2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Steering Problems
- Complaints
- 18about this part
- Share
- 5%of 349 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 71,000miles
- Trend
- FallingComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are at least 25% lower than in the 3 years before.
NHTSA recorded 18 complaints about the steering of the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 5% of the 349 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 71,000 miles. 2 of these say a crash was involved and 1 a fire, according to the filers.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“The motor mounts failed and now the rocker arms are shot. I am afraid to drive the car. I had two mounts repaired-still shakes. Took in for an oil change-they said the rocker arms are shot. Getting an estimate today. I am moving april 18 from california to texas and am concerned about the safety of this car. It has 40,000 miles on it.”
NHTSA complaint #10853938, filed 2016-04, 40,000 miles“When I first bought the car the steering wheel was loose that was in 2007 they fix it ... Now in 2014 its loose again it feels like the bolt is coming loose again I hope I don't get in a accident I feel this is something Chrysler should fix this is dangerous this is the 2nd time now the first time was at 39,000 it has now 154,00.”
NHTSA complaint #10604603, filed 2014-06, 39,000 miles“If my ignition switch is too far forward my car will lose power and what to stop I figured out if when I turn the car on and move the switch back the car will not do that but if I forget and leave it forward it will do this again all my lights come on and I lose power. I believe it should be part of this recall.”
NHTSA complaint #10669532, filed 2015-01, 96,000 miles“I own a 2006 Chrysler Pt Cruiser w/automatic trans. The electrical system, inc. The 4 cyl engine in my vehicle completely failed 3 sepsraste times, twice last year, and 1 time so far this year while driving in a residential area. This condition causes the air bag to not deploy; exterior and interior lights as well as all power assist systems such as steering and breaks, as well as all other electrical accessories to fail. …”
NHTSA complaint #10448684, filed 2012-02, 71,000 miles“When driving vehicle the steering capability occasionally seizes and vehicle cannot be turned for a few moments. This is very dangerous since it can happen at a turn in the road. Also, at stop lights the car tries to jolt forward. Again this is occurs at inconsistent times. Additionally the car dies in idle when the temperature outside rises above 60 degrees. The check engine light came on and when code was read it stated the cooling system was in need of repair. Upon further investigation into the issue we found the fan worked but was not being switched on. So we replaced the fan switch. …”
NHTSA complaint #10950468, filed 2017-02, 60,091 milesRelated service bulletins
- 10017651Nov 2, 2005Revised power steering system bleeding procedures.
Steering: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 3 | 14% |
| 2009 | 6 | 6% |
| 2008 | 5 | 4% |
| 2007 | 11 | 7% |
| 2006 | 18 | 5% |
| 2005 | 18 | 10% |
| 2004 | 24 | 11% |
| 2003 | 29 | 11% |
| 2002 | 45 | 9% |
| 2001 | 61 | 10% |
Other parts of the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
138 complaintsEngine
55 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
47 complaintsEngine cooling
36 complaintsAir bags
35 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
28 complaintsExterior lighting
21 complaintsBrakes
15 complaintsElectronic stability control
15 complaintsBody and structure
15 complaintsFuel system
14 complaintsOther or unknown
13 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 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