I wouldn't make that a blanket statement. I know 2 PT Cruiser owners who are both satisfied. I know that is hardly a statistically valid sample but it does show that Chrysler has been known to build the occasional good car. 
That's why I said they burned
a lot of people, not
all people. The PT actually had an above average rating on CR for a while. And even machines with generally bad reputations always have some happy owners, especially if they got one built with extra care, trade off frequently or are mechanically sympathetic (ie follow an annual clearing computer codes/changing transmission oil procedure). I had good luck with an early 80's X-body GM I had for a while, and they were known for nightmarish reliability.
And of course some people have higher tolerances for trouble or like the vehicles for qualities that override reliability. One of my buddies really liked his HD Dodge pickup with the Cummins diesel, although he remarked in passing once he was on his third transmission. When he got another truck he went Dodge again.
I think that's where the domestics have to excel. There's no way they can match the reliability reputation of Hondayota until they earn it back over time, but they can beat them on styling, fun to drive, interior quality, etc,
right now. Combine that with their traditionally larger dealer network and they could do well. The Avenger/Caliber/Nitro/Compass level of effort is not enough IMO, if all the advertising and huge discounts on Chrysler products lately is any indication.
Interestingly I remember a time when Chrysler was known for their bulletproof drivetrains, the slant six or the 318 combined with an 3 spd automatic pretty much ran forever. It's not like they can't design and build reliable stuff.
