🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

PT Cruiser

Year:

2008

Market:

North America (implied by Chrysler branding and typical manual delivery)

Vin Decoder Prefix:

1C4 (US-assembled Chrysler), 3C4 (Mexico-assembled Chrysler)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact car / Retro-styled hatchback.

Positioning Statement:

The Chrysler PT Cruiser is positioned as a unique, stylish, and practical compact vehicle offering distinctive retro styling and a versatile interior.

Key Competitors:

While unique, competitors in the compact segment at the time included the Mini Cooper (for styling), Volkswagen Beetle (for retro appeal), and various mainstream compacts like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Focus (for practicality).

Design Philosophy:

Retro-inspired styling, emphasizing a nostalgic automotive aesthetic reminiscent of the 1930s and 1940s hot rods and custom cars.

Interior Versatility:

Flexible seating arrangements, including removable rear seats and a fold-flat front passenger seat, allowing for various cargo and passenger configurations.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Owner's Manual

Secondary Coverage:

Safe operation, vehicle features, instrument panel understanding, starting and operating, emergency procedures, maintenance, consumer assistance.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a 2008 owner's manual)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (as it's described as being delivered with a new car)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine operation, starting, and general guidance (specifics may be limited in an owner's manual compared to a service manual).

Chassis Systems:

Brake system operation (warning lights, usage), steering system awareness, suspension system general information.

Electrical Systems:

Instrument panel and indicators, lighting systems, basic electrical feature operation (wipers, power windows, locks), fuse box locations (general).

Safety Systems:

Airbag system operation, seatbelt usage, child restraint system installation, ABS operation (warning lights).

Comfort And Convenience:

Climate control operation, audio system, power seats, mirrors, door locks, interior features.

Operation Procedures:

Starting and stopping the engine, driving techniques, parking, fuel filling procedures.

Maintenance Procedures:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning and care, scheduled maintenance overview.

Emergency Procedures:

What to do in case of a breakdown, flat tire, overheating, jump starting procedures, warning light explanations, emergency contact information.

Depth Of Information:

Owner-level, focusing on safe operation, feature utilization, and basic maintenance checks. Does not cover in-depth diagnostics or repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Printed Document

Print Quality:

Standard OEM printing quality, clear text and legible diagrams.

Binding Type:

Typically saddle-stitched or perfect bound (stapled or glued).

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock suitable for frequent handling in a vehicle.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Engine Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2429 cc)

Engine Code:

GEMA (for naturally aspirated), EDG (for turbocharged PT Cruiser GT)

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

Approximately 150 hp @ 5800 rpm (for the 2.4L DOHC non-turbo)

Torque Naturally Aspirated:

Approximately 160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for the 2.4L DOHC non-turbo)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 (as specified by Chrysler for this engine family)

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (e.g., 41TE/42LE family)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., NV3500 or similar)

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled, with overdrive.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent specification meeting Chrysler MS-9602)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Typically SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil, meeting Chrysler MS-9224 (refer to manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 168.9 inches (4290 mm)

Width:

Approximately 66.1 inches (1679 mm)

Height:

Approximately 62.1 inches (1577 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 102.9 inches (2614 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,100 - 3,300 lbs (1406 - 1497 kg), depending on configuration.

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

Approximately 21.2 cubic feet (0.60 cubic meters)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

Approximately 37.5 cubic feet (1.06 cubic meters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

4 Stars (for 2001-2007 models, likely similar for 2008)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

4 Stars (for 2001-2007 models, likely similar for 2008)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:

Acceptable (for models tested, 2001-2007, general trend)

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Traction Control:

Available on some trims, may be part of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) depending on market and option package.

Airbags Front:

Driver and front-passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Available front-seat mounted side airbags on some trims.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters

Latch System:

Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system for rear seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional SiriusXM satellite radio, and premium Boston Acoustics audio system on higher trims.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed navigation system on select trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard

Tire Pressure Monitoring:

Available on some trims

Auxiliary Input:

Optional auxiliary audio input jack for portable music devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe driving may require more frequent changes.

Tire Rotation:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect/Replace annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

Coolant Flush:

Initial service at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 3 years thereafter.

Engine Coolant:

Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) type, or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769 (typically a pink or orange color).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Power Steering Fluid:

Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-5901.

Common Wear Items:

Suspension components (struts, bushings), wheel bearings, exhaust system components, and brake pads/rotors due to age and mileage.

Engine Specific:

The 2.4L engine can be susceptible to intake manifold gasket leaks, and in some earlier models, head gasket issues. Oil leaks from the valve cover or oil pan are also not uncommon with age.

Transmission Specific:

Automatic transmissions may exhibit delayed shifting or harsh engagement as they age. Transmission fluid and filter changes are crucial for longevity.

Electrical Issues:

Minor electrical gremlins can occur, such as malfunctioning power window regulators, issues with the interior lighting, or problems with the radio/infotainment system.

📚 Vehicle History

Parent Company:

Chrysler is part of the Chrysler Group LLC, which has had various ownerships including DaimlerChrysler and later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).

Introduction Year:

2001

Platform:

Chrysler's PT Cruiser platform, which was derived from the Dodge Neon platform.

Facelifts Updates:

Received a mid-cycle refresh for the 2006 model year, including updated exterior styling (grille, headlights, taillights), interior enhancements (dashboard, seats), and powertrain improvements.

Production Start Year:

2000

Production End Year:

2010

Manufacturing Location:

Toluca, Mexico

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Award:

While not a specific award for the 2008 model year, the PT Cruiser's distinctive design was a significant factor in its initial popularity and sales success.

Car And Driver 10Best:

The PT Cruiser was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list in 2001.