[CREWZIN]

Thanks for your input Charlie. The auto trans in the PT Cruiser is a known weak link. Those of us that have been around since the 01 models first came out try to get the word out that a trans flush, (not just a pan drop & fill), will add years and thousands of trouble free miles to the cruiser.
On yours, can you tell if the timing belt was changed? Although the PT is supposed to be a non-interference engine (which means things won't go terribly wrong if the belt should break) it still can cause some damage and it's a lot easier to change the belt than tear down the engine later. Along with the belt change, the water pump and belt tensioner should also be changed at the same time.

Good luck with your new-to-you 01 PT Cruiser.