Segment:
Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Retro-styled Compact Car
Target Audience:
Individuals and families seeking a distinctive, practical, and affordable vehicle with a unique nostalgic design.
Key Competitors 2003:
Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf, Hyundai Elantra.
Design:
Retro-inspired styling reminiscent of 1930s and 1940s hot rods and streamliners.
Interior Versatility:
Flexible seating arrangements (e.g., fold-flat rear seats, removable rear seats) for enhanced cargo capacity and passenger comfort.
Engine Options:
Economical base engine and a more powerful turbocharged option for enhanced performance.
Engine:
2.4L DOHC (Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged variants)
Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic, 5-Speed Manual
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, Climate Control
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Doors, Windows, Hatch
Heating And Cooling:
HVAC System, Refrigerant, Blower Motor, Evaporator, Condenser
Estimated Pages:
Over 1000 (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Type:
Full Service and Repair Manual
Engine Management:
Engine mechanical diagnosis, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, starting and charging systems.
Powertrain:
Automatic transmission (42LE) and Manual transmission (NVT550) service, clutch system, differential, drive axles.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension component diagnosis and replacement, power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment specifications.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake component service (discs and pads), hydraulic system (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers), ABS system diagnosis and repair.
Electrical Systems:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, ECU/PCM diagnosis, BCM functions, lighting systems, interior electronics, exterior lighting, horn, power accessories.
Body And Interior:
Door panel removal, seat adjustment/replacement, headliner service, dashboard disassembly, window regulator repair, body panel alignment, glass replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting symptom guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), using diagnostic scan tools, specific component testing procedures.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for major component overhauls, replacement of wear items, system repairs, wiring harness repair, body panel repair.
Installation Procedures:
Component replacement instructions, torque specifications for critical fasteners, alignment procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic routine maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and body repair.
Format Details:
Searchable PDF format, allowing easy navigation and keyword searching for specific procedures or components. Printable pages.
Quality:
High-resolution digital scans ensuring clarity of diagrams, illustrations, and text.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Code:
ESX (2.4L DOHC I4 - Turbocharged)
2.4L Na Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5800 rpm
2.4L Na Torque:
169 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
2.4L Turbo Horsepower:
168 hp @ 5200 rpm (GT trim)
2.4L Turbo Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (GT trim)
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 octane recommended for NA), Premium recommended for Turbocharged models for optimal performance.
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (NVT550)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (42LE)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up.
Manual Transmission Features:
Standard gear ratios tailored for balance of performance and economy.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
4-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-Star
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on select trims/models
Airbags Front:
Standard advanced multi-stage front airbags
Airbags Side:
Available front seat-mounted side airbags
Seatbelts:
Height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on oil type and driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
2.4L Naturally Aspirated: Every 100,000 miles (platinum-tipped plugs). 2.4L Turbocharged: May vary, consult manual or service records for iridium plugs (typically 60,000-100,000 miles).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles. Manual: Inspect and change if necessary, typically around 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type Capacity:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified); Capacity: 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter for 2.4L engines.
Coolant Type Capacity:
Chrysler specification (MS-9769) or equivalent HOAT coolant; Capacity: Approx. 7.2 quarts (6.8 liters) for 2.4L.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent ATF+4.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration and clunking noises.
Oil Leaks:
Common oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and crankshaft seals.
Suspension Components:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links, particularly on higher mileage vehicles.
Power Window Motors:
Failure of power window regulators and motors.
Radiator Fan Control:
Issues with the radiator fan relay or control module leading to overheating.
Chrysler Heritage:
Chrysler has a long history of innovation and distinctive design in the automotive industry, dating back to the 1920s.
Pt Cruiser Concept To Production:
The PT Cruiser began as the Plymouth Pronto concept car shown in 1997 and was introduced as the Chrysler PT Cruiser in 2000. It gained significant popularity for its unique retro styling.
2003 Model Year Updates:
Minor interior trim updates and potential feature packaging changes. Introduction of the 'Dream Cruiser' series.
Manufacturing Location:
Toluca, Mexico
Production Start End:
2000 - 2010 (North America)
