The 2006 PT Cruiser only lasts around 150,000 miles with engine and electrical issues. At $3,356 to $5,830 it’s cheap, but still not worth it since you’ll spend thousands on repairs.
Is the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser a Good Used Car?
- No, 2006 is a bad year for the PT Cruiser. Owner reviews complain about high ownership costs, mechanical issues, and a bad driving experience.
- Reliability ratings are terrible. Models from 2008–2010 are a bit better, but all have some engine problems.
- Performance is average from the base 4-cylinder, but the turbo model is quick.
- The PT Cruiser is reasonably safe, earning 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is below average, at up to 22 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the PT Cruiser?
- Consumer Reports says the 2006 PT Cruiser drives poorly and has very low owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the PT Cruiser a 4/5 liking the exterior styling, but disliking the sluggish engines.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the PT Cruiser 4/5 and enjoy the steering feel, but don’t like the maintenance costs.
What Common Problems Does the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Have?
Common issues found on the 2006 PT Cruiser include stalling engines, flickering lights, and air conditioning system problems.
Stalling engines are the most common complaint happening at around 70,000 miles. There are several sources for the problem, but is usually an issue with the engine computer and costs around $900 to replace.
Flickering lights are another frequent issue showing up at around 95,000 miles. A worn out alternator is usually the cause of the problem, and costs about $450 to replace.
Air conditioning system issues happen a lot at around 50,000 miles. The main compressor fails earlier than in a lot of other cars, and costs around $1,000 to replace.
There’s only 1 recall covering the rear quarter glass fasteners, and it’s not that serious compared to the other mechanical issues with the car.
How Long Will the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Last?
A well-maintained 2006 PT Cruiser should last around 150,000 miles, half as long as other hatchbacks like the Scion xB. Maintenance costs are expensive at $450 per year, according to Repair Pal.
Since most PT Cruisers have over 100,000 miles owners should be prepared to replace items including the exhaust manifold gasket for $350, fuel pump costing $200, and the radiator hose which costs $250.
Not a single issue with my 2006 pt cruiser. I have driven it for 13 years and have never had to take it to a mechanic for any non-accident related problems. The single thing I have had is that the key fob button no longer opens the trunk.
It is reliable. Like all cars it has it is issues as it ages. My button for my trunk does not work anymore. But I can still open it with my key.
I have not had any problems I love it. I did the 90 thousand mile service and I have changed the battery.
Have regular maintenance. Oil changed every 4,000 miles. Rotate tires every 4,000 miles as well as balancing.
I have actually owned three Chrysler pt cruisers with the pt cruiser convertible being the third Chrysler vehicle I have owned and my first convertible. Thus far I have had no complaints.
Our pt cruiser is Not reliable, engine and brake issues. It is in the mechanics shop right now. We would not buy another Chrysler and both of out have been bad
No it is not reliable. The transmission is not changing as it should at this time and I have had problems with the fan and the cam sensor.
How Much Is the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Worth?
Blue book values range from $3,356 to $5,830, making the PT Cruiser thousands cheaper than other hatchbacks like the Toyota Matrix, or Honda Element. When new, the price was $14,485 to $29,060. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 15% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the PT Cruiser?
There are four models of the PT Cruiser available. The technology was just updated in 2006 with a new stereo, and the car was discontinued after 2010. Interior materials are a bit nicer than other compact cars, with comfortable front seats.
Base is the entry-level model with:
- 15-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Power Windows & Locks
- 6-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo System
Touring is a step up and adds:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Fog Lights
- Keyless Entry
- Smoother Suspension
Limited is a more luxurious version adding:
- 16-Inch Chrome Wheels
- 6-Way Power Adjustable Seats
- Leather Seating
- Moonroof
- Cruise Control
GT is the sporty model and features additional items including:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Improved Exhaust
- Firm Sportier Suspension
- Premium Leather Seating
What Engines Come In the PT Cruiser?
- The base engine is an average 2.4L-4-cylinder with 150 horsepower, which gets up to 22 MPG combined.
- An available upgrade is the better turbo 2.4L 4-cylinder which makes 180 horsepower while getting up to 21 MPG combined.
- The flagship engine is the most powerful 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo with 230 horsepower and gets up to 19 MPG combined. Performance is decent, taking 6.8 seconds to go 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the PT Cruiser Come In?
How Big Is the PT Cruiser?
The 2006 PT Cruiser is a hatchback, similar in size to the Toyota Matrix and Scion xA. Passenger room is okay throughout the cabin, but legroom is limited in the backseats for taller adults.
Cargo space is similar to a sedan with 13.3 cubic feet of room behind the seats, but up to 62.7 with the seats folded flat. That’s enough room for 2-3 suitcases with the seats up.
How Does the PT Cruiser Compare to the Competition?
The Chevrolet HHR is a popular competitor, which costs around $500 more. Cargo space is a bit better in the HHR, but the PT Cruiser has a more luxurious interior. We recommend the HHR for 2006 since they have fewer mechanical problems, and are more affordable to own.
The Honda Element is another unique hatchback costing around $3,000 more. Versatility is better in the Element with more cargo space, but the PT Cruiser has a higher quality interior. We recommend the Element since they last longer and hold their value much better.
Do Owners Recommend the Chrysler PT Cruiser?
Yes. Mine has been amazingly reliable with minimal maintenance. I have not had any mechanical issues in 13 years.
Yes, it is. It is reliable. It has a lot of trunk space and leg room. It is a perfect car if you have kids or need a lot of room in the back.
Yes very dependable and fun to drive. Anytime it is over 75 degrees I put the top down. Gets about 25 miles to the gallon.
Yes excellent pleasure to drive. Only drawback is room in trunk. Found stars to be comfortable while on long trips.
Absolutely! It is a great car to run errands in and drive to work. It gets very good gas mileage, very easy to operate and just an overall fun car to drive.
The car looks nice, but has had multiple issues, have replaced brakes and tires, now the engine light is on
No I have had trouble with it since the day I bought it. First it was running hot and the fan had to be replaced. Th AC has never cooked like it should. Then the timing belt broke and then the cam sensor needed changing now the transmission is not changing correctly.