Shop for Chrysler PT Cruiser Parts

The Chrysler PT Cruiser is a compact passenger car officially classified as a passenger car for the purposes of the EPA's CAFE fuel economy calculation. The PT Cruiser is known for its 1930s look, designed by Brian Nesbitt. The interior package includes a high roof, multi-tiered storage, and removable rear seats. A turbocharged GT model was introduced in 2003. The convertible was introduced for the 2005 model year. It is manufactured at the Toluca assembly plant in Mexico. In March 2006, Daimler Chrysler announced that 1,000,000 PT Cruisers had been produced at the Toluca plant. The last PT Cruiser rolled off the production line on July 9, 2010. 1,050,281 PT Cruisers have been sold in the United States.

The PT Cruiser is part of a wave of nostalgia that also includes the Volkswagen New Beetle and Mini Cooper. However, the Chrysler PT Cruiser is a new model based on the styling of the 1930s and 1940s, not a modern version of the original model of the same name. The 2000 PT Cruiser, based on a 1930s car, was the brainchild of Robert A. Lutz, then president of Chrysler, Dr. Clotaire Raphael, and Brian Nesbitt. Nesbitt went on to design the Chevrolet HHR. Chrysler's Pronto Cruizer concept inspired the Chrysler PT Cruiser. It was based on the Chrysler Airflow and Desoto, and its body was similar to that of the Chrysler CCV. It is a small retro-styled car based on the Citroën 2CV. The Chrysler PT Cruiser was inspired by these two cars. It had a high roof, much like the Chevrolet Advance trucks.

The interior has been updated with an upgraded instrument cluster and an analog clock in the center console. The audio system has an integrated dashboard jack that can connect to an MP3 player. Features include satellite radio, a Boston Acoustics premium sound system with an external amplifier and subwoofer, and the UConnect Bluetooth hands-free system for compatible cell phones, available since 2006. AM/FM radio with CD player, 3.5 mm audio input, and six speakers are now standard. The low front seat rating is due in part to the knee airbags, which are designed to protect non-passengers. This factor is irrelevant in the EU, where seat belts are mandatory for passengers.

The cylinder heads also differ between a turbocharged and a supercharged engine. Both the GT and Dodge Neon SRT-4 use a turbocharged version with larger valve diameters and seats, improved cooling and enlarged oil recirculation ducts, and different camshafts. The PT Cruiser Turbo powertrain differs from the SRT-4 due to differences in the intake manifold, turbocharger, and intercooler. Modifications such as MOPAR Stage and turbocharger parts are available from the manufacturer. Many of the SRT-4's features are compatible with the GT. It is based on the 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring model and features Pacific Blue Pearl exterior color, bright front wheels, and a silver shift knob. The 2008 LX is named after the street that has inspired countless movies, songs, and television shows. The Street Cruiser Sunset Boulevard Edition is based on the 2008 PT Cruiser LX and is available in a limited edition of only 500 units.