Chrysler PT Cruiser (2005 and earlier)

music287

Just got my new PT LE with a pleasant surprise. Besides the current $2500 rebate, if you log onto Chrsyler.com and follow the links stating you want to buy a PT within 10 days an additional $1000 rebate pops up! Hello! Why would anyone consider a lesser vehicle like the Focus or Matrix? This car is so solid, roomy, peppy, and versatile! BTW, if you remove the left pedal from your bike, you can lay it down on its side easily. (The left side doesn't have the chain and deraillers.) FYI, my daughter's full size harp fits in with the front seat folded flat. It's a great "harpmobile."

Jay

fndlyfmrflyr

Welcome to the club. I can put things inside my Cruiser that don't fit in my much larger SUV.

Thanks for the heads up on the extra rebate.

Try a local PT meet and greet when you want information about accessories and customizing. About 150 P/Ts were at one in my area yesterday. You can cruise in and visit these almost any weekend.

music287

OK, I'm a musician so I notice these things. Many European cars honk in a "minor third" i.e. C-Eb. Most American cars honk in a "major third" i.e. C-E. I notice that my 2003 PT LE has only the lower note. I think I remember reading somewhere that the higher note horn was only a $20 part and that the wiring/plugs were already in the car somewhere in/behind the right front wheelwell. Any one have information on a proper Major Third Two Note American Horn? I understand that PT's used to have two notes...

Jay

fndlyfmrflyr

Jay,

I added the high note horn (part number 4671747-AB) to my 03 PT GT. MUCH louder sound now. Just order a high note horn for an 01 or 02. Be sure to also get the bolt that holds the horn to the car. Total cost was less than $20

Installation takes about ten minutes. Turn the wheels full left. Remove the 3 small bolts that hold the front part of the right front inner fender to the metal outer fender. Pull the inner fender towards the front tire and you will have enough room to install the horn. I couldn't get it in using just the headlight bulb replacement access panel.

The wires and plug for the new horn are tied to the top of the low note horn by a small tie strap. Cut the tie strap and you will find the wires and plug fit the high note horn perfectly.

The horn only fits one way. There is a guide hole in the car for the protruding part on the horn and just one hole for the attaching bolt.

revka

"Many European cars honk in a 'minor third' i.e. C-Eb. C-Eb. Most American cars honk in a 'major third' i.e."

Learn something new every day. Thanks for your notes. ;-)

Revka
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music287

Thanks, fndlyfmrflyr for the specific information. I don't know why Chrysler decontented the PT that way, especially since they added content in other places. It's a minor irritant, because since here in Ohio we rarely use our horns but, hey, it bugs me!

Jay

fndlyfmrflyr

Jay, several items, in addition to the high note horn, are not on the 2003 model. We have found the formerly standard cargo net quite useful (we have it attached flat on the floor rather than standing up). The net cost about $40 from the dealer. The missing formerly standard lights for the rear window switches makes it interesting trying to find the switches at night.

Adding the formerly standard rear sway bar dramatically improved handling and stability.

We don't miss the formerly standard passenger front door key lock, the formerly standard fold back outside rear view mirrors, nor the formerly standard rubber pad for the driver's left foot on the front carpet.

The 2004 PTs are now being built. It will be interesting to see if DC has continued decontenting.

cwalker80

Are there any Latinas out there that drive a PT Cruiser, I work for Catalina, a Latina Magazine

Crystaljoywalker@yahoo.com

fndlyfmrflyr

Enjoy your new P/T. Probably seems much bigger inside than you Jetta (except width). Be careful, you make like it so much you join a PT club and start customizing it. Maybe some tailgate art, a little chrome, fancy wheels, ...

vocus

Thanks. I thought about getting the cargo mat and some other small stuff (maybe even an exhaust), but not just yet.

crkeehn

Giiive in toooo the dark siiiiide

You know you want to customize it, a few flames, some chrome, not to mention the mandatory fuzzy dice.

Of course the next thing is to join a local PT Club, to wave or flash at every passing PT and then....

Cruise the Falls IV, next June.

revka

Sounds really nice. Great financing terms as well. We look forward to hearing more.... Happy motoring!

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mdaffron

-- Your friends over at the Jetta and Protege discussions

boaz47

mandatory additions to get for Your PT. That is the charm of the Cruiser, it becomes yours. The only other car that in itself has the relationship to the owner the PT has is the Miata. Yes sooner or later something, mostly dice, will be hanging from your mirror. I have dice door lock pulls, dice valve stem caps, and a dice shifter. Just looked like it belonged.

Happy Cruising.

fndlyfmrflyr

I wish the Falls were not so far away for us. Over 600 PTs in one place must be quite a sight. There was a similar number at Cruiserfest in Modesto. Heard there will be a big one, with room for about 500 PTs, in San Diego next year. Even the 150 or so at a local SoCal PT even/get-together a couple of weeks ago was impressive.

The fuzzy dice was the second addition to ours. Chrome door spears was first for our black GT. Have had our PT GT almost a year and even though we have customized it with lots of chrome and other items, we keep seeing new items at local club meets that we'd like to add. I'm seeing an increasing number of PT trailers too.

music287

You're right that adding the higher note horn is inexpensive BUT, what is the correct bolt size? (I can't remove the bolt that holds the lower note horn in place to use as a sample. It's too tight!) Do you think in a pinch I could use a sheet metal screw to hold the higher note horn in place? BTW, my dealer charged me about $24.

Jay

fndlyfmrflyr

I forgot to buy the bolt so I can't give you the part number. I used a bolt I had at home. The threads were wrong, more like a sheet metal bolt than for a threaded hole. It was a tight fit and had to be forced into the hole, but has held just fine. Most likely anything that is a snug fit in the hole will work.

As with many other brands, some DC dealers will match internet prices for parts and accessories. In addition, like many of the after market suppliers, some give discounts to PT owner clubs members.

fndlyfmrflyr

Looking at the Edmunds rebate list I see the 2004 PTs already have a $1000 rebate. GT only comes with the 03 2CR package, so there is no inexpensive GT for 04, though the turbo engine with an automatic is available on the Touring and Limited models.

crkeehn

It uses a self tapping 6mm X 20mm with 1.0 thread. If you can't get a self tapping bolt, get a conventional bolt. In that case, remove the self tapping bolt that fastens the old horn and replace it with the conventional bolt. Use the self tapping bolt to mount the new horn.

music287

...crkeehn

Jay

vocus

I am going to add a cargo mat, the pollen filter, a locking gas cap, and maybe a set of mud guards. That's all for now though. No flames or dice in my near future, but thanks for the idea.

vocus

I have 250 miles on the car thus far, and really am beginning to like it. As I said before, I work for DCX and that was a big reason for getting this car for me (read: the discount and special financing). My last car (02 Jetta) was totalled by vandalism, and I had one week to get something else before my rental benefit ran out.

Anyway, after driving it about 220 miles (it had 34 when I took delivery), it's beginning to grow on me. I find the power adequate, and the handling very nice for a tall vehicle. The interior versatility is amazing as well. I was able to fit a 3-foot long box in the cargo area crossways without having to fold the back seats at all, something my old car would have never been able to hold. I can't tell economy yet, as I had 3/4 of a tank from the dealer and ran that out, but refilled last night. I know it took $20 to fill from the empty light, about the same as the VW (but not on premium fuel). The maneuverability isn't bad either, but I am trying to get used to driving with the dark tinted glass in the back, something I never had before. I love the rear wiper though, a boon for visibility in the rain (something that hasn't stopped in what seems months here in MD).

For the price and financing deals that are available now, this is definitely a car to check out if you want something that's roomy inside, not too big outside, and you don't mind the funky styling (which I really like, especially the interior).

boaz47

there are very few cars that age as well as the PT. To most people it is a friendly car. You get smiles and questions and people are still amazed when they sit inside and see what kind of room they offer. The look good stock and they look good fixed up. I have to learn to stay away from meet and greets because I always see something I just have to have. I even went on a cruise with a club and we ended up at Moss in Goleta, the Mecca of PT parts. Not good if you still have room on your credit card.

crkeehn

I originally missed that you are from Baltimore. You have a very active club in that area, they generally have runs on the second Saturday of the month, leaving from Owings Mills. Take a look at the Maryland Dreamcruisers. I have put their web address in my profile. You will have to cut and paste, but I think it's worth it. Members have everything from stock to heavily modified PTs. I saw my first Electric Blue GT at one of the runs.

There is no membership fee, I have been on one of the runs and it was lots of fun. My son keeps asking me when we're going on the next one.

fndlyfmrflyr

I agree with you about seeing and wanting what one sees at meet and greets. But, they are also good places to see what one might be thinking about adding too.

I made it through the Riverside event's 150 PTs a few weeks ago without buying anything, but saw something on one of the 40 cars at our local meet and greet last weekend that I want. At least the item is not expensive.

Have not been on many PT cruises, but they are usually to interesting places.

boaz47

Drat, I didn't make that meet. Would love to see some of the people that post here. My year end has just been too busy. Maybe by October I'll be free on the weekends again.

vocus

Yeah, I am from Baltimore (about 20mins. from Owings Mills), and I will definitely have to check out the Deamcruisers club you speak of.

On another note, I took my first shopping trip last night to the wholesale club (a once every 3 month trip for me). I had passengers in the back seat, and still didn't have to fold the seats down OR put anything in the back with them either. I am starting to love this car..

vocus

I shouldn't really be calculating because I know new engines (I have less than 500 miles still) don't get the best economy. I have been in the habit of calculating every tank though, so there you go. The first one in the PT yielded 18mpg on 87 regular. That was with a 60/40 highway/city mix. I am sure it will improve with mileage though.

boaz47

I live at 5000 feet above sea level. I work at about 800 feet above sea level. I get an average of 24 miles per gallon going up and down the mountain. My worst tank ever was 20 my best tank was 30.5.

uga91

How do you rate the driver's seating on the PT vs your Jetta? I always considered the Jetta to have pretty premium seating for its class. My mother-in-law has a 2002 cranberry PT Touring Edition. She likes it a lot--but I think she wishes she had more power. Her last car was a 1998 Buick Regal GS with 240 HP, so I guess I can see how she might notice the difference. It is versatile, though. She likes how the rear seats can fold and tumble forward or even come out completely depending on her needs. She does not have leather, so I don't know how yours feels compared to hers. I find her seats to be a little small and stiff, but then again I'm used to driving a mini van with big, cushy seats.

fndlyfmrflyr

uga91: The PT seats are on the small side and seem like more side support on the seat bottom is needed when cornering. However, for touring they are quite comfortable overall.

The 2004 180 HP turbo, available on the Limited and Touring models, should help the power situation.

vocus: It took about 3000 miles or so before mpg on mine leveled out. There was about a 10% improvement during the first 3000 miles.

vocus

It took me about 200 miles to find a comfortable position, but that was the same in the VW. The VW's seats felt stiffer to me, and a little larger, than the PT's. I have a problem hitting the heated seat button (on the outboard of the seat cushion) when entering sometimes, but I am remembering now to look out for it upon entry.

vocus

I bought a cargo area 'mat' for the PT from EBay this past week. It just came in the mail today, and I have to say I am disappointed. It's nothing more than a foam rubber shape of the cargo area with a lip on it. Looks like one good wet cargo 'accident' would kill it. Is this common for these types of things? I thought they were made of rubber, but never had one before so I have nothing to go on.

On another note, another PT owner (Touring model) pulled up next to me tonight at a red light and gave me a 'thumbs up'. I gave it back, and smiled. Too funny.

Almost 900 miles and still liking it alot.

vocus

I am about to turn 1500 miles already in my 03 PT Limited Edition. I am really beginning to like the car's versatility and cargo/passenger carrying ability. I took 4 co-workers with me to lunch the other day, and everyone had room. Never would have been able to pull that off in my old car (an 02 VW Jetta). I sometimes wish for more power, but I also had a turbo before in the VW so that's to be expected. The power is adequate though. The handling kinda makes up for it, which I find confident and even fun at times.

One issue I did have: I bought an aftermarket locking gas cap that didn't fit correctly, and the CEL came on in the car. I called the dealer, and they said to put the OEM cap back on and drive it for a day or so and it should go out. They were right, it did go out on its own.

My last tank averaged 17.7mpg, which is getting better and better. This is with the AC on all the time, so that's why it's kinda low. Not too bad for a brand new engine.

fndlyfmrflyr

If you want better handling and a better "feel" install the formerly standard rear sway bar.

revka

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vocus

I think I was the last (documented) to purchase, and my experience is there.

I will turn 2000 miles already on the way to work tomorrow morning, and very happy with the car. My top economy thus far has been 19.5mpg with alot of highway, but I am hoping that will improve as the engine ages a little. This is definitely one of the best kept secrets in the Chrysler stable!

crkeehn

Mileage should improve as the car breaks in. My wifes auto is doing about 23 mpg now with the a/c on constantly, her driving is mixed, biased towards highway. I'm doing about 24 mpg with my driving mixed biased towards urban driving.

My lowest mileage recently was about 23 mpg when I had to go to Rockville for a health insurance hearing, my appointment forced me to have to drive through the rush hour. That was strictly stop and go from I-295 to the 270 split.

vocus

Oooh, I know that loop on the Capital Beltway. Total murder between 6:30 and 9am on any day of the week.

I now have 2230 miles on the car (put 230 on this weekend alone!) and still loving it. A friend who rode in the car for the first time today really liked it alot. He also liked not having to squeeze behind my seat like he used to have to in the VW I had before.

lngtonge18

Wow, I'm impressed you have such glowing remarks for this car after ripping Dodge for the crappy Neon your friend owned. Is this car really that much better?

revka

If you have any insights to share on the Protege5 vs. Matrix XRS vs. 2.5TS Impreza vs. PT Cruiser, please join us in this new discussion. Perhaps you can help thenebean9 make a decision.

And now, back to the subject of the Chrysler PT Cruiser. Thanks for your participation! ;-)

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vocus

Some of the interior reminds me of the Neon, as does the sound of the engine when you start it. That's about it though. Also, the reliability of the PT is alot better than the Neon's, and that's what I had the most problem with on my friend's Neon. It was never OUT of the shop.

jpelder

The wife and I took a new cruiser for a test drive yesterday, and here are some comments.

We drove the 5 speed, as we both love manual trannys. Good points: Looks, build quality, ride, roominess. Downside: engine was a bit weak, and the transmission was totally numb. We have an 02 alero with the 2.2 and 5 speed. Despite supposedly having 10 fewer horsepower (and 100 fewer LBS total weight), the alero is much peppier.

Overall, I still think it is a great car, and I can't wait to try one with the turbo.

fndlyfmrflyr

Wish there was a way to compare a stick version of the 180 hp turbo available in the LE and Touring with the the 220 hp version in the GT.

vocus

So they are 2 different versions of engines then? I didn't even know that, I just thought the 214hp engine was now available in the Limited and Touring models.

I am now at 2700 miles (I know, I drive alot) and my last tank averaged 18.5mpg. Economy is getting slowly better, and I am still loving all the space and versatility of this vehicle. The only thing I wish for more of (sometimes) is power, but it is adequate.

fndlyfmrflyr

The Touring and LE now have an optional 180 hp turbo engine available. The GT still has the 215 hp high output engine from last year (I saw some place it is now rated at 220 hp).

I don't see a manual transmission option for the 180 hp engine, but there is a manual available for the high output engine in the GT.

I have not driven a 180 turbo yet, but it should make an automatic Touring or LE at least as peppy as a manual transmission version, and probably a little more.

vocus

I am waiting for someone at work to get an 04 PT turbo with the 180hp engine so I can try it out. I would like a little more power sometimes when driving, but it's adequate for my needs. Economy at 3200 miles has risen to 20.3mpg. Glad to see it going up some. I need to do my first oil change, but haven't really had alot of time on my hands.

Happy cruising, everyone.

homerkc

Any word on Chrysler selling one of their diesel PT Cruisers? I believe they sell them in Europe (like the diesel Jeep Liberty) so it should be easy to market here.

fndlyfmrflyr

I saw last year that DC was selling a 2 liter turbo diesel PT in Europe. It will be another couple of years before low sulfur diesel fuel is required in the US (California already has low sulfur diesel fuel) and that may be a reason manufacturers have been slow to reintroduce diesel power here. In addition, until recently, fuel prices had been stable and not high enough for many to seek out the additional economy from a diesel.

My experience from two diesels (VW - one was a turbo) is that diesel stop and go fuel economy is very good, but continuous high speed driving produces mpg that is at most only a little better than gasoline power.

I'd buy a PT turbo diesel if they become available here. My PT GT is used mostly for local driving and while I love the GT performance, the 17 mpg average, on premium, leaves a lot to be desired.

Gasoline prices around here jumped 25 cents per gallon during the last week (about $2.09 per gallon now) and better mpg would be nice, especially on the much less expensive diesel fuel.

boaz47

Because so many have automatics that your mileage is so low. My manual has only dropped to 20 mpg once since I bought it. I have averaged 23 mpg or better from day one. We went on a cruise with a club one weekend and we got 30mpg. That was a 55mph cruise for most of the day with a few stops in between. I have a K&N and a Dynamax exhaust but I doubt if that helps my mileage any.

I don't believe there will be any diesel PTs in California for a while. At least not till after 2006 when we are supposed to get the new low sulphur diesel.