The 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser has a high safety risk profile with 2 recall campaigns and 525 NHTSA complaints. Before buying, verify that all recalls have been completed. It's free at any dealer.

Recalls

525

Complaints

Crashes

Fires

Recall Findings

02V2150002002-08-08

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL PUMP MODULE MOUNTING FLANGE COULD LEAK FUEL IF THE VEHICLE IS INVOLVED IN A ROLLOVER CRASH.

FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

View at NHTSA

04V2680002004-03-06

STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS

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.

POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.

View at NHTSA

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Top Complaint Areas

Across 1 model years, 525 owners have filed complaints about the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser. STRUCTURE issues top the list, so ask the seller about this area specifically during your inspection.

01Structure55

02Electrical System54

03Air Bags36

04Steering34

05Exterior Lighting31

525 total across 1 model years (2002–2002)Full data at NHTSA.gov

Chrysler PT Cruiser Fuel Economy

20–22mpg combined

17-19city

23-27hwy

$2,000-$2,200/yr

Across 2 configurations, the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser returns 20–22 MPG combined. Choose the thriftier option if you're commuting; the sportier setup if you're not counting gallons.

By Trim

PT Cruiser - Manual 5-spd

22mpg

2.4L 4-cyl · Front-Wheel Drive

19 city27 hwy~$2,000/yr-1/10 Poor

PT Cruiser - Automatic 4-spd

20mpg

2.4L 4-cyl · Front-Wheel Drive

17 city23 hwy~$2,200/yr-1/10 Poor

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Where to Find 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser

27States

24%in top 3

9% of the market sits in Michigan, though listings span 27 states. Expand your search and you'll find more options at better prices.

MIMichigan

99%

NVNevada

88%

MOMissouri

77%

WAWashington

77%

TXTexas

66%

FLFlorida

66%

CACalifornia

66%

DEDelaware

55%

MNMinnesota

44%

AZArizona

44%

OHOhio

44%

PAPennsylvania

44%

ILIllinois

33%

VAVirginia

33%

WIWisconsin

33%

GAGeorgia

33%

OROregon

33%

DCWashington DC

33%

UTUtah

22%

COColorado

22%

ID1

IN1

AL1

NC1

NE1

VT1

NY1

Geographic distribution reflects all active listings for this model, not just 2002.

2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser: Questions Buyers Ask

Pricing, reliability, and ownership answers

Is the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser a good car to buy?

The 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser has its strengths and its watch-outs. 2 recalls have been issued, so verify completion with the dealer. Owners report structure as the area to watch most closely. Check the safety section for recall details and the pricing data to see if the numbers work for you.

Are there recalls on the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser?

Yes, 2 recalls on record. The good news: recall repairs are always free at any authorized dealer. Check the safety report for specifics, and always run the VIN before buying.

What's the gas mileage of the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser?

Depending on configuration, the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser delivers 20–22 MPG combined. Choose wisely. The full comparison shows how engine choice affects your wallet.

What are common problems with the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser?

Out of 525 owner complaints, structure issues lead the pack. Get a pre-purchase inspection that specifically covers this area. The known issues breakdown has all the details.

How does the 2002 compare to other Chrysler PT Cruiser years?

Each Chrysler PT Cruiser model year has different pricing, recall counts, and owner satisfaction patterns. Compare all available years on the Chrysler PT Cruiser overview page.