Used 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser Consumer Reviews
It's A "Dream"
It looks awesome. It turns heads. It is fun to drive. It is roomy. That's why you buy it. For those who complain about it's performance - go buy a sports car. This car, with it's 2.4L engine, was not meant to go 0-60 in a sec. Our Dream Cruiser replaced a 6-cyl. minivan, and the PT has more pep then the minivan (weight to engine ratio a factor). This is the MOST fun I've ever had with a car - and that is it's purpose. And it does get you from point A to point B.
'02 PTs are still available new *cheap*
2002 Dream Cruiser Series bought 3-22- 03.Series I Dream Cruisers were loaded in 2002:Sunroof,AM/FM/CD/Cass,Trac.Control, ABS,leather seats-heated in front,chrome 16" wheels,numbered plaque,Inca Gold paint.Inca Gold is a Love/Hate color.You either love it,or are nausiated by it.MSRP was $25k.I got it for $17k before any trades,money,etc.I was weary about the non-turbo 2.4/auto,but it holds it's own.Very quick off the line.30- 50,acceleration is flat,but at speed,the car is very responsive.This should translate into better fuel economy but I am disappointed in what it gets.The EPA estimate is 19/25.So far,I am seeing 22.Happy with the design,fit & finish.
- Limited Edition WagonMSRP: $3,994421 mi away
- Limited Edition WagonMSRP: $3,500534 mi away
- Limited Edition WagonMSRP: $7,900552 mi away
Happy in my PT
I've got 106K miles now and haven't had any problems with the car. There's a slight clunking from the rear occasionally under hard cornering just recently started. I understand it's worn suspension bushings on the rear, so I'll be replacing those soon. At 40K I installed aftermarket springs and shocks to improve the handling. A bit stiffer ride, but well worth it. I also installed a Borla aftermarket exhaust and AirRaid intake. It has a nice growl, and power is OK with the 5 speed manual. I would not like this car with an automatic. Just replaced timing belt- it's more expensive than most- you have to disconnect A/C hoses and raise the engine up few inches.
What a disappointment
There are lots of high reviews for the PT...this is not one of them. This thing LOVES the shop, rocks and gas stations. In the 3 years we've owned it, it has had 3 of 4 window motors replaced, approx. 8 windshileds (no, not kidding) a rebuilt transmission, squeaky brakes, a bad EGR valve, and malfunctioning fog lights. Even though my wife and I love the PT for it's looks and functionality, we are sick and tired of the cost of gas and the trips to the shop. If the tranny hadn't one bad less that 500 miles within it's 70,000 mile warranty, we would have been in for $3,000+ in repairs. Wish I could say better things about a car we had high hopes for, but just wishing we'd never bought it.
solid performer
Very reliable,firm sporty ride. Grips the road well, but under powered. Still can't get used to window controls in center panel instead of doors. But great ride and no problems electrical or mechanical since delivery.
Very happy so far....800 miles
Solid car, no rattles or squeeks yet. Time will tell. I have the 5 speed. 1st gear is a little weak, but then it pulls pretty well. Very versatile. I would recommend it.
should have traded january 2009
i bought my pt used and low mileage it went back once to dealership for some squeaking noise turned out it wasn't sitting right on the frame. i have had no problems other then regular mait. one month ago some noised started and it was the bushings bearings so 1300$ dollars spent on repairing. a week later rad motor blew causing the rad to blow then transmission, 3 days after this fuel pump went. it is now in the shop for timeing belt, water pump and other repairs. total of all repairs 7500$ i really wish i had of traded. now i will have this car forever good thing i do like the look and the drive of it. i'm just glad they took it off the line no more pts. yahoo
Bad design
I love the sporty feel especially with my 5 spd manual, and the classic look.[BUT], this car could have been better made: 1) No electric mirrors - electric mirrors serve safety; 2) why are the engine belts covered?-belts should be exposed for easy inspection, or should I wait till the belts break on the freeway; 3) Lug nuts should be exposed and not covered. I bought my car, and I did not know that one of the lug nuts was missing because it was covered by the large hub caps; 4) The paint job on these cars is mediocre-most cruisers I have seen have faded paint; 5) I do not like that you have to turn the ignition key all the way back, to turn on the radio.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
very pleased
This car was purchased for my wife and was not my choice, however after living with her choice for over a year I am more then satisfied.
REAL GOOD JOB CHRYSLER
This is a fine fine car . Chrysler really did their homework. Every detail well thought out. Even door handles have a thumb fitting for comfort. A real head turner on the road. Power is a little light but this wasn't meant to be a real terror on the road. Just a real beauty to the eyes.
Cruiser
I would not buy another PT Cruiser unless it was just an extra car for fun,they have no pick up and take way too much gas for a 4cyl. I get 14 in town and 17 on the highway and with a little tank and that kind of gas mileage, I am always at the pump.
Curious
the car runs great and now I am thinking that perhaps I should have bought something else
Bill D's 2003 Blue P.T.
The Cruiser is just plain fun. The interior is deceptively roomy, classically appointed, and combined with very unique exterior lines and styling. Removable 65/35 tumble seats nearly converts the rear to a bed and breakfast. The basic 4 cylinder will not give you whiplash, but will allow you to pop and go when needed. Road handling and steering are firm with a comfortable "seat of the pants" manueverability
Distinguished Transportation
I researched heavily for a dependable commuter automobile. However, the PT Cruiser stands out, in my opinion, as an incredibly functional, appealing, affordable automobile on virtually all measures. The exterior and interior are well thought out designs. The car feels extremely solid. The boredom of commuting has been resolved with the PT. I am very satisfied with my Silver Touring edition.
PT Cruiser
Excellent automobile. Extremely versatile. Fit and finish has been A+ from day one. Car still gets alot of attention.
Customizer's dream
I've owned 5 cars, and this is my favorite one. Good looks, gets noticed. And you can customize it to your personality, something that can't be done for 90% of autos. Good car on the highway. Gas mileage is the only drawback (I get 18mpg). After I drove it from Chicago to New York roundtrip, the computer started to give me better performance.
Just what I wanted!
This is just the third brand new car I've purchased in my life. I was looking for something utilitarian but with a little more class. This does it. I liked the look before I knew how many different ways the interior could be configured. When I saw all of the cargo options I was sold. The only thing I could be happier about is the comfort of the seats. They seem a little too shallow (short from back to front). I'd like better gas mileage but it's good for the type of vehicle it is.
Help the old fat man
LOve driving it. Has lots of leg room up front... more than my Blazer.
JB Review
Fun to drive, No Mechanical problems, Could use a bit more power at low end, but once at hiway speed-takes off!
My First 4 Months With the Cruiser!
The PT Cruiser is a vehicle that is hard to describe: part car, part SUV, part truck. It performs well on many levels including comfort, smoothness and quiet inside the cabin. It's shortcomings are primarily the low MPG for such a size vehicle (21- 29).
Love My Cruiser
In 25,000, no problems. Love this car. The PT is fun, versatile, and plenty responsive. I have the woody sides and the car gets lots of attention. I was scared to buy American, but I wouldn't hesistate to buy another one.
IT'S FUN TO SHOW OFF!!!!
I HAVE HAD MY CRUISER A YEAR AND A HALF AND LOVIN' EVERY MINUTE... JUST GOT IT BACK FROM THE BODY SHOP WHERE WE CUSTOMIZED IT WITH SOME GROUND EFFECTS. AT THE SPEED OF 90 IT'S SMOOTH AS ANYTHING AND DOESN'T SHAKE PASSING BIG TRUCKS. IT LOOKED COOL BEFORE THE GROUND EFFECTS AND WING BUT NOW IT'S DOWNRIGHT STRIKING. IT CAN GO TO CAR SHOWS AND STILL CRUISE THE STREETS. NOW THAT'S VERSATILE!!! I ESPECIALLY LIKE THE INTERIOR ROOM. THE ONLY PROBLEM I'VE HAD WAS A NEW SUNROOF SWITCH REPLACEMENT. IT HAS BEEN VERY DEPENDABLE. I LOVE TO SEE THE LOOKS ON PEOPLES' FACES WHEN THEY STARE AND BOY DO THEY STARE!!! GOOD JOB CHRYSLER!!!!
Happy and shocked
Overall I have been very happy with my PT. I like it's reliability, style, and comfort. It is a well built vehicle. The one shock I received today was that the front rotors are non-turnable, in other words they are throw away rotors according to my dealer. I have owned other vehicles for many years and miles and I have never had a problem with worn out rotors. My PT's rotors had to be replaced after only 30,000 miles.
No regrets
I love everything about this car with one exception: poor visibility to the right when stopped at an angle at an intersection. But you just cannot beat the quality of construction, the smooth, quiet ride, the roomy seating, and the fantastic storage. This is one great little car.
Summary
Vehicle is peppy for a 4 cylinder. Overall styling is excellent. Interior is very roomy for 4 adults. Plenty of cargo room!!!! Controls are easy to manage, but power window controls are on the dashboard.
Totally trouble-free!
I have found this car to be very well built, reliable and even fun to drive. It can be a four person sedan one day and a cargo van the next! Great ability to change into many different configerations. The wide is fine, rattle free and I find it can cruise the highways with the best of them. Buy one and you will not go wrong!
California Fun in My PTeaser
I've had mine 3 months and love it. I moved up from a smaller four cylinder so my Cruiser has plenty of power when tied to the 5-speed manual. I never was the racing type anyway. Gets me where I'm going in style and when you red- line it I can't see the real need for more power unless you want to spend more time at the gas pump!! Get one, you won't regret it!!
Sweet Little Car with Big Attitude
I enjoy every minute I spend with this car. It's cute, it rides nice, has a nice radio, it's comfortable. It's stylish and whimsical looking on the outside but very practical and versatile on the inside. Still impressed with the solid build quality... does not feel like a cheap little car.
Fun but underpowered
I think they really engineered the interior space well. Plenty of roo both in the front and back. Like therear cargo area although can't get golf clubs tolie flat. The engine is a dog but I knew that going in. Abit noisy with road noise.
my pt
very fun to drive, but lacks power, and hard to park! very very comfortable on a road trip, and decentgas mileage on the highway.. lots more room inside than you think.
Fun Fun Fun
I've owned many many cars and my other car is a heavily modified Corvette, yet I'm impressed with the mechanical and visual quality of this Inferno Red Woody. It gets so much attention from the ladies that I wish they had made them back in "the day." The gas mileage isn't as good as my 400 hp Vette, and it isn't fast, yet it has yet to show any wear or any problems. The looks would have worn thin though, if this car wasn't the most practical thing I've ever had. The few complaints I read from other reviewers seem to be related to having bought poorly equipped versions.
a new classic
this car is a blast!!!four people that drove my car bought one.the car handles great,and is a good value for the price
wouldn't give it up
I fell in love with this car the day I saw it at the Detroit Auto Show as the Pronto Cruiser. Back then it was just a cute little two- door coupe. Before it hit the lots, it grew two doors and lots more versatility. Unfortunately it also gained a few pounds, and lost some sportiness. I wouldn't trade my stylish inferno-red hauler for anything. It's already helped me move twice. I wish I'd waited for the turbo model, but I'm glad I got the 5-speed and cloth instead of leather seats. Also, the optional ABS brakes have already saved my butt a couple of times. Well worth the extra bucks.
Fun to drive!
I do not have one bad thing to say about this vehicle.
Getting better with age
Liked it when I bought and have grown to admire it and like it more as time goes by.
The Perfect Car
I absolutly LOVE my PT Cruiser. Sure it could use a bit more power like everyone states but I'm not in that big of a hurry. This car handles well, is very comfortable and I love all the space inside. I use to drive a small Hatchback and didn't want to loose that style but I wanted something a bit bigger than say a Mini. This car has everything I need and no wasted space. I highlt recommend the PT.
love my baby car!
I love the get up and go and the solid feeling and weight of the car. The rounded old fashion look is very appealing. You also sit higher then in the average car. I drove my cruiser in the Smokey mountains and it handled the altitude very well.
my pt at 8.5k miles
At 8.5k I have been please, but disappointed in economy. Ride is good and firm, turn radius a bit wide. It could use some power, once it shifts from low, second is weak moving comfortably in multi-lane traffic over 35 mph without full throttle downshift. Seats are firm, storage is good, take out rears are great, CD radio is nice, but speakers are weak. Exterior emblems have rough edges and snag most cleaning and polishing materials; bumper finish too rough (catches polish no matter how hard you try to prevent it).
love the cruiser
I love the 2002 pt i bought new, only flaw is it should be all wheel drive as i live in snow country in tahoe
PT Crusier-Solid Value and Fun
The PT Crusier is a well built, solid, and dependable car. Although the styling is the most hyped feature of the car, the best thing the crusier has going for it is that it is a solid, well built and dependable car. A real winner and a real bargain in todays market.
SO FAR SO GOOD
I HAVE A PATRIOT BLUE WOODY,LOOKS NICE,HANDLES WELL.I AM A LARGE MAN AND THE INTERIOR VERY COMFOTRABLE.LITTLE LITE ON PICKUP BUT TOP END IS GOOD
Great car!!
great handling, easy to park and fun as hell to drive!
Love my PT
I love this car. We have had ours for about 3 years and use it for family and business. Tons of room.
Great little car
The car is fun to drive and we bought it to pull behind motorhome. The car still gets alot of looks from people and the fun factor for the price is an added bonus.
Love My PT
I absolutely love my Pt cruiser. It is comfortable and stylish. I like the way it hugs the road. I have an anxiety of driving, but not in this car. I feel so safe. I have no regret about purchasing this car. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
5 Speed the way to go
The over-all quality of the car is very good. Only problem found is the 4 speed automatic transmission. This transmission has problems in getting stuck in second gear after a complete stop. No codes register so the dealer can't address the problem as per Chrysler. Chrysler .... what ever happened to "customer service" ...
PT mania
My vehicle has had 5 serious defects. Quality control should be tighter.
I Love mine !
I've added a few things and enjoyed everything the factory saw fit to include. The handling is great and the roominess is good even for my 300 lb self! I can get in and out very easy and it is quite comfortable to take on long trips.... this is my second and I can't wait for my third! The convertible WILL be mine as soon as its available!
25000 miles and still the best
I'm on my third year with this car, and it's the best I've ever owned. It's not only fun to drive, it's a great hauler for my dogs, their crates, etc. It's amazing to have a smaller car - which I like - with big- car room. (I know it's classified as a truck, but it sure doesn't ride truck- like!) Now, I'd keep this car forever if they hadn't come out with that incredible- looking convertible. Will I get one? We'll see.
Mellifluous!
Mellifluous means "smooth and sweet, like honey." That's this car. I got it a couple days ago and it has been an absolute joyance. The amount of features is incredible, the most important being the nice ride. Bumps that used to torture my old cars are all but forgotten in this one (I mean, you feel them, but you don't FEEL them). Yes, it has its negatives--a light weight that makes me question its winter fortitude, and 20-25 mpg is a lot less than what I'm used to--but I kept my old car for those things. Overall, though, it's a great car. Granted, I haven't had it very long--but if anything goes awry, I'll be sure to write back!