Chrysler PT Cruiser (2000 - 2008) 2.4 Touring 5d (04) (2005/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That you have chosen something different but there are too many sacrifices. This is my second and last one. I am going back to being mainstream.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Like the look but 2.4 litre engine puts most off it. Service intervals of 7500 miles for the petrol have people falling off there chairs in fits of laughter.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No, its not really suitable for the UK market. Its sturdy but built from sub standard materials. Ancilliaries made to suit the shape with poor consequences. Dealer was embarrassed at replacing front suspension bushes every service. A shame, if it was built by Toyota what a car it could be. I previoulsy had a diesel which was unreliable due to the parts being unable to cope with the grunt.

What are you likely to buy next?

I have just bought a Cmax diesel

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£9,495

When did you buy the car?

June 2004

Did you get a good deal and why?

On paper a good deal, a well spec'd 'prestige' car for the money, lots of kit. In theory at least a good deal but the quality of plastics is a tragedy. I am sure they use the back of old calculators to repair damaged plastics. Its american so they must think its ok;says it all really.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

The wife

What was the dealer like?

The dealer is and was trying its best selling a sub standard product. My first Pt had a side airbag fault which the dealer took 11 yes 11 months to fix. They kepy ordering the wrong part. It is a niche market product but they never really got to grips with the fact that the car wasn't up to it. They were game but flawed.

What's it like to drive?

Heavy, 2.4 engine does its best but lags behind comparable opposition. Weight dents economy - around town driven very sedatly maybe 27, on a run 34ish. Driven with any enthusiasm 20;its just too heavy. Good on the motorway, but they have tried to sell it as a mini MPV, its just too lardy for that. A good workout though

What's it like to park?

Rubbish turning circle, heavy clutch. Overhangs not too bad.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Had a diesel previously which was unreliable. Got rid and tried the petrol. This one has been faultless apart from a particular quirk which sees it have a very brutal throttle which means the car kangaroos at various speeds on part throttle. A mechanic, after weeks of complaining, explained that they all do it! No wonder people don't by them after a test drive!

What's most practical about your car?

Decent boot with excellent back seat space.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

None