Chrysler PT Cruiser vs Hyundai Elantra
For 2005–2010 models, the Chrysler PT Cruiser has 17.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 22.2 for the Hyundai Elantra. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2010), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Chrysler PT Cruiser
17.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
23% fewer than the Hyundai Elantra
- Complaints
- 770
- Sold
- 448,685
- Recall campaigns
- 0
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2009. Fewest: 2005 and 2007. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 70,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 87,144 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 85,270 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 70,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 91,000 mi
Hyundai Elantra
22.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.3× the Chrysler PT Cruiser’s rate
- Complaints
- 1,400
- Sold
- 631,148
- Recall campaigns
- 6
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2010. Fewest: 2005–2006. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 78,500 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 59,850 mi
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 45,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 77,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chrysler PT Cruiser or the Hyundai Elantra?
For 2005–2010 models, the Chrysler PT Cruiser has 17.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Hyundai Elantra has 22.2, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Chrysler PT Cruiser?
The most-reported problem on the Chrysler PT Cruiser is body control and other modules, typically around 70,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Hyundai Elantra?
The most-reported problem on the Hyundai Elantra is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 78,500 miles.
Which Chrysler PT Cruiser and Hyundai Elantra years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chrysler PT Cruiser: 2009; Hyundai Elantra: 2010.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.