Used 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Consumer Reviews
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2003 Standard Cruiser
Curt Brennan, 04/03/2015
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
26 of 27 people found this review helpful
We bought ours from the original owners in 2005 with only 17,000 miles. We've now owned it 10 years (this May) and it has given us absolutely NO PROBLEMS OF ANY KIND, EVER!! So far, I've purchased one set of tires and one battery (last fall) and that's it!! We like it so much that I just bought a 2005 "GT Convertible" with HO Turbo and only 47,000 miles. We dressed up our current PT and are going "all out" on this one too. This convert is for Summer time driving and weekend cruising. I've owned Mopars since 1971 (1966 Charger) and I've had good luck with them all! ;-)
13 yrs and going Great car
Bill, 10/03/2016
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
I bought the GT turbo in 2003 in California. Its electric blue and has great pick up, speed and I love all the interior space. Strange though it is an automatic and has the auto stick. It must be a more rare version. I drove it home to NYC 3 yrs later and have driven it since then to October 2016. We do love it but Im taking over babysitting for grandchildren and wish to purchase a new car to replace it. Its a shame as I only have 29k miles on it. It has done its job and would recommend the car to anyone. Wish they still made them.
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Fun car or worst piece of crap!!!
wewing, 01/27/2012
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
44 of 48 people found this review helpful
I bought my PT Cruiser used. It is a 2003 and I bought it in 2005. I have replaced the waterpump (inline), the power steering,I have had work done on the struts,front bearings, I have had electrical problems and replaced the battery, and it eats oil at a rate higher than I would like. I have spenr over $3500 dollars on repairs and it had 30,000 miles on it when I bought it and I have just less than 70,000 on it now. There is a small leak somwhere in the cooling system either coming from the water pump$700, the head gasket $1000 or the engine block $2000. I am a little unhappy with the reliability of this car.
It was great for a long time. but now. . . ?
hotwifey, 03/30/2011
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
19 of 20 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car when it was 1 year old in 2004. I loved the design and still do. This car really had no issues until the past 1.5-2 years. I was so happy with it, I thought I will just keep driving it as long as I can. Recently, at 94,000 miles- I have had one problem after another. It is a bummer because this car was great for me for many years, but now it is a hassel. I'm looking to sell mine now, but not sure what type of person can afford the repairs. :( The interior and exterior looks new, but under the hood is another story.
No problems here I love it!
djk10, 03/30/2010
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
18 of 19 people found this review helpful
Besides normal ware and tare breaks tires etc. This car has been a blast to own. I just paid it off and after a set of tires and my normal full tune up it has been better than any car that I have ever owned! Lots of room to haul groceries etc. I don't understand all the complaints I believe if you take care of a car routinely it will run great I bought it 3 years old 18k miles I deliver in it everyday 160k still going strong
2003 PT Cruiser GT turbo
Grant Watson, 01/15/2007
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
A very fine car, I enjoy driving it very much. The only thing I have any problem with is seeing the instruments in day-time. I thought I should get better city mpg.
The best car I ever got
Fred, 09/06/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
My dad gave me my grandmothers Pt, and since I owned it, that thing has been a blast. I have only had to change the timing belts only about twice and that's it, That lil car saved my life I could Have died the day i got into a wreck but the air bags went off, and the safety cage and the firewall held up. That car was a troop and I loved it for what it was. And if you have anything to say about Pts i will knock it down. That was my first car And i beat my car up and ran it through rouge traines and it took it. P.T. guy forever
Worst vehicle I've ever owned.
Lori, 06/29/2010
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
Cheap vehicle. At 60,000 miles the cooling system quit, had to have entire system replaced. Thermostat stopped working and car overheated, almost ruined the engine! Next the a/c compressor quit making the car stall or jump forward at lights. This vehicle is a hazard. Leather is not durable at all, and the paint flakes off, can't wash it with out finding new exposed metal!
Undercover Rocket Ship Car
Darth Car Master, 05/06/2016
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
25 of 32 people found this review helpful
My 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT has 215 horsepower. It can go 120-130 Kilometres per hour without struggling like some cars do on the highways. It can take on a Ford Mustang sports car while looking like a crossover wagon/minivan. I have not floored the gas peddle to the maximum yet, because it scares me a little to have the Cruiser go all out. I fear unleashing its full power so I hold back. The GT version is not a sleeper of a car like the base model is.
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Junk in Miami
Junk in Miami, 09/14/2010
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
13 of 16 people found this review helpful
Great concept, poorly executed! We loved our car when we first bought it. Dark Blues with the Woody package. Still turns heads to this day. However, front wheel bearings went out at 20K, transmission went out at 37K, water pump went out at 52K and overheated warping the head. Luckily this all was covered under the extended bumper to bumper warranty. When the water pump went out, it still cost me over $800 for misc repairs that the car needed. Four months later the car started running rough, so back to the dealer and another $1100. None of the work they did before was now covered since the warranty expired and so did the warranty on their work! Really? Yes. I can not afford this junk!
Little Big Criuser
Thrifty Old Fart, 02/04/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought this car because it was my wife2B's symbol of good luck. Good luck I won't comment on, but it has lived up to and fulfilled all my expectations. I had owned three turbo engined cars before the PT (Volvo 850, Mazda 626, Saab 700) and swear by the turbo technology and engine boost. The surprising thing about the PT is the versatility and expansiveness of the interior (can haul 8' 2x4s inside!) and grown people can fit comfortably in the rear seat. I have had no trouble with the turbo, indeed when the oil price went sky high I stopped using the recommended premium and switched to regular with hardly any power loss. I am at 70K mi. now and about to get my 2nd set of brakes & tires.
great buy so far
Greg, 04/22/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought this car about 2 years ago, and have put on 20,000 miles so it has a total of 40K. This car has, thus far, been pretty reliable. I love the 5 speed manual and all the space. Removable seats have come in handy alot. Only problem noteworthy is the lift gate hydraulic struts stick and Click really loud when opened. Only BIG problem, this car is HORRIBLE in the snow. Will NEVER buy a car without ABS ever again. Great for cruisin and moving stuff as it has LOADS of space, just really not recommended for northern states who get lots of snow.
This car puts a smile on my face
oscarcat, 07/01/2019
updated 07/02/2020
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
When buying used, buy the best one you can afford. Many of the issues are due to neglect and "I'll fix it when it breaks" attitude. These cars require preventative maintenance. They were designed with a European philosophy. European cars are higher maintenance than Japanese or American cars but much more rewarding to drive. This is my second 2003 Base manual 5 speed. Purchased and loved my new one in 2003 but needed a minivan so kept it 2 years/24,000 miles. Fast forward to 2019 and I just purchased an Inferno Red 2003 Base M5 speed with 29,000 miles on it. It was well cared for. I changed plugs myself, changed the bushings on the shifter cable and it runs like a dream. Fun. Peppy. Yes, most people don't or can't work on their cars. But find a decent mechanic, change the fluids especially the coolant with factory-recommended HOAT coolant and you will prolong the life of all cooling components. Same with engine oil. I saw ads for PTC's, many with over 200k miles. So the variable is the care. Lots of useful info and YouTube videos about repairs online. A good dealer is the best chance of getting good advice on engine issues. Specialty shop for suspension, etc. These cars will be collectible in a few years.
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My 2003 PT Cruiser
1daddyjoe, 07/29/2011
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
All in all I am happy with it. I bought the car new and now have 150,000 plus miles on it. I don't baby the car at all, I drive it hard. Would I buy another one, probably not. The car has treated me ok. Just regular maintainance, tires, brakes, tune ups, timing belt, and just replaced my front wheel bearings. No real major issues on the car. The gas mileage is bad, and it feels under powered. Coming from VW's and driving them hard as well but, taking care of them as well. They felt a bit more sturdy and the gas mileage and power was there when I needed it.
Horrible!
jillf, 07/25/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
This car is so disappointing! I bought it used with 54k miles on it. The electrical system has always been wacky - dash indicator lights come on and off randomly and the fog lights wouldn't turn off, constantly draining the battery. I've had it in to fix various power steering problems EIGHT times!!! A/C broke twice. Back liftgate broke. DO NOT BUY THIS CAR!!! I've easily spent twice as much in repairs as I originally spent to buy the car.
Great for the older crowd.
Daughter Diane, 06/23/2018
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
My Mother owned this PT cruiser and we took her on vacations to just about every National Park in the west. It did great and had space for a walket, transfer chair and all the luggage and picnic supplies...and wine, whoch is important to a 90 year old.
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Oh my goodness
krb21, 06/12/2010
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I hate this car! I bought this car as a graduation gift to myself and hate it. I've had it in the shop more than I think I've actually driven it. I have 123,400 miles on it which is a lot but even before that I've had the tires changed twice, the brakes make a weird noise, there is a loud rattle on the back hatch door. This car has given me problems since day one. I bought it and the next year it failed inspection because the tint was to dark. I've never added anything extra to the car. Just need a good family car. It sucks gas! I fill up 2 times a week just from going to work, picking up my son, and going home. I wouldn't recommend this car to my worst enemy!
Another Chrysler Turb-woe
kms, 12/24/2008
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Unfortunately, we purchased this car when it was on Consumer Reports "Best Bets" list. One year later this specific model is on the "Worst". We have had a major engine overhaul and replace numerous sensors. The 17" rims and tires have been another expensive problem. The paint and finish is the worst I have seen in my 35 years of driving. If this is the kind of product the American taxpayer is supposed to save Chrysler for then let them fold!
2003 PT Cruiser
MW, 10/11/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
Overall disappointed with vehicle, gas mileage terrible for a 4 cylinder engine. Turns like a truck
don't waste your money
Tiffani, 10/21/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I HAD ALWAYS wanted a PT Cruiser... until I bought one. I bought mine. Transmission Blew out at 50K on the way to vegas. Me and my kids were stuck in the desert. Car has FAILED on me about 3 times now... NOT safe for a Woman and kids. I love the style and am stuck with the PT... it has over 100k now that I have have thousands of dollars in repairs.
Piece of Crap from Day one
Teresa, 02/27/2018
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with less than 90,000 miles on it. A normal car would have lasted much longer. This one however lasted me for two years before the thing started to fall apart. The only good thing about it, is that I drove it to Baltimore to meet my favorite celeb Mike Rowe and even THEN the radiator hose blew off. Figures. The day I purchased it, the calipers stuck. Almost caught the wheel on fire. Then the front end started popping. I fixed the tie rods, lower control arms, axle, alignment, everything like that. A year later, the car began over heating. Then the coolant fan went. And then the popping returned and now it's leaking antifreeze and the calipers are stuck again! I'm no longer fixing this car and I'm planning on selling this hunk of crap. The parts are cheap - sure! The LABOR is where it gets expensive. It's not worth it. It's a pretty car, and that's about it. I say my prayers Everytime I leave the house because I don't know if I'll make it back in one piece. Stay away from this car! You'll go broke as hell!
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Truth about the PT, from a real owner
Wanabeeditor, 03/02/2007
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great car for the price. No unscheduled service stops or repairs after 27,000 miles. Just tire rotations and oil changes. It hugs the curves well on off ramps and loves to eat up 40-45 MPH curves with the cruise set at 55-60. The handling gives you a lot of confidence in the platform. Steering feel & effort is very good with a nice on center position. It takes very little correction to keep the PT in your lane. The engine is well suited at 150 HP to motivate our 4 speed auto PT just fine, low R.P.M. torque is pretty standard for a 4 cylinder car. Even the engine at idle sounds a bit retro which is nifty, but takes on a smooth feel/sound at speed. Hauls anything, great gauges and supp. seats.
Dont think I would buy american again.
willb, 09/02/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
By day 8 check engine light came on. They did nothing more than reset it & it would always relight within a day or 2. This car was in the dealership more than at home the first year. so many things went on with this car I couldn't even begin to report it all here. They also always wiggled out of letting me use the warranty on alot of the repairs. So as a result I have spent thousands in parts and labor. Now that I have found a reliable independent mechanic and have replaced most parts on it its now reliable and fun to drive so many years later. The dealership was a nightmare from day one. Was called back after 1 wk to redo sales contract (from 0% interest to 5%)
2 year review
greg, 09/22/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought the car in november of 2007. It is the 2.4l 5 sp manual. My ONLY complaint is that the bumpers came with tape marks on them which looks like crap. The seats are somewhat uncomfortable but still better then most Japanese cars. For a 4 banger it has good pickup and go, though i hear the automatic is a different story. It's front bumper is really low so be careful with high curbs on driveways. love the amount of space inside and the versatility and number of configurations you can do with the inside. I fit 40 8ft 2X4's with all the doors and windows closed! No major problems as of yet and i have 46K on her, so hears hoping it stays that way!
Cheap transportation that is a little unique
StanK, 11/28/2019
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Runs well, enough room for my 6'4" and plenty of storage space.
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Fun to drive
jlucy, 05/22/2004
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I thought I was going to buy an SUV until I test drove the PT Cruiser Turbo. It is a blast to drive! The model that I bought happened to be loaded with options, and I am enjoying everyone of them. I love the solid, retro feel to the interior and the quick pickup on the road.
Lemon Car
Nancy M, 08/04/2008
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have had nothing but problems with it since I bought it. The transmission has been slipping since 2 weeks after I brought it home! The dealer's computer can't find a problem, so they won't fix it. Now I'm past my warranty period and they tell me that the repair is at my cost! also, I had numerous problems with it that aren't supposed to happen. The Strut spring snapped in half, covered under warranty (but should never happen), the engine mounting bolt flew out and took out my power steering pump with it (that should never happen), the battery cable spontaneously burned up (mechanic was surprised my car didn't catch fire!) and that should never happen,either! I'm trading it for a Honda!
What's with the braking system?
bandit1, 08/10/2008
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Had the car in 3 times to work on the brakes. They continue to squeak. Dealership says that's the way the PT brakes are (???). Should have gotten turbo because entering the high speed highway is a challenge. Body is great. But it is very noisy driving; drives me crazy. Wonder if I got the lemon? Disappointed. Not great on gas. Won't buy another Chrysler.
Practical and fun!
RMorgan, 02/21/2016
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Not the quickest of it's generation or class, but with a 5-speed manual, it has good acceleration and better gas mileage than with automatic trans. Great use of interior space - tons of cargo options with folding and removable back seats. Very stable at highway speeds and good handling on winding roads as well. With four wheel disk brakes, this car stops on a dime!
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frustratrated
tman, 03/15/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
sqeeking brakes and a banging noise whenever i hit a road bump of any size. invested about 2000.00 in repairs and still the same.dealer mechanics cant find anything wrong.. anybody out there want to buy a cruser?
Some Scarey Reviews
newowner, 03/31/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
6 of 11 people found this review helpful
Hoo boy! Some (most?) of these reviews are real stinkers. Then again, most people who like their cars are out driving them and having fun, not sweating over a keyboard. I read the reviews and then went out and bought a 60k miles, fully optioned turbo/auto stick 2003 GT for $7,995. One owner, clean as a whistle and rides/handles/accelerates like a champ. I have driven it all of 40 miles and since buying it for my wife this afternoon. Will we still love it after another 4,000 miles? Will my good car Karma prevail? I'll write again, same time next year. Then again, maybe not -- if we're having fun.
Squeaky Brake Problem Solved
Frisco Pete, 04/21/2010
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
8 of 16 people found this review helpful
Wife and I owned car for 7 years. A good driver on city street and very stable on highway with solid handling and ride. Engine has very good passing power on country roads even with four passengers. Front and rear seats are very comfortable for long drives [+200 mile]. Many passengers have commented on roominess and comfort when riding in car. I have performed all maintenance since purchased and found it easy to perform oil/filter; spark plug, battery and brake maintenance [see suggestion below]. We found PT Cruiser safe, reliable and a fun car to drive with a design that still turns a head or two after all these years. I think it will become one of the design classics down the road.
nice ..but complete junk
scott s, 07/29/2009
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
When I bought this car, it was my first car. I was very happy at the time I bought it. I bought it for 10,000 dollors and ended up putting another 7 on repairs. I only had this car for 6 months. 3 of which it was in the shop. It drives Nice, but it has to many problems. I need a new engine. The turbo leaked twice. The radiator leaked twice as well. The car overheated with coolet in the car!I am to poor to put that much money into a car .. So I traded it in for a 2208 Chevy silverado and gas isn't that much worse
PT Cruiser Touring
mjb457, 09/03/2012
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
9 of 24 people found this review helpful
Bought new,,,, drove it 99k miles so far....normal routine maintenence, one of Chrysler's all time best sellers( average mpg 20mpg)HONDA,TOYOTA CONTINUE TO BUILD AND INPROVE/// CHRYSLER SHOULD HAVE DONE THE SAME- A CLASSIC.
'03 PT CRUISER
Phillip E. Taylor, 02/19/2007
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
At 75 miles, day after purchase, transmission required total rebuild (overdrive hub seal leaked and burned up clutches). At approx. 35k, first battery was replaced under warranty. Since then, two more batteries have been installed, most recent was less than a year old. We discovered, just after 70k, where extended warranty expired, that problem stemmed from fog light switch WON'T turn off! We have hence unplugged fog lights, but indicator light on dashboard is always on. Also, transmission required another rebuild at 50k, w/$100 deductible. Also, there is a power steering fluid leak, requiring daily fill-up. Ign. key cyl. won't always turn on & column won't lock w/key removed. TIRED OF THIS!!
A trusted companion
Fondoondee, 09/11/2008
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned the car since new and haven't had a single problem. Driving experience increased immeasurably when I added 4 new high performance tires. Always use manual shift option in automatic and car responds nimbly. Front and back bumpers are poorly made (crack easily) but inexpensive (relatively) to replace. Solid commuter car
Faulty Transmission
ecartner, 02/09/2007
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
After 70k miles, car begins to have a hard time cranking. At 90k miles, transmission goes completely out from "metal shavings". This was a well maintained car & should be on the road for longer with no problems. I've found others online that have had the same problem. I will never buy another Chrysler in my life!
Dependable & Fun to Drive
Roger, 11/12/2005
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Fun to drive and quick to pass. 60 to 80 is a kick. Turbo is definitely worth the money. Very flexible with rear seats that fold, flip and fold or remove. Seats 4 adults comfortably. Wish it was a little wider. Car has been very reliable and really like the AutoStick. Allows you to take off in 2nd gear in snowy weather for better control.
not what expected
bboy, 12/30/2002
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Interior design is poor... Suspension system is poor... Interior is noisy... difficult to check blind spots...
Too Many problems
A Mechanic's review, 12/03/2005
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great looking but very poor, quality and reliability. This car has been in the shop more times in two years than all my other cars combined. Recirc vent door will not stay closed, head gasket leak at 300 miles, transmission rebuilt at 31,000 miles. Now the CV joint is slinging axle grease. I bought this car new because of the reviews I've read hear, big mistake. People are too enamored with the styling and ignoring Chrysler's poor quality control. Do yourself a favor and spend a little more for a car with a better track record.
Try the Chevy HHV
Gaguy, 11/13/2005
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had more problems with this car than all my other vehicles combined. First off, the head gasket leaked oil before 300 miles and had to be replaced. Then the ventilation system recirculation door opens on its own because the underpowered engine is not capable of providing enough vacuum to keep it closed when going uphill. The infamously bad Chrysler automatic transmission went out at 31,700 miles and had to be rebuilt. The mechanics had the audacity to suggest someone that I put something in the transmission to cause it to fail. If they really thought that they should have refused repairs and given me the chance to take them to court but I think they knew they would lose.
Eye Catcher
n1nj4r0u63, 09/08/2006
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
To start off, the PT is a great vehicle. I love the 'hybrid'ness of it, as I can haul people, haul large items, or just book it down the highway like a racecar. The seating position is very upright and gives the impression of an SUV. I have grown to appreciate the centrally located window controls (though it still is a bit odd sometimes). The car really needs a warning beep or light when the head/parking lights are on, either that or standard auto on/off. Silver with standard painted silver wheels gives the whole car a monochromatic look that glistens in the sun and is easily recognizable, keeps the interior cool as well. Overall, a very impressionable car!
Drive it you'll likel it
PTGT, 07/25/2003
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I test drove several small wagons and SUVs, the PT fit the bill for my needs as far a space and the turbo made it fun to drive, really fun to drive. Sometimes I intentionally take the long way home from work. Although it is no pickup, you can fit nearly anything you want in the back and/or will seat 4 adults comfortably. The Turbo, w/the heavy duty tranny and sport suspension make it a ball to drive. I test drove the auto (w/slapstick) and the manual, maybe I am the last American male to choose a manual transmission, but the turbo just calls for it.
3 years ownership
schatzieII, 09/30/2005
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
No problems at all. Added dual exhast and airaid system. Opened hood trim for ram air effect. Very very fast. Have automatic -it downshifts to first say at 20 mph... hold on.. smokes tires and the ride is wild. Utility is great. Best gas mileage on road 23 MPG. Get a boost gauge. Install on PVC line. I get 13 to 15 lbs boost.. 25 vacuum. Drive at 15 vacuum in city for best mileage. Turbo will save your butt getting into traffic. Stay low on chrome. I have painted factory wheels, chrome door handle insets and Xeonon rear spoiler. Put money inside.. Aluminum floor mats.. Aluminum trim around dash and console and dash cover. Wow! looks great. PS. Waxed... turbo mini's
Buda Love
Lady Ech0, 02/19/2003
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I named my 2003 Steel Blue Cruiser "Buda", because it's rounded features just make you smile - like Buda. With a 5-speed manual transmission, the car handles even better than anticipated, corners well at high speeds, and has lots of power. One thing to know, you must have your hands on the wheel while driving, especially on rough roads because the steering is sensitive to the road, probably due to proximity of linkage to wheels and axle. But this is true of many cars. The PT Cruiser is one of the best cars on the road. I love it and I can't wipe the grin off my face while driving my "Buda."
Love my PT
Cazz, 10/13/2022
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Limited Edition 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my auto 2003 Limited for 10 years now, I think i have had all the problems that they have. I still love her to bits. handles lovely on our rural New Zealand roads, great in the city, apart from the terrible steering lock lol. I recently had to spend more that her value on brake pads etc but it was worth it to me. If i sold it i would just want to buy another PT Cruiser so i figured stick with the one i have as i know whats been done, plus she is my car. Named her Girlee 189000 ks on the clock and still going.
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PT gt is a dream
Ed penkalski, 01/19/2021
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned several of these cars from the base 01 to the last 09 if you take care of em they'll last 300k easily just follow the maintenance schedule to the tee and do t cheap out on oil. My current is an 03 gt bought as winter car and has turned into a nice little sleeper with about 2300 in to the motor it makes around 400 horse power and never ceases to amaze the people I race
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PT Cruiser, a great car
Harry Borgman, 12/02/2018
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
It's a fun car, nice handling;
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Ugly Little Car
dsundancer, 10/08/2003
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Before my wife test drove one, she only refered to the PT as, "that ugly little car". When i was replacing MY car, she didn't think she even needed to test drive one as I would be the "primary driver". Now, i don't even bother to keep a key for it on my chain as it's now, "HER ungly little car". We both love the ride and the power is adequate to any task we can even imagine...and we travel a lot. The seat flexibility is something Jeep could take a lesson from. It handles great, is quite spacious for even 5 and production quality and appointments are as good as it gets in this price range. PS: I now drive my wife's "old" car.
Second Best Fun Car /But Best Car Ever !
"Whiplash", 11/22/2002
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT 4dr Wagon (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We Purchased this "Turbo"To Fill all of the below noted needs!! A Daily Driver,Bus,Moving Van,Dog Carrier,Beach Car,Hot Rod,Sports Car,Replacment for My "HARLEY"(lack of parking space in Hawaii Condo)and it does all of the above without fail!! Next to our C5 Corvette Coupe This Turbo "PT"is more fun to drive than any other car we have ever had. Would get another "Turbo" PT in a Heart Beat!!