEAR DOWN CAUSED ME TO GO INTO DITCH IN SNOWY CONDITIONS, WHILE DRIVEING AT SAFE SPEEDS.
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Jun 1, 2015IL
WAS DRIVING VEHICLE GOING 55 MPH AND DASHBOARD FAULTS OUT WITH INCOHERENT READINGS AND TRANSAXLE SHIFTS SELF INTO NEUTRAL. I SHIFT GEAR SELECTOR INTO NEUTRAL AND BACK INTO DRIVE. DASHBOARD READINGS GO BACK TO NORMAL AND TRANSAXLE GOES BACK INTO DRIVE. 15 SECONDS LATER BATTERY LIGHT COMES ON. CONTINUE DRIVING TO FIND A PLACE TO PARK. AFTER ABOUT 10 SECONDS ENGINE STALLS OUT. SHIFT GEAR SELECTOR INTO NEUTRAL AND TRY TO RESTART VEHICLE BUT IT WON'T START. COAST TO A STOP AND OPEN HOOD. NOTICE AN ODD SMELL. OPEN HOOD AND ALTERNATOR IS ON FIRE. CLOSE HOOD AND GRAB PERSONAL BELONGINGS (EXCEPT FOR PHONE CHARGER) OUT OF VEHICLE. CALL 911 AS VEHICLE BURNS UP. FIRE AND POLICE ARRIVE AND EXTINGUISH FIRE BUT VEHICLE BADLY DESTROYED BY BEING ENGULFED IN FLAMES.
Unknown or Other
Filed May 25, 201585,000 milesCA
DASHBOARD STARTED CRACKING AND CONTINUED TO CRACK FROM WINDSHIELD AREA ALL THE WAY DOWN TO BOTTOM,THEN ANOTHER CRACK STARTED AND DID THE SAME.THESE DASHBOARDS ARENT MADE PROPERLY AND BOTH CRACKS ARE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE.IM AFRAID THE AIRBAG WILL DEPLOY SOMEDAY.MY WIFE HAS A CHRYSLER 300M 1999 AND SHE HAS THE SAME PROBLEM WITH HER DASHBOARD.
Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 25, 2015100,000 milesOH
I SLOWED DOWNED FOR A RAIL ROAD CROSSING AND AFTER I CROSSED IT THE FRONT END DROPPED DOWN . I LOST CONTROL OF THE CAR . THE CAR VEERED RIGHT . I GOT STOPPED BEFORE I GOT TO THE DITCH . WE COULDN'T MOVE THE CAR . HAD IT TOWED TO A GARAGE . AFTER INSPECTION THEY TOLD ME THE FRAME THAT HOLDS THE SUSPENSION TOGETHER RUSTED THROUGH AND BROKE IN HALF . IT PUSHED THE SUSPENSION UP AND AGAINST THE ENGINE . IF I WOULD HAVE BEEN GOING ANY FASTER COULD HAVE VEERED LEFT TO A HEAD ON CRASH OR HIT THE DITCH AND FLIPPED THE CAR . DEFINITELY THINK THIS IS DESIGN FLAW , WHEN YOUR FRAME FAILS AND YOU LOOSE CONTROL OF YOUR VEHICLE . A POT HOLE COULD AT 55 MPH COULD HAVE DONE THE SAME THING ONLY WITH MORE TRAGIC CONSEQUENCES. *TR
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 6, 2015209,999 milesTN
FUEL LINE WAS CHAFING AGAINST THE AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE PORT CAUSING A LEAK IN THE FUEL LINE. FUEL WAS SPRAYING IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. EXTREME FIRE HAZARD. *TR
Electrical SystemFire
Filed Feb 12, 2015136,000 milesWI
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE CONTACT SMELLED A BURNING ODOR AND DISCOVERED A PLUG MELTED AND THAT THE FOG LIGHTS WERE NOT ILLUMINATING. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND REPAIRED. THE CONTACT DID NOT HAVE THE NAME OF THE PARTS THAT WERE REPLACED. THE FAILURE CONTINUED TO OCCUR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 136,000. UPDATED 04/07/15*LJ UPDATED 9/21/2017*CN
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jan 28, 201571,250 milesPA
I PURCHASED A USED 2001 PT CRUISER ON THE WAY HOME WHEN I CAME TO A STOP AT A LIGHT, IT SOUNDED LIKE WATER RAPIDLY BOILING WITH SMOKE COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. I HAVE LOOK UP THIS PROBLEM AND SAW THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM FROM 2001 TO 2008 PT CRUISERS, NO ONE SEEMS TO KNOW WHAT THE PROBLEM IS, IT WENT FROM A RADIATOR CAP TO THE BLADES COMING OFF OF THE FAN. I DON'T KNOW HOW SO MANY VEHICLES CAN HAVE THIS SAME PROBLEM WITHOUT THERE BEING A RECALL TO FIX THIS. TO LOWER THE ENGINE HEAT I HAVE TO PUT THE HEAT OR AC UP TO THE HIGHEST SETTING. I HAVE HAD THE THERMOSTAT AND RADIATOR CAP REPLACED. HOW CAN THIS SAME PROBLEM GO UNFIXED FROM YEAR TO YEAR? I HAVE LOOKED INTO THIS TILL I EXHAUSTED ALL AVENUES TO LOOK, EVERYONE SAYS THE SAME THING, FROM YEAR TO YEAR, WATER BOILING SOUND, CAR OVERHEATING ALMOST EVERYTHING UNDER THE HOOD REPLACED AND STILL THIS SAME PROBLEM EXIST. I AM SHOCKED THAT I DID NOT SEE THIS PROBLEM LISTED ON YOUR SITE. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS GOOGLE IT. YOU WILL BE SHOCKED TO SEE HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE THIS PROBLEM YEAR AFTER YEAR, YET IT GOES UNFIXED. CHRYSLER SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS PROBLEM AND FIX IT. I AM AFRAID THAT MY CAR IS GOING TO JUST STOP ON THE HIGHWAY AND HAVE SOMEONE SLAM INTO THE BACK OF ME WHERE MY TWO GRANDCHILDREN SIT. THE LIGHT TO SHOW IT IS OVERHEATING NEVER LIGHTS UP. THERE ARE NO WARNINGS! NO BELLS OR WHISTLES GOING OFF. JUST SMOKE COMING OUT OF THE CAR WITH LIQUID SHOOTING OUT ALL OVER. I AM VERY CONCERNED THAT THIS WILL CAUSE MY
Structure
Filed Dec 19, 2014180,000 milesPA
I FILED A CLAIM WITH CHRYSLER ABOUT THE RUSTED OUT ENGINE CRADLE AND THEY REFUSED TO REPLACE IT. *TR
Air Bags
Filed Oct 23, 2014140,000 milesVA
CENTER OF STEERING WHEEL (WHERE AIRBAG IS LOCATED) BECAME SO HOT THAT IT COULD NOT BE TOUCHED WITH YOUR BARE HAND. PULLED OVER AND GOT OUT OF THE VEHICLE AND TURNED VEHICLE OFF. WAITED UNTIL IT COOLED DOWN TO NORMAL TEMPERATURE THEN GOT BACK IN AND RESTARTED VEHICLE AND MOVED SEAT ALL THE WAY BACK FROM THE STEERING WHEEL JUST IN CASE. THE HEATING PHENOMENON DID NOT RECUR IN THE SHORT DRIVE HOME (5-10 MINUTES). HAS NOT HAPPENED AGAIN. SCHEDULING A VISIT TO LOCAL DEALER TO DETERMINE IF THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM. NOTHING FOUND ON CHRYSLER RECALL INFORMATION AND EMAIL TO CHRYSLER GOT NO RESPONSE. THIS IS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER WITH PACKAGE 28G THAT INCLUDED SUPPLEMENTAL SIDE AIRBAGS. *TR
Structure › Body
Filed Aug 22, 201484,000 milesCA
WHILE DRIVING THE DOWN THE HIGHWAY, THE ENTIRE REAR QUARTER WINDOW ON THE PASSENGER SIDE INCLUDING THE FRAME AND THE GLASS SEPARATED FROM THE BODY OF MY VEHICLE AND WENT INTO THE ROADWAY. THIS IS ALREADY A RECALL ISSUE FOR THE 2005 AND 2006 MODELS OF THE PT CRUISER, BUT SINCE IT IS NOT AN EXISTING RECALL ISSUE WITH THE 2001 MODELS CHRYSLER REFUSED TO REPLACE THE WINDOW THAT FELL OUT OR THE REMAINING REAR QUARTER WINDOW ON THE DRIVERS SIDE, WHICH COULD POTENTIALLY DO THE SAME THING AT SOME POINT. FORTUNATELY, THE WINDOW THAT FELL OFF MY CAR DIDN'T INJURE ANYONE, BUT IT CERTAINLY SEEMS LIKE A PRETTY SERIOUS ROAD HAZARD. *TR
Steering
Filed Aug 20, 2014130,000 milesOH
MY CAR JUST SHUTS OFF LEAVING ME NO CONTROL TO STOP, TURN, OR GET OUT OF THE WAY OF TRAFFIC BEHIND ME..... @ 55MPH TO NOTHING IS ASKING TO BE HIT FROM BEHIND. OR IF TURNING ACROSS A DIVIDED HIGHWAY, TO BE LEFT STUCK WITH 2 LANES OF SEMI COMING FOR ME AND MY KIDS. NOW IT SOMETIMES WONT EVEN DO ANYTHING WHEN I CRANK OVER THE IGNITION (LIKE THERE IS NO BATTERY) OR IF IT CRANKS AND STARTS IT WILL SHUT OFF RIGHT AWAY. IT WANTS TO IDLE DOWN AT STOPS AND STALL. I HAVE HAD IT IN THE SHOP MORE THAN I LIKE N SPENT MORE MONEY TO HAVE TO BE TOLD THEY CAN'T FIND ANYTHING. I READ OF SO MANY OTHER OWNERS WITH THE SAME PROBLEMS WHO END UP JUNKING THESE CUZ THEY JUST STOP STARTING....SAD, WE NEED OUR CARS TO RUN. CHRYSLER KNOWS THEY R RIDDLED WITH SERIOUS ISSUES INCLUDING THE LIGHTS AND TRANSMISSIONS.....THESE ARE A BAD COMBINATION ON THE ROAD. SOMEONE NEEDS TO LOOK @ SOME STATS! THANKS. *TR
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Aug 19, 2014150,000 milesNV
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT CRASHED THE VEHICLE INTO THE WALL ON THE HIGHWAY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SECOND DEGREE BURNS ON HER LEFT FOREARM AND A BLACK EYE DUE TO THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CONTACT WAS HOSPITALIZED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN AND SPEED WERE UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 150,000.
Steering
Filed Aug 6, 2014130,000 milesSD
MADE A RIGHT HAND TURN AND HEARD A METAL CLUNK NOISE, PROCEEDED ANOTHER BLOCK - FROM A STOP MADE A LEFT HAND TURN ONTO A HIGHWAY - AT THAT TIME A VERY LOUD METAL NOISE, NO BRAKES, NO STEERING, NO CONTROL OF VEH AT ALL. SOMEHOW MANAGED TO GET TO SIDE OF ROAD WITHOUT ROLLING VEH, WHEELS TURNED OPPOSITE DIRECTIONS, HAD VEH TOWED TO SHOP. ENGINE CRADLE WAS RUSTED OUT ON RIGHT SIDE AND GAVE WAY, WHICH DISCONNECTED STEERING CONTROL ARM AND AXEL FROM THE WHEELS, MECHANIC - STATED DRIPPING FROM AIR CONDITIONER HAD RUSTED THE PARTS ON THAT SIDE ONLY - REST OF UNDER VEH WAS IN GOOD SHAPE - STATED HAD SEEN THIS IN PT'S OFTEN - A KNOWN CHRYSLER ISSUE WITH THE PT CRUISERS AND THE NEONS ALSO - WHICH HAVE THE SAME PLATFORM. IF HAD BEEN GOING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS - WOULD HAVE BEEN A VERY BAD, POSSIBLY FATAL ACCIDENT. OWN TWO OF THESE VEHS - TOOK THE SECOND VEH TO HAVE INSPECTED (ONLY HAS 50,000 MILES) - HAS THE EXACT SAME ISSUE. RESEARCHED THE PT CRUISER FORUMS AND FOUND MANY COMPLAINTS ON THE SAME ISSUE. CHRYSLER IS NON RESPONSIVE - THIS SHOULD BE RECALLED AS IS A DEADLY PROBLEM. VEHICLE IS UNREPAIRABLE. *TR
Engine
Filed Aug 5, 2014GA
I HAVE HAD MANY PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR TO INCLUDE ELECTRICAL, OVER HEATING (WHICH WAS NEVER FIXED EVEN AFTER TAKING IT TO THE DEALERSHIP 3 TIMES), AND TRANSMISSION. IN 2013 AS I WAS DRIVING DOWN A BUSY 4 LANE HWY. I HEARD A SUDDEN AND LOUD BOOMING NOISE AND THE CAR BEGAN SHAKING VIOLENTLY. THINKING THAT I HAD HIT SOMETHING IN THE ROAD I BEGAN SLOWING DOWN AND MAKING MY WAY TO THE SHOULDER OF THE HWY. BUT BEFORE I COULD GET TO THE SHOULDER OF THE HWY. THE CAR MADE THAT LOUD BOOMING NOISE A SECOND TIME AND SHOOK VIOLENTLY AGAIN. IT THEN LOST ALL POWER TO THE FRONT WHEELS LEAVING ME STRANDED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HWY. AFTER REMOVING AND OPENING UP THE TRANSMISSION I FOUND THAT THE DRIVE SHAFT IN THE CENTER OF THE TRANSMISSION HAD SHEARED IN HALF. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION I BELIEVE THAT THE SLIGHTLY WORN ENGINE MOUNTS CAUSE A BINDING ACTION ON THE DRIVE SHAFT IN THE TRANSMISSION THUS CAUSING THE SHAFT WHICH IS MADE OF A COMPOSITE MATERIAL TO BASICALLY EXPLODE INSIDE THE TRANSMISSION. THIS PROBLEM IS SO WELL KNOWN BY US CAR BUFFS THAT JASPER ENGINES INC. (A WELL KNOWN COMPANY THAT REMANUFACTURES ENGINES AND TRANSMISSIONS) REPLACES THIS STOCK SHAFT WITH A STRONGER MORE ROBUST ONE WHEN THEY REMANUFACTURE THESE TRANSMISSIONS. THE VIOLENT SHAKING OF THE CAR THAT HAPPENED WHEN THIS TRANSMISSION SHAFT FAILED ALMOST CAUSE ME TO LOOSE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE ON A VERY BUSY HWY. CHRYSLER SHOULD RECALL ALL TRANSMISSIONS WITH THIS TYPE OF COMPOSITE SHAFT. *TR
Steering
Filed Jun 6, 2014193,892 milesMI
I PURCHASED A USED PT CRUISER THAT DROVE FINE UNTIL THE COMPONENTS NEAR THE POWER STEERING HOUSE TOUCHED AND CREATED A MAJOR LEAK AND CAUSED MY CAR TO SMOKE VERY BADLY CLOSE TO CAUSING A FIRE WHILE DRIVING. *TR
Engine
Filed May 31, 2014123,570 milesKY
I FIRST SENT THIS COMPLAINT ON MAR 7, 2014 AND RECEIVED AN EMAIL REPLY ACKNOWLEDGING IT, BUT SINCE HAVEN'T HEARD ANYTHING. IS MY COMPLAINT BEING TAKEN SERIOUSLY? IT IS A SERIOUS COMPLAINT AS FOLLOWS: ON FEB 5, 2014, MY 2001 PT CRUISER SHUT DOWN WHILE IT WAS BEING DRIVEN DOWN A BUSY STREET. IT DIDN'T MAKE A SPUTTER OR A SOUND, IT JUST DIED. LUCKILY, IT COASTED LONG ENOUGH FOR ME TO PULL OFF ONTO A QUIETER STREET AND UP AGAINST A CURB. WE HAD IT TOWED TO THE AUTOMOTIVE SHOP THE EXPLANATION FOR THE MOTOR SHUTTING DOWN WAS ALARMING. THE AUTOMOTIVE TECH REPORTED THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR NEEDED REPLACING. AS I UNDERSTAND, WHEN THIS SENSOR GOES BAD, THE ENGINE AUTOMATICALLY SHUTS DOWN. WITH NO WARNING. I HAD GAS IN MY PT. I DON'T THINK PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT THIS; THE TECH SAID MOST CARS THAT ARE 'NEWER' (AS FAR BACK AS 2002, AT LEAST) HAVE THIS SENSOR. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN AND APPEARS TO BE WIDESPREAD. I LOOKED THROUGH EVERY PAGE OF MY 2001 PT CRUISER OWNER'S MANUAL AND DIDN'T FIND ANY INDICATION THAT THERE WOULD BE A PROBLEM LIKE THIS OR THAT THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR SHOULD BE TESTED REGULARLY, IF IT COULD BE TESTED, THAT IS. THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION WOULD BE DOING THE PUBLIC A LIFESAVING SERVICE TO LOOK INTO THE DANGER OF THIS FAILED DESIGN, NOT TO JUST REPLACE THEM IN ALL CARS WITH A NEW ONE, BUT WITH ONE THAT IS NOT DESIGNED TO FAIL AT THE RISK OF THE DRIVE AND ANYONE ELSE IN THE VICINITY WHEN A MOVING CAR DECIDES TO JUST SHUT DOWN.
Steering
Filed May 28, 201490,000 milesMT
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING 20 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A LEFT TURN, THE POWER STEERING FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
Power Train
Filed Apr 16, 2014185,000 milesNH
PULLED INTO WORK SHUT CAR OFF NOTED LEAKAGE PART ON GROUND WAS TOLD PRESSURE SWITCH. *TT
Steering
Filed Mar 30, 2014152,888 milesGA
FOR A MONTH I HAVE BEEN PUTTING POWER STEERING FLUID IN MY PT CRUISER AND WENT TO GET NEW TAGS AND COULD NOT PAS EMISSIONS BECAUSE OF A POWER STEERING PROBLEM. I WAS SO UPSET I WENT TO THE SALON AND WAS TALKING ABOUT HOW I NEED TO GET MY VEHICLE CHECKED .. A WOMAN IN THE OFFICE TOLD ME ABOUT THIS WEBSITE. I CHECKED AND THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM WITH MY CAR. HOW DO I GET IT REPAIRED? WILL THEY HONOR IT ? IS THERE A LIST OF SPECIAL DEALERS? HELP I NEED TO PASS EMISSIONS TO KEEP MY CAR LEGAL. *TR
Suspension
Filed Mar 28, 2014112,332 milesOH
I BOUGHT A CAR FROM NORTH COAST AUTO MALL AND IT HAD A LOT OF SUSPENSION PROBLEMS. THEY ENSURED ME THAT THEY WOULD FIX THESE ISSUES IF I BOUGHT THE CAR. AFTER BUYING THE CAR, THEY HAVE HAD ME IN AND OUT OF THEIR SHOP 4 OR 5 TIMES TO WHICH THEY ONLY LUBE THE PARTS OR LIE TO ME CLAIMING THAT THE CAR HAS BEEN FIXED. I FEEL THAT THIS BUSINESS PRACTICE IS UNSAFE AND MISLEADING. THEY CLAIMED TO HAVE REPLACED A CONTROL ARM TO WHICH GOODYEAR LATER (WHEN I WAS BUYING TIRES) INFORMED ME THAT MY CONTROL ARMS WERE BAD. I WAS SURPRISED TO HEAR THIS. NORTH COAST SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED AS THEY ARE SELLING UNSAFE CARS, CLAIMING TO REPAIR ISSUES AND THEN PUTTING ME IN AN UNSAFE CAR. 30 CLAIMS HAVE BEEN MADE ABOUT SIMILAR ISSUES VIA THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU, THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION AND THE OHIO ATTORNEY GENERAL. I FEEL THAT THEY SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED FOR SAFETY REASONS. *TR
Engine
Filed Mar 12, 2014CA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE ENGINE OVERHEATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS FOUND THAT THE RADIATOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. *TR
Steering
Filed Mar 6, 2014WI
2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO POWER STEERING HOSE RECALL NOTICE AND SEEKS REIMBURSEMENT FOR REPAIRS. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED HE EXPERIENCED POWER STEERING PROBLEMS TWICE, WHERE THE POWER STEERING HOSE WAS LEAKING. THE DEALER REPLACED THE SAME HOSE, AT NO CHARGE TO THE CONSUMER. THE CONSUMER IS SEEKING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE FIRST REPLACEMENT, DUE TO A RECALL HE DISCOVERED, WHICH WAS THE SAME ISSUE HE EXPERIENCED. *JB
Suspension
Filed Mar 4, 201456,000 milesMA
WHILE SLOWING DOWN TO STOP FOR A RED LIGHT MY CAR SUDDENLY VEERED TO THE RIGHT. I HAD TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL TO THE LEFT TO KEEP THE CAR STRAIGHT WHILE I STOPPED. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A GARAGE AND UPON INSPECTION THEY FOUND THE CROSSMEMBERS UNDER THE ENGINE WERE COMPLETELY RUSTED AND BROKEN. I BOUGHT THE CAR NEW AND ALTHOUGH THE CAR IS 13 YEARS OLD IT ONLY HAS 56,000 MILES AND HAS ALWAYS BEEN STORED IN A GARAGE.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 3, 2014122,118 milesKY
ON FEB 5, 2014, MY 2001 PT CRUISER SHUT DOWN WHILE IT WAS BEING DRIVEN DOWN A BUSY STREET. IT DIDN'T MAKE A SPUTTER OR A SOUND, IT JUST DIED. LUCKILY, IT COASTED LONG ENOUGH FOR ME TO PULL OFF ONTO A QUIETER STREET AND UP AGAINST A CURB. WE HAD IT TOWED TO THE AUTOMOTIVE SHOP THE EXPLANATION FOR THE MOTOR SHUTTING DOWN WAS ALARMING. THE AUTOMOTIVE TECH REPORTED THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR NEEDED REPLACING. AS I UNDERSTAND, WHEN THIS SENSOR GOES BAD, THE ENGINE AUTOMATICALLY SHUTS DOWN. WITH NO WARNING. I HAD GAS IN MY PT. A CAR CAN SHUT DOWN COMPLETELY WHILE IN MOTION? WITH NO WARNING? I AM MORTIFIED THAT THIS IS POSSIBLE! IS IT REALLY POSSIBLE? BUT, EVIDENTLY, IT IS TRUE, SINCE THAT'S WHAT THE TECH IS REPLACING. I AM THANKFUL THAT IT DIDN'T HAPPEN 2 DAYS EARLIER WHEN I HAD MY ELDERLY MOTHER IN THE CAR ON THE WATTERSON EXPRESSWAY. I DON'T THINK PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT THIS; THE TECH SAID MOST CARS THAT ARE 'NEWER' (AS FAR BACK AS 2002, AT LEAST) HAVE THIS SENSOR. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN AND APPEARS TO BE WIDESPREAD. I LOOKED THROUGH EVERY PAGE OF MY 2001 PT CRUISER OWNER'S MANUAL AND DIDN'T FIND ANY INDICATION THAT THERE WOULD BE A PROBLEM LIKE THIS OR THAT THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR SHOULD BE TESTED REGULARLY, IF IT COULD BE TESTED, THAT IS. THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION WOULD BE DOING THE PUBLIC A LIFESAVING SERVICE TO LOOK INTO THE DANGER OF THIS FAILED DESIGN, NOT TO JUST REPLACE THEM IN ALL CARS WITH A NEW ONE, BUT WITH ONE THAT IS NOT DESI
Electrical System
Filed Feb 27, 201440,000 milesCA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RADIO AND DOOR LOCKS WOULD ACTIVATE INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUSE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
Complaints 1-50 of 618, newest first, reproduced as filed.
Going by the federal record, it is one of the PT Cruiser years to avoid: owners filed 618 complaints, 2.8 times as many as a typical PT Cruiser year. The most common complaint is about the body and frame (10%).
What is the most common problem with the 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser?
The body and frame: 61 of the 618 complaints (10%) are about it. The typical report comes at 70,000 miles.
How many recalls does the 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser have?
7 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Apr 7, 2009. The largest, 00V366000, covered 1,211,756 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.
At what mileage do 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser problems start?
Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 57,559 miles. For the body and frame the midpoint is 70,000 miles.
Has NHTSA investigated the 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser?
Yes, 3 times. The latest, PE04028 ("ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES"), was opened Mar 15, 2004 and closed Jun 18, 2004.
Are there service bulletins for the 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser?
The manufacturer filed 90 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (15), the body and frame (11) and the engine (9). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.
Reading this record
Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Apr 7, 2009. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.