New PT Owner w/Questions...

[JD78]

I previously had a Scion TC, but had to move into something a bit larger due to a new addition to our family. After weeks of researching I was pretty set on a Chevrolet HHR. The PT Cruiser was on my list, but my wife was pretty against it, saying she only sees old people driving them.

Yesterday we went out to take a look at a few HHRs, but my excitement for them quickly faded. I asked the salesman if he had any PT Cruisers and he took us over to that section. My wife was still against them, but was curious since she never seen one up close and inside.

As soon as we came up to it, my wife's attitude started to change. I had kept the PT Cruiser in the back of my mind, but did not expect to be impressed as much as I was. It didn't hurt that the 06 was in very good shape inside and out and had less than 11k miles (previously used as a fleet car). Once we got inside and took it for a test drive, the decision was easy.

I'm really liking this car, but wanted to make some minor changes. I'm not really a car guy and have never done any "mods", so I hope someone can answer my questions or point me in the right direction.

1. I was wondering what the best way to touch up minor scratches would be? The exterior is in very good shape, but i have noticed some minor scratches in harder to see spots. I was wondering if anyone could provide any tips on how to go about it and where to get the paint? I also don't know what exactly my paint color is (picture below).

2. I'm interested in getting an after-market stereo with HD and/or XM. I noticed the stock stereo has a weird shape (due to the dials), and I don't know how that would affect an after-market unit. I assume something can be done to install the after-market unit and not leave two gaps where the dials used to be? I don't know if this is important, but I would most likely get it done at a car stereo store or best buy.

3. The gray plastic console where the stereo and climate controls are throws off the whole look of the interior. It's pretty much the only thing i dislike about the car thus far. I was looking into getting one of those dash trim kits for it, but I only want the piece for the console (not the whole kit) and am not sure what color to get. Does anyone know if they sell just the console trim? Also, I was thinking either getting a trim that matches the red interior, or one that was a chrome/silver trim to match the chrome like trim in the car.

If not the trim, I don't suppose any part store sells the console itself in chrome or a selected color?



Thanks,

JD

[Franksredpt]

1. Color is Inferno Red. 3M makes a swirl mark remover that works pretty well on most scratches.
2. Can't help with the stereo question; sorry.
3. The center part is removable. A friend of mine painted one for someone else and it looked great. You or a body shop should be able to paint it to match.

[vtmdsm27]

I have the same complaint about the center console. Really needs color. I've looked into doing it myself, but I am chicken.

[soonercruiser]

Have someone with paint shop experience look at the scratches and give you advice. I have done lots of scratches and stone chips with regular touchup paint (automotivetouchup.com); and smoothes out the excess blobs with the Langka Blob remover liquid. Great stuff!
Repair paint chips and remove scratches! Langka Paint Chip Repair, Wet Sanding, Meguiars Scratch X, rubbing compound, scratch remover, polish
http://www.automohttp://www.autotruc...vetouchup.com/


There are several aftermarket dash kit companies that make "overlays" for the center console; in OEM colors. I have deleted most of my internet "bookmarks". So, I can't find one for you right now. I did mine in wood grain. And, as said, many folks have simply painted theirs.

[soonercruiser]

Some overlay links....
Benevento Chrysler PT Cruiser Molded Center Console Trim 01-05 - AutoTruckToys.com
Sherwood Dash Chrysler PT Cruiser 12-Pc Dash Kit 01-05 - AutoTruckToys.com
CHRYSLER PT CRUISER Interior Dash Trim Kits For CHRYSLER PT CRUISER Year(s) 2006-UP Models
Chrysler Dash Kits | Chrysler Dash Trim | Chrysler Wood Dash Kit | Chrysler Wood Dash Trims | Flat, Molded, Carbon Fiber Dash Kits

[yteka99]

I'm not an expert on anything and dont claim to be but my '01 pt came to me with the stock stereo. I replaced it with an alpine head unit. It's caled a single din i believe. I got a little cover that goes around the outside of the faceplate to make it look better and closer to the dash and not leave a gap. This isn't mine but it looks similar to this.
http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/ca/...-the-flash.jpg

[quicksilverdon]

Call a couple car dealers and find out who they use for minor chips/ scratches - the guys travel, aren't expensive, and are usually pretty good.

[Hooligan]

My '02 was Silver Steel, I spray painted the center console myself over a two day period, didn't want to rush the job!! When it was finished it was as perfect as the air bag cover and really looked professionally done.

As far as the scratches on the exterior, Candyman suggests using a service that most dealers use, they color match the cars. Maybe check with your dealer to see if they know of a local service that does that. Good luck.

[JD78]

I think I might look into a Paint shop and see if they can do the touch ups and paint the center dash. Anyone know if that will have to be something I remove myself, or something they can remove?