2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser steering complaints

Filed Mar 5, 2004 · Steering · 30,000 miles · OK

Steering wheel shakes back and forth, making it hard for the driver to control the vehicle.

Filed Mar 3, 2004 · Steering · NY

I bought my car new, a '02 pt cruiser, and this is the second time that the rack and pinion has cracked!!! I have been told that the part is on national back order, which tells me that I am not the only person that this has happened to!!

Filed Jan 15, 2004 · Steering · 50,000 miles · MN

Power steering failed. Dealership states the power steering rack and pump are defective. This was a sudden loss of steering. The part is back ordered up to 3 weeks which leads me to believe this is not an isolated incident. There must be a significant number of rack failures.

Filed Jul 2, 2003 · Steering · 51,869 miles · CA · fire

The car had a fitting in the power assist steering system that was loosening. In a driving condition of high pressure, the system developed an instant, fast leak, which reacted to the high temperatures of the exhaust system. This reaction ultimately started the fire, which burned the engine compartment of the vehicle.*ak same incident as voq#10039792 per conversation with paul abbey on 6/16/04. Pe04029_cat

Filed Jul 19, 2002 · Steering, Transmission · MO

In three instances on the interstate highway the pt cruiser will downshift into first gear where it will remain after the check engine light appears. This has happened all times when driving, in excess, of 45mph. After the problem, the pt cruiser can be driven, but is limited to crawling along at 15 - 20mph. We have taken the car to 2 different dealerships for repair, however the problem has not been corrected. Currently, this is the 34th cumulative day in the shop, and a total in 37 days in the last 3 months.