Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Mechanics
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs with factory-level knowledge, saving time and money.
Advantage:
Provides the same information found in paper factory manuals, but with the convenience of digital access and immediate availability.
Features:
Step-by-step repair procedures, critical specifications, illustrations/pictures, disassembly/assembly instructions, cleaning, reinstalling, troubleshooting guides.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.4L naturally aspirated and turbocharged), Transmission (4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual)
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson struts, rear twist beam), Steering (power assisted rack and pinion), Brakes (front discs, rear drums/discs depending on configuration)
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Audio System, Power Accessories, HVAC Controls, Instrument Cluster
Body:
Exterior panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior trim, Seats, HVAC components
Maintenance:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-offs, Belt inspections, Spark plug replacement, Brake pad/shoe replacement
Repair:
Engine component repair/replacement, Transmission overhaul/replacement, Suspension component service, Brake system repair, Electrical component diagnosis and repair, HVAC system service
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, Symptom-based diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) explanation and resolution
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and reassembly
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission repairs, electrical diagnostics)
Engine Code:
EDZ (2.4L Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Displacement:
2.4 Liters (148 cubic inches)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Horsepower Na:
150 hp @ 5900 rpm (typical)
Torque Na:
165 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (typical)
Engine Code:
BCC (2.4L Turbocharged 'High Output')
Engine Displacement:
2.4 Liters (148 cubic inches)
Horsepower Turbo:
168 hp @ 5500 rpm (typical)
Torque Turbo:
199 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (typical)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP)
Transmission Type Na:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Type Turbo:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle
Transmission Type Na Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (also available on turbo models)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up
Manual Transmission Features:
Standard clutch operation, 5 forward gears, 1 reverse gear
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF+4 (Mopar)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star (2001-2003 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star (2001-2003 models)
IIHS Front Offset Test:
Acceptable (later models improved, early models mixed)
ABS:
Standard on most trims
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), Optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seat belts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic or synthetic blend oil)
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (for platinum-tipped plugs)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified)
Engine Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration and noise.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional slipping or harsh shifting in automatic transmissions, often related to fluid condition or solenoid issues.
Power Steering Pump:
Leaking or noisy power steering pumps, especially at full lock.
Window Regulators:
Failure of power window regulators, often due to plastic components breaking.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Issues with the EVAP system, often due to faulty purge valves or charcoal canisters, leading to 'check engine' lights.
Brand Origin:
Chrysler, an American automotive manufacturer
Design Inspiration:
Inspired by classic American hot rods and custom cars of the 1930s and 1940s, particularly the Chrysler D'Elegance concept.
Segment Introduction:
Launched in early 2001 for the 2001 model year, the PT Cruiser was a significant departure from typical automotive design and became an instant icon.
Production Location:
Toluca, Mexico
Production Period Covered:
2001-2003 (First Generation, Phase 1)
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10 Best lists for 2001 and 2002.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Nominee for MotorTrend Car of the Year in 2001.
Certification Body:
Automotive Industry Standards (AIS) for repair documentation quality.
