Segment:
Compact MPV/Retro-styled Hatchback
Styling Appeal:
Unique retro-futuristic styling inspired by 1930s/1940s American sedans.
Key Competitors 2003:
Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf, Mazda Protege.
Versatility:
Surprisingly spacious interior for its footprint, flexible seating arrangements ('Autostick' feature). High seating position.
Practicality:
Good cargo space, especially with rear seats folded. Easy ingress/egress.
Engine Options:
Reliable and fuel-efficient base engine, with a more powerful turbocharged option for enthusiasts.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, powertrain control module (PCM), engine diagnostics, turbocharger system (if applicable)
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic Transaxle (41TE), Manual Transaxle (NV1500), clutch, drivetrain components, differentials, axles, driveshafts
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum (or disc depending on trim/options), ABS, hydraulic system, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson strut, rear twist beam axle, power steering system, steering gear, wheel alignment
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, body control module (BCM), comfort features, audio system, power accessories, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control system, refrigerant handling
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, frame, underbody, exterior trim, weatherstripping
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics
Repair Rebuild:
Component removal, installation, disassembly, assembly, and repair for all major systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, diagnostic parameters
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics)
File Type:
Likely a digital format (PDF) for modern sales, though factory original was printed. Searchable text and high-resolution diagrams are expected.
Diagrams Illustrations:
High-quality, detailed, and accurate diagrams, schematics, and exploded views.
Binding:
If printed, typically a durable comb or perfect binding suitable for workshop use.
Paper Quality:
If printed, durable, heavy-weight paper suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Code Base:
2.4L DOHC 16-Valve I4 (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Displacement Base:
2378 cc (145 cubic inches)
Engine Block Material Base:
Aluminum Alloy
Engine Cylinder Head Base:
Aluminum Alloy
Fuel Delivery Base:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Horsepower Base 2003:
150 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque Base 2003:
160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Code Turbo:
2.4L DOHC 16-Valve I4 Turbocharged (High Output)
Horsepower Turbo 2003:
168 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Turbo 2003:
195 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
14.2 gallons
Recommended Oil Type:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 (or equivalent)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
4.5 quarts (4.3 liters)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (41TE)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle (NV1500)
Automatic Transmission Feature:
Autostick manual shifting capability
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Chrysler spec fluid)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2003 model year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2003 model year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good (2003 model year)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional (on some models)
Airbags Front:
Standard advanced driver and front-passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front-seat side airbags, optional roof-mounted side curtain airbags (on select models)
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System Options:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium Infinity sound system, optional cassette player on base models.
Display Screen:
No integrated touchscreen or navigation system on standard 2003 models. Basic digital odometer and clock display.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Parking Sensors:
Not typically available for the 2003 model year.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard. Aftermarket adapters may exist for iPod/MP3 connectivity.
Power Windows Locks:
Standard on most trims, optional on base models.
Oil And Filter Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic or synthetic blend oil). Or every 3,000 miles with conventional oil. Consult manual for specific usage.
Air Cleaner Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 100,000 miles for platinum or iridium-tipped plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and transmission type. Manual recommends checking fluid condition regularly.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 100,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol-based, orange color)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for ABS systems)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent specified type)
Common Issue 1:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket.
Common Issue 2:
Transmission shifting issues, particularly with the 41TE automatic, may require solenoid replacement or fluid service.
Common Issue 3:
Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends) wear due to vehicle weight and driving conditions.
Common Issue 4:
Power window motor failure.
Common Issue 5:
Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system leaks, often causing 'check engine' lights.
Common Issue 6:
Turbocharger issues on the HO engine (e.g., boost leaks, turbo failure) if not properly maintained.
Chrysler Legacy:
Chrysler has a long history of innovative vehicle design and engineering, known for its larger sedans and minivans. The PT Cruiser was a departure into a niche retro segment.
Pt Cruiser Concept:
Originally conceived as a Plymouth concept vehicle (CCV - Compact Concept Vehicle) in the late 1990s, it was later adopted by Chrysler.
First Generation Years:
2001-2010
Manufacturing Location:
Toluca Assembly Plant, Mexico
2003 Model Year Updates:
Minor updates, potentially new color options or interior trim refinements. The core platform and powertrains remained largely consistent from the 2001 launch.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2001.
Motortrend Car Of The Year Nominee:
While not winning, it was a strong contender in its introduction year.
North American Car Of The Year Nominee:
Shortlisted for the 2001 North American Car of the Year award.
