Early PT Cruisers were shipped with bumpers covered in protective tape. After removal, tape adhesive remained on the bumpers and reacted with sunlight to discolor bumpers everywhere tape was applied. Dealer never offered to repair or replace ruined bumpers, despite complaints.
I had the bumpers replaced twice, they are gray bumpers. Once by the dealership and once by a body shop who ordered apparently the same factory bumper because it faded again in the same way. It looks like the tape that they use when they paint the vehicle, possibly a chemical has a reaction with the bumper and leaves discoloration marks that are clearly in the shape of where the tape was. I have lost hope that replacing it again with factory parts will have the same result until the makers decide to use a different type of material. They seriously need a recall on this.
I just bought my Cruiser in March of 2008 only had 52,000 miles on it. I noticed the bumpers a little while after I bought it. But I thought maybe someone repainted the car or something and let it sun dry with the tape still on?? It is quite aggravating to look at especially when you are one that tries to keep your car clean and looking nice. If this is a problem with all then Chrysler should fix it.
First time tape marks were noticed on bumper 2004, dealer "cleaned" the bumpers (front AND rear) - Dutchess Dodge of Poughkeepsie NY - the dealer said that there is NO recall or TSB but they would "clean and repaint" the bumpers as a courtesy. Months after, the Tape marks were back - this time the dealer said thats its not their problem, not under warranty and basically its my problem, ..... and they spontaneously found a Chrysler "repaint procedure", But I WOULD have to foot the entire bill with "their body shop"..... I have seen this problem on EVERY PT cruiser built before 2004 ( thats when Chrysler started painting the bumpers to Match the body, eliminating the black painted bumper, hence eliminating the "tape mark " problem.
Bumpers will show tape marks usually after 1 year. Had the front bumper repainted under warranty. Rear bumper replaced due to being rear ended and 1 year later tape marks showing. No longer warranty so not fixed. Another design flaw by Chrysler who refuses to fix unless you are under warranty.
- Brent F.,
Shalimar, FL, US
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When I bought this car I was told by an owner that my bumpers would develop problems. The dealer refused to see it developing. Residue from tape on the bumpers at time of manufacturing began turning the bumpers a different color. Eventually it got so bad that it couldn't be denied any longer. The dealer had the bumpers painted. I wanted them replaced because the same problem will undoubtedly rear its ugly head again.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
Early PT Cruisers were shipped with bumpers covered in protective tape. After removal, tape adhesive remained on the bumpers and reacted with sunlight to discolor bumpers everywhere tape was applied. Dealer never offered to repair or replace ruined bumpers, despite complaints.
- Brian A., Muncie, US