Which performance accessories are best for a Chrysler PT Cruiser Turbo?

Question

Hey guys! I recently picked up a 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT with the 2.4L turbo engine and I am absolutely loving it so far. I know these cars get a lot of hate online, but honestly, it is a blast to drive and has way more potential than people give it credit for. Mine is currently bone stock with about 90,000 miles on it, and I am looking to start adding some performance accessories to give it a bit more punch without sacrificing its reliability as my daily driver.

I have heard that since it shares a lot of parts with the Neon SRT-4, there should be some decent bolt-on options available. I am specifically interested in things that help with heat soak and throttle response. Here are a few things I have been looking at:

Upgraded front-mount intercoolers

Mopar Stage 1 or 2 injectors and PCM

Polyurethane motor mount inserts to help with the wheel hop

I really want to turn this into a bit of a sleeper that can surprise people at the lights. Does anyone here have experience tuning the turbo PTs? Which performance accessories or mods would you say offer the best bang for your buck to get started?

kmmifldqfm · Accepted Answer

Congrats on the GT find! Ngl, most people sleep on these because of the styling, but that 2.4L EDV block is basically bulletproof if you treat it right. Since you share the engine with the Neon SRT-4, your options are actually pretty solid for a sleeper build. First thing you gotta address is the heat soak because the stock intercooler is basically a joke once you start pushing more than 10-12 psi. From a data perspective, your IATs will skyrocket after just one pull. Here is what i would prioritize to get the best bang for your buck:

Mishimoto Universal J-Line Intercooler Black MMINT-UZB for consistent cooling.

Prothane Polyurethane Motor Mount Inserts 4-504 to kill that wheel hop.

DiabloSport inTune i3 Platinum Performance Programmer for actual engine management.

AGP Turbo Adjustable Wastegate Actuator SRT-4 to hold steady boost. The wastegate is key tbh. The stock one has a really soft spring and starts bleeding boost way too early. Replacing it with the AGP unit will give you much crisper response and better hold through the rev range. Also, definitely skip hunting for old Mopar Stage kits. They are overpriced collectors items now and the tech is dated. The DiabloSport tuner is a much more modern and reliable path for a daily driver. Just watch your transmission mounts too, because they take a massive beating once the torque starts climbing. It is gonna be a total blast once you get that boost dialed in.

vttfdnkxie · Answer

Honestly, one of the biggest bottlenecks on the GT is the stock airbox. I would definitely grab a K&N 63 Series AirCharger Intake System to help with throttle response and let you actually hear the turbo work. While you are at it, check your ignition. Running NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs BKR7EIX is a must if you plan on adding more boost later. They handle the extra heat way better than standard plugs do.

eoivltxowz · Answer

Reliability is everything. Honestly I spent my morning looking at dash cams because people drive like maniacs lately. Anyway, are you looking for top-end speed or more low-end torque?