Owners have filed 1,377 complaints
about the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica with NHTSA between 2017 and 2026.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 15 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 96
Against the median year of the Chrysler Pacifica. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 36
7% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 100
78% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2018 compares with every other Chrysler Pacifica
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Body
1330.2%
Adaptive Cruise Control
716.3%
Warnings
614.0%
Blind Spot Detection
511.6%
Door
49.3%
Automatic Emergency Braking
37.0%
Latch
37.0%
Warning
24.7%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
549.7%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
17130.9%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
14025.3%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
10018.1%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
447.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
193.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
224.0%
150,000+ miles
40.7%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Side pole crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2018 Chrysler Pacifica VAN FWD
11.6% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Nov 2017peak 48Sep 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
3
investigations are
still open.
PE25009Opened 5 Sep 2025Still openSTEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Intermittent Loss of Electric Power Steering
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is opening this Preliminary Evaluation to assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety consequences of alleged defects related to the electric power steering (EPS) system in model year (MY) 2017–2018 Chrysler Pacifica vehicles. ODI has received 94 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) reporting a condition in which the steering system exhibits a sticking sensation during gradual turns, particularly when the steering wheel is positioned near the 11 o'clock or 1 o'clock position. Complainants allege that during these events, increased steering effort...
RQ24004Opened 27 Feb 2024Still openELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Loss of motive power due to an internal wiring connector short.
On July 22, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened investigation PE22-008 regarding complaints alleging a loss of motive power condition potentially due to a transmission malfunction in Model Years 2019-2021 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV). On January 17, 2023, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) issued safety recall (NHTSA Recall 23V-010) involving 2017-2023 Model Years (MY) Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) produced between August 12, 2016, through January 9, 2023. The recall states that the loss of motive power condition in these vehicle...
RQ24001Opened 16 Jan 2024Still openELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY
Ignition-off high voltage battery fire (Remedy effectiveness of Recall 22V-077)
On February 11, 2022, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) issued a safety recall (NHTSA Recall 22V-077) on all 2017-2018 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) produced between August 12, 2016 through August 7, 2018. The recall addresses ignition “OFF’ fires that originate at the high voltage (HV) battery pack assembly. An ignition ‘OFF’ vehicle fire can result in an increased risk of occupant injury, injury to persons outside the vehicle, and property damage, with little to no warning. At the time of the recall filing the root cause of the vehicle fires was unknown and under investigati...
PE22008Opened 22 Jul 2022Closed 27 Mar 2024POWER TRAIN
Transmission fault leading to loss of motive power
On July 22, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE22008 to investigate allegation of loss of motive power, potentially due to transmission malfunction, in certain Chrysler Pacifica vehicles. In a January 17, 2023 letter to NHTSA, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) submitted recall notice 23V-010 involving a transmission motor wiring defect in 67,118 model year (MY) 2017-2023 Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) manufactured from August 12, 2016 through January 9, 2023. FCA determined that an internal transmission connector short could result in an unexpect...
Recalls on the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Rollx Vans (Rollx) is recalling certain GMC Yukon, Sierra, Chevrolet Express 2500, Ford Transit, E-250, Toyota Sienna, Sienna Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town and Country, Voyager, Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Ram Promaster vehicles equipped with QRT-Deluxe and QRT-Max wheelchair restraints. Please refer to Rollx's recall report for specific model year information. The retractors may not lock, preventing the wheelchair from being properly secured.
Risk: An unsecured wheelchair can move during transit, increasing the risk of injury.
Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2023 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid Electric vehicles (PHEVs). An internal transmission wiring connector may short circuit, resulting in an unexpected engine shutdown.
Risk: An unexpected engine shutdown can cause a loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash.
19V886000
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Pacifica vehicles equipped with an 8.4 inch radio display, 360 degree surround view camera system, and seat back video screens. A software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed on the radio after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."
Risk: The lingering rearview image can distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.
19V348000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Pacifica vehicles equipped with engine stop/start systems. A loose battery ground connection may result in an intermittent loss of power steering assist and/or a stall.
Risk: A loss of power steering assist or a stall can increase the risk of crash.
19V143000
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica hybrid vehicles. The right front lower control arm may separate from the steering knuckle.
Risk: A control arm separation could increase the risk of a crash.
18V524000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Jeep Renegade, Compass and Grand Cherokee, RAM 1500 and Promaster, Fiat 500x, Dodge Journey, Challenger, Charger and Durango and Chrysler 300x vehicles, 2017-2018 Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country vehicles and 2018-2019 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid vehicles. The powertrain control module may be equipped with a voltage regulator chip in the circuit board that may fail, causing a stall or a no start condition.
Risk: A vehicle stall can increase the risk of a crash.
18V492000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2019 Jeep Cherokee vehicles and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica non-hybrid vehicles. A component in the transmission may not have been welded properly, possibly causing the transmission to not transmit engine power to the wheels.
Risk: If the transmission weld fails, the vehicle will stop moving, increasing the risk of a crash.
18V493000
POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT
Chrysler (FCA US LLC) is recalling certain 2018 Chrysler Pacifica vehicles. The front axle halfshafts may have been incorrectly assembled, preventing the shaft from being properly secured to the constant-velocity (CV) joint.
Risk: If the axle shaft disengages from the CV joint, the vehicle will have a loss of drive or allow the vehicle to move while in the "Park" position. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 2024548314,717 units in Canada
Label
Issue: On certain vehicles, the tire and loading information label does not list that there is no spare tire in both official languages. The label reads as "NONE" when it should read as "NONE / AUCUN". Canadian regulations require the information to be listed on the label in both English and French. Safety Risk: This error does not affect vehicle safety. Corrective Actions: This is not a recall. The company has corrected the tire and loading information label for all new vehicles.
Recall 20244122,293 units in Canada
High Voltage
Issue: On certain vehicles, the recall repairs completed by an FCA dealer during recall Z11 (Transport Canada recall no. 2022-063) may not be effective. As a result, a second repair is required. On certain vehicles, a problem inside the high-voltage battery assembly could cause a short circuit. Note: This recall only affects plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models. Safety Risk: A short circuit can create the risk of a fire, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off. Corrective Actions: To reduce the safety risk, FCA advises not to charge your vehicle and to park it outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures until the recall repairs are completed. FCA Canada will notify owners by mail and advise you take your vehicle to a dealership to update the high-voltage battery pack control module (BPCM) software. The dealer will also inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery pack assembly.
Recall 20230087,335 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: On certain plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), a wiring connector inside the transmission could short circuit. As a result, the engine could shut down and cause a sudden loss of power to the wheels. Safety Risk: A sudden loss of power to the wheels could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: FCA will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealership to update the power inverter module (PIM) and, if necessary, update the instrument panel cluster software.
Recall 20220632,317 units in Canada
High Voltage
Issue: On certain Pacifica Hybrid models, there could be a problem inside the high-voltage battery assembly that can cause a fire, even while parked with the ignition off. Safety Risk: The vehicle could catch fire, even while parked and turned off. Corrective Actions: FCA Canada will notify owners by mail advise you take your vehicle to a dealership to update the high-voltage battery pack control module (BPCM) software. The dealer will also inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery pack assembly. FCA advises not to recharge your vehicle, and to park it outdoors and away from other vehicles or structures until the recall repairs have been completed.
Recall 20202543,404 units in Canada
Electrical
Issue: On certain Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV), there could be a problem with the connection at the 12 volt battery isolator post. As a result, the connection could build a high-resistance and overheat. Note: This connection is located on the floor behind the driver's seat. Safety Risk: A high-resistance connection could cause a fire. This can happen even if the vehicle is parked. Corrective Actions: FCA will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to install a gasket on the 12 volt battery isolator post. Additionally, the dealer will also inspect the isolator post connection joint and, if necessary, replace the isolator post and 12 volt electrical cables. Note: FCA advises you to take the following precautions until the final repairs are completed: - Do not park your vehicle inside of a building or structure, or near other vehicles. - Keep liquids out of the backseat area, including things like beverages, wet items, umbrellas, or bottled liquids that may leak.
Recall 20196281,494 units in Canada
Visual System
Issue: On certain vehicles built with an 8.4” radio display, 360 degree surround view camera system, and seat back video screens, the rearview camera image may be displayed even after the transmission is shifted out of reverse. This could cause a possible distraction for the driver. Canadian regulations require the rearview image to turn off within 10 seconds after shifting from reverse gear. Safety Risk: A driver that is distracted could have an increased risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: FCA Canada will notify owners by mail and instruct you to take your vehicle to a dealer to update the radio software.
Recall 20192228,294 units in Canada
Steering
Issue: On certain vehicles equipped with an engine stop/start system, a loose battery connection could cause an intermittent loss of power steering assist and/or a loss of engine power. An intermittent loss of power steering assist could result in sudden changes in steering effort. Safety Risk: Sudden changes in steering effort and/or a loss of engine power could increase the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail and instruct them to take their vehicle to a dealer to inspect and clean the battery ground connection.
Recall 20191062,239 units in Canada
Steering
Issue: On certain vehicles, the right-front lower control arm ball joint could separate from the steering knuckle. This could cause a loss of steering control. Safety Risk: A loss of steering control could create the risk of a crash. Corrective Actions: The company will notify owners by mail. Owners will be instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the right-front steering knuckle and lower control arm inspected for damage. The parts will be replaced as needed. Dealers will also replace the right-front steering knuckle pinch bolt with a larger-diameter bolt.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Honolulu, HICrash2 injured
AIR BAGS
I was in a motor vehicle accident when my passenger side vehicle got t-boned on 3/22/26. My 2018 chrysler pacifica limited airbags failed to deploy and the driver and passenger sustained whiplash injuries.
NHTSA complaint #11738337 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 54,000 milesHamburg, NYCrash
AIR BAGS
The contact owned a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while attempting to park the vehicle in a parking lot, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the accelerator was inadvertently depressed, causing the vehicle to unintendedly accelerate. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle accelerated and crashed into the wall. After the vehicle crashed into the wall, there was an abnormal sound of air coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the sound was not coming from the radiator. Additionally, none of the air bags inside the vehicle had deployed during the crash. The contact and a passenger inside the vehicle sustained bruises in the crash from the seat belts. Medical attention was sought following the crash. A Police report was filed. The vehicle was towed from the scene and deemed a total loss by the Insurance Provider. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 54,000.
NHTSA complaint #11735074 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 54,000 milesHamburg, NYCrash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
The contact owned a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while attempting to park the vehicle in a parking lot, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the accelerator was inadvertently depressed, causing the vehicle to unintendedly accelerate. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle accelerated and crashed into the wall. After the vehicle crashed into the wall, there was an abnormal sound of air coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the sound was not coming from the radiator. Additionally, none of the air bags inside the vehicle had deployed during the crash. The contact and a passenger inside the vehicle sustained bruises in the crash from the seat belts. Medical attention was sought following the crash. A Police report was filed. The vehicle was towed from the scene and deemed a total loss by the Insurance Provider. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 54,000.
NHTSA complaint #11735074 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 159,000 milesBeach Lake, PACrash
POWER TRAIN
The contact owned a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while in reverse(R) and reversing into a parking spot, it was difficult to accelerate over a patch of ice. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle accelerated quickly and failed to stop while depressing the brake pedal and the vehicle drove through a fence and crashed into a brick building and stopped. The contact stated that prior to the failure, the U-Connect phone feature disconnected independently. The failure had never occurred before. The contact stated that the U-Connect failure might have been linked to the unintended acceleration failure. No injuries were sustained. A Police report was not filed. The fence and a side of the brick building were damaged during the crash. The vehicle was initially towed to the residence before being towed to a Collision Center, where the vehicle was deemed a total loss by the Insurance Provider. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 159,000.
NHTSA complaint #11718786 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 159,000 milesBeach Lake, PACrash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owned a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while in reverse(R) and reversing into a parking spot, it was difficult to accelerate over a patch of ice. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle accelerated quickly and failed to stop while depressing the brake pedal and the vehicle drove through a fence and crashed into a brick building and stopped. The contact stated that prior to the failure, the U-Connect phone feature disconnected independently. The failure had never occurred before. The contact stated that the U-Connect failure might have been linked to the unintended acceleration failure. No injuries were sustained. A Police report was not filed. The fence and a side of the brick building were damaged during the crash. The vehicle was initially towed to the residence before being towed to a Collision Center, where the vehicle was deemed a total loss by the Insurance Provider. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 159,000.
NHTSA complaint #11718786 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Point, UTCrash1 injured
POWER TRAIN
Vehicle was put into reverse and did not stop, it hit a pole. Then the driver tried to put in drive to get it off of the pole and it accelerated quickly and the driver could not stop the vehicle. There was little time to react as it hit the side of a building and airbags deployed. Driver stated that the car accelerated on it's own once it was put into gear.
NHTSA complaint #11698911 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Warren, PA
SEATS
I am a disabled Army veteran reporting a severe safety defect and dangerous commercial configuration of adaptive mobility equipment installed by Mobility Works ([XXX]). The business sold me a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica wheelchair van with a heated transfer seat sight-unseen. The dealership delivered a completely non-conforming transfer seat that did not match the photo I bought it from and listed on the window sticker or marketing materials. The installed seat was missing critical structural spacer component, causing the driver's seat to wobble and was especially bad while turning. Furthermore, the vehicle frame creaks loudly under the weight of a VA-issued 400lb power wheelchair, indicating underlying structural collapse from a hidden September 8, 2018, insurance total-loss salvage event. On XXX, the non-conforming transfer seat failed completely. It jammed and refused to rotate, trapping me inside the vehicle. Because of my physical disability, I was entirely helpless and stranded, requiring an emergency response from 911 personnel to extract me from the vehicle. The dealer's regional service manager has inspected the vehicle and admitted that a spacer was missing that cause the seat to wobble and drivers needing 3" cushion to sit on to see over the dash. The vehicle represents a severe, active life-safety hazard to disabled consumers. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11763998 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bluefield, WV
STEERING
While driving my vehicle at approximately 75 MPH on the interstate the steering wheel froze/stuck while executing a long sweeping curve. The steering wheel would not turn and my wife whom was drivng was applying excessive pressure to the steering wheel to keep the vehile from running off the shoulder of the road almost lost control of the van when the steeringwheel broke loose and over corrected and the van made a sudden, sharp turn. This occured during an essentual 2 hor drive to a medical appointment. This vehicle matches the exact failure criteria currenly under active investigation by the NHTSA under PE25009 for steering binding. The manufacturer (Chrysler) refuses to honor or repair this known defect under warranty creating a sever and immediate hazaard for families operating these vans at highway speeds.
NHTSA complaint #11763987 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bluefield, WV
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While driving my vehicle at approximately 75 MPH on the interstate the steering wheel froze/stuck while executing a long sweeping curve. The steering wheel would not turn and my wife whom was drivng was applying excessive pressure to the steering wheel to keep the vehile from running off the shoulder of the road almost lost control of the van when the steeringwheel broke loose and over corrected and the van made a sudden, sharp turn. This occured during an essentual 2 hor drive to a medical appointment. This vehicle matches the exact failure criteria currenly under active investigation by the NHTSA under PE25009 for steering binding. The manufacturer (Chrysler) refuses to honor or repair this known defect under warranty creating a sever and immediate hazaard for families operating these vans at highway speeds.
NHTSA complaint #11763987 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Warren, PA
SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
I am a disabled Army veteran reporting a severe safety defect and dangerous commercial configuration of adaptive mobility equipment installed by Mobility Works ([XXX]). The business sold me a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica wheelchair van with a heated transfer seat sight-unseen. The dealership delivered a completely non-conforming transfer seat that did not match the photo I bought it from and listed on the window sticker or marketing materials. The installed seat was missing critical structural spacer component, causing the driver's seat to wobble and was especially bad while turning. Furthermore, the vehicle frame creaks loudly under the weight of a VA-issued 400lb power wheelchair, indicating underlying structural collapse from a hidden September 8, 2018, insurance total-loss salvage event. On XXX, the non-conforming transfer seat failed completely. It jammed and refused to rotate, trapping me inside the vehicle. Because of my physical disability, I was entirely helpless and stranded, requiring an emergency response from 911 personnel to extract me from the vehicle. The dealer's regional service manager has inspected the vehicle and admitted that a spacer was missing that cause the seat to wobble and drivers needing 3" cushion to sit on to see over the dash. The vehicle represents a severe, active life-safety hazard to disabled consumers. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11763998 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dallas, GA
ENGINE
We had to replace both head gaskets last July with only 70,000 miles on the vehicle. The repair cost was $4,600.00. This August, we started experiencing coolant leaks again. We discovered the cylinder heads are warped now. This was checked last year and it was not the main issue then. It is extremly disappointing that now at 80,000 miles we are looking at another $5000.00+ repair. There needs to be a recall on the engine cylinders and head gasket.
NHTSA complaint #11763638 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ellicott City, MD
WHEELS
During the turns the steering wheel in 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid locks-in. It requires extra force to unlock the steering wheel. This usually happens when the wheel is at 11 or 1 o'clock (30 degrees either direction). This is more noticeable at slow turns like on exit ramps.
NHTSA complaint #11763313 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ellicott City, MD
STEERING
During the turns the steering wheel in 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid locks-in. It requires extra force to unlock the steering wheel. This usually happens when the wheel is at 11 or 1 o'clock (30 degrees either direction). This is more noticeable at slow turns like on exit ramps.
NHTSA complaint #11763313 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Nanuet, NY
STEERING
Reference: NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: PE25009 In the last month, I've noticed steering problem with my mini van. I have to use both hands to steer in a curve and it jerks when coming out of the curve. It feels as if i am loosing control of the van. It also happens when i am changing lanes and steer the wheel past 11 and 1 oclock. It feels as if the car is fighting me to steer.
NHTSA complaint #11762408 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columbus, OH
STEERING
Steering sticks on occasion when turning at highway speeds both left and right around the 1 and 10 o'clock position
NHTSA complaint #11762431 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
State College, PA
ENGINE
The head gasket failed at 89,000 miles. The engine gave P0305 Cylinder 5 misfire codes and would run rough causing difficult to drive in standard traffic flow. There are borescope pictures of coolant in cylinder 5. We stopped using the vehicle until the repair can be completed. This appear to be a WIDESPREAD problem for 2017-2019 Chrysler Pacifica which are numerous on the road and could be hazardous if these vehicles failed on regular roads and highways. See [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11762395 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Camp, NY
ENGINE
Blown head gasket
NHTSA complaint #11761937 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Caldwell, NJ
STEERING
While driving my 2018 Chrysler Pacifica FWD with approximately 86,000 miles, I have noticed abnormal steering behavior when going around gradual curves. The steering does not feel smooth and natural through the turn, and I feel like I have to pull/force the steering wheel to continue through the curve. The steering can feel like it is sticking or resisting rather than smoothly following the turn. This is concerning because it affects the vehicle’s steering response while driving. I brought the vehicle to a mechanic, who inspected it and diagnosed a problem with the steering rack assembly. I was quoted approximately $3,400 to replace the steering rack assembly. I am reporting this because I understand NHTSA is investigating steering problems involving 2017–2018 Chrysler Pacifica vehicles, including reports of steering sticking during gradual turns. The steering wheel does not simply pull to one side; rather, it feels as though the steering itself is resisting or sticking while I am making the turn.
NHTSA complaint #11761425 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Santa Clara, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid unexpectedly rolled after being parked in my residential garage. The van has very low mileage ~60000 miles and is still under Battery Manufacturer warranty. The vehicle had been operating normally and was parked with P displayed on the instrument cluster. It remained unused for approximately 6 days. When the garage door was opened, the vehicle unexpectedly rolled several feet. I believe the closed garage door may have prevented it from moving earlier. A family member who happened to be present stopped the vehicle before a potentially more serious incident occurred. The vehicle and garage door were damaged. Afterward, the vehicle would not start/enter READY mode. The P indicator flashed, selected gear indicators flashed, and “Service Transmission” appeared. The vehicle ultimately required towing. An independent diagnostic scan identified multiple faults, including P07B5-00 (Park Pawl Position Sensor 1 Circuit Performance), P1625-00 (Park Pawl System Failure), and P0AA4-00 (Hybrid/EV Battery Negative Contactor Circuit Stuck Closed). Stevens Creek Chrysler later verified P0AA4-00 as ACTIVE. Their initial reset/weld-check procedure failed and the DTC returned. The dealer then opened Chrysler STAR Case 102963024. Chrysler Technical Assistance provided a PIN/procedure, after which the reset succeeded and vehicle operation was restored. The vehicle was subsequently road-tested and returned to me. However, neither Chrysler nor its authorized dealership has explained why a vehicle parked with P indicated was able to roll, whether the Park-related DTCs were connected to the incident, or whether the condition could recur. I am reporting this because an unexplained rollaway of a parked vehicle presents a serious safety risk. I remain concerned whether the vehicle is safe to park and whether similar incidents may affect other Pacifica Hybrid vehicles.
NHTSA complaint #11760827 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tampa, FL
STEERING
Steering wheel gets stuck on curbes at higher speeds (1 o clock angle). Needs to be pulled back into place to avoid accident. This problem began at around 80k miles on the car. Also gets stuck at 11 o clock as well. My family does not feel safe driving this vehicle because of this issue.
NHTSA complaint #11760714 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tampa, FL
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION
Steering wheel gets stuck on curbes at higher speeds (1 o clock angle). Needs to be pulled back into place to avoid accident. This problem began at around 80k miles on the car. Also gets stuck at 11 o clock as well. My family does not feel safe driving this vehicle because of this issue.
NHTSA complaint #11760714 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tampa, FL
BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS
Steering wheel gets stuck on curbes at higher speeds (1 o clock angle). Needs to be pulled back into place to avoid accident. This problem began at around 80k miles on the car. Also gets stuck at 11 o clock as well. My family does not feel safe driving this vehicle because of this issue.
NHTSA complaint #11760714 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Clarksville, TN
STEERING
While driving the vehicle, the steering wheel is sticking between the 11 o’clock and 1 o’clock position.
NHTSA complaint #11760647 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Clarksville, TN
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While driving the vehicle, the steering wheel is sticking between the 11 o’clock and 1 o’clock position.
NHTSA complaint #11760647 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Southern Pines, NC
STEERING
The wheel suddenly became difficult to turn while driving due to a loss of power steering, but it soon regained normal function. However, not many trips after that, the power steering completely failed. It has not regained function.
NHTSA complaint #11759929 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Natick, MA
STEERING
intermittently, but increasingly, when turning the wheel it feels almost like it gets temporarily stuck or like i no longer am controlling the steering. i notice it more often to the right, but have felt similar to the left. its a bit disconcerting, a bit like when your car starts to slide on ice. i haven't lost control yet but it does not inspire confidence.
NHTSA complaint #11759818 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Fort Worth, TX
STEERING
When in a turn the steering wheel can feel stuck and you have to jerk the wheel to get it unstuck. Which could cause issues if there are cars driving next to you. This seems to be happening more and more often.
NHTSA complaint #11759307 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wantagh, NY
STEERING
SUDDEN, INTERMITTENT STEERING LOSS. THE VEHICLE CAN BE INSPECTED ANY TIME. MY SAFETY AND OTHERS ARE AT RISK. DEALER HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO REPAIR PROBLEM "SERVICE STEERING SYSTEM" WARNING LIGHT COMES ON.
NHTSA complaint #11759106 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Midway, GA
STEERING
Another incidence of a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica with "sticky" or intermittent loss of power steering while driving. This is not chronic at this point in time but is a problem that can catch one out if not paying attention. I ran my vin # and it shows no outstanding unfixed recalls but obviously this is a recurring safety problem that needs to be addressed. Recall V53 / NHTSA 19V-348 are the numbers that pop up from NUMEROUS complaints describing this very same issue.
NHTSA complaint #11759290 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
West Chester, PA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
My vehicle has developed an intermittent and potentially serious safety-related failure. When the Engine Stop/Start system automatically shuts the engine off at a red light or stop sign, the vehicle sometimes fails to restart. At the same time, the electronic gear selector becomes locked, preventing me from selecting Neutral or moving the vehicle out of the roadway. The vehicle is therefore effectively immobilized in traffic. The only recovery method I have found is to disconnect both the main and auxiliary batteries for approximately 10 minutes, reconnect them, and then restart the vehicle. The check-engine light also comes on when the failure occurs. Both the main and auxiliary batteries have already been replaced on August 3rd, 2026, so this is not simply a matter of replacing an old battery. I brought the vehicle to the dealer on August 14, 2026 for inspection. Because I had previously been forced to disconnect the batteries to recover the vehicle, no diagnostic trouble codes were available when the dealer performed its inspection. I understand why this makes diagnosis more difficult, but the absence of codes after the system has been reset does not eliminate the underlying intermittent failure. I am particularly concerned because Chrysler has issued service information addressing closely related problems on the 2018 Pacifica, including S2008000075, concerning no-start, Stop/Start inoperative and Service Shifter conditions, and PCM bulletin 18-001-19, which addresses 2018 Pacifica conditions involving engine restart performance, battery state-of-charge performance, improper powerdown, ECU performance, and TCM/shifter communication faults. My vehicle also previously received the Y65 Engine Stop/Start campaign in 2021. Now in persistent no-start condition remaining in the failed state and can't be reset. The instrument panel powers up, the check-engine light remains illuminated, the vehicle produces a click when the Start button is pressed.
NHTSA complaint #11759046 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Columbia, TN
STEERING
The steering is sticky at highway speeds. While making slight curves, the steering feels momentarily unresponsive and then suddenly catches up to create a high potential for loss of control.
NHTSA complaint #11758842 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
