2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser diesel: common problems and MOT failures
What MOT testers find on the diesel Chrysler PT Cruiser first registered in 2002 (diesel cars only): we looked at the 130 MOTs these cars had during 2023–2025. Plus known faults and what to look at before you buy one.
Small sample: there were only 130 MOTs of these cars during 2023–2025, so treat the percentages as rough. The known faults below don't depend on it.
Common 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser diesel MOT failures and advisories
The share of 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser diesel MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.
- Suspension55% of testsRough price £120–£400
At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.
- Brakes48% of testsRough price £150–£350
At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.
- Lights and electrics38% of testsRough price £10–£80
At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.
- Tyres22% of testsRough price £70–£150
At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.
- Steering20% of testsRough price £100–£450
At the viewing: On a straight road the steering wheel should sit straight. Feel for play or knocking when turning.
- Oil and fluid leaks12% of testsRough price £80–£600
At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser diesel
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
Looking at a Chrysler PT Cruiser?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Chrysler PT Cruiser compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 233 | Suspension 52% |
| 2007 | 1,383 | Suspension 56% |
| 2006 | 1,297 | Suspension 57% |
| 2005 | 993 | Suspension 58% |
| 2004 | 671 | Suspension 61% |
| 2003 | 603 | Suspension 64% |
| 2001 | 238 | Suspension 49% |
| 2000 | 104 | Suspension 48% |
Where this comes from: the DVSA's anonymised results for every MOT test done in Great Britain during 2023–2025, counting the MOTs of Chrysler PT Cruiser cars first registered in 2002. "Flagged" includes advisories, so it isn't the same as a fail rate. How we score