CHRYSLER PT CRUISER (2002)
Running costs, reliability data, and common problems from 213 real MOT tests.
Annual Cost
£2,195
£183/month
MOT Pass Rate
73%
Average
Road Tax
£395
Based on CC/year
Insurance
Grp 25-38
2148cc Diesel
Check Carefully
73% pass rate, £2195/year to run. 9 points below average.
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Annual Running Costs
~40 mpg
Based on 2148cc
Higher estimate due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT data. Insurance not included.
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Reliability Verdict
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 9 points below the national average of 82%.
At 24 years old, 73% of CHRYSLER PT CRUISERs from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2026. That's based on 213 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 103,406 miles.
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How Does It Compare?
Mileage Analysis
103,406
Average miles
177,600
Expected for age
The average 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER has 103,406 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 177,600 miles for a 24-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
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Best Year to Buy?
The most reliable year is the 2008 model with a 77% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2002 sits between the two at 73%.
CHRYSLER PT CRUISER by Year
Similar Cars to Consider
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About the 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER
The 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER is a family car with a 2148cc diesel engine. 213 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2026, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 103,406 miles at 24 years old, CHRYSLER PT CRUISER owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER Fuel Costs
The 2148cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,195 (£183/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £395 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 73% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
CHRYSLER PT CRUISER Reliability Trend
The CHRYSLER PT CRUISER has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 0 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER
At 24 years old, the CHRYSLER PT CRUISER is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2008 model has the highest pass rate at 77%.
Common Issues to Watch For
Based on the 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER's fuel type, age, and engine size, these are the most likely problem areas to check.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
Watch outShort journeys clog the DPF. Replacement costs £1,000-£2,500. Check the DPF warning light and ask about driving patterns.
Turbo Wear
Watch outDiesel turbos work harder and wear faster. Listen for whining noises and check for oil leaks around the turbo housing.
EGR Valve
Watch outExhaust Gas Recirculation valves clog with carbon deposits, causing rough running and poor economy. Cleaning costs £150-£300, replacement £300-£600.
Dual Mass Flywheel
Watch outLarger diesel engines put extra strain on the dual mass flywheel. Listen for rattling at idle. Replacement with clutch is £800-£1,500.
Rust and Corrosion
Watch outAt 10+ years, check wheel arches, sills, subframe, and brake lines for rust. Structural corrosion is an MOT failure. Prevention is far cheaper than repair.
Suspension Bushings
Watch outRubber suspension bushes harden and crack with age, causing knocking noises and vague handling. A full refresh costs £300-£800 depending on the car.
Clutch Wear
Watch outWith an average of 103k miles, clutch replacement may be due (typical lifespan 60,000-100,000 miles). Budget £400-£800 for a new clutch kit.
Brake Discs and Pads
Medium riskHigh-mileage cars often need brake disc replacement, not just pads. A full set of discs and pads costs £200-£500 per axle.
Service History
Low riskAlways request a full service history. Regular servicing is the single best indicator of how well a car has been maintained, regardless of mileage.
Running Costs Compared
How the 2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER stacks up against similar cars for annual running costs, insurance, and tax.
| Car | Pass Rate | Fuel/yr | Tax/yr | Insurance | Total/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CHRYSLER PT CRUISER(2002) | 73% | £1245 | £395 | Grp 25-38 | £2195 |
| VOLKSWAGEN GOLF(2003) | 73% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1727-£468 |
| HONDA CIVIC(2004) | 72% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1727-£468 |
| VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER(2004) | 73% | £1245 | £250 | Grp 25-38 | £2050-£145 |
| VAUXHALL ASTRA(2003) | 72% | £1037 | £135 | Grp 18-32 | £1727-£468 |
Estimates based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT data. Insurance groups are indicative. Actual costs vary by driver, location, and usage.
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