FaultScore

FaultScore report

2018 Chrysler Pacifica problems

Owners have filed 1,353 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.

D

FaultScore 79/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Chrysler Pacifica.

How this is worked out

The numbers

1,353

Complaints

53

Crashes reported

23

Fires reported

20

Injuries reported

12,700 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

78%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

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.

Complaint volume 95 vs 50 Severity 37 vs 50 Early failure 100 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 95
Against the median year of the Chrysler Pacifica. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 37
7.1% 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

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

Engine & Cooling 373 27.6%

5 crashes, 6 fires · median 11,571 mi

Electrical System 283 20.9%

10 crashes, 7 fires · median 13,000 mi

Steering 161 11.9%

8 crashes, 0 fires · median 12,900 mi

4 crashes, 0 fires · median 14,000 mi

3 crashes, 3 fires · median 18,250 mi

0 crashes, 3 fires · median 5,500 mi

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 11,621 mi

4 crashes, 0 fires · median 17,951 mi

2 crashes, 1 fires · median 10,818 mi

Brakes 31 2.3%

6 crashes, 1 fires · median 6,000 mi

Suspension 20 1.5%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 9,077 mi

2 crashes, 1 fires · median 15,390 mi

Seats 9 0.7%

Median failure at 20,000 miles

Airbags 9 0.7%

6 crashes, 1 fires · median 44,000 mi

Wheels 7 0.5%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 3,559 mi

Windows, Mirrors & Wipers 6 0.4%

Median failure at 75,015 miles

Equipment & Accessories 5 0.4%

Median failure at 47,000 miles

Doors, Latches & Locks 4 0.3%

Median failure at 47,000 miles

Seat Belts 3 0.2%

Median failure at 3,500 miles

Tires 3 0.2%

Median failure at 800 miles

Child Seats 1 0.1%
Lights 1 0.1%

Exactly what failed

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 13 31.0%
Adaptive Cruise Control 7 16.7%
Warnings 6 14.3%
Blind Spot Detection 4 9.5%
Door 4 9.5%
Automatic Emergency Braking 3 7.1%
Latch 3 7.1%
Warning 2 4.8%

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

Under 1,000 miles 54 9.7%
1,000 – 9,999 miles 171 30.9%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 140 25.3%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 100 18.1%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 44 7.9%
75,000 – 99,999 miles 19 3.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles 22 4.0%
150,000+ miles 4 0.7%

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 2017 peak 48 Aug 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.

PE25009 Opened 5 Sep 2025 Still open STEERING: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...

RQ24004 Opened 27 Feb 2024 Still open ELECTRICAL 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...

RQ24001 Opened 16 Jan 2024 Still open ELECTRICAL 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...

PE22008 Opened 22 Jul 2022 Closed 27 Mar 2024 POWER 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.

United States — NHTSA

25V876000

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY:WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINTS/SECUREMENT:LATCH/ANCHOR:

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.

23V010000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:CONNECTORS/PLUGS/RECEPTACLES

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 2024548 314,717 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 2024412 2,293 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 2023008 7,335 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 2022063 2,317 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 2020254 3,404 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 2019628 1,494 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 2019222 8,294 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 2019106 2,239 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.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

Honolulu, HI Crash 2 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 miles Hamburg, NY Crash

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 miles Hamburg, NY Crash

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 miles Beach Lake, PA Crash

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 miles Beach Lake, PA Crash

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, UT Crash 1 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.

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.

Pittsboro, NC

ENGINE

This report is for a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica with 90,100 miles. The check engine light came on in July 2026. It was a cylinder 5 misfire. The spark plugs and ignition coil were replaced. The check engine light came on again about 2 weeks later (cylinder 5 misfire again), was dismissed and reset by the shop, and came on again about 2 weeks later. This time, the shop diagnosed cylinder 5 misfire due to "cylinder 5 is leaking coolant into the cylinders." They quoted $12,000 for engine replacement. Went for 2nd opinion at a Chrysler dealership. They confirmed cylinder 5 misfire due to coolant leaking into cylinder 5. Cylinder 5 had low compression. Tech recommended replacing cylinder head for $6200. My research shows that this issue is common for the Pacificas, so I reached out to both Chrysler and the dealer for goodwill assistance with the repair. It was declined due to the van being older than 2019. I cannot continue to drive it with this issue, due to the safety risk of engine failure while operating.

NHTSA complaint #11758848 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Denville, NJ

STEERING

When driving at higher speeds, around 50 mph +, the steering wheel gets stuck into position. You have to over correct it out of the stuck position to stay in the lane. When in a turn, it get stuck around 1 or 11 o'clock and you have to pull hard to the left or right to get it out of the stuck position, which makes you drift into the wrong lane in the stuck position, then swerve towards the wrong lane to fix it. It seems to be getting worse over time. When driving at low speeds, 5mp +, when in a turn, the whole steering wheel column shudders when going back to the straight position. It happens when turning into driveways and parking lots, and can be very startling. The vehicle has been taken to Chrysler service centers multiple times but they always say they can't recreate the problems.

NHTSA complaint #11758773 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Alexandria, VA

STEERING

NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: PE25009 The steering now appears to stick while going into and out of corners on the highway. The problem gets worse as speed increases.

NHTSA complaint #11758598 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 120,000 miles Bradford, VT

POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver, and the vehicle stalled. The message "Power Train" was displayed on the instrument panel. The failure occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the auxiliary battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

NHTSA complaint #11758035 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Merrimack, NH

STEERING

Driving down the road at medium speeds, steering seems to bind or catch at about "1-3pm" when turning to the right - had two near misses and several others that would have been if I had not been on alert. This issue developed in the last 200 miles. Current mileage is 99,995.

NHTSA complaint #11757949 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Dallas, GA

STEERING

Driving at speeds above 50 mph the steering wheel sticks or catches when I’m trying to turn. If you check subreddits and other places online, this is a very well known issue that needs to be addressed. It could be very dangerous if you couldn’t correct it while in a curve. I’m surprised this isn’t a recall already being that it happens at high speeds and deal with the steering rack.

NHTSA complaint #11757297 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Wyoming, MI

STEERING

I have a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. At approximately 110,000–115,000 miles, I began experiencing an intermittent sticking sensation in the steering while driving. When traveling straight and then making a gradual steering correction or beginning a turn, the steering wheel sometimes feels like it sticks in the straight-ahead position. It requires noticeably more effort, or an extra push, to get the wheel to turn rather than steering smoothly. This occurs while the vehicle is in motion and is especially concerning at higher speeds because it interferes with making small, smooth steering corrections. The vehicle also has a noticeable clunk or hard shift at approximately 35 mph while driving. I do not know whether this is related to the steering problem, but I am including it because it is another abnormal condition occurring while the vehicle is in motion. I learned that NHTSA has opened Preliminary Evaluation PE25009 involving 2017–2018 Chrysler Pacificas for intermittent loss of electric power steering. The symptoms described in that investigation, including a sticking sensation during gradual turns and increased steering effort, closely match the steering problem I am experiencing.

NHTSA complaint #11757303 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Gastonia, NC

STEERING

While driving my 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Limited, the steering intermittently sticks or binds slightly when traveling through gradual curves. When exiting the curve, the steering wheel does not naturally return to center and requires additional manual input to straighten the vehicle. The issue is most noticeable during gradual turns and creates concern about potentially overcorrecting when returning the vehicle to a straight path. The vehicle has approximately 102,000 miles. The symptoms appear consistent with those described in NHTSA investigation PE25009 involving 2017–2018 Chrysler Pacificas.

NHTSA complaint #11757126 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Punta Gorda, FL

STEERING

Re: NHTSA Action Number PE25009 Steering wheel exhibits a sticking sensation during gradual turns near the 11 o'clock or 1 o'clock position.

NHTSA complaint #11757028 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Blaine, MN

ENGINE

Failed head gasket that put vehicle in compromised working condition on the roadway - check engine light flash, poor and inconsistent engine running. First indications were 5-10 seconds of rough idle after startup when sitting overnight, then p0303 check engine code for cylinder three misfire as well as loss of coolant. Independent shop confirmed issue and replaced head gasket. Problem appears to have re-occurred after 2 years and 20000 miles with similar indications. Same shop advised likely engine block or cylinder head defect or damage and would not do any tear down or repair short of engine replacement.

NHTSA complaint #11756708 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Albany, NY

AIR BAGS

I was driving to the dealership and stopped at a light and the start stop button turned off completely. Brake locked and wouldn’t start back.

NHTSA complaint #11756111 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Newnan, GA

STEERING

2018 Chrysler Pacifica, when driving on 45 mph and 70 mph curvy roads, the steering wheel “sticks” in the turn position and requires extra force to re-center it. Mainly during right curves, and occasionally on left curves. Chrysler dealer service department suggested replacing entire rack and pinion steering assembly for $6,200.

NHTSA complaint #11756233 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Albany, NY

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I was driving to the dealership and stopped at a light and the start stop button turned off completely. Brake locked and wouldn’t start back.

NHTSA complaint #11756111 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 130,000 miles Banning, CA

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving 15 MPH, there was white smoke coming from the front of the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that coolant was leaking into cylinder #3, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle warranty had expired. The approximate failure mileage was 130,000.

NHTSA complaint #11756330 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Albany, NY

ENGINE

I was driving to the dealership and stopped at a light and the start stop button turned off completely. Brake locked and wouldn’t start back.

NHTSA complaint #11756111 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Fredericksburg, TX

STEERING

Over the last couple of months, while driving around curves, the steering wheel sticks in the 1 or 11 o'clock position. It will not recenter on its own. It is unnerving and dangerous, potentially causing an accident. All suspension components have been inspected and found to be in proper working order. The steering rack seems to be the culprit. No warning lamps, the vehicle seems to be operating normally otherwise.

NHTSA complaint #11755855 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Langhorne, PA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

• July 19 (PM): While driving, the vehicle displayed: ◦ Service Hybrid Electric System (red wrench) ◦ Check Engine Light • July 20 (AM): All warning lights had cleared. • July 20 (PM): While driving, the following warnings appeared simultaneously: ◦ Service Hybrid Electric System (red wrench) ◦ Check Engine Light ◦ Service Electronic Stability Control ◦ Parking Brake Temporarily Unavailable ◦ FCW Unavailable – Service Required ◦ LaneSense Unavailable – Service Required I needed to find an alternate parking spot since the parking brake was not working. • July 21: All warnings cleared except the Check Engine Light, which has remained illuminated continuously since then. • July 25: Upon starting the vehicle, the following warnings returned: ◦ FCW Unavailable – Service Required ◦ Service Hybrid Electric Vehicle System ◦ Parking Brake Temporarily Unavailable ◦ Service Electronic Stability Control ◦ Service Shifter ◦ Check Engine Light Again needed to find an alternate parking spot with parking brake not working. Once again, these warnings disappeared after the next restart, with only the Check Engine Light remaining. Took car to dealership for service. Expected issues had to do with recall work that was completed earlier in the month. They said it was not and that the it was due to loss of can c bus communcation because the star connector failed.

NHTSA complaint #11755706 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Langhorne, PA

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS

• July 19 (PM): While driving, the vehicle displayed: ◦ Service Hybrid Electric System (red wrench) ◦ Check Engine Light • July 20 (AM): All warning lights had cleared. • July 20 (PM): While driving, the following warnings appeared simultaneously: ◦ Service Hybrid Electric System (red wrench) ◦ Check Engine Light ◦ Service Electronic Stability Control ◦ Parking Brake Temporarily Unavailable ◦ FCW Unavailable – Service Required ◦ LaneSense Unavailable – Service Required I needed to find an alternate parking spot since the parking brake was not working. • July 21: All warnings cleared except the Check Engine Light, which has remained illuminated continuously since then. • July 25: Upon starting the vehicle, the following warnings returned: ◦ FCW Unavailable – Service Required ◦ Service Hybrid Electric Vehicle System ◦ Parking Brake Temporarily Unavailable ◦ Service Electronic Stability Control ◦ Service Shifter ◦ Check Engine Light Again needed to find an alternate parking spot with parking brake not working. Once again, these warnings disappeared after the next restart, with only the Check Engine Light remaining. Took car to dealership for service. Expected issues had to do with recall work that was completed earlier in the month. They said it was not and that the it was due to loss of can c bus communcation because the star connector failed.

NHTSA complaint #11755706 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Langhorne, PA

LANE DEPARTURE: WARNING

• July 19 (PM): While driving, the vehicle displayed: ◦ Service Hybrid Electric System (red wrench) ◦ Check Engine Light • July 20 (AM): All warning lights had cleared. • July 20 (PM): While driving, the following warnings appeared simultaneously: ◦ Service Hybrid Electric System (red wrench) ◦ Check Engine Light ◦ Service Electronic Stability Control ◦ Parking Brake Temporarily Unavailable ◦ FCW Unavailable – Service Required ◦ LaneSense Unavailable – Service Required I needed to find an alternate parking spot since the parking brake was not working. • July 21: All warnings cleared except the Check Engine Light, which has remained illuminated continuously since then. • July 25: Upon starting the vehicle, the following warnings returned: ◦ FCW Unavailable – Service Required ◦ Service Hybrid Electric Vehicle System ◦ Parking Brake Temporarily Unavailable ◦ Service Electronic Stability Control ◦ Service Shifter ◦ Check Engine Light Again needed to find an alternate parking spot with parking brake not working. Once again, these warnings disappeared after the next restart, with only the Check Engine Light remaining. Took car to dealership for service. Expected issues had to do with recall work that was completed earlier in the month. They said it was not and that the it was due to loss of can c bus communcation because the star connector failed.

NHTSA complaint #11755706 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Blythewood, SC

STEERING

Engine fail with less than106000 miles. Replace brand new engine November 2025. Steering rack has intermittent power issues. It started having steering issue around July 2026. It makes the steering hard to turn during highway speeds.

NHTSA complaint #11755581 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Blythewood, SC

ENGINE

Engine fail with less than106000 miles. Replace brand new engine November 2025. Steering rack has intermittent power issues. It started having steering issue around July 2026. It makes the steering hard to turn during highway speeds.

NHTSA complaint #11755581 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Redondo Beach, CA

POWER TRAIN

While driving the vehicle the minivan will lose all acceleration. There is usually a preceding error displayed on the dashboard to pull over immediately. The dealership has thus far been unable to fix it.

NHTSA complaint #11754802 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Knoxville, TN

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Lots of power going up steep hills. Especially while AC is on. Almost complete loss of power yesterday with vehicle behind me.

NHTSA complaint #11754761 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Knoxville, TN

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Lots of power going up steep hills. Especially while AC is on. Almost complete loss of power yesterday with vehicle behind me.

NHTSA complaint #11754761 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.