Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Using Scan Tool
- Turn ignition off. Connect scan tool to Data Link Connector (DLC), located under left side of instrument panel. See Figure. Turn ignition on. Access the "Read Fault" screen. Using scan tool manufacturer's instructions, read and record DTC (generic scan tool) or DTC message (DRBIII® scan tool), and freeze frame data.
- If scan tool will not power up, check for loose cable connections or bad cable. If cable connections and cable are okay, measure voltage at DLC power terminal No. 16 (Pink wire). Voltage should be at least 11 volts. If voltage is not as specified, check wiring circuit and fuse No. 5 (10-amp) in junction block. The junction block is located in left front kick panel. Repair wiring or replace fuse as necessary.
- If scan tool displays USER-REQUESTED COLD BOOT error or USER-REQUESTED WARM BOOT error, or any other error message, record entire displayed error message and follow scan tool manufacturer's instructions.
- If scan tool displays a bus failure error message, this indicates a scan tool failure or a bus circuit failure. To diagnose and repair bus circuit failure, see appropriate BODY CONTROL MODULES article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT.
- If any DTCs are displayed, perform appropriate diagnostic test. See DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONSÂ . After repair is complete, clear DTCs from Powertrain Control Module (PCM) memory and perform appropriate verification test. Verification tests are located at the end of the diagnostic tests. If no DTCs are displayed, go to one of the following.
- For starting or driveability problems, go to INTERMITTENTS in appropriate TROUBLE SHOOTING - NO CODES article for diagnosis by symptom.
- For speed control problems and servicing information, refer to appropriate CRUISE CONTROL SYSTEMS article in ACCESSORIES & EQUIPMENT.
- For charging system problems, refer to appropriate GENERATORS & REGULATORS article in ELECTRICAL.
- For transmission electronic controls system problems, refer to appropriate DIAGNOSIS article in AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
Rather have a pro handle this?
A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.
Comes to youSame-day available12-month warranty
Get a Free QuoteNo obligation. See pricing before you book.
