Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component testing, diagnosis, timing, seals, gaskets, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery (gasoline), emissions control (gasoline).
Engine Mechanical Diesel:
Specific procedures for diesel engines including injection system, glow plugs, turbocharger, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) for diesel variants.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmissions (e.g., Getrag NV1500), clutch system, gear selection, maintenance, repair, overhaul.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic Transmissions (e.g., Chrysler 41TE/42LE), fluid service, torque converter, valve body, electronic control, overhaul.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, parking brake, bleeding procedures, diagnostics.
Steering:
Power steering system, rack and pinion, steering column, tie rods, alignment specifications.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, ball joints, wheel bearings, alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), power windows, locks, mirrors.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, climate control modules.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, headliner, sound insulation, exterior lighting, bumpers.
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, SRS system, diagnostic procedures for safety restraints.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, tire rotation, brake inspection.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, illustrated instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for every major system.
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul instructions, including disassembly, inspection, and reassembly.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Tracing electrical faults using wiring diagrams, testing components, and diagnosing electronic modules.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, pressures, and other critical data for repairs.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics).
Diagnostic Focus:
Emphasis on systematic diagnostics using both visual inspection and electronic diagnostic tools.
Illustrations:
Likely includes detailed diagrams, schematics, and photographic illustrations.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
Good (2005 Model Year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
Good (2005 Model Year)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (2005 Model Year)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Available on some trims/models.
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard.
Airbags Side:
Optional or standard on higher trims (front seat-mounted side airbags).
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Oil Change Interval Typical:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Platinum: 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
Platinum: 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (97,000 km) or as recommended by manual (using correct ATF+4).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable for most PT Cruiser gasoline engines, which use a timing chain.
Engine Oil Type 2.0L:
SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Type 2.4L:
SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Type Diesel:
Refer to diesel supplement for specific diesel engine oil specifications (e.g., API CJ-4 or equivalent).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Chrysler ATF+4 (MS-9602)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, Pink color (MS-9769).
Power Steering Fluid:
Chrysler Power Steering Fluid (MS-5901) or equivalent.
Common Issue Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine and transmission mounts, leading to vibration and noise.
Common Issue Automatic Transmission:
Solenoid failures, torque converter shudder, and clutch pack wear in the 41TE/42LE transmission.
Common Issue Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts, often causing clunking noises and poor handling.
Common Issue Oil Leaks:
Leaking valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets are relatively common.
Common Issue Electrical:
Faulty power window regulators, door lock actuators, and HVAC blower motor resistors.
Common Issue Turbocharger Turbo:
Oil leaks or failure of the turbocharger on 2.4L turbo models, especially if not maintained properly.
Common Issue Diesel Egr:
Clogged EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valves are a common issue on diesel variants, affecting performance and emissions.