Engine Exhaust System problems of the 2001 Chrysler Pt Cruiser

Engine noise followed by exhaust fume smell in passenger compartment. Took to dealer and they said there was a hole in the "flex" part of the exhaust pipe before the catalytic converter. They said the whole flex part and catalytic converter was one part and needed to be replaced (cost about $1400). The car would not pass inspection until the exhaust system was repaired. Took vehicle for a second opinion and the mechanic said this was a common problem with the pt and that Chrysler should recall the cars. I had the part replaced so that the car would past inspection and be legal to drive.

Strong exhaust odor in car with ac on fresh air. After doing a little testing I found the manifold to exhaust slip joint leaking heavily. We have had this problem for a longe time and are just getting tired of choaking levels of exhaust every time we come to a stop.

During the first couple of minutes of operation, during closed phased of engine operation the vehicle will hesitate during acceleration. This is most noticeable in first, second and third gear and during cooler damp conditions. Also during this closed phase, there is popping noise in exhaust system upon deceleration using the engine. The other major concern is a vibration from the engine and or transmission upon full accelerations in 4th gear. This even occurs when the engine is at or above 2500 rpm(recommended speed for starting 4th gear), and dissipates as the car speed increases. It is particularly a concern when entering express ways from on ramps. ****dimsii ivoq entry posted after 12-12-02 cut over to artemis****761677.

Bolts that hold the exhaust system onto the frame of the car break, leaving the exhaust system dangling. This has happened twice, now-- once in 2002, then again this year (2004) after a collision repair using Chrysler bolts.

Since purchase of vehicle engine has been burning oil internally. Dealer had been contacted to remedy problem. Dealer rebuilt engine at 2100 miles, but vehicle is experiencing same problem. Since engine has been rebuilt, when vehicle is started, a huge puff of smoke comes out from exhaust pipe . Consumer is very upset with dealership who vehicle was taken to first, she feels that they gave her the runaround and is concerned that the engine had to be rebuilt instead of given a new one.

Very poor performance and gas mileage has been observed while driving this car. Mopar own website for ptcruiser has parts for air cleaner and exhaust system to fix this problem but at the owners expense. . Read more...