The Chrysler Pacifica Years To Avoid
We've identified four Chrysler Pacifica years to avoid. Here's which years, and what their common problems are, so you can make a reliable used car decision when shopping.
The Chrysler Pacifica, a pioneering vehicle in the minivan craze, has been a staple in the automotive industry for years. When minivans first hit the market, the Pacifica was at the forefront, appealing to families with its spacious interior and versatile features. Although the popularity of minivans has waned over time, the Pacifica remains a top choice for those needing a reliable and comfortable people-hauler.
However, as with any vehicle, certain model years of the Pacifica have proven to be more problematic than others. For this post, we will round up the Chrysler Pacifica years to avoid due to reliability issues and provide insights to help you make informed decisions when considering this iconic minivan.
Which Chrysler Pacifica Years to Avoid?
Below is a quick list of the Pacifica model years to avoid due to a high number of consumer complaints and known issues:
- 2004 Chrysler Pacifica
- 2005 Chrysler Pacifica
- 2006 Chrysler Pacifica
- 2017 Chrysler Pacifica
2004 Chrysler Pacifica
If you wanted an older model, the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica is an easy pass, no thanks to its multitude of issues and many customer complaints. CarComplaints.com has awarded this Pacifica with the “Clunker” badge and has over 1,000 complaints and two recalls.
The 2004 Chrysler Pacifica has been plagued by severe rust issues, particularly affecting the subframe and engine cradle. Numerous owners have reported alarming levels of corrosion, with some cases resulting in holes large enough to put a fist through. This critical problem poses a significant safety risk, as a rusted-out subframe could lead to the engine and transmission detaching from the vehicle while in motion. This rust issue is a considerable dealbreaker since it’s a fairly old model.
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Another sore spot of the 2004 Pacifica is the engine. The 2004 Chrysler Pacifica’s engine cradle has been a significant cause for concern, with numerous reports of severe rusting and deterioration. This critical component, responsible for supporting the engine, has been found to corrode to the point of perforation, leaving the engine at risk of detaching from the vehicle while in motion. In some cases, the cradle has rusted through completely, causing the engine to drop and rendering the Pacifica undrivable. It’s baffling Chrysler didn’t issue a recall, considering how major and widespread this problem is.
2005 Chrysler Pacifica
Sadly, the following year is worse for the Pacifica minivan. CarComplaints.com has logged 2,000+ complaints and two recalls for the 2005 Pacifica with a “Clunker” seal of disapproval.
The 2005 Chrysler Pacifica has struggled with a significant problem similar to its previous 2004 version. The issue is severe frame rust, which has become widespread and dangerous. Many owners have been surprised to find that their subframes and engine cradles have extensively corroded, sometimes even during routine servicing. The extent of the damage is genuinely alarming, as some cases reveal rust so advanced that it causes holes to form, which can compromise the vehicle’s structural integrity.
This Pacifica model was also riddled with a wide array of electrical problems that have left owners stranded and frustrated. One of the most alarming issues is the sudden loss of headlights, interior lights, and other electrical components while driving, creating a dangerous situation for the driver and other motorists. Owners have also reported issues with the power seats, keyfobs, and even the transmission control module, leading to costly repairs and extended stays at the mechanic. These electrical gremlins often prove difficult to diagnose, with some vehicles spending weeks in the shop without a clear resolution.
Unfortunately, the 2005 Pacifica also had the dreaded engine cradle rot, making it one of the worst Chrysler Pacifica years to avoid.
HOW LONG DO CHRYSLER PACIFICAS LAST?
If you’re interested in purchasing this vehicle for your life, it’s helpful to know what you’ll get out of it. You might wonder - how long do Chrysler Pacificas last in a typical lifespan?
2006 Chrysler Pacifica
The 2006 Pacifica has fewer complaints and recalls than 2005, but it’s still a problematic car with the ever-familiar issues that plagued its predecessors.
Another carryover problem from the 2004 and 2005 models, frame rust issues have impacted the 2006 Pacifica to the frustration of owners. It’s not uncommon for car owners to be caught off guard by discovering heavily corroded engine cradles and subframes during routine service appointments or inspections. In some cases, the rust damage is so severe that it has caused gaping holes in the metal. This is a serious issue as a rusted subframe could potentially lead to the engine breaking away from the car while it’s in motion, putting the lives of passengers and people nearby at significant risk.
In addition, the 2006 Chrysler Pacifica’s fuel system has been a source of frustration for many owners. The erratic fuel gauge often drops from half to empty without warning, leaving drivers stranded. Some have experienced stalling or shut offs while driving, especially when turning left. Refueling can be a challenge, with the pump clicking off prematurely as if the tank were full. Repairs, including fuel pump and tank replacements, have not resolved these persistent issues.
THE MOST RELIABLE YEAR MODEL FOR THE CHRYSLER PACIFICA
We look at the current generation of the Pacifica minivan and determine which is the most reliable Chrysler Pacifica year and which ones to avoid.
2017 Chrysler Pacifica
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, while initially celebrated for its practicality and appealing design, has proven to be a minefield of mechanical problems that potential buyers should be wary of. As a debut model, it’s unsurprising that this Pacifica is plagued by numerous issues, as evidenced by the staggering number of NHTSA complaints (2,000+) and nine recalls.
One of the most significant and widespread problems is the troublesome transmission, which has left owners frustrated with its clunky shifting, rough gearing, and disconcerting noises. The hefty cost of repairs, especially for those not covered under warranty, has only added to the disappointment. Electrical gremlins have also been a prominent concern, with reports of erratic dashboard messages and turn signals activating independently, further eroding confidence in the vehicle’s reliability.
2018 Chrysler Pacifica
Wrapping up this list of Chrysler Pacifica years to avoid is the 2018 model. While the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica shows some improvements over its predecessor, it still presents several significant issues that should give potential buyers pause. With a high volume of complaints and an alarming 11 recalls, this model year remains risky.
At the top of the problem list is the transmission system, which has exhibited various problems, from erratic shifting and disconcerting noises to complete failure. These issues can lead to dangerous situations, such as unexpected lurching that may cause rear-end collisions. Another concern is the steering, with numerous reports of shuddering during slow, sharp turns or even total loss of control due to a faulty lower right control arm knuckle pinch bolt.
While the 2018 Pacifica may be more viable than the 2017 model, only consider it if it’s properly maintained.
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