Segment:
Compact car, retro-styled hatchback.
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking distinctive styling, practicality, and a unique character in a compact car.
Key Competitors:
Volkswagen Beetle, Mini Cooper, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Iconic retro styling, spacious interior for its class, versatile and customizable cabin (variously named 'PT Dream Cruiser' trims).
Styling:
Retro-inspired design reminiscent of 1930s American cars, a dominant design cue.
Interior Versatility:
Flexible seating configurations, including 'Homecoming' and 'Baby Carriage' modes for maximizing cargo space.
Powertrain Options:
Available with efficient gasoline engines and a notable diesel option in some markets.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, engine control systems (PCM/ECM), emissions control, starting, charging.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (41TE/42LE) and Manual transmission (NVT150/NVT350) systems, including overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain Systems:
Front-wheel drive, axles, driveshafts, differential.
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (torsion beam axle), steering system (power steering), wheel alignment.
Brake Systems:
Front disc brakes, rear drum or disc brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS), parking brake, hydraulic system.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body controls, power accessories, infotainment system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams.
Body Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, HVAC system, seating systems, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts).
Diesel Specific:
Diesel engine specifics, fuel injection system (common rail), glow plug system, turbocharger, emissions (EGR, DPF if applicable), diesel-specific diagnostics.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement, brake pad and rotor replacement, tire rotation.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component diagnostics and replacement, body panel repair, HVAC system servicing.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures, using diagnostic scan tools and symptom-based troubleshooting.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, fluid capacities, electrical component resistance values, engine performance data, alignment specifications.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, including component location and connector views.
Depth Level:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information on using Chrysler-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., DRB III) and generic OBD-II scanners.
Format Type:
Digital (PDF or similar e-book format)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text, allowing for quick access to specific information.
Printability:
Printable pages for easy reference in a workshop environment.
Image Resolution:
High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs.
Binding Type Physical:
Not applicable for digital format, but if printed, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability.
Paper Type Physical:
Not applicable for digital format, but factory manuals are typically printed on heavy-duty paper for workshop use.
Gasoline Engine 1:
2.0 L naturally aspirated I4 (86 kW / 117 hp; 125 lb-ft / 168 Nm)
Gasoline Engine 2:
2.4 L naturally aspirated I4 (108 kW / 147 hp; 165 lb-ft / 224 Nm)
Gasoline Engine 3:
2.4 L turbocharged I4 (GT/GTX variants) (150 kW / 203 hp; 235 lb-ft / 319 Nm)
Diesel Engine 1:
2.2 L CRD (Common Rail Diesel) I4 (89 kW / 121 hp; 221 lb-ft / 300 Nm) - Primarily for European markets.
Compression Ratio 2.0L:
9.5:1
Bore X Stroke 2.4L:
87.5 mm x 96.0 mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane minimum recommended for naturally aspirated, 91 Octane for turbocharged), Diesel Fuel.
Injection Type Gasoline:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Injection Type Diesel:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
57 liters (15 US gallons)
Oil Capacity 2.4L:
4.5 US quarts (4.2 L) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
7.2 US quarts (6.8 L)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (41TE/42LE)
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (NVT150/NVT350)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up clutch.
Manual Transmission Features:
Hydraulically actuated clutch.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (Mopar)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mopar Manual Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 75W-90)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil). Severe driving conditions may require shorter intervals.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Typically every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
2.0L/2.4L Naturally Aspirated: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (platinum or iridium plugs). 2.4L Turbocharged: 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (special type plugs).
Coolant Replacement:
First change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 3 years.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace fluid and filter at 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on service history and conditions.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (meeting MS-6395 specification)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
ATF+4 (Mopar) or equivalent
Common Issue 1:
Cracked exhaust manifold (especially on turbocharged models).
Common Issue 2:
Automatic transmission issues (e.g., harsh shifting, slipping) requiring valve body or solenoid replacement.
Common Issue 3:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and rear main seal.
Common Issue 4:
Power window regulator failure.
Common Issue 5:
HVAC blend door actuator failure leading to temperature control problems.
Common Issue 6:
Front suspension wear (ball joints, tie rod ends).
Common Issue 7:
Radiator hose leaks or failure.
Manufacturer:
Chrysler, a division of Stellantis (formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, DaimlerChrysler, and Chrysler Corporation).
Generation 1:
2001-2010 (This manual covers the first generation).
Design Inspiration:
Based on the Chrysler PT Cruiser concept car unveiled in 1998, heavily influenced by the 1930s Chrysler Airflow and even the Volkswagen Beetle's proportions.
Production Start Year:
2000
Production End Year:
2010
Manufacturing Locations:
Toluca, Mexico; Graz, Austria (for European market for a period).
Sales Performance:
Initial strong sales driven by unique styling, with sales declining in later years as the retro trend waned.
