There are many types of vehicles that can be branded Chrysler Pacifica, including minivans, crossovers, and replacements for Town & Country minivans. The Town & Country minivan was replaced with the Town & Country SUV in 2017, and it was previously used as a crossover SUV.
As a crossover concept introduced by Chrysler in 2004, it has proved to have a wide array of applications throughout its history. Users have reported that some model years of the Chrysler Pacifica are less recommended and have more issues, even though it is reputed to be the most technologically advanced minivan in America.
The build quality of some other models is also higher and they score high in reliability ratings. It is therefore important to consider these model years when considering purchasing a Chrysler Pacifica.
The following factors have been taken into account when analyzing and discussing the best and worst years of Chrysler Pacifica.
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Generations of Chrysler Pacifica
With the Chrysler Pacifica, different generations of Chrysler vehicles can be accommodated. In all these generations, it operated as a mid-size minivan as well as a crossover SUV. The Chrysler Pacifica was introduced in 2004 to the market as a mid-size crossover, beginning its journey as a luxury crossover SUV with great features and excellent quality.
In 2017, Chrysler Pacifica again established itself as a premium minivan with rich and versatile qualities. A Chrysler Pacifica can be classified into two generations based on cars.com:
| Generation | Year | Body type |
| 1st | 2004 to 2008 | Crossover SUV |
| 2nd | 2017 to 2024 | Minivan or Passenger Van |
Different qualities are present in these model years. There are also differences between the two generations in terms of their performance, quality, reliability, and longevity.
5 Common Problems of Chrysler Pacifica
There are some similarities between the Chrysler Pacifica crossover and minivan, despite the fact they are two very different vehicles. There are several common problems with Chrysler Pacifica crossovers and minivans, including:
1. Transmission Problem
There are many transmission problems with Chrysler Pacifica, including hard shifting, hesitations, lunging, difficulty shifting into park mode, noisy transmission, transmission failure, fluid leak, power loss when accelerating, powertrain problems, slipping transmission, reverse trouble, rough engagement, and stalling.
There is one of the biggest problems with the 2018 Pacifica: slipping transmissions and jerking. In the long run, these problems damage vehicles severely, causing them to become disastrous.
2. Engine Issues
Pacifica crossovers and minivans face a number of noticeable problems, including rusty cradles, rotted cradles, stalled engines, engine lights, caught fire, excessive oil consumption, unintended acceleration, stuck acceleration, dropped valve, not exceeding 3000 Rpm, speed control issues, a problematic engine cooler, a dead engine when driving, and cylinder misfiring.
Several 2017 Chrysler Pacifica minivans have hybrid propulsion system problems, as well as cruise control problems.
3. Electrical Malfunctions
Electrical problems include problems with ABS brake lights, power outages, catch-on fires, cruise control acceleration, difficulty opening doors, shut down while driving, no power, automatic start and stop, locking issues, etc.
Among Chrysler Pacifica electrical malfunctions, these are the most common and frequent. Long-term damage to a vehicle is caused by electrical malfunctions. Many people complain of problems with the A/C compressor and locking mechanism.
4. Interior Accessories Problems
The interior accessories of some Chrysler Pacifica models, including crossovers and minivans, had problems, ABS light, instrument cluster, gas cap indicator, flickering headlight, alarm and car horn malfunction, power seat malfunctions, failed lock mechanisms, malfunctions of seats, vibrating front door speakers, back up camera problems, rattling headlights, uncomfortable headrests, falling off panels, malfunctions of parking sensors, poor adjustment of height, and poorly designed center consoles are among the problems.
Despite these problems, there is a significant difference between Chrysler Pacifica types, with the worst years exhibiting more interior problems.
5. Low Quality Body Paint
In most Chrysler Pacifica model years, there are issues with the body or paint. Among the most common paint or body issues encountered by the Pacifica minivan are bubbling or rusting paint, pitted and oxidized paint, the sliding doors opening on their own, and scraping noises from low clearance.
The motor cradle on some crossover model years may be rusted or corroded, the subframe may be corroded, the front end frame may be rusting, the paint may be bubbling and peeling, and the frame and subframe may be rusted.
Chrysler Pacifica Reliability by Year
The Chrysler Pacifica is one of the most popular mid-size minivans on the market today. The vehicle is regarded as a reliable and versatile family minivan as well as a luxurious crossover SUV. The frequent recalls and low durability of some model years have resulted in reliability issues.
The following are reliability ratings from trusted sources such as Edmunds, JD Power, and Cars.com for the Chrysler Pacifica:
| Year | Edmunds (Out of 5) | J.D. Power (Out of 100) | Cars.com (Out of 5) |
| 2004 | 4.7 | – | 3.6 |
| 2005 | 4.4 | – | 4.4 |
| 2006 | 4.3 | – | 4.3 |
| 2007 | 4.5 | 79 | 4.1 |
| 2008 | 4.1 | 78 | 4.1 |
| 2017 | 3.7 | 72 | 4.6 |
| 2018 | 3.7 | 73 | 4.6 |
| 2019 | 3.7 | 72 | 4.7 |
| 2020 | 3.6 | 74 | 4.6 |
| 2021 | 3.4 | 69 | 4.1 |
| 2022 | Not rated | 71 | 3.8 |
| 2023 | 3.3 | 71 | 4.7 |
| 2024 | 3.4 | 71 | Not rated |
Chrysler Pacifica Problem Counts by Years
In order to determine the avoidable years, it is important to examine the problem counts of the model years. This enables us to identify the year that was the most problematic and the year that was the least problematic. It is possible to counter terrible problems with greater frequency in some model years.
Based on data provided by NHSTA and CarComplaints.com, the following table shows problem count reports by year:
| Year | Complaints Number (NHSTA) | Complaints Number (CarComplaints) |
| 2004 | 896 | 104 |
| 2005 | 1243* | 220 |
| 2006 | 725 | 197 |
| 2007 | 379 | 105 |
| 2008 | 101 | 30 |
| 2017 | 1239* | 184 |
| 2018 | 640 | 55 |
| 2019 | 227 | 17 |
| 2020 | 126 | 03 |
| 2021 | 239 | 06 |
| 2022 | 166 | 02 |
| 2023 | 43 | – |
| 2024 | 16 | – |
N.B: marked years counter severe problems most and most frequently.
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Chrysler Pacifica Recalls
There are recalls issued by vehicle manufacturers and some official organizations such as NHTSA for different model years because of troublesome components. There have been 49 recalls for Chrysler Pacifica vehicles across different model years, according to NHTSA. There were a few models that did not get recalls years ago because they were well designed and well made.
Here is the breakdown of recall numbers and problematic parts by year:
| Year | Recall Numbers (NHSTA) | Problematic Components |
| 2004 | 02 | Fuel system/gasoline (1), Powertrain (1) |
| 2005 | 02 | Exterior lighting (1), Powertrain (1) |
| 2006 | 01 | Powertrain (1) |
| 2007 | 00 | – |
| 2008 | 00 | – |
| 2017 | 09 | Electrical system (5), engine and engine cooling (1), equipment (1), hybrid propulsion system (1), powertrain (1), seat belts (2), service brakes/hydraulic (1), vehicle speed control (1) |
| 2018 | 11 | Backover prevention (1), electrical system (5), equipment (3), hybrid propulsion system (1), powertrain (2), seat belts (1), suspension (1), vehicle speed control (1) |
| 2019 | 07 | Backover prevention (2), electrical system (4), equipment (1), hybrid propulsion system (2) |
| 2020 | 02 | Backover prevention (1), electrical system (1), hybrid propulsion system (1) |
| 2021 | 03 | Backover prevention (1), electrical system (1), hybrid propulsion system (1), seats (1) |
| 2022 | 04 | Backover prevention (1), electrical system (1), hybrid propulsion system (1), seats (1), visibility (1) |
| 2023 | 05 | Airbags (1), backover prevention (1), electrical system (2), fuel system/gasoline (1), hybrid propulsion system (1), steering (1) |
| 2024 | 03 | Airbags (1), steering (1), traction control system (1), visibility (1) |
5 Chrysler Pacifica Years to Avoid
There are five model years of Chrysler Pacifica that should be avoided based on reliability ratings, problem counts, safety ratings, recall histories, and other factors. Several severe problems are dealt with more often in these model years than in others. Chrysler Pacificas from the following model years should be avoided:
2004 Chrysler Pacifica
Among the oldest models of Chrysler Pacifica crossover, the 2004 Pacifica has been reported to have problems with the body or paint, engines, suspensions, accessories, and electrical systems. In the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica, the worst problems are rusting frame and subframe, clunking front suspension, and rusty engine cradle. If the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica is considered an avoidable model year, these are the worst and most troublesome problems complained about by several owners.
2005 Chrysler Pacifica
There are a number of problems with this model year that are similar to those in the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica, including problems with the fuel system, the engine, and the drivetrain. Among the most common problems with 2005 Chrysler Pacificas are rusted engine cradles and subframes.
There are severe corrosion issues with the subframe cradles and engine cradles of the 2005 Chrysler Pacifica. Chrysler Pacifica is having one of its worst years due to the high number of complaints.
2006 Chrysler Pacifica
The 2010 model is difficult to avoid for users because of a number of engine problems, transmission problems, and suspension problems. Some of the worst problems with the 2006 Chrysler Pacifica include engine cradle rot, corroded subframes, and rusted motor cradles. It is also possible to encounter problems with some interior accessories on earlier models. Overall, these complaints contributed to the high repair cost of this model.
2017 Chrysler Pacifica
It was reported in 2017 that several recalls were issued due to problems with transmissions, electrical systems, cooling mechanisms, hybrid propulsion systems, and speed controls. There are several drawbacks to the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica minivan, including seat belts, service brakes, powertrain, equipment, and other features. The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica has severe and troublesome problems such as hard shifting, difficult fueling, and sudden loss of steering, all of which can be avoided.
2018 Chrysler Pacifica
Several persistent issues have been reported by the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica, including transmissions, electrical, engine, sliding doors, and hybrid propulsion systems. Due to the problems, repair costs may be too high and safety may be compromised. There are a few similarities to the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, which also suffers from similar problems.
Chrysler Pacifica Best Years
Additionally, you should prioritize Chrysler Pacifica’s model years 2008, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 if you want to buy one. A Chrysler Pacifica from one of the best years has fewer recalls, is highly rated for safety, and has high reliability ratings.
2008 Chrysler Pacifica
When compared to the early models, the 2008 Pacifica crossover has improved engine quality and interior materials. In addition to being reasonably priced and designed with luxurious materials, it also has a high reliability rating. There have been fewer complaints and recalls associated with this model than those of its predecessors.
2020 and 2021 Chrysler Pacifica
Chrysler Pacifica 2020 and 2021 are the most desirable and appealing models due to their advanced safety features, enhanced reliability, technological updates, and versatile design. An efficient fuel management system and powerful features are included in the plug-in hybrid model of 2021.
2022 and 2023 Chrysler Pacifica
There are several Chrysler Pacifica models with high reliability ratings, including the 2022 and 2023 models. Families will enjoy the family-friendly features, the latest technologies, hybrid and all-wheel drive, safety, and versatility offered by these vehicles. The durability and strength of these engines have made them a favorite among consumers. Additionally, they have fewer issues and their severity is lower than with other minivans.
How Many Miles Does Chrysler Pacifica Last?
There are several factors that affect the durability and longevity of a Chrysler Pacifica, such as its maintenance system, driving conditions, previous ownership, and driving habits, as well as the quality of its components. Chrysler Pacifica vehicles usually have a lifespan of 150,000 miles and are capable of lasting as long as 200,000 miles.
Keeping your vehicle in good shape and using caution while driving will ensure that it lasts for as long as possible. Despite this, it may not last as long as the maximum limit if it’s not properly maintained, driven roughly, and doesn’t follow the guidance.
Are Chrysler Pacifica Reliable?
There are different models of Chrysler Pacifica, each with a different degree of reliability and driving habits. In comparison to their earlier counterparts, the latest and most recent models generally receive high reliability ratings, while some of the earliest models receive lower reliability ratings due to problem counts and customer dissatisfaction.
The feedback of owners is another factor to consider when determining the reliability of a vehicle. There are several trusted analytics that recommend Chrysler Pacifica for its reliability. It is also important to consider durability and maintenance in order to ensure reliability.