2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Owners Manual

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🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chrysler Model: PT Cruiser Year: 2008 Codes Vin Prefix: 1C4 Chassis Code: PT 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact/Retro-styled hatchback Positioning: Positioned as a unique,...

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Tags: 2008 Car Cars Chrysler PT Cruiser

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Description

🏷️ Basic Information

Identification

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

PT Cruiser

Year:

Codes

Vin Prefix:

Chassis Code:

👋 Introduction

Market Position

Segment:

Compact/Retro-styled hatchback

Positioning:

Positioned as a unique, retro-styled vehicle offering practicality and a distinctive aesthetic, appealing to a niche market.

Competitive Analysis

Key Competitors:

Volkswagen New Beetle, Mini Cooper, Ford Focus, Honda Civic.

Key Features

Design:

Distinctive retro styling inspired by 1930s hot rods and classic American vehicles.

Interior Versatility:

Flexible seating arrangements and cargo options.

Powertrain Options:

Variety of 4-cylinder engines offering a balance of performance and efficiency.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas

Primary Coverage:

2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser

Secondary Coverage:

All sub-models and engine options for 2008 PT Cruiser

Page Count

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 200-300 pages (based on typical OEM manual length for this era)

Manual Type

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language

Language:

English

Format

Digital Format:

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered

Engine:

Engine operation, basic troubleshooting, fluid checks (oil, coolant), air filter replacement, engine compartment layout.

Transmission:

Transmission operation, fluid level checks (if applicable to owner level).

Brakes:

Brake system operation, warning lights, fluid checks.

Electrical:

Instrument cluster indicators, lighting controls, battery maintenance, fuses.

Interior:

Climate controls, entertainment systems, seating adjustments, interior features.

Exterior:

Locks and security, exterior lighting, door operation.

Safety Restraints:

Airbag system, seat belts, child restraint systems (LATCH).

Procedures Included

Basic Maintenance:

Checking fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement (external), air filter replacement.

Owner Level Checks:

Engine oil level and condition, coolant level, battery terminal condition, windshield washer fluid level, tire pressure and tread depth.

Troubleshooting:

Interpretation of dashboard warning lights and messages, basic system operation explanations.

Safety Procedures:

Proper use of seat belts and airbags, child seat installation guidelines, reporting safety defects (U.S. specific).

Cleaning:

Interior and exterior cleaning recommendations.

Technical Depth

Depth:

Owner-level information focused on operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not include detailed repair procedures, diagnostic codes, or component-level diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format

Format:

Digital PDF

Compatibility:

Requires a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader).

Print Quality

Quality:

High-resolution digital scan of the original factory manual, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding Type

Binding:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper Type

Paper:

N/A (Digital Product)

Searchability

Text Search:

Likely searchable text within the PDF (depending on the quality of the original scan and OCR).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2429 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 101.0 mm (typical for this engine)

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1 (typical for this engine)

Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5800 rpm (typical for 2.4L NA)

Torque:

165 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (typical for 2.4L NA)

Performance

Turbocharged Option:

GT model featured a turbocharged 2.4L engine (200 hp), though this manual likely covers the standard engine.

Fuel System

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Octane Rating:

87 Octane (Recommended)

🔧 Transmission

Standard

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Optional

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (less common for 2008 models, often limited to specific trims or earlier years)

Features

Automatic Features:

Electronic control, torque converter lock-up.

📐 Dimensions

Exterior

Length:

160.5 inches (4077 mm)

Width:

66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Height:

61.4 inches (1560 mm)

Wheelbase:

102.9 inches (2614 mm)

Cargo

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approximately 13.6 cu ft

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approximately 37.5 cu ft

Weights

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,100 - 3,300 lbs (depending on trim and equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4,100 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

★★★★ (4 Stars)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

★★★★ (4 Stars)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:

Good (for models tested)

Active Features

Anti-lock Braking System (Standard)

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (Optional on some trims, standard on GT)

Electronic Stability Control:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) (Optional on some trims)

Passive Features

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, front side-impact airbags (optional on some trims).

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player, and optional Infinity speaker system. SiriusXM satellite radio may be an option.

Navigation:

No integrated factory navigation system typical for this era's base models.

Driver Assistance

Cruise Control:

Standard feature on most trims.

Parking Assist:

Rear parking assist sensors were an optional feature on some models.

Connectivity

Auxiliary Input:

May feature an auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players on higher trims or as an option.

Bluetooth:

Not commonly available as a factory option for this model year; aftermarket solutions are typical.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000-6,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific interval based on driving conditions).

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

At each oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually.

Coolant Flush:

Initial flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (or as per Mopar coolant specifications).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 60,000-100,000 miles for platinum or iridium plugs (refer to manual for exact type and interval).

Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic blend recommended). Refer to manual for exact specification and API service classification.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter (for 2.4L engine).

Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 5/150 or equivalent HOAT coolant (Pink color typically).

Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (MS-9602) for automatic transmission. Manual transmission fluid specifications vary, check manual.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for exact specification).

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon ATF (verify in manual).

Known Issues

Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks, oil filter housing leaks, EGR valve issues, suspension component wear (ball joints, tie rods), occasional electrical gremlins, water pump failures.

Maintenance Focus:

Regular oil changes, coolant system checks, and timely replacement of wear items are crucial for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage

Manufacturer:

Chrysler (a marque of Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, DaimlerChrysler, and Daimler-Benz).

Model Evolution

Introduction:

The PT Cruiser was introduced for the 2001 model year, initially as a Chrysler in North America and a Plymouth in other markets. It was based on the Chrysler Neon platform.

Generation:

The 2008 model is part of the first generation (2001-2010), which received a facelift for the 2006 model year.

Production

Production Period:

2001-2010

Manufacturing Location:

Toluca, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions

Car And Driver 10Best:

Named to Car and Driver's '10Best' list for 2001 and 2002, acknowledging its unique styling and value.

Ratings

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings varied throughout its lifespan, often citing average to below-average reliability in later years.

Certifications

Epa Fuel Economy:

EPA estimated MPG: Approx. 20 city / 25 highway (for 2.4L automatic transmission).