2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
- Complaints
- 115
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- Electrical system
None on file
None on file
39% of complaints
Complaints per year
2008: 115 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2001 | 618 |
| 2002 | 511 |
| 2003 | 258 |
| 2004 | 217 |
| 2005 | 187 |
| 2006 | 349 |
| 2007 | 149 |
| 2008 | 115 |
| 2009 | 97 |
| 2010 | 22 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Electrical system
39% · 45 reportsMost commonly citing instrument cluster/panel and horn.
Show complaint excerpts
I had stopped at a signal light and was hit in an front /head on crash there was no air bag deployment - thecar was deemed as a total lost per my insurance the damage was front left finder - hood = bumper - grill left suspension parts radiator oil...
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-06-08
Also filed under Air bags and suspension
Problems reside in the total integrated power management module. TPIM whereas vehicle will shut off while driving. No indicator lights to give warning before the vehicle shuts off.
NHTSA ODI report, 2023-12-28
Also filed under Air bags and engine
Air bags
21% · 24 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Vehicle was moving at approximately 30 MPH when a vehicle was hit crossed into my lanes and I hit the vehicle head on, police report was filed. Injuries to knee, chest and lap from belt. Airbags did not deploy.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-02-05
Also filed under Engine and structure
On April 8TH, this year, I was in an auto accident in my 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser and broke my back; there is a chance I may not be able to work as a hospital inpatient nurse ever again because I have to be able to lift 100 pounds.
NHTSA ODI report, 2009-06-09
Also filed under Seat belts
Engine
13% · 15 reportsPower train
9% · 10 reportsMost commonly citing automatic transmission.
Service brakes
7% · 8 reportsMost commonly citing hydraulic.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Electrical system: 45 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 24 reports on file for this year.
- Engine: 15 reports on file for this year.
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →FAQ
- Is the 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser reliable?
- Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is rated "better than typical".
- What are the most common problems with the 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser?
- The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.