🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

PT Cruiser

Year:

2009

Chassis Code:

PT

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Compact Car with retro styling.

Target Audience:

Individuals and families seeking a distinctive, practical, and versatile vehicle.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Beetle, Mini Cooper (in terms of styling focus), and other compact hatchbacks/MPVs of its era.

Design Philosophy:

Retro-futuristic styling inspired by 1930s and 1940s American sedans and hot rods.

Versatility:

Flexible interior seating and cargo configurations.

Distinctiveness:

Unique styling that set it apart from mainstream vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Language:

English

Regions Covered:

North America

Estimated Page Count:

150-200

Type:

Owner's Manual

Physical Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, starting, stopping, cooling, fuel, exhaust, lubrication systems.

Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission operation, selection, and basic care.

Chassis:

Braking system, steering system, suspension system basics.

Electrical:

Lighting, power outlets, basic instrument panel indicators, warning lights.

Safety Features:

Seat belt usage, airbag system explanation, child restraint systems.

Comfort Convenience:

Climate control, power windows, locks, mirrors, audio system basics, interior features.

Vehicle Operation:

Driving instructions, parking, towing information (if applicable), fuel economy.

Driving Operation:

Starting the engine, driving, shifting, parking, fueling.

Maintenance Basic:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement guidance.

Emergency Situations:

What to do in case of a breakdown, flat tire, overheating, jump starting.

Instrument Panel Understanding:

Explanation of all gauges, warning lights, and indicator symbols.

Depth:

Designed for the end-user; focuses on safe operation, basic maintenance checks, and understanding vehicle features. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Printed paper.

Quality:

Standard OEM printing quality.

Binding:

Perfect bound or stapled, depending on original manufacturer specification.

Paper:

Durable, matte-finish paper suitable for automotive environment.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2378 cc)

Engine Code:

ED2

Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5800 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by specific build)

Torque:

165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by specific build)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (Recommended)

Oil Type Capacity:

SAE 5W-30, 4.5 Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change (verify with manual for exact amount).

Coolant Type:

Chrysler/Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Pink or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Code:

40TE / 41TE (specific variant)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle (less common for 2009 model year, primarily available on earlier models or specific trims).

Overdrive:

Yes, equipped with overdrive for improved fuel economy.

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 4) - crucial specification.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 167.2 inches (4247 mm)

Width:

Approximately 66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Height:

Approximately 62.2 inches (1580 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 103.0 inches (2616 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 5.6 inches (142 mm)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

Approximately 13.3 cubic feet (376 liters)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Folded:

Approximately 36.0 cubic feet (1019 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3150-3300 lbs (1429-1497 kg), depending on trim and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 4120 lbs (1869 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

Good

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

Good

IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:

Acceptable (for earlier models, 2009 likely similar)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability:

Available Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

Airbags Front:

Advanced front airbags for driver and passenger.

Airbags Side:

Available front seat-mounted side airbags and available full-length side curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional Infinity sound system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability.

Navigation:

Not commonly available on base models for 2009; could be an aftermarket addition.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Parking Assistance:

Rear park assist sensors were an available option.

Auxiliary Input:

Available auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.

Bluetooth:

Uconnect infotainment system with Bluetooth hands-free communication was an available option on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specific recommendation based on severe/normal use).

Tire Rotation:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Service:

Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (100,000-160,000 km) for a flush and filter change, but refer to manual for specific interval.

Coolant Flush:

Initial service at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter (using HOAT/OAT coolant).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 compatible brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid Type 4) or Mopar Power Steering Fluid.

Common Problem 1:

Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket.

Common Problem 2:

Power steering pump failure or leaks.

Common Problem 3:

Transmission shifting issues, particularly with the 4-speed automatic.

Common Problem 4:

Water leaks into the cabin, particularly around the windshield and door seals.

Common Problem 5:

ABS sensor failures leading to ABS/Traction Control warning lights.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand:

Chrysler, known for its history in American automotive manufacturing and innovation.

First Generation:

Launched in 2001, the PT Cruiser became an instant cult classic for its unique styling and retro design.

Facelift Updates:

Received minor styling updates and feature enhancements throughout its production run, including for the 2006 model year.

Production Start End:

2001 - 2010

Manufacturing Location:

Toluca Car Assembly Plant, Mexico

Ownership Changes:

Originally a Plymouth model, it transitioned to Chrysler branding after the Plymouth brand was retired.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Award:

While not specific awards for the 2009 model, the PT Cruiser's design was widely recognized and appreciated for its originality, contributing to its popularity.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Varies by year, but typically rated as average to below average in reliability surveys. Owner's manual is crucial for proper maintenance to mitigate potential issues.

Emissions Certification:

Meets relevant EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year.