The vehicle dossier US · 2004

2004 Chrysler
PT CRUISERProblems & recalls

217 distinct owner reports in the NHTSA snapshot. Other components appears in 67 of them. Explore what was reported—and which official actions are on file.

Snapshot Sep 28, 2026Live NHTSA complaint API How this dossier is compiled

01 / Owner-reported evidence

What owners reported.

Categories attached to 217 distinct reports. A report can mention more than one component, so category totals can overlap.

Other components67 reports
Electrical system44 reports
Engine37 reports
Suspension36 reports
Steering24 reports
Transmission & drivetrain21 reports
Brakes13 reports
Air bags12 reports
Visibility10 reports
Fuel system7 reports
Body & structure6 reports
See original component labels
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM38
STEERING18
SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING17
EXTERIOR LIGHTING17
ENGINE14
AIR BAGS11
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING10
SUSPENSION10
UNKNOWN OR OTHER8
SUSPENSION:FRONT8
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE7
TIRES7
WHEELS7
POWER TRAIN6
STRUCTURE5
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC5
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION5
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL5
VISIBILITY4
WHEELS:RIM4
SUSPENSION:FRONT:HUB4
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP3
SEATS3
POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY3
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE3
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH3
SEAT BELTS3
SERVICE BRAKES3
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS2
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR2
STEERING:COLUMN2
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE2
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM2
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS2
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS2
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE1
INTERIOR LIGHTING1
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY1
CHILD SEAT:BASE1
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:POWER STEERING FLUID1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION1
STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR1
SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY:SOLENOID1
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD1
POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY1
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:FLOOR SHIFT ASSEMBLY1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD1
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER1
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY1
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH1
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE1
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL1
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY1
STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS1
SEAT BELTS: REAR/OTHER:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTS1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM1
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:LUBRICANT1
SEAT BELTS:FRONT1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTS:SWITCH1
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS1
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL1
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH1
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER1
SUSPENSION:REAR1
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)1
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:FLOOR SHIFT1
EQUIPMENT1
VISIBILITY/WIPER1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL:SWITCH1
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:SEAT HEATER/COOLER1
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)1
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM1

These are reports made to NHTSA, not verified diagnoses. More reports can reflect more vehicles, more time on the road, or greater reporting activity.

The reporting timeline

When reports arrived.

Reports by year filed, not by the year a problem occurred. Showing the latest 15 years with reports.

Year filed (last two digits)Latest report: May 17, 2026
Mileage, where supplied

52,718 miles is the median among 164 reports with usable mileage. The middle half spans 27,000–85,000 miles.

This describes the submitted reports. It does not predict when a vehicle will fail.

02 / Official safety campaigns

3 recall campaigns on file.

A campaign can cover only certain production dates or configurations. The count does not tell you whether an individual car has an open recall.

Apr 7, 2009 Safety recallEXTERIOR LIGHTINGCampaign 09E012000

Reported concern

SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Manufacturer’s stated response

SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Read campaign 09E012000 at NHTSA
Apr 14, 2008 Safety recallSUSPENSIONCampaign 08E033000

Reported concern

FEDERAL MOGUL IS RECALLING 6,903 AFTERMARKET BALL JOINT ASSEMBLIES SHIPPED BETWEEN NOVEMBER 9, 2007 AND MARCH 26, 2008, WHICH MAY HAVE BEEN PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS. THE PART NUMBERS PACKAGED WITH INCORRECT NUTS ARE: K7147, K7329, K8683, AND 104353. THESE PARTS WERE MADE FOR USE ON THE VARIOUS VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE.

Manufacturer’s stated response

FEDERAL MOGUL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE PARTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 22, 2008. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL MOGUL AT 877-489-6659.

Read campaign 08E033000 at NHTSA
Jun 3, 2004 Safety recallSTEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONSCampaign 04V268000

Reported concern

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.4L NON-TURBOCHARGED ENGINES AND AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLES, THE POWER STEERING PRESSURE HOSE MAY CONTACT THE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE DIFFERENTIAL COVER, POTENTIALLY DAMAGING THE HOSE.

Manufacturer’s stated response

DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND RELOCATE, OR REPLACE AS NECESSARY, THE POWER STEERING HOSE AND CONFIRM TORQUE OF THE HOSE FASTENER AT THE STEERING GEAR END. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.

Manufacturer campaign: D18

Read campaign 04V268000 at NHTSA
Check this car’s VIN at NHTSA

03 / The manufacturer’s record

Instructions. Updates. Responses.

66 distinct communications list this model-year. Showing the latest 12. A matching model-year does not establish that every engine, trim or reported symptom is covered.

Jul 9, 2022 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsS2208000136Security Module Lock Out After Entering the PIN to Unlock The Wireless Control Module (WCM)NHTSA ID 10230298

Security Module Lock Out After Entering the PIN to Unlock The Wireless Control Module (WCM)

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10230298 at NHTSA
Jul 9, 2022 Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsS2208000136Security Module Lock Out After Entering the PIN to Unlock The Wireless Control Module (WCM)NHTSA ID 10223762

Security Module Lock Out After Entering the PIN to Unlock The Wireless Control Module (WCM)

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10223762 at NHTSA
Jul 22, 2020 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions9004275KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program …NHTSA ID 10229256

KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program to the vehicle, use the "AC" NIC level part and submit a part warranty.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10229256 at NHTSA
Jul 22, 2020 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions9004275KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program …NHTSA ID 10221686

KEY, Master If replacing the key/FOBIK on a WJ, KJ, TJ, or PT Cruiser, use the "AC" NIC level part number. The "AB" NIC level will not program to these platforms. For all other platforms, if the "AB" NIC level will not program to the vehicle, use the "AC" NIC level part and submit a part warranty.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:IMMOBILIZER/PROXIMITY:KEY/SENDER. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10221686 at NHTSA
Apr 30, 2020 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions23-015-20Disinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19NHTSA ID 10175743

Disinfectant Solution Recommended for COVID-19

Components: EQUIPMENT · STRUCTURE. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10175743 at NHTSA
Apr 22, 2020 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions08-049-20Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replaceme…NHTSA ID 10175735

Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.

Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · EQUIPMENT. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10175735 at NHTSA
Nov 20, 2019 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions3100519Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.NHTSA ID 10220101

Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.

Components: STRUCTURE. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10220101 at NHTSA
Nov 20, 2019 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions3100319Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.NHTSA ID 10220099

Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.

Components: STRUCTURE. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10220099 at NHTSA
Nov 20, 2019 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions3100619Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.NHTSA ID 10220097

Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.

Components: EQUIPMENT · STRUCTURE. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10220097 at NHTSA
Nov 20, 2019 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions31-005-19Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.NHTSA ID 10169249

Use of Aftermarket Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of aftermarket parts.

Components: EQUIPMENT · STRUCTURE. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10169249 at NHTSA
Nov 20, 2019 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions31-003-19Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.NHTSA ID 10169247

Use of Salvage/Recycled Parts This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to collision repair industry awareness regarding the use of recycled or salvage parts.

Components: EQUIPMENT. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10169247 at NHTSA
Nov 20, 2019 Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions31-006-19Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.NHTSA ID 10169245

Repair Parts Used For Structural Repairs This bulletin involves discussing FCA US LLC position with regard to structural repair parts usage.

Components: STRUCTURE. Confirm detailed applicability in the original document.

Source record 10169245 at NHTSA
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Records below contain the NHTSA bulk summary unless a document-reviewed explainer is linked. A service bulletin is not a safety recall or a promise of a free repair. Records may be revised or superseded; verify the current document with the manufacturer.

04 / Agency investigations

Official inquiries.

An investigation is an inquiry into a potential concern. Its presence does not establish a defect, and a closed case does not certify a car’s condition.

Opened Mar 15, 2004 ClosedENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRESPE04028

PE04-028 WAS OPENED TO INVESTIGATE SEVEN COMPLAINTS ALLEGING THAT THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUGHT FIRE ON MY 2002 PT CRUISER VEHICLES.ON JUNE 3, 2004, DAIMLERCHRYSLER (DCC) NOTIFIED NHTSA OF A SAFETY DEFECT IN MY 2001-2005 PT CRUISER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH NATURALLY ASPIRATED 2.4L ENGINES AND AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLES (RECALL 04V-268).THE NOTIFICATION IDENTIFIED VARIATION OF THE HIGH PRESSURE POWER STEERING HOSE ROUTING, WHICH ALLOWED THE HOSE TO CONTACT THE TRANSAXLE DIFFERENTIAL COVER, AS THE FACTOR CONTRIBUTING TO THIS DEFECT.CONTACT BETWEEN THE POWER STEERING HOSE AND THE TRANSAXLE DIFFERENTIAL COVER CAN CAUSE HOSE DAMAGE AND POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKAGE, WHICH CAN POTENTIALLY RESULT IN A FIRE. (NOTE: THE FAILURE DATA IN THIS RESUME IS LIMITED TO MY 2001-2003 VEHICLES PER DCC'S PE04-028 INFORMATION RESPONSES.)THIS CONDITION WAS LIMITED TO VEHICLES WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLES AS VEHICLES WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS HAVE SUBSTANTIAL CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE TRANSAXLE DIFFERENTIAL COVER AND THE POWER STEERING HOSE DUE TO A SMALLER TRANSAXLE DESIGN.THIS CONDITION ALSO DOES NOT ADVERSELY AFFECT VEHICLES WITH TURBO ENGINES, WHICH HAVE A DIFFERENT POWER STEERING HOSE ROUTING THAT PROVIDES SUBSTANTIAL CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE TRANSAXLE DIFFERENTIAL COVER AND HOSE.DAIMLERCHRYSLER WILL INSTRUCT OWNERS TO BRING THEIR VEHICLES TO A DEALER TO HAVE THE POWER STEERING HOSE ASSEMBLY INSPECTED AND RELOCATED, OR REPLACED, AS NECESSARY, AND TO CONFIRM THE TORQUE OF THE HOSE FASTENER AT THE STEERING GEAR END.

Recorded closure: Jun 18, 2004

Campaign reference in the source: 04V268000

Find investigation PE04028

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