Looking for a spacious and practical vehicle for your growing family? The Chrysler Pacifica straddles the line between a “traditional” large SUV and a minivan. Depending on the model year you select, you’ll find seating for anywhere from five to eight passengers in this versatile and roomy vehicle.
Still, before you buy, you may find yourself wondering “what kinds of Chrysler Pacifica problems have been reported?”
Based on formal complaints filed with the NHTSA and owner reviews on Vehicle History, some of the more common issues include:
- Rusted engine subframe
- Engine issues
- Loss of engine power
- Transmission problems
Below, we’ll cover each of these common complaints in detail and provide information on possible repairs for these problems (where available). With this information, we hope you’ll be able to make a more confident choice when it comes time to purchase a new-to-you, Chrysler Pacifica.
More about the Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler Pacifica made its debut to the American market beginning with the 2004 model year. Offering seating for anywhere from five to six passengers (depending on trim configuration), the Pacifica was an instant hit for growing families looking for a comfortable cabin and ample cargo space.
After a hiatus from 2008 through 2016, the Pacifica made its return to the American market for the 2017 model year. This time, it debuted with seating for up to eight passengers, along with generous standard features like tri-zone climate control, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and much more.
Common Chrysler Pacifica Problems
2005 Chrysler Pacifica: Rusted Sub Frame
NHTSA Complaint IDs: 11324443, 11289895, 11266847
There have been numerous complaints about the engine cradle subframe on the 2005 Chrysler Pacifica rusting.
In one NHTSA complaint in May of 2020, the owner of a 2005 Pacifica claims that the subframe rusted through on one side, resulting in the car pulling dangerously to one side while driving.
Another complaint filed in December of 2019 mentions the same issue, with the owner reporting that the 20015 Pacifica Touring trim suffers from a rusted engine cradle as well. The owner claims that he or she is worried that the entire motor could fall out.
Yet another complaint filed in October of 2019 reports the same issue with engine cradle corrosion.
This owner reports that the vehicle was deemed unsafe to drive by a mechanic because of this issue.
2006 Chrysler Pacifica: Engine Issues
Source: Vehicle History Reviews
In a Vehicle History review in May of 2020, Daphne G. claims that her 2006 Pacifica has had repeated issues with its engine. This reviewer reports multiple instances of the “check engine” light coming on, even after repairs have been made. She also claims that the car idles rough.
This Chrysler Pacifica problem claim is supported by another Vehicle History review posted by Amber E. in September of 2019. In this review, she writes that “it seems the engine light is constantly on. […] The drive is no longer smooth like it was in the beginning.” Yet another reviewer reports that the “check engine light frequently illuminates without cause.”
2007 Chrysler Pacifica: Sudden Loss of Engine Power
NHTSA Complaint IDs: 11194387, 11165141, 11161093
Multiple complaints have been filed with the NHTSA regarding a loss of engine power on the 2007 Pacifica. One complaint, filed in April of 2019, reports that the vehicle randomly shuts off without warning and that this has happened multiple times within a span of a few months.
A similar complaint, filed in January of 2019, reports that a 2007 Pacifica has lost power without warning at various speeds. Upon being brought to a dealership for inspection, the problem was recreated but the recommended repair was not covered under the manufacturer’s warranty.
Numerous reviews on Vehicle History also support this complaint, with one reviewer (Deborah T.) reporting that the engine light frequently comes on and the car shuts off while driving.
2008 Chrysler Pacifica: Transmission Issues
Source: Vehicle History Review
A reviewer by the name of Star S. reported in October of 2018 that his or her 2008 Chrysler Pacifica has experienced recurring issues with the transmission. Upon bringing the vehicle to a mechanic, the owner was reportedly told that transmission problems are very common with this make and model.
Ultimately, the vehicle was diagnosed with a bad transmission, but the reviewer claims that the cost to replace the transmission is more expensive than the current value of the vehicle itself.
