2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser Electrical system Problems
- Complaints
- 97about this part
- Share
- 19%of 511 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 63,565miles
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
NHTSA recorded 97 complaints about the electrical system of the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 19% of the 511 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 63,565 miles. 1 of these say a crash was involved and 7 a fire, according to the filers. 1 recall campaign on record is filed under a similar system.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Ok maybe 4th time is a charm on trying to get Pt Cruiser off road. I had a fire in this vehicle due to overheating which was reported but dumb me put it out and replaced grill and radiator and had to take seperate loan out for $2500 in repairs and now vehicle won't start and now being told is computer well that explains why when we were trying to get out of car when was on fire the door locks didn't won't to work first time. …”
NHTSA complaint #10780214, filed 2015-10, 100,000 miles“Fog lights won't turn off, stayed on long enough to run down battery. Not good for single elderly woman volunteer stuck in a parking lot across town. Understand the problem has been reported in many, many vehicles for at least 10 years. Did I miss a recall? I'm the original owner. Where in the world will I find a multifunction switch and someone to install it? Will the company cover the cost? Are they on a fixed income?”
NHTSA complaint #10594932, filed 2014-05, 98,000 miles“Takata recall. I was driving down the highway and my headlights went out I pulled over and I didnt have door locks to unlock the doors. All the fuses are good. I was researching online and alot of pt cruisers are having the issue it seems that the connector for the fuse block goes bad I have been dealing with this for a few months now. I think its redundant that ypu have to pay 150-250 dollars every time this happens. When no one really has that kinda money”
NHTSA complaint #10919959, filed 2016-10, 135,000 miles“My check engine light goes off and on. Crankshaft and camshaft sensors were reading as the issue according to the odometer code system.. My car shuts off at anytime even while driving in the middle of the road. My battery terminal seems to be weak possibly having shortage moments from time to time. My vehichle will pull one way or the other. My breaks feel like there going to give out or are brand knew . My vehichle makes a noise as if the front cv axels or ball joints need to be greased. My wiring and engine is my main concern. …”
NHTSA complaint #11242425, filed 2019-08, 147,000 miles“I own a 2002 Chrysler Pt Cruiser. This is the sixth time that the instrument panel has ceased to display any information. That is, I can not see the speed, tach, fuel gauge, or any safety warnings. Each time I take it to the repair shop, they can not find any thing wrong. When they reconnect it, I begins to work.”
NHTSA complaint #10341402, filed 2010-07, 60,000 milesRelated recalls
- 01V288000Sep 10, 2001Vehicle description: certain sport utility vehicles are being recalled for a software error in the instrument cluster microprocessor. Under certain…Covers: Chrysler PT Cruiser 2002, Jeep Grand Cherokee 2002
Related service bulletins
- 10229256Jul 22, 2020KEY, 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…
- 10221686Jul 22, 2020KEY, 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…
- 10175735Apr 22, 2020Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and…
- 10130081Aug 23, 2016Return: Wiring Assy - Engine You have been identified as either having stock, or have stock in transit to your dealership. Please return stock packaged before 2016/07/31 (31…
- 10129044Aug 17, 20161NT30XDVAC - Inspect and Return: Panel - Instrument Panel You have been identified as either having stock, or have stock in transit to your dealership. Please return suspect…
- 10129043Aug 17, 2016Inspect and Return: Solenoid Module - Transmission You have been identified as either having stock, or have stock in transit to your dealership. Please return suspect stock of…
- 10129041Aug 12, 2016P/N CBSZR068AA: Inspect & Return: Module Kit - Occupant Restraint You have been identified as either having stock, or have stock in transit to your dealership. Please return part…
Electrical system: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 3 | 14% |
| 2009 | 60 | 62% |
| 2008 | 45 | 39% |
| 2007 | 23 | 15% |
| 2006 | 138 | 40% |
| 2005 | 27 | 14% |
| 2004 | 44 | 20% |
| 2003 | 45 | 17% |
| 2002 | 97 | 19% |
| 2001 | 78 | 13% |
Other parts of the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
67 complaintsExterior lighting
55 complaintsSteering
45 complaintsAir bags
44 complaintsSuspension
40 complaintsEngine cooling
38 complaintsBrakes
37 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
35 complaintsOther or unknown
28 complaintsEngine
22 complaintsWheels
21 complaintsFuel system
20 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology