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Lion Lemon

2020 · Compact Car

Chrysler PT Cruiser Lemon Law

Experiencing problems with your Chrysler PT Cruiser? Our California lemon law attorneys can help you get the compensation you deserve.

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Common Chrysler PT Cruiser Problems

The 2.4L turbocharged engine suffers from chronic oil leaks at the valve cover gasket and timing chain cover, allowing oil to drip onto hot exhaust components and create fire risk.
The 4-speed automatic transmission develops premature torque converter failure, causing shuddering during acceleration and eventual complete loss of drive engagement.
The engine cooling fan module fails frequently, resulting in overheating in stop-and-go traffic that can warp the cylinder head and destroy the head gasket.
The front lower ball joints wear out prematurely, causing steering wander and clunking that compromises vehicle stability and can lead to suspension separation.
The ignition switch and key cylinder mechanism fails, causing intermittent no-start conditions and occasionally trapping the key in the ignition in the accessory position.

Your California Lemon Law Rights

Under California's Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, if your Chrysler PT Cruiser has a substantial defect that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, you may be entitled to:

  • Full refund of the purchase price
  • Replacement vehicle of comparable value
  • Cash compensation (cash-and-keep settlement)
  • Attorney's fees paid by the manufacturer

Chrysler PT Cruiser Lemon Law FAQ

Can I file a California Lemon Law claim for my PT Cruiser's recurring overheating problem?

If the overheating defect arose during the warranty period and the dealer failed to repair it after a reasonable number of attempts, your PT Cruiser may qualify as a lemon under the Song-Beverly Act. Overheating that leads to engine damage is a substantial impairment of both safety and value.

What if Chrysler discontinued the PT Cruiser and cannot provide a replacement vehicle?

If your PT Cruiser qualifies as a lemon and the model has been discontinued, the manufacturer would typically provide a comparable replacement vehicle from its current lineup or offer a full refund. Under the Song-Beverly Act, you have the right to choose a refund over a replacement if you prefer.

Do aftermarket modifications void my Lemon Law rights for my PT Cruiser?

Not automatically. Under the Song-Beverly Act, a manufacturer must prove that your specific modification caused the defect in question. If your aftermarket parts are unrelated to the defect, such as cosmetic modifications on a vehicle with engine problems, your Lemon Law rights remain intact.

Can I file a Lemon Law claim for my PT Cruiser if the dealer says the problem is normal?

Yes. A dealer telling you that a defect is a normal characteristic of the vehicle does not eliminate your Lemon Law rights. Under the Song-Beverly Act, if the condition substantially impairs the vehicle's use, value, or safety, it is a covered defect regardless of whether the dealer considers it normal. Document each visit where the dealer dismissed your complaint.

Other Chrysler Models We Cover

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