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Chrysler Archives: A Brief History of the PT Cruiser

2020 Dodge Charger Interior and Cargo Space Specifications

Boasting classic American muscle car styling and more than enough horses to back it up, the Dodge Charger is a rebel among family sedans. But even with its boisterous character, the Charger provides a spacious interior that’s practical enough for everyday applications. See what we mean in our review of the 2020 Dodge Charger interior and cargo space specifications.

Why Was the Chrysler PT Cruiser Discontinued?

Largely misunderstood but adored by a devoted cult following, the PT Cruiser became sort of the black licorice of the automotive world. Released in 2000, the PT rode in on the same wave of nostalgia that drew many to models like the Beetle and the Mini Cooper. In this article, we will dig deeper into the history of the Chrysler PT Cruiser, the story behind its success and the reason it was ultimately discontinued.

Why Was the PT Cruiser So Popular?

The PT Cruiser was designed to look like a sort of Al Capone getaway car, brandishing flared fenders, a sloping hood and tall doors. The interior echoed the old-timey retro theme with a cue ball-style shifter, a four-spoke steering wheel, color-matched dash panels and deep-set gauge pods. The more upscale Limited trim level featured leather interior seating and a sunroof. Love it or hate it, there’s no denying the head-turner took the industry by storm. The PT Cruiser took home Motor Trend’s Car of the Year award and placed in Car and Driver’s 10 Best Cars in 2001. That year alone Chrysler sold nearly 145,000 units. About 1.35 million PT Cruisers were sold by Chrysler during the model’s passionate nine-year run.

Why Did Chrysler End Production of the PT Cruiser?

We love a good ending, but you know how the story goes. Production of the PT Cruiser ended with the last model rolling off the assembly line in 2009. The very last new PT Cruiser was sold in 2010. So, why did Chrysler choose to axe one of its most iconic and controversial nameplates? The shooting star simply lost momentum over time. As trends go, car shoppers became less drawn the retro aesthetic that gave the PT its distinct swagger. Despite its ultimate undoing, many still look to the PT Cruiser as a legacy in the automotive industry.
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Three Leasing Benefits of Leasing a 2025 Chrysler at Your Chrysler Dealership

1. Easier Trade-In Process Leases are ideal for drivers who like to have the latest model. When you lease a car, you can simply bring your vehicle back to the dealership at the end of your lease and trade in your vehicle for a new model. When you trade in your leased vehicle at the end of your lease term, you may only need to pay for wear and tear fees. 2. Lower Costs Leasing a vehicle is much more affordable overall than buying a vehicle. For one thing, because you are leasing a vehicle, you are only paying for a portion of the vehicle's total value during the months you are driving the vehicle. By contrast, when you buy a vehicle with an auto loan, your monthly payments go toward the entire value of the vehicle, which is why the payments will be higher. Leasing a Chrysler also means much lower upfront costs. Many drivers don't need to pay a large down payment when they sign a vehicle lease. In some cases, you may only need to pay taxes, registration fees, and the first month's payment when you finalize your lease terms. Additionally, you will have fewer car ownership costs related to repairs and maintenance since a new Chrysler will be covered by its factory warranty. 3. Flexible Lease Terms The terms of your lease agreement are very flexible, from the length of your lease term to your end-of-lease options. Lease terms for vehicles can range between two and four years, and you can choose the lease term that is best for your car ownership goals. You may also be able to talk to your dealership about customizing your annual mileage limitations when you sign your lease. Your end-of-lease options include trading in your vehicle for the newest model or extending your lease terms so you can continue to drive your vehicle. Some drivers may choose to purchase their vehicle at the end of the lease at a discounted price. If you choose to purchase your vehicle, you may qualify for an auto loan, or you may be able to buy your vehicle with a lump sum payment. For drivers on a budget, leasing a Chrysler is a fantastic option to drive a high-quality vehicle at an affordable monthly cost. Get in touch with Fury Motors St Paul CDJR in South Saint Paul, MN to ask about lease incentives today.

Women adjusting ac temperature in car

Signs You Need an AC Service at Your CDJR Dealer

Noises From the AC A healthy AC doesn't make any sound as it operates. Rustling, rattling, or clunking sounds from the AC are signs something is wrong. Rustling noises are usually made by small, light objects like leaves that have been drawn into the system with the air and are now trapped in the ducts. As air passes through the ducts, it blows these materials around. Rattling and clunking noises usually signal more serious issues. These metallic sounds can mean loose components or damaged components, for example, broken AC bearings. They could also be caused by less troubling items like gravel that have become trapped. Our technicians will investigate your AC and find the cause of the problem. We can quickly clear debris from the system and repair worn or damaged parts. Refrigerant Leak Refrigerant, also known as R134a, is an odorless, colorless gas used to chill the air before it is blown into your cabin. It's pumped through the system by the compressor and changes from gas to liquid to gas again as it absorbs water from the air before chilling it. As time passes, worn seals or damage to the AC can cause a leak, and the refrigerant will escape. Leaking refrigerant is impossible to spot as it vaporizes in contact with the air. Our technicians use a UV dye, which is added to the refrigerant. A portable UV viewer is used to follow the refrigerant's progress through the AC. Once they find the leak, they'll repair it to ensure the AC system is airtight and refill the refrigerant. Wet Passenger Carpet If the front passenger carpet is wet and has an earthy smell, you have an AC problem. Water is removed from the air before it's chilled, and this water is stored in the evaporator heater box. The water then drains through a drainpipe in the floor onto the ground. As time passes, the drainpipe can become blocked by bacteria growth, leaves, or other debris. If the drainpipe is blocked, the heater box will fill with water and overflow. This box is positioned behind the fireboard on the front passenger side, so the water will flow onto the passenger carpet. We fix this problem by cleaning the drainpipe, then we clean the carpet with an antibacterial solution. If you have an AC problem, call the experts today at Fury Motors St. Paul CDJR in Saint Paul, MN.