2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser recalls and problems

The 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser has 3 safety recalls and 187 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Chrysler dealer.

Recalls
3
Complaints
187
Crashes / fires
11 / 12
Injuries / deaths
18 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser recalls

Recall 07V-149: Visibility

Reported Apr 4, 2007 · 38,447 vehicles affected · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Problem: On certain passenger vehicles, the rear quarter glass attaching fasteners may pull through their mounts and allow the glass to separate from the vehicle.

Risk: If the glass separates while driving, it could strike another vehicle or injure a pedestrian.

Fix: Dealers will replace the rear quarter glass. The recall began on april 30, 2007. Owners may contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Recall 04V-481: Service Brakes, Hydraulic

Reported Oct 8, 2004 · 115 vehicles affected · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Problem: Certain passenger vehicles equipped with 4-wheel antilock braking system (Abs), 2.4l high output turbocharged engine, and 5-speed manual transaxle, may exhibit inadequate clearance between the left front brake tube and the transaxle housing.

Risk: Contact between the brake tube and the transaxle housing over an extended period of time may eventually lead to perforation of the brake tube, which could lead to a loss of braking force in the left front/right rear circuit of vehicle.

Fix: Dealers will install revised brake tubes. The recall began october 25, 2004. Owners should contact daimlerchrysler at 1-800-853-1403.

Recall 04V-268: Steering

Reported Jun 3, 2004 · 438,391 vehicles affected · DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION

Problem: 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.

Risk: Power steering fluid leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in an underhood fire.

Fix: 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.

2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Electrical System27
Engine and Engine Cooling24
Suspension19
Steering18
Visibility17
Exterior Lighting17
Power Train13
Wheels11
Engine11
Vehicle Speed Control10
Air Bags10
Fuel System, Gasoline10

Most reported parts

  • Visibility › Glass, Side/Rear — 7
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 6
  • Suspension › Front — 5
  • Air Bags › Frontal — 3
  • Suspension › Front › Wheel Bearing — 3
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System — 3
  • Structure › Body — 3
  • Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner — 2

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 59,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Steering · at 71,000 miles · reported Feb 20, 2026
The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at the dealer for a service appointment, the contact was informed that the power steering fluid hose was leaking. The contact stated that at that time, it was a small leak; however, the power steering fluid hose then developed a severe leak. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not inspected. The contact was informed that a diagnostic test needed to be performed. The contact declined to pay for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent…
Unknown or Other · reported Jul 19, 2025
Unknown went to get an inspection and I got a paper with information for how to search up if there was any recalls with my car and it has 5 recalls it said
Steering · reported Oct 18, 2024
The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the vehicle started shaking with and an abnormal odor emanating through the vents. Additionally, the steering wheel became firm. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the power steering system needed to be repaired because the hose was disconnected. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage unknown.
Visibility · at 194,000 miles · reported Oct 18, 2024
The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. The contact stated that while the A/C defroster was activated, there was no air blowing through the vents. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the blower motor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 194,000.
Unknown or Other · reported Jul 30, 2022
The car (manual 5-speed) has issues going into reverse and hits hard shifting into other gears. I see where online it shows this issue happened quite a bit with the 2002 PT Cruiser. I don't drive my care every day and I keep it maintained very well. I have not had any accidents in it so I believe this may also be a recall issue.

Other Chrysler PT Cruiser years

Compare all Chrysler PT Cruiser years · All Chrysler models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser: 07V-149 (visibility), 04V-481 (service brakes, hydraulic), 04V-268 (steering). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (27 reports), followed by engine and engine cooling (24). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 59,000 miles.

Are Chrysler recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Chrysler dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.