Used 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Speechless
I just bought the car a few weeks ago with 40,000 miles. Thank god I bought an extended warranty because it is already going to the shop. My wife noticed a hesitation in the acceleration while driving down the highway, the new brakes make a lot of noise, and the engine makes a squealing noise at cold start-up until engine is warm. I hope that this isn't the beginning of endless problems.
love my pt
love my car but when car idles and air isn't on it sounds like its going to cut out. Also after 16,000 miles had to do brake job. But I really like the look.
Not Bad At All
Comfortable and roomy. Seating is excellent, seats fold and remove for more space although they are very heavy. Mechanically sound except for an occasional miss in the engine too infrequent to worry about. Back brakes squeal, took it into the dealer and $30.00 later I was told there is no problem with them and they continue to squeal. Gas mileage is lousy and acceleration is poor. I knew these problems before I purchased it and its pretty much the same across the board, ( gas mileage and acceleration) but am happy with the car, would recommend it to other people, and would probably buy another one.
Awesome Ride!
We've even been to California and back, Since we had no problems, Three of us rode comfortably and had room for all the stuff, We're off to Nevada next! Our Nieces & Nephews even Love to cruise in it as much as we do.
Excellent Ride
I have been keeping an eye on the Crusier, since they brought them out waiting for a higher performance engine. After they brought out the Turbo,my husband and I decided to go try one out. I had my eye on a decked out green on with detail and the chrome wheels. We found out it was not turbo, but we tried both to compare and I do not see that much difference in regular driving. Also, the regular ran smoothier and not as rough as the turbo, I was not impressed. We ended up getting the one I had my eye on all along and I am very happy with it. It is a fun vehicle to drive.
Even Better the 2nd time around
This is my 2nd buy of a PT Cruiser. My first one I loved (2002 Silver Ltd with Manual Transmission). I traded it in after 53,000 miles. After one test drive of the 2004 GT (Auto Stick/Turbo) I was sold on it. The Horse Power boost is incredible & a usable range for everyday driving. Autostick feature allows almost complete clutchless control on wet or snow surfaces or is fun to use when you really want to drive.
Still smiling
This car is fun to own. Performance is very good although it needs a 5th gear in the auto box. There is almost no road or engine noise at any speed. Reliability so far has been perfect (7500 miles). It rides and handles well and is comfortable inside. Mileage is good for performance - 22 around town and 27 on the Interstate.
PT Does it all
Versatility is great. Can be used to haul larger items with fold down or removable rear seats. Head room is fantastic! I would categorize it as in between a SUV and Mid size. I can put 4 large adults in this car very comfortably! Great stereo! Easy to use cruise control. Economical for every day use!!! Quiet ride - no rattles or shakes! Corners extremely well. Handles excellent in snow with Front wheel drive. Long distance milage 30 MPG. Accelerates strong. No problems to fix!
Car Guy gets his gal a car.
I remember this cars info commercial. I really liked it then. Then the WRX came out and I forgot about the PT. Now that I'm married with a child the PT looked like a good choice. But, my wife did not want a hatchback. So, we were looking at small cars like Hyundai Sonata or Dodge Stratus. Loved the Sonata but out of my price range. (broke college student) When an old friend at a dealership pointed it out I thought my wife would shoot it down. Instead the willy old carsales man gets her into a Turbo Touring and she fell in love. We could not afford that one without braking the bank. They did have a certified used Non-turbo Touring. we bought it for less than $12,000. we love it.
Not as good , as it looks
Had an accident a year later and none of the air bags deployed. Dealership was not honest on delails important to safely. Would not buy from Chrysler ever again.
The best car I have ever owned
This is the best car I have ever owned! I like getting in my car everyday to drive to work. People ask me about it all the time. What is it like and how does it handle. I have never had a better vehicle before. Chrysler was inspired to build this and I just love it!
Gotta love this car!
I love this car! It's fast, fun, and comfortable. Plus, it's really practical for hauling stuff (that's the story I told my wife, and I'm sticking to it). Almost no turbo lag (pulls hard from about 2000 rpm), nice handling with a little body lean in curves, but it's a tall vehicle, so I expected that. I also drove the Limited turbo, but liked the seats in the GT much better. I've had lots of compliments on how nice and how comfortable the interior is. If this car is as reliable as PTs seem to be, it will be my favorite car ever.
'03 PTCrusier
Great little car. I live in a mountain region and travel 70miles up and down 2 mountains. This car whips around all the curves with ease.great pick up.
Fun Ride
We have only had this car for about 2 weeks, and have been loving every minute of it! The ride is very smooth, and it handles very well not only on the expressway, but on country roads! The gas milage could be a little better, but we figure when it breaks in a little bit, that will improve. The handling is very responsive. The design and fuctionality of the vehicle is top notch! So far we are very impressed with everything about the car!
This car is fun to drive.
I traded my well loved Neon R/T for this car and have been well pleased. I miss the quickness and agility of the R/T but love the spaciousness and versatility of the cruiser.
Bought a Friday car!
Unfortunately my experience has not been great. Although everything that has been wrong with it is somehow related to the wheels so this could just be a Friday car. Even at the dealership they couldn't understand why the wheel bearings were falling out or the brakes wore prematurely (there was a notch worn through them). I love the style and I love the versatility. Gas mileage isn't great for me average 19-20.
GT is out of sight!!
Only had the car a few months. No problems to report what so ever. GT turbo is awsome. Acceleration is great. Handles like a sports car. Interior controls take awhile to get used to. Gas mileage seems to be around 20 mpg on the highway. High output Turbo requires Premium gas. Gas mileage would be better if lead foot is left at home.
Gave Me Nightmares
I bought this car with 13K miles on it, back when Consumer Reports actually recommended the Cruiser. The first two years were OK, but then disaster struck. The whole shock system went down, struts, bushings, brakes, and everything else had to be replaced at around 50K. The next summer, my transmission went KAPUT. Luckily, the car was still under warranty. Now, I've discovered that all the struts, bushings, axles, and rotors need to be replaced again. This car has caused me to have nightmares about driving it down hills, and then going totally out of control and careening around corners.
my little put putt
fun to drive easy to handdle, except when you have to turn makes only wide turns no sharp turning with car. Too low in the front. I am always hitting bottom with this car. It also is hard getting up a hill even a slight incline can sloww you down a lot.
Dream of a Dream Cruiser
Our Dream 3 Cruiser is the best car I've ever owned, that's number one out of 62 cars !! This two-tone, turbo, leather interior is quite a car. 25K miles and not one problem of any kind. Mileage in the 26/27 mpg range consistently. And more power than most could appreciate. Perfect car to 'dress' up and is always getting attention whereever we go. Changed tires from the factory originals and what a difference it maeks - now even quieter and faster ! This car is just simply hard to beat regardless !!! Just hope Chrysler doesn't mess it up in it's next generation . What a car !!!!!!!!
PT Cruiser a Multi-Mission car!
My Electric Blue PT is just a terrific car value. At just under $15,000 this "BASE" auto has Air Conditioning, Power Windows..Power Brakes, A CD player with 6 speakers, a spoiler, deep tinted windows and alloy wheels. I really wanted a 5 speed manual for the fuel economy and the dealer was happy to sell it because most people today want the automatic transmission. (I think this car had been sitting for quite a while just because it was a "standard" transmission) Even with the 5 speed..fuel economy is not too good. Some owners I hear average less than 20mpg with the automatic. The fit & finish on these Mexican made cars are just outstanding! The interior is full of top grade materials too!
Overated and no resale value
I bought this GT June 2004 the sticker was well over $26K absurd for this car! While paying far less it was still way overpriced for a econobox. Resale value is abysmal! I decided to sell the car after 3 months of liking it and the next 6 realizing it was a poor choice. Those who claim not to have engine noise must have the stereo turned up. On the highway Chrysler's poor insulation with elevated DB levels and wind noise. Shut the doors tin can sound. Besides the Leather seats interior trim materials are cheap. Engine warning light turned out be a wire upgrade with plugs no factory notice. My suggestion get a Subaru WRX if you want performance and quality in a small car.
First new car
I had this car only 3 days before it had to go to the shop. Over a six month period it was in the shop 7 times for check engine light. The first 6 months I owned it I had to have a rental car a total of 2 weeks. These cars are very poorly built (in Mexico). Also, there is a lot of road noise. The stereo is barely audible on the highway. I will never buy another Chrysler.
Rebirth of legend
Just bought this car March 2018.Yes I knew it had 138000 miles and wasn't taken care of but I liked the styling.Have spent $700 on emissions .Still the handling is good with plenty of horsepower with the four cylinder turbo and gas mileage is not that bad after fixing the emissions. I ended up getting rid of car because of all problems it was having. I am sure not all pt cruiser are bad but this one was worn out from the start.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Used Car Bargain
We just purchase a 04 PT Cruiser Platinum Turbo. Car listed for over $26k, and we purchased it for 1/2 price with only 20k miles. This car is still a 'Head Turner' and the dark gray platinum paint with all the chrome accents make a great package. The car has great acceleration, and still gives adequate gas mileage. This is the swiss army knife of autos with all the different configurations.
Our pt cruiser
The car has been a huge disappointment for us.The gas mileage is much worse than our ford escape.The seats are like sitting on a rock and they are very uncomfortable.The icing on the cake was when the windshield suddenly cracked while my wife was driving. There were no vehicles on the highway at the time. We took the car to a glass place and were told there were no stone chips and they suggested we take the car to our dealer as chrysler may cover the cost of a $900 windshield.They felt it was a stress crack. The dealer told us the warranty for glass is 20,000 kilometers and we were over that so were out of luck.We have contacted chrysler and are waiting for a response.
Love my "gal"
My "gal," and yes, she has a name, that is tradition, you understand, is my "retirement" vehicle, and the first brand new car I have ever owned. I have driven her in all kinds of environments----mountains, desert, city driving, freeway trips, and she has done a grand job for me. On a road trip I got 26 mpg overall, not real impressive, but had a huge variety of types of roads, etc. including some real mountain climbs, so felt she did herself proud. My "gal" has no turbo, just really a rather Plain Jane, but is just a dream to drive. Would make the same choice again. I love my "gal."
Fun and Comfort
Great car. Was driving a SUV. No comparison on the comfort of driving. Wanted the comfort of a car and the room of a SUV. Did not want a van again. The PT Crusier fit the bill. I could not be happier.
Great car with lousy engine
This car was very reliable and I never had a problem with it, but is horribly underpowered. The gas mileage is awful as well. I was actually scared a few times getting on the freeway because I couldn't accelerate fast enough. I will never buy another PT Cruiser. To top it all off, the resale value is a joke. The car was not even worth half what I paid for it just 2 years earlier. I just bought a Toyota Camry and what a difference. It gets great gas mileage and can actually accelerate up a hill. I hope the next PT Cruiser has some power, and better resale value, because I really do like the styling.
Fun, but ...
My wife and I bought this car brand new, but it has had problems ever since and Chrysler refuses to cover them. Wheel bearings and control arm bushings went out at 36,700 miles, BEFORE the tires. It also has a stalling problem, that nobody seems to be able to figure out. I will not buy another Chrysler. That's for sure..
Chrysler PT Cruiser
The PT Cruiser is the most versatile car I've ever owned. The interior can be configured in so many different ways that the car is useful in many situations that a "normal" car is not. I especially like the fact that the front seat can be folded flat and that the rear seats can fold, tumble forward, or be lifted out altogether giving you the sense that you have a small wagon. I also have never been asked so many questions about a car that I've owned. People are always asking me if I like it. They also comment positively on the Inferno Red color and the retro look. The car has a very tight feel. There are absolutely no squeaks or rattles
New Chrysler Owner
Went looking for a family sized car, but wanted to stay away from the "Mini- Van" appearence and we found the PT cruiser. A very spacious interior with distinctive styling at an affordable price. Moderate gas mileage (ours is averaging 25 MPG) and is comfortable to drive.
GreaaaaTTTTTT
This car is really Great. I am a short driver and find the seats very comfortable. Gas mileage is not the greatest but is good. The wind noise could be reduced when at high speeds. They really should upgrade the sliding drawer under the passenger seat.This car has great pickup and does very well on the highway. I have had no trouble with the mechanics at all and have spoken to many repeat buyers who say the same. I would recommend this car if you are looking for something fun and sporty to drive, But definitely get the TURBO
my pt
i love this car and would have another one.. however, i feel there is always room for improvement- the seats could be more comfortable. it could also be more quiet- i think the engine is kind of loud.
My White Woody
I was compelled to buy a new car because we were involved in an accident which totalled our car. For the interim we needed to rent- a little purple PT Cruiser brought a smile to my face.We drove it for two weeks I was so pleased I decided to buy one. Warnock Chrysler's Sherlene Mullins bent over backwards to find a white Woody and we are thrilled with it and the dealership. The car brings smiles to everyone on the road and is a pleasure to drive and own. The purchasing process was hassle-free. Storage capacity amazing, multi-positional shelf good for bad backs.Car height for people with disabilities is exceptional.
cool car
Replacement for a 1973 Merc Capri v6. Had to replace a classic car with a comparable car. Affordability, quality, and performance were all considerations. Fun to drive, rides great, handles good, not exactly fast (180hp), and several blind spots to get used to. Haven't taken it on a long trip yet, but 22-23 mpg combo city/fwy. Mileage could be better. Smaller turbo packs some punch. Wish it was a v6.
I LOVE MY PT CRUISER
This is the best driving and performing car I have ever owned. It is sooooooooo comfortable. My next car in 2 yrs. will be a limited Edition Turbo. Couldn't afford that this time. If you drive this vehicle, you will be hooked.
Chrysler put the fun back in driving!
Fun car to drive, more smiles per mile than any other car or truck I have owned. Well built. Comfortable. Can adapt the interior to carry just about anything. I'd buy another in a heartbeat! There are a lot of friendly 'Cruiser owners out there.
My PT
I've had the car 4 months and it is so fun to drive. I feel like I'm cruising the world. I feel very powerful when I am driving the car and listening to music on the very good CD system.
excellent car
I love my pt This car is great.In would buy this car again.Try a test drive.
PT Cruiser
I like it. I recommed to any one who wants to buy it.
3 year owner
I've owned the Pt Cruiser since Feb of 2001 and I drive it in the summer only and I love to drive it. I have not had any problems as of yet, but I only have 6000 miles on the car. So far so good.
Only the Best
WE bought our PT Cruiser in October of 2000. We have 49000 miles on her. She is a very reliable car. We still get the looks, she is the Teal Metallic that was only available the first year. I was very skeptical about buying a Chrysler product, but driving our Cruiser has changed my mind.
I love my PT Cruiser!!
I received my PT Cruiser as a birthday gift on my seventeenth birthday. I was so excited!! Not only did I get a car, but a brand new 2003 PT Cruiser.... it was like a dream come true. When I showed up to school in my new car, everyone (including my teachers)was green with envy!!
Drives like a dream
The PT Cruiser drives like a dream. It feels like you are driving and riding in a much more expensive car. There is some road vibration on rough roads but that is the only time the drive and ride are not completely smooth. It drives even smoother than the Sable that I traded in for the PT. As a matter of fact my husband was so jealous of my new PT Cruiser that he went 5 days later and bought him one. Dorothy - Orlando
PT
This car is great. Holds a lot and is versatile just like it is advertised. Also fun to drive.
great car ok quality
I love the car I wish that it would better on gas
I just love this car
Has in all areas gone above all my expectations. Lots of standard features, four large people ride in comfort, gas mileage at or above window sticker ratings. You can See very well all around and the headlite pattern is wide and bright. Gear spacing on the 5 speed is perfect for mountian driving.
MY FIRST CRUISER
I AM AMAZED AT THE QUALITY BUILT INTO THIS VEHICLE. I HAVE VERY FEW COMPLAINTS.
milten ruben
this is the best car i ever had it is fun to drive. it is fun to exellerate. you sit up hight. i just love it. yvonne austin