Connector kit Before ordering this connector repair kit 68018957A$, check it in the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website to confirm part number and applicability. There is an error with the wiring diagrams in Service Library that is causing the incorrect repair kit part number to populate. Please use the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website until this issue is resolved.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser electrical problems
severe 39 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $850 · see electrical across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
39
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$850
2fires
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 39 electrical complaints filed for the 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Electrical accounts for 34% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 11 categories tracked.
Owners have filed 39 electrical complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Connector kit Before ordering this connector repair kit 68018957A$, check it in the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website to confirm part number and applicability. There is an error with the wiring diagrams in Service Library that is causing the incorrect repair kit part number to populate. Please use the Mopar Connector Repair Kit Website until this issue is resolved.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Charging System, Battery Diagnostic Tools and Warranty This information only bulletin discusses using the correct test equipment for testing batteries and charging systems, and also warranty reimbursement when battery replacements are necessary.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Return: Wiring Assy - Engine You have been identified as either having stock, or have stock in transit to your dealership. Please return stock packaged before 2016/07/31 (31 July, 2016)of follow ing part numbers:68176457AF, 68176459AF. Please return suspect parts back to your facing depot using Return Code 02, before 13 September, 2016.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Inspect and Return: Solenoid Module - Transmission You have been identified as either having stock, or have stock in transit to your dealership. Please return suspect stock of follow ing part numbers:52120000AA, 52119435AF, 05078709AB. See attachments for identifying suspect stock. Please return suspect parts back to your facing depot using Return Code 02, before 07 September, 2016.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
A pattern of severe electrical faults dominates these 39 complaints. Most common: the instrument cluster malfunctions (gauges swing wildly, warning lights flash, popping sounds emanate from the cluster), often followed by engine stalling without warning. The stalling occurs at highway speeds and city streets alike, with owners losing power steering and brakes. Owners report the ignition switch feels loose or overly sensitive—bumping the key or jiggling it can shut the engine off or restore power, similar to the GM recall.
Battery issues also recur: batteries fail to hold charge even after replacement, and in some cases the entire electrical system shuts down mid-drive, killing emergency flashers. Door locks engage or disengage unexpectedly, trapping occupants. Brake lights and tail lights stop working. Fog lights activate on their own and drain the battery.
Mechanics—both dealer and independent—consistently fail to replicate the failures or identify root causes. No diagnostic codes appear. Dealers replace instrument clusters, ignition switches, alternators, PCMs, and wiring harnesses, yet failures recur. Owners report seeing online forums with hundreds of similar complaints, yet Chrysler has issued no recall and claims either no problem exists or cannot assist out-of-warranty vehicles.
Same Chrysler PT Cruiser electrical reports on nearby years: 2005 · 2006 · 2007 · 2009
Failure modes owners describe
Instrument Cluster Malfunction with Stalling
Instrument cluster gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel) swing wildly, flash, or drop to zero. Warning lights illuminate en masse. Popping sounds reported from cluster. Cluster malfunctions often precede or coincide with engine stalling.
When: Intermittent, reported from 54,000 to 133,000+ miles; some owners report onset within first few years of ownership or after 2011-2012
Symptoms owners cite: Gauges fluctuate or swing back and forth; All dash warning lights illuminate simultaneously; Popping sounds from instrument cluster; Cluster lights flash on and off; Engine stalls during or shortly after cluster malfunction
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer recommended instrument cluster replacement with refurbished unit (~$550 quoted). Some owners report cluster replacement performed, yet failure recurred. One owner reports instrument cluster and wiring harness replacement attempted multiple times without resolution.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer testing often unable to replicate issue or provide diagnosis. No technical service bulletins identified by owners. Some dealers refused to investigate further.
Intermittent Engine Stalling While Driving
Engine shuts off unexpectedly during normal driving at various speeds, from city streets to highways. Occurs without warning and without dash warning lights preceding the event in all cases. Restarts easily. Loss of power steering and braking when stalling occurs.
When: 2-3 months intervals reported in some cases; others report weekly or daily occurrence; mileage range 36,000 to 133,000+
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shuts off without warning while driving; Loss of power steering; Loss of power braking; Loss of acceleration when attempted; Engine restarts easily after stalling
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs successfully diagnosed or corrected across multiple visits to independent mechanics and dealers. PCM, alternator, and wiring harness replacement attempted in one case without resolving recurrence.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers unable to find error codes or replicate failures. No recalls issued. Manufacturer stated inability to assist when vehicle out of warranty.
Ignition Switch Looseness / Sensitivity
Ignition switch excessively loose or sensitive; vehicle shuts off or power is lost when key is bumped, jiggled, or touched. Jiggling or moving ignition key forward can temporarily restore power. Similar to GM recall ignition failures.
When: Reported up to 133,000+ miles; some owners report pattern over 3+ years
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle shuts off when knee bumps ignition key; Vehicle shuts off when ignition key is moved or jiggled; Intermittent dash warning lights that stop when key is adjusted; Power loss recovers when ignition key is manipulated
Repairs/costs cited: One owner reports ignition switch replacement resolved the issue; new switch felt 'normal' compared to worn one. Another owner notes ignition switch replacement performed with no further issues after one week.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls issued despite similarity to GM ignition recall. Owner requested investigation.
Battery Drain and Starting Failures
Battery repeatedly fails to hold charge. Vehicle refuses to start intermittently or repeatedly even after battery replacement. Multiple battery replacements and alternator testing performed without resolving the issue. Entire electrical system shuts down unexpectedly while driving, including emergency flashers.
When: Reported at 93,500 miles and up; one case began late 2013
Symptoms owners cite: Battery unable to hold charge; Vehicle will not start after sitting; Vehicle starts then dies shortly after restart (within half mile); All lights flicker then entire electrical system shuts down while driving; Emergency flashers inoperative when system fails
Repairs/costs cited: Battery replaced; alternator and starter tested. Subsequent battery replacement and testing did not resolve. PCM, alternator, and wiring harness replacement mentioned in one case.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Mechanic and electrician unable to diagnose root cause; blamed battery repeatedly. Dealer unable to diagnose out-of-warranty vehicle.
Door Lock Malfunction
Door locks engage and disengage unexpectedly while driving or parked. Locks do not respond to remote key fob or manual unlock. Vehicle locks owner and passengers inside; locks remain engaged for extended periods (7-20 minutes reported).
When: Reported within first 2 months of ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Doors lock themselves while driving; Doors lock while parked; Remote key fob does not unlock doors; Manual door lock button does not release lock; Passenger locked inside vehicle
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Owner reports online research indicates RKEM (Remote Keyless Entry Module) as suspected cause. No manufacturer response documented.
Brake and Tail Light Failures
Brake lights, tail lights, and turn signals stop working. Turn signals light inside dashboard but do not illuminate outside. Dealer diagnosed fuse box failure or electrical system fault.
When: Reported at 48,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Brake lights inoperative; Tail lights inoperative; Turn signals inoperative externally while interior signals function; Turn signals light on dashboard but not outside vehicle
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer quoted over $800 for fuse box repair. Socket replacement performed in one case for repeated rear brake light failure.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Service adviser and parts department indicated this is a common problem on PT Cruisers.
Fog Light Unwanted Activation
Fog lights turn on and off by themselves regardless of vehicle state (running, off, key out). Lights remain on and drain battery when vehicle is parked.
Symptoms owners cite: Fog lights activate and deactivate without driver input; Fog lights remain on with key out of ignition; Fog lights remain on while vehicle is off; Battery drained due to unwanted fog light activation
TIPM / Totally Integrated Power Module Failure
Total Integrated Power Module (TIPM) fails, causing vehicle to shut off unexpectedly while driving with no warning lights. Power loss occurs suddenly and vehicle may shut down entirely.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle shuts off while driving without warning; No indicator lights precede shutdown; Multiple power loss events within one minute possible; Difficulty replicating failure for road test
Electrical Accessory Malfunctions
Multiple electrical accessories malfunction independently or in clusters: headlights, turn signals, horn, windshield wipers, radio, air conditioning.
When: 123,417 miles reported for one case; others at 42,000+
Symptoms owners cite: Headlights not working properly; Horn sounds without warning or sticks on continuously; Windshield wipers inoperative; Radio volume changes without input; Radio changes stations without input; Air conditioning fails, turns warm at traffic lights, car may stall
Repairs/costs cited: Air conditioning cooling fan replacement mentioned as possible repair. AC repair attempted; leak in line found in one case.
Dashboard Lights and Warnings Persistent
Airbag lights remain illuminated continuously. Low tire pressure, oil, seat belt warning lights remain on or flash repeatedly without cause. Chiming sounds accompany warning lights.
When: Various mileages reported
Symptoms owners cite: Airbag light always on; Airbag light on when passenger seated in front seat; Multiple warning lights illuminate for no apparent reason; Warning light chimes sound continuously or intermittently
Cooling Fan Malfunction
Cooling fan remains on after ignition is turned off, draining battery. Fan operation related to AC system failures.
Symptoms owners cite: Cooling fan remains on after engine is off; Battery drained by cooling fan operation
Repairs/costs cited: Electric cooling fan replacement mentioned as common repair.
Horn Electrical Shock
Horn contact delivers electrical shock to driver's hand.
Symptoms owners cite: Electrical shock when pressing horn
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Rental company branch manager stated nothing could be done.
Trunk Lock Failure
Trunk lock does not function. No manual emergency release and no keyed lock available. Trunk can only be opened via remote key fob or driver door lock release, neither of which work.
Symptoms owners cite: Trunk lock does not open; Remote key fob does not open trunk; Driver door lock release does not open trunk
Synthesized from 39 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
Problems reside in the total integrated power management module. TPIM whereas vehicle will shut off while driving. No indicator lights to give warning before the vehicle shuts off. Has on occasion shut off and recovered power multiple times within a minute This is a very dangerous scenario to conduct a road test or have someone confirm the issue on the road.
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 Chrysler pt cruiser. The contact stated that while driving approximately 65 MPH, all the instrument panel lights illuminated and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The failure recurred on numerous occasions. The dealer diagnosed that the instrument cluster and wires needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure…
While driving, the instrument warning lights start flashing off and on, the gauges drop to zero then com back up, and the engine falters sometimes and stops other times. When engine stops, power steering is lost. Car will start up again with starter. *tr
Tl* the contact owns a 2008 Chrysler pt cruiser. The contact stated that the headlights were not working properly, the turn signals did not work, the horn sounded without warning, and the windshield wipers did not work. The vehicle was taken to be repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 123,417.
Had electrical trouble with your 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser?
It's a meaningful issue. 39 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $850.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Across the 31 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most electrical failures cluster between 47,000 and 85,021 miles, with the median around 58,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 47,000; a quarter make it past 85,021. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2008/Chrysler/PT Cruiser.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.