2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser engine problems
Owners reported engine problems in 35 complaints for the 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 12% of the complaints on file. It is the 3rd most reported problem area for this model year.
At a glance
- Complaints
- 35 12% of this year's complaints
- Typical mileage
- 67,000 miles 25 complaints with mileage
- Crashes and fires
- 0 and 3
- Injuries and deaths
- 0 and 0
Source: NHTSA owner complaints
When engine problems show up
View the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 0k to 20k miles | 6 |
| 20k to 40k miles | 4 |
| 40k to 60k miles | 1 |
| 60k to 80k miles | 4 |
| 80k to 100k miles | 2 |
| 100k to 120k miles | 2 |
| 120k to 140k miles | 3 |
| 140k to 160k miles | 2 |
| 160k to 180k miles | 1 |
| 180k to 200k miles | 0 |
| 200k+ miles | 0 |
What the data shows
Of the 25 engine complaints that report mileage, the median is about 67,000 miles, and 44% were reported before 60,000 miles.
These complaints mention 3 fires.
What owners wrote
Tl*the contact owns a 2004 chrysler pt cruiser convertible. Immediately after placing fuel in the vehicle, it began smoking. While driving 45 MPH, the rpm's increased to approximately 6,000. When the contact eased up on the accelerator pedal, the vehicle stopped smoking and the rpm's returned to normal. The vehicle was driven to the dealer and they performed a diagnostic. The mechanic stated that the turbo was defective and needed to be replaced. The vehicle has not been repaired.
2004 pt cruiser began to idle rough, sometimes shaking the whole vehicle. It seemed like it wanted to stall, but never did. It was always worse after a car wash or during damp, or humid weather. I used carbon cleaners in the gas, took it on the turnpike, as suggested by the dealer, but it continued. After several months, the engine light came on so I took it in. They said carbon had built up in the engine and it was not covered by the warranty because it was caused by the gasoline.
Other problems reported for the 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
- Electrical system 44 complaints
- Suspension 42 complaints
- Steering 25 complaints
- Lighting 24 complaints