PT starter problems

[notlovinmypt]

Thanks again, my front end looks a little different. The bumper is the gray plastic looking part and the rest of it is silver like the car...is that a whole piece in itself as well? I just had the front end replaced December 2007 from a wreck (not my fault that time). I blame a lot of the repairs that have been going on with my car on that. That is when all went down hill! Like the new new transmission that was put in in August. The insurance company did pay for half of that since the engine mounts were loose from the wreck and kept knocking into the transmission.

[CREWZIN]

Yes, even if your front bumper is grey (like mine was) it's still all one piece. In the later years Chrysler started painting all the bumpers to match the body.

[notlovinmypt]

this is all the damage...the other person's car had minor paint damage on their bumper-go figure

[CREWZIN]

If that's all the damage and there's nothing structurely wrong, a good body shop ought to be able to fix it cheaper than buying a whole new front end.

[PT2002]

I'm completely new to this site so am probably doing this wrong since I can't figure out to start a new thread as opposed to responding to one, but I desperately need help. My 2002 PT Cruiser Limited Edition has been starting fine...except during very cold weather when it's been a bit sluggish. Today it started fine...as well as after two stops I made along my way...but the third stop was not a charm! All lights, radio, interior lights, etc., worked fine but nothing happened when I turned the key to start it. Just one small click each time for the first few times I tried and nothing beyond that. AAA came out and attached a battery booster. No help. They told me it was probably the starter. Took it to a garage where the mechanics told me a wire from the battery to the starter had burned out and "fried" the starter. Is this even possible? They're quoting me $450 for a new starter. I just can't afford that. Any suggestions at all? Anyone heard of a wire "frying" a starter? Many thanks to all who respond and especially to anyone who can help.

[quicksilverdon]

Welcome PT2002 -
Easy part first - scroll to top of page and on upper left find "General PT Cruiser Discussions" and click on it.
You'll now see a button for New Thread.

Ask why it isn't just the cable (which does happen).
Ask about a rebuilt starter.

[junker]

2002 PTs are known to have starter problems. the problem is in the starter solenoid . Chysler does not offer a replacement solenoid for the car. BUT you can replace the part with a 95--96 jeep solenoid.
take the old solenoid with you to the parts store.. one of the tabs is in a different position.but it will work. you may be able to replace the lug on your cable like I did. hope this helps
PS a Haynes manual helps because the bottom starter bolt is removed from underneath the car. But a bracket needs to be removed first.

[VNT]

Rock auto has reman starters
Denso 155 34 core
ACDELCO 193 39 core

and a few other brands even cheaper for 2002

I would swap it myself.

[junker]

Even though the solenoid is crap on a PT I would NOT recommend
replacing the whole starter with a reman one. you will wind up with a bigger problem.. the factory starter is a lot better. just replace the solenoid .... I am sure there are a lot of people that can share neg opinions on remans
and I would like to add that the battery cable usually can be repaired with a replacement lug from a parts store

[orlandogc]

I have a 2002 PT Cruiser LT and I am in a wheelchair. Yesterday I was at the 7-11 when my problem occured. I went to start it and I got the click sound. Two different people tried to jump it, to no avail. I finally had to call for a tow. They sent it to a chain tire store where I have had my oil changed and some minor front end work done previously. They have seem to treated me fairly. Since it was nearly 7pm and closing time for them, I asked for them to call with an estimate in the morning.

This morning they called and told me I needed a new starter and a new battery (said it was fried). $535.00!!!!!!!!! Plus $45 for the tow. I told him I was trying to get the money together and would call back later in the day. There is a used auto parts place down the road but since it is Sunday, I have to wait until tomorrow to speak with them.

Is there a cheaper alternative?