The Chrysler Pacifica brand is well known for its minivans and crossovers, as well as replacements for Chrysler Town & Country minivans. Prior to its introduction as a minivan replacement in 2017, it was used as a crossover SUV.
Chrysler introduced it as a crossover concept in 2004, and its history proves that it can be used for a variety of purposes. According to user reviews, some model years of the Chrysler Pacifica are less recommended and have a greater number of issues than others.
Also, there are some models with a high reliability rating and a higher build quality. Therefore, if you are considering purchasing a Chrysler Pacifica, keep these model years in mind.
Our analysis and discussion of Chrysler Pacifica’s worst and best years are based on reliable sources.
Chrysler Pacifica Generations
As a vehicle that covers different generations, Chrysler Pacifica has been introduced. Through these generations, it served as a mid-size minivan and crossover SUV. With great key features and strong quality, the Chrysler Pacifica began a luxurious crossover SUV journey in 2004 as a mid-size crossover.
The Chrysler Pacifica once again reinvented itself in 2017 by becoming a premium minivan that is rich in quality and versatile in design. The Chrysler Pacifica comes in two distinct generations, according to cars.com:
| Generation | Year | Body type |
| 1st | 2004 to 2008 | Crossover SUV |
| 2nd | 2017 to 2024 | Minivan or Passenger Van |
Each of these model years has its own characteristics. The quality, design, performance, reliability, and longevity of both generations also vary.
Chrysler Pacifica Years to Avoid
Chrysler Pacifica model years 2004, 2005, 2006, 2017, and 2018 must be avoided as a result of reliability ratings, problem counts, safety ratings, recall histories, and other factors. They are more likely to encounter severe problems than others because they counter several severe problems more frequently. You should avoid the following five Chrysler Pacifica model years:
2004 Chrysler Pacifica
Chrysler Pacifica models from 2004 are among the oldest models of the crossover, with most of the reported problems occurring with their body or paint, engines, suspensions, interior accessories, or electrical systems. The most common problems of the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica are rusting frames and subframes, clunking suspensions, and rusting engine cradles. If the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica is one of the avoidable model years, then these are the worst and most troublesome problems reported by several owners.
2005 Chrysler Pacifica
In terms of electrical malfunctions, fuel system issues, engine problems, and drivetrain issues, this model year is similar to the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica. In 2005, rusted-out engine cradles, subframes, and rusted cradles are the most common Chrysler Pacifica problems.
In 2005, the Chrysler Pacifica received a severe rating for corroded subframe cradles and engine cradles. It is Chrysler Pacifica’s worst year with the highest number of complaints.
2006 Chrysler Pacifica
Users have been unable to avoid this year’s model due to engine failures, transmission problems, and suspension issues. Among the worst problems of the 2006 Chrysler Pacifica are engine cradle rot, corroded subframe, and rusted motor cradle. The interior accessories of an earlier model can also sometimes cause problems. The cost of repairing this model was a result of these complaints.
2017 Chrysler Pacifica
There were several recalls in 2017 due to faulty transmissions, electrical systems, cooling mechanisms, hybrid propulsion systems, and speed controls. As an early model of the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, the 2017 has several downsides, including seat belts, service brakes, powertrain, equipment, and other components. Hard shifting, difficult fueling, and sudden loss of steering are the most severe and troublesome problems of the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica.
2018 Chrysler Pacifica
In 2018, Chrysler Pacifica reported frequent and troublesome transmission, electrical, engine, sliding door, and hybrid propulsion system problems. The repair costs are too high, and the problems may pose serious safety risks. Almost the same problems plague this year’s Chrysler Pacifica as those in an early model.
Best Chrysler Pacifica Years
In addition to 2008, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, Chrysler Pacifica has five amazing model years you should consider when buying. The best Chrysler Pacifica years have fewer recalls, a high safety rating, and a high level of reliability.
2008 Chrysler Pacifica
As an updated Pacifica crossover, the 2008 model offers improved engine quality and interior materials. With sleek design and luxurious materials, it’s quite affordable and reliable. In comparison to previous models, this model has received fewer complaints and been recalled fewer times.
2020 and 2021 Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler Pacifica models 2020 and 2021 offer advanced safety features, improved reliability, technological advancements, versatile design, and spacious interiors that make them the most desirable and appealing models. With its plug-in hybrid technology and efficient fuel management system, the 2021 model has powerful features.
2022 and 2023 Chrysler Pacifica
Aside from being highly reliable, the Chrysler Pacifica 2022 and 2023 are also among the most recent models on the market. Families will appreciate their family-friendly features, the latest technologies, hybrid and all-wheel drive systems, safety, and versatility. Because of their durability and strong engine qualities, consumers are mostly satisfied with these years. Compared to other minivan models, they suffer from fewer issues and with less severity.
Common Chrysler Pacifica Problems
Although the Chrysler Pacifica crossover and minivan are not similar, they share some common problems. In Chrysler Pacifica crossovers and minivans, there are some common problems such as:
1. Transmission Problem
Transmission problems in Chrysler Pacifica include hard shifting, hesitations and lungs, difficulty shifting into park, noisy transmission, transmission failure, fluid leak, loss of power while accelerating, powertrain issues, slipping transmission, difficulty moving in reverse, rough engagement, and stopping to work. A slipping transmission and jerking are two of the worst problems with the 2018 Pacifica. As a result of these problems, vehicles suffer severe damage, which later turns into a disaster.
2. Engine Issues
Both the Pacifica crossover and Pacifica minivan have noticeable problems such as a rusted cradle, rotted cradle, stalled engine, a malfunctioning engine light, a fire, excessive oil consumption, unintended acceleration, stuck acceleration, dropped valve, not exceeding 3000 RPM, speed control issues, a problematic engine cooler, a dead engine while driving, and misfiring cylinders. In the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica and some other Pacifica minivans, there have been some serious problems with hybrid propulsion systems and cruise control systems.
3. Electrical Malfunctions
Various electrical problems such as ABS brake light issues, power loss, catch-on fires, cruise control acceleration, trouble opening doors, shut down while driving, no power, auto start or stop, locks fail, etc. The Chrysler Pacifica is most commonly reported for electrical problems. Long-term damage to the vehicle is caused by electrical malfunctions. There are often complaints about problems with the compressor and locking mechanism of the air conditioner.
4. Interior Accessories Problems
Chrysler Pacifica crossovers and minivans both experienced interior accessories issues, such as issues with the ABS light, the instrument panel, the gas cap indicator, flickering headlights, going off alarms and horns, maladjusted power seats, failed locking mechanisms, and malfunctioned seats, vibrating front door speakers, back up camera issues, rattling headlights, comfortable headrests, falling off panel, malfunctioning parking sensors, poor height adjustment, poorly designed center console. Both types of Chrysler Pacifica have interior issues, but the worst years had the most.
5. Low Quality Body Paint
A Chrysler Pacifica’s body or paint may be faulty in most model years. The Pacifica minivan provides protection against bubbled or rusting paint, pitted and oxidized paint, sliding doors opening on their own, scraping noise caused by low clearance, etc. In some crossover model years, the motor cradle may be rusted, the subframe may be corroded, the front end frame can rust, the paint may bubble, the clear coat may peel, and the K frame may be rusted-out.
Chrysler Pacifica Reliability by Year
Chrysler Pacifica is a popular midsize minivan that has earned the satisfaction of its consumers. As a luxurious crossover SUV and a versatile family minivan, it is considered reliable. The frequent recalls and less durability of some model years lead to reliability issues.
Based on Edmunds consumer ratings, J.D Power, and Cars.com, here are the reliability ratings for Chrysler Pacifica by year:
| 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
Identifying the avoidable years can be done by looking at the problem counts of the model years, as the problem counts show which years are more problematic and which are less problematic. The frequency of terrible problems is higher in some model years.
Based on NHSTA and CarComplaints.com reports, here is the problem count 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: the (*) represents the years with the most and most frequent severe problems.
Chrysler Pacifica Recalls
Various model years of vehicles are recalled by vehicle manufacturers and official organizations, such as NHSTA, due to problematic components. Various model years of the Chrysler Pacifica have been recalled, according to NHSTA. Years ago, a few models were not recalled due to their outstanding design and quality.
Check out the recall numbers and parts that are responsible for the problem 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) |
How Many Miles Does Chrysler Pacifica Last?
Maintenance systems, driving conditions, previous ownership, driving habits, and the durability of the components all play a role in determining the durability and longevity of the Chrysler Pacifica. It is estimated that Chrysler Pacifica vehicles can last up to 200,000 miles on average.
Maintaining the vehicle well and driving it carefully with caution will ensure that it will give its best until it reaches its maximum mileage. However, if it is not properly maintained, followed, and driven roughly, it may not last to the maximum.
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Are Chrysler Pacifica Reliable?
Different model years and driving habits affect the reliability of the Chrysler Pacifica. Some of the earlier models received lower reliability ratings due to problem counts and consumer dissatisfaction, while the latest and recent models received high reliability ratings.
It is also important to consider the owners’ feedback when determining the reliability of a vehicle. Various trusted analytics rank the Chrysler Pacifica highly in terms of reliability. In addition to durability and maintenance, reliability is also determined by the system’s efficiency.
