buying pt cruiser,help please

[jezzamagic]

Hi All,
We are thinking of buying a ptcruiser,and looking at a 2000 (x) with 79k auto miles and a 2002 with 98k manual.what are the things to look out for and are there any major faults with these cars?
All info much appreciated,thanks

[CREWZIN]

Welcome to the forum.

A major service at 100k is something you should think about. The timing belt, water pump and drive belts could run you somewhere in the neighborhood of $1000.

As for the rest, if it's possible, take it to a trusted mechanic and have the steering, bearings and bushings around the front end checked out. Take it for a decent 45 minute test drive on the streets you'll be using and a short spin on a major highway to see if performs well enough for you.

[jezzamagic]

thx crewzin,

are there any major faults?

[PTC06Peet]

Manufacturer recall info

2001 - not sure if it applies to 2000
2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser Recalls, Defects, & Problems

2002
2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser Recalls, Defects, & Problems

[quicksilverdon]

I'd say go with the 2002 manual. Better mileage and performance.
If you do get the auto - get the auto flushed and refilled with ATF + 4 fluid.
Either will need a timing belt at about 100,000 miles.
I'd recommend getting the oil changed immediately and filled with synthetic - then you know when it was changed and what's in there.

[jezzamagic]

thanks for the links.....the 2000 is the one with less milage at 19k less than the 2002.The 2000 is also the better looking motor.its a hard decision as it looks great and lower milage but the mrs wants a newer car than our old 2000 pug.

Heeeeeeeeeelp)

thx again for looking guys,you've been great!!

[crusierdad76]

not really a lot of difference in the 2000 and the 2002 might want to wait and see if something newer comes along
I think it was 06 that they did the body change
but like already said the timing belt and all its do dads will sink you for at least $800-$1000 and that will come quick on either of these 2
so add that to the cost of the car--then you got the 8 year old car that will need struts, brakes maybe rotors and calipers as well, probably bearings, control arm bushings, most likely time for plugs and wires, it never ends and when you are all done you will still have a 8 year old car????? and that is not a really bad thing but you need to think about all the added cost
Not wanting to sound all negative but this is pretty much reality

[Mean Green]

The auto tranny can be a weak link.

[soonercruiser]

How much are you wanting to spend?
How's about something around 2005? (lower mileage)