🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chrysler Model: PT Cruiser Year: 2008 Market: North America (implied by Chrysler branding and typical manual delivery) Codes Vin Decoder Prefix: 1C4 (US-assembled Chrysler), 3C4 (Mexico-assembled Chrysler) 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: Compact car / Retro-styled hatchback. Positioning Statement: The Chrysler PT Cruiser is positioned as a unique, stylish, and practical compact vehicle offering distinctive retro styling and a versatile interior. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: While unique, competitors in the compact segment at the time included the Mini Cooper (for styling), Volkswagen Beetle (for retro appeal), and various mainstream compacts like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Focus (for practicality). Key Features Design Philosophy: Retro-inspired styling, emphasizing a nostalgic automotive aesthetic reminiscent of the 1930s and 1940s hot rods and custom cars. Interior Versatility: Flexible seating arrangements, including removable rear seats and a fold-flat front passenger seat, allowing for various cargo and passenger configurations. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Owner's Manual Secondary Coverage: Safe operation, vehicle features, instrument panel understanding, starting and operating, emergency procedures, maintenance, consumer assistance. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a 2008 owner's manual) Manual Type Manual Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed (as it's described as being delivered with a new car) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain Systems: Engine operation, starting, and general guidance (specifics may be limited in an owner's manual compared to a service manual). Chassis Systems: Brake system operation (warning lights, usage), steering system awareness, suspension system general information. Electrical Systems: Instrument panel and indicators, lighting systems, basic electrical feature operation (wipers, power windows, locks), fuse box locations (general). Safety Systems: Airbag system operation, seatbelt usage, child restraint system installation, ABS operation (warning lights). Comfort And Convenience: Climate control operation, audio system, power seats, mirrors, door locks, interior features. Procedures Included Operation Procedures: Starting and stopping the engine, driving techniques, parking, fuel filling procedures. Maintenance Procedures: Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning and care, scheduled maintenance overview. Emergency Procedures: What to do in case of a breakdown, flat tire, overheating, jump starting procedures, warning light explanations, emergency contact information. Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Owner-level, focusing on safe operation, feature utilization, and basic maintenance checks. Does not cover in-depth diagnostics or repair procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Printed Document Print Quality Print Quality: Standard OEM printing quality, clear text and legible diagrams. Binding Type Binding Type: Typically saddle-stitched or perfect bound (stapled or glued). Paper Type Paper Type: Durable paper stock suitable for frequent handling in a vehicle. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve Engine Displacement: 2.4 Liters (2429 cc) Engine Code: GEMA (for naturally aspirated), EDG (for turbocharged PT Cruiser GT) Performance Horsepower Naturally Aspirated: Approximately 150 hp @ 5800 rpm (for the 2.4L DOHC non-turbo) Torque Naturally Aspirated: Approximately 160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for the 2.4L DOHC non-turbo) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline Maintenance Oil Type: SAE 5W-20 (as specified by Chrysler for this engine family) Oil Capacity: Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (e.g., 41TE/42LE family) Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., NV3500 or similar) Features Automatic Features: Electronically controlled, with overdrive. Maintenance Automatic Transmission Fluid: Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent specification meeting Chrysler MS-9602) Manual Transmission Fluid: Typically SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil, meeting Chrysler MS-9224 (refer to manual for exact specification) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approximately 168.9 inches (4290 mm) Width: Approximately 66.1 inches (1679 mm) Height: Approximately 62.1 inches (1577 mm) Wheelbase: Approximately 102.9 inches (2614 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3,100 - 3,300 lbs (1406 - 1497 kg), depending on configuration. Cargo Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up: Approximately 21.2 cubic feet (0.60 cubic meters) Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down: Approximately 37.5 cubic feet (1.06 cubic meters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: 4 Stars (for 2001-2007 models, likely similar for 2008) NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: 4 Stars (for 2001-2007 models, likely similar for 2008) IIHS Moderate Overlap Front: Acceptable (for models tested, 2001-2007, general trend) Active Features ABS: Standard (Anti-lock Braking System) Traction Control: Available on some trims, may be part of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) depending on market and option package. Passive Features Airbags Front: Driver and front-passenger airbags Airbags Side: Available front-seat mounted side airbags on some trims. Seatbelts: Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters Child Restraints Latch System: Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system for rear seating positions. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional SiriusXM satellite radio, and premium Boston Acoustics audio system on higher trims. Navigation: Optional factory-installed navigation system on select trims. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard Tire...
The Chrysler PT Cruiser is positioned as a unique, stylish, and practical compact vehicle offering distinctive retro styling and a versatile interior.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
While unique, competitors in the compact segment at the time included the Mini Cooper (for styling), Volkswagen Beetle (for retro appeal), and various mainstream compacts like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Focus (for practicality).
Key Features
Design Philosophy:
Retro-inspired styling, emphasizing a nostalgic automotive aesthetic reminiscent of the 1930s and 1940s hot rods and custom cars.
Interior Versatility:
Flexible seating arrangements, including removable rear seats and a fold-flat front passenger seat, allowing for various cargo and passenger configurations.
Approximately 150 hp @ 5800 rpm (for the 2.4L DOHC non-turbo)
Torque Naturally Aspirated:
Approximately 160 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for the 2.4L DOHC non-turbo)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Maintenance
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-20 (as specified by Chrysler for this engine family)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., 41TE/42LE family)
Optional
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (e.g., NV3500 or similar)
Features
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, with overdrive.
Maintenance
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mopar ATF+4 (or equivalent specification meeting Chrysler MS-9602)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Typically SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil, meeting Chrysler MS-9224 (refer to manual for exact specification)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approximately 168.9 inches (4290 mm)
Width:
Approximately 66.1 inches (1679 mm)
Height:
Approximately 62.1 inches (1577 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 102.9 inches (2614 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3,100 - 3,300 lbs (1406 - 1497 kg), depending on configuration.
Cargo
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approximately 21.2 cubic feet (0.60 cubic meters)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approximately 37.5 cubic feet (1.06 cubic meters)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 Stars (for 2001-2007 models, likely similar for 2008)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 Stars (for 2001-2007 models, likely similar for 2008)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Acceptable (for models tested, 2001-2007, general trend)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Available on some trims, may be part of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) depending on market and option package.
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and front-passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Available front-seat mounted side airbags on some trims.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Restraints
Latch System:
Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system for rear seating positions.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional SiriusXM satellite radio, and premium Boston Acoustics audio system on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system on select trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Available on some trims
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input jack for portable music devices.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe driving may require more frequent changes.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect/Replace annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Initial service at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 3 years thereafter.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Coolant:
Mopar OAT (Organic Additive Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Additive Technology) type, or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-9769 (typically a pink or orange color).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Mopar Power Steering Fluid or equivalent meeting Chrysler MS-5901.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Suspension components (struts, bushings), wheel bearings, exhaust system components, and brake pads/rotors due to age and mileage.
Engine Specific:
The 2.4L engine can be susceptible to intake manifold gasket leaks, and in some earlier models, head gasket issues. Oil leaks from the valve cover or oil pan are also not uncommon with age.
Transmission Specific:
Automatic transmissions may exhibit delayed shifting or harsh engagement as they age. Transmission fluid and filter changes are crucial for longevity.
Electrical Issues:
Minor electrical gremlins can occur, such as malfunctioning power window regulators, issues with the interior lighting, or problems with the radio/infotainment system.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Parent Company:
Chrysler is part of the Chrysler Group LLC, which has had various ownerships including DaimlerChrysler and later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).
Model Evolution
Introduction Year:
2001
Platform:
Chrysler's PT Cruiser platform, which was derived from the Dodge Neon platform.
Facelifts Updates:
Received a mid-cycle refresh for the 2006 model year, including updated exterior styling (grille, headlights, taillights), interior enhancements (dashboard, seats), and powertrain improvements.
Production
Production Start Year:
2000
Production End Year:
2010
Manufacturing Location:
Toluca, Mexico
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Design Award:
While not a specific award for the 2008 model year, the PT Cruiser's distinctive design was a significant factor in its initial popularity and sales success.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The PT Cruiser was named to Car and Driver's 10Best list in 2001.