Two problems related to steering tie rod assembly have been reported for the 2003 Chrysler Pt Cruiser. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Chrysler Pt Cruiser based on all problems reported for the 2003 Pt Cruiser.
Fortunately at a parking lot intersection, the rf tie rod end suffered a catastropic failure causing no injury, death or accident. The bolted end which fits into the socket pulled out from the socket. There was no indication ahead of time the tie rod end was near failure. I had previously replaced the lf tire rod end. In doing so, I was appauled at the poor design of the part. Chrysler's objective to produce a low price just barely adequate part was obvious. Typically, this part is made from a forging, Chrysler chose to produce the part from stamped sheet metal. I replaced the part with a forged, after market part from moog. It is my opinion this is an unsafe design. It was very fortunate this failure occured where it did otherwise, my wife could have killed or severly injured.
The contact owns a 2003 Chrysler Pt Cruiser. The contact continued to hear a clunking noise and stated that the vehicle would "get away from her" while driving various speeds on the highway. The dealer repaired the tire, but an independent mechanic stated that control arm bushings and tie rod end repairs were common. The dealer offered to repair the vehicle at the cost of more than $600. They also stated that a front end alignment would be needed following the repairs. The failure mileage was 60,000 and current mileage was 65,000. Updated 11/17/08 updated 11/24/08.