🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

PT Cruiser Convertible

Year:

2006

Market Segment:

Compact/Retro-styled Car

Vin Model Year Code:

6

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible occupied a niche market, appealing to buyers seeking distinctive retro styling with the versatility of a convertible. It aimed for a balance between unique design and everyday practicality.

Competitors:

Competed against other compact convertibles and unique-styled vehicles. Key rivals included models like the Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible, Ford Focus Convertible (in some markets), and potentially higher-end compact convertibles depending on pricing and features.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasized a retro, 1930s-inspired styling, setting it apart from conventional compact cars.

Convertible Variant:

Offered the open-air driving experience with a power-operated soft top, adding to its unique appeal.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Operation, Maintenance, Safety, Specifications, Customer Assistance

Specific Sections Listed:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting safety defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine compartment, Engine oil, Battery, Fuel information, Air filter(s), Part numbers, Refill capacities, Lubricant specifications, Accessories

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 250-350 pages (typical for a 2006 owner's manual, digital format may vary)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine compartment details, engine oil, fuel information, air filter, basic maintenance, fluid specifications, refill capacities.

Chassis:

Brakes (general operation), steering (general operation), suspension (general operation).

Electrical And Electronics:

Instrument cluster functions, lighting controls, entertainment systems (operation), climate controls (operation), locks and security systems, battery information.

Body And Interior:

Driver controls, seating, safety restraints, convertible top operation (implied for convertible model), cleaning.

Operation:

Detailed explanation of all vehicle controls, instrument panel indicators, and feature operation.

Maintenance:

Recommended maintenance schedules, checks for fluids, filters, and basic upkeep.

Safety:

Information on safety restraints, airbags, child seat installation, and safe driving practices. Reporting safety defects in the U.S.

Troubleshooting:

Basic troubleshooting for common issues related to vehicle operation, indicator lights, and system warnings.

Depth:

Consumer-focused, covering day-to-day operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Not a repair manual for in-depth diagnostics or component replacement.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content within the PDF (dependent on OCR quality of original)

Quality:

Digital replica of factory manual. Quality dependent on source scan.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2429 cc)

Engine Code:

EDZ (Naturally Aspirated)

Horsepower:

150 hp @ 5600 rpm (for EDZ engine)

Torque:

160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for EDZ engine)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane (AKI) / 91 Octane (RON) minimum

Air Filter Part Number Example:

P04595674AA (verify with specific VIN and filter manufacturer)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle (typically available on lower trims or specific engine options, but less common on convertibles)

Automatic Features:

Electronic control, torque converter lock-up clutch

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar Material Standard MS-9602)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) for refill, 11.1 quarts (10.5 liters) for overhaul.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 167.5 inches (4255 mm)

Width:

Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)

Height:

Approx. 62.1 inches (1577 mm) (Convertible)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 105.1 inches (2670 mm)

Cargo Volume Convertible Top Up:

Approx. 7.1 cu ft

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3150 - 3300 lbs (1429 - 1497 kg) (depending on options)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5-Star (2006)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5-Star (2006)

IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:

Acceptable (2006)

Braking System:

Front Disc / Rear Drum (standard), optional Front/Rear Disc with ABS

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control (TCS) on some models

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, optional front side-impact airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seat belts, front seat belt pretensioners

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Options:

Base AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional Infinity sound system, Sirius Satellite Radio preparation.

Display Technology:

Simple analog gauges and basic LCD displays for odometer and trip computer. No integrated navigation or advanced touchscreen displays.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims.

Parking Assistance:

Rear parking assist sensors were an optional feature.

Auxiliary Input:

Typically an auxiliary audio input jack was not standard, but some aftermarket head units or dealer options might have offered it.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).

Tire Rotation Interval:

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

Engine Coolant Change Interval:

Initial change at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 3 years thereafter.

Engine Oil Specification:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic API Certified meeting Chrysler Material Standard MS-6395

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for ABS)

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF+4 (Mopar Material Standard MS-9602) or equivalent.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.

Common Problems 2006 Pt Cruiser:

Potential issues include water pump leaks (especially the gasket), alternator failure, power window regulator problems, exhaust system corrosion, and occasional transmission issues. Headliner sagging in convertibles can also occur.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mopar MO-090 or equivalent (e.g., Fram PH3506, Wix 51515)

Accessory Information:

The manual covers information regarding factory-installed and dealer-installed accessories, their operation, and any specific maintenance requirements.

📚 Vehicle History

Chrysler Legacy:

Chrysler has a long history of innovation and distinctive styling, known for vehicles like the iconic Chrysler Airflow and the luxury Imperial line. The PT Cruiser was a modern interpretation of retro design, a significant departure from typical Chrysler offerings of the era.

Pt Cruiser Lineage:

Introduced for the 2001 model year as a hatchback. The convertible version was launched for the 2005 model year, expanding the PT Cruiser's appeal by offering an open-air experience. The 2006 model year saw minor updates and refinements.

Manufacturing Location:

Toluca Assembly Plant, Mexico

Production Period:

The PT Cruiser Convertible was produced from the 2005 to the 2008 model years. The 2006 model falls within its initial production run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Convertible Sales:

The PT Cruiser Convertible was a strong seller in its niche, known for its distinctive styling and relatively affordable convertible experience, contributing to Chrysler's unique vehicle portfolio.

Design Awards:

While specific awards for the 2006 convertible model might be less publicized than the original hatchback, the PT Cruiser's overall retro design was widely recognized and appreciated by a significant customer base.