Segment:
Compact car (convertible variant)
Design Philosophy:
Retro-inspired styling, combining a nostalgic aesthetic with modern functionality.
Key Competitors Convertible:
Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, Ford Mustang Convertible (depending on powertrain/trim), potentially some entry-level luxury convertibles.
Convertible Top:
Power-operated soft top for open-air driving experience.
Interior Versatility:
The PT Cruiser's unique interior design and seating configurations offered a degree of flexibility for its class.
Styling:
Distinctive 1930s-inspired styling, a primary selling point for the PT Cruiser line.
Systems Covered:
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 200-300 pages (typical for factory owner's manuals)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Powertrain:
Engine operation, oil, fuel, battery, air filter specifications
Interior Systems:
Climate controls, entertainment systems, instrument cluster, driver controls, locks, security, seating, safety restraints
Exterior Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, hazard lights, interior lighting
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, child seat installation, anti-lock braking system (ABS) indicators
Vehicle Operation:
Driving techniques, starting procedures, parking, convertible top operation
Maintenance And Care:
Cleaning, basic fluid checks, owner-performed maintenance guidance
Basic Maintenance:
Checking engine oil level, tire pressure, windshield washer fluid; understanding dashboard warning lights
Safety Features:
Proper use of seat belts, airbag system explanation, child seat anchor system (LATCH) information
Convertible Top Operation:
Detailed instructions for operating and caring for the power-operated convertible top
Instrument Cluster Interpretation:
Explanation of all gauges, telltale indicators, and warning lights
Climate Control Operation:
How to operate the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system
Security Features:
Information on the vehicle's immobilizer system, key fobs, and alarm
Roadside Assistance:
Guidance on customer assistance programs and reporting safety defects (U.S. specific)
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Limited to owner-level diagnostics for common issues (e.g., warning lights, fluid levels). Does not provide detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes.
Repair Scope:
Focuses on understanding and operating the vehicle. Does not cover in-depth mechanical or electrical repairs.
Maintenance Guidance:
Provides recommended maintenance intervals and specifies fluids, filters, and lubricants required for routine servicing.
Searchability:
Searchable text (dependent on PDF creation process)
Readability:
Requires a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader)
Print Quality:
Digital reproduction of factory manual; quality of printed output depends on user's printer
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2429 cc)
Horsepower Standard:
150 hp @ 5700 rpm (Naturally Aspirated)
Torque Standard:
160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (Naturally Aspirated)
Horsepower Turbocharged:
180 hp @ 5200 rpm (GT/GT Cruiser models - Turbocharged)
Torque Turbocharged:
205 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (GT/GT Cruiser models - Turbocharged)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Compartment Coverage
Engine Compartment Layout:
Diagrams and identification of key engine components.
Length:
Approx. 160.2 inches (4069 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.7 inches (1694 mm)
Height:
Approx. 62.1 inches (1577 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 105.1 inches (2670 mm)
Seating Capacity:
4 passengers
Cargo Volume Convertible Top Up:
Approx. 6.2 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (depending on engine/options)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (for Coupes/Convertibles in 2007)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (for Coupes/Convertibles in 2007)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable (for Coupe, rating for Convertible may vary slightly)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, available side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point active front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters; three-point rear seat belts.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and deployable or fixed structural elements designed to enhance occupant protection in a rollover.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Recommended every 7,500 miles.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles or as specified by coolant type.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil (API certified).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 U.S. quarts (4.2 liters) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Coolant Type:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) 5/150 or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) coolant.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension components (bushings, ball joints), exhaust system, water pump, fuel pump.
Convertible Top Concerns:
Potential issues with the power top mechanism, seals, and motors; water leaks can occur if seals degrade.
Engine Performance:
Turbocharged models (GT) can be prone to turbocharger issues if not properly maintained; intake manifold issues have been reported.
Oil Filter Example Part Number:
Mopar: MO-899, Purolator: PL14610, Fram: PH3794 (verify compatibility with specific engine variant)
Engine Air Filter Example Part Number:
Mopar: 04853477AB, Wix: 49948, Fram: CA8008 (verify compatibility with specific engine variant)
Initial Reception:
The PT Cruiser was initially lauded for its unique styling and practicality, receiving praise from various automotive publications upon its launch.
Car Of The Year Nominations:
While not winning major 'Car of the Year' awards globally, it was well-received for its distinct character.
Safety Certifications:
Meets all U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for the 2007 model year.