Recalls: Chrysler PT Cruiser
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Chrysler PT Cruiser
- In February 2003, a recall for Chrysler PT Cruiser vehicles was issued due to the fuel pump module mounting flange potentially leaking if the vehicle was involved in a rollover collision (PRA 2003/6005).
- In February 2005, a recall for Chrysler PT Cruiser vehicles was issued due to the fuel line jumper tube in the engine compartment potentially chafing against the throttle cable. Over time, this could result in a fuel leak (PRA 2005/7559).
- In September 2006, a recall was issued for 2006 PT Cruiser models built before 10 January 2006 (MDH 011015) with side repeater lamps. In these vehicles, a software problem in the Totally Integrated Power Module could affect the correct functioning of the directional ‘telltale’ lights in the instrument cluster in the event of a failure to an external turn indicator globe. As such, the driver would not receive proper feedback when a turn indicator globe failed (PRA 2006/8740).
- In June 2007, a recall was issued for Chrysler PT Cruiser vehicles manufactured from 17 May 2005 to 1 September 2005 due to potentially inadequate fixing of one or both of the rear quarter windows such that it may dislodge while driving (PRA 2007/9334).
Problems and faults: Chrysler PT Cruiser
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Chrysler PT Cruiser: engine doesn’t start/crank
In July 2008, Technical Service Bulletin 08-007-09 REV A was issued for 2006-08 Chrysler PT Cruiser vehicles that were manufactured on or before 5 May 2008 because the engine may not crank or start due to electronic lock-up of the Wireless Control Module (WCM) – also known as the Sentry Key Remote Entry Module (SKREEM) – and the remote keyless entry (RKE) system does not operate. This may occur because of an electrostatic charge within the Wireless Control Module (WCM). To fix, the WCM needed to be replaced.
Chrysler PT Cruiser: difficulty re-fuelling
In September 2009, Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 14-001-09 REV A was issued for 2004-09 Chrysler PT Cruiser vehicles with petrol engines. For these vehicles, the owner may experience difficulties when re-fuelling or the fuel pump nozzle may shut off repeatedly during re-fuelling. For these vehicles, the TSB described a diagnosis procedure which may identify the source of the problem as:
- The fuel filler tube;
- The vapour recirculation tube;
- The fuel tank itself;
- A blockage in the EVAP canister, ESIM, clean air hose or filter; or,
- The control valve to the EVAP canister tube.
Chrysler PT Cruiser: Problems and faults
- Difficulty starting may require replacement of the fuel pump module with one that has a screen in order to prevent contamination of the integral pressure regulator.
- For early Chrysler PT Cruiser models, the fuel gauge may not display a full reading – a revised fuel pump module was available to correct this.
- The rear seats may not unlatch due to a problem with the cable and its attachments.
- Whistling noises when the steering wheel is turned may require replacement of the power steering hoses.
- If the sunroof deflector vibrates (usually above 60km/h), a deflector mounting kit which relocated the mounting attachments was available.
- For PT Cruiser models with manual transmissions, a rattling noise when in neutral and with the engine running may require the clutch module to be replaced.
- A surge when cruising between 70 and 90 km/h during warm weather could be corrected by reprogramming the powertrain control module.
