Valve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser engine problems
moderate 7 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100 · see engine across all vehicles →
Complaints
7
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
When does it fail?
Of the 7 engine complaints filed for the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
No new NHTSA engine complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 14 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
NAG1 (5A580) Valve Body As per Warranty Bulletin D-13-22, please use R2108213A$ valve body for all Warranty (W), Mopar (M) and Mopar Vehicle Protection (F) claims.~ Assembly also includes Filter (52108325AA) and Gasket (52108332AA).~
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Part Description: Valve Body Assembly Issue Description: Valve body design was changed between 2010MY and 2011MY applications. To prevent mix matching valve bodies and solenoid packs the connectors are color coded.~ Valve bodies with a white connector can be used on 2010, 2009, 2008..., model years. Valve bodies with a gray connector can only be used on 2011, 2012, 2013..., model years.~ Solenoid packs with a white connector are used with 2010, 2009, 2008..., model years. Solenoid packs with a gray connector are used with 2011, 2012, 2013..., model years.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin involves reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module with new software. The Technician may discover that P0128 - Thermostat Rationality DTC is present. This DTC is a two trip code and is matured if a significant difference exists between the PCM predicted and actual engine coolant temperature during engine warm-ups. The PCM calibration may improperly mature a P0128 DTC because the airflow across the coolant temperature sensor during colder ambient temperatures, 50° F (10° C) or below, causes the predicted coolant temperature to deviate from the actual coolant temperature.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin involves reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module with new software. The Technician may discover that P0128 - Thermostat Rationality DTC is present. This DTC is a two trip code and is matured if a significant difference exists between the PCM predicted and actual engine coolant temperature during engine warm-ups. The PCM calibration may improperly mature a P0128 DTC because the airflow across the coolant temperature sensor during colder ambient temperatures, 50° F (10° C) or below, causes the predicted coolant temperature to deviate from the actual coolant temperature.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Chrysler pt cruiser. The contact was driving 60 MPH when the vehicle stalled three times without warning. The contact did not take the vehicle to a dealer for a diagnostic test. The contact called the manufacturer and filed a complaint. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 61,000.
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Chrysler pt cruiser. While driving various speeds, the engine stalled and the check engine warning indicator illuminated. The contact stated the failure occurred numerous times. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the timing sensor failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate…
Purchased automobile 12/07/2010...repairs conducted on 1/21/11 (1) replacement drivers (outer) l panel driver seat switch bezel broken *same exists panel continually "breaks" down after sitting on drivers seat (2) power lock system l/r door would not lock/or/unlock * additional electrical problems with "late" automatic locking of automobile doors on 11/14/11 during oil-change (mechanic)…
While driving at speed of 40 MPH all lights on the console began blinking repeatedly, the tachometer and speedometer began going up and down, car began to rapidly decelerate and then died giving me just enough time to get off the side of the road before causing an accident. Turned off ignition and restarted the ignition car gave no indications of malfunction, drove home and have not drove since.…
Had engine trouble with your 2009 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 engine problem on the 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 7 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Based on the 7 complaints filed, engine issues most often appear around 48,340 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine 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 engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine 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/2009/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.