Even though the Chrysler Pacifica did receive a decent re-entry to the segment back in 2017, the longevity and build of this affordable family van have been turning out quite questionable with each succeeding year. With enormous numbers of recalls and complaints popping up since launch, the Chrysler Pacifica has been a really bad performer in its segment on the aforementioned aspects. Although the 2019 model year sees a drop in these figures comparatively, the recalls number still stays afloat at 5 while the complaint numbers hit 200. So should you be spending $26,980 on the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica or rather go for something well established like the Dodge Grand Caravan, The Honda Odyssey, and the Toyota Sienna? This article should give you a rough idea of what to expect when owning one.
2019 Chrysler Pacifica User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical Complaints
- Engine- Random engine stalls and the inability to restart the engine after a stall are major complaints raised against the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica. Owners also complain about the vehicle failing to start when using the start-stop feature, which in some cases locks the vehicle in park mode. The manufacturer is aware of this issue and did roll out two separate recalls (IDs- 19V348000, 18V524000) to fix the faulty battery ground connection and voltage regulator chip which were the root cause of these problems.
- Transmission- Inability to shift to drive mode from par, lurching when applying brakes, low-speed jerking, and failure to upshift are some common issues seen with the transmission. The unit is also known to cause a stall at times when coming to a halt in drive mode.
- Service brakes- Several owners have complained about the loss of braking force on the 2019 Chrysler Pacificawhen the brake pedals are depressed. Bake shudder and hissing noise is also prominent complaints on this van as per NHTSA reports. Though the latter issue was caused by a rusted brake disc and faulty pads, the former issue, where owners dealt with the occasional loss of braking pressure did not receive any plausible remedy as the issue could not be replicated.
Electric System complaints
- Infotainment- The radio/ infotainment system gets stuck on the backup camera view. This does cause driver distraction and owners are forced to restart the vehicle to bring the system back to the radio menu. The automaker is aware of these issues and has rolled out two separate recalls (IDs-20V191000, 19V886000) to resolve this issue.
- Miscellaneous electrical issues- The 2019 Chrysler Pacifica is prone to many electrical problems such as random cabin equipment power loss, premature battery failure, key-fob issues, infotainment restart, and many more. Though recalls for faulty battery grounding and voltage regulator were made, random issues persist for many owners.
Structural Complaints
- Sliding Door- The second-row sliding door closes or opens unintendedly while parked or while driving due to door lock sensor issues. Though the dealers are aware of this issue, no statement or service bullets have yet been released on this issue by the automaker.
- Steering- A handful of owners have been complaining about the steering pulling hard to one side on the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica. The unit is also said to oscillate on heavy braking or while accelerating. Even though the automaker has rolled out a recall for the replacement of faulty control arms the issue still persists in the 2019 model year vehicles.
Safety Complaints
- Seat belt- The second-row seat belts have the possibility of detaching from their mounting points. Even though the previous model year received a recall on this issue, the 2019 model year owners are left to receive any update on this issue.
2019 Chrysler Pacifica Recalls
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
9th June 2020 |
20V334000 |
12V connector post may overheat and cause fire |
The 12-volt isolator post located behind the driver's seat may develop high resistance, increasing the risk of fire with the vehicle on or off. |
A voluntary safety recalls on affected vehicles to increase the torque and install a waterproof gasket to the 12v isolator post, the post will also be inspected for signs of contamination. In the event the post is compromised, the 12V isolator post and associated cables will be replaced. Interim notifications began on June 22, 2020. |
2 |
2nd April 2020. |
20V191000 |
Rear-view image can remain on display |
A software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse, distracting the driver and increasing the risk of a crash. |
The dealers will update the radio display software, free of charge. Optionally, owners can choose to remotely update their software via an Over-The-Air update available as of May 1, 2019. The recall began on April 27, 2019. |
3 |
12th December 2019 |
19V886000 |
The rearview image can remain on the radio display |
A software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed on the radio after the vehicle has been shifted out of reverse, which may distract the driver and increase the risk of a crash. |
The dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The recall began on January 9, 2020. |
4 |
9th May 2019 |
19V348000 |
Engine stall or loss of power steering assist |
A loose battery ground connection may result in an intermittent loss of power steering assist and/or a stall, increasing the risk of a crash. |
The dealers will inspect the battery ground surfaces, clean the contact surfaces as needed, and properly reassemble the ground connection, free of charge. The recall began on May 24, 2019. |
5 |
9th August 2018 |
18V524000 |
Voltage regulator may fail and cause stall |
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, increasing the risk of a crash. |
The dealers will replace the powertrain control module, free of charge. The recall began on October 2, 2018. |
Should you buy a used Chrysler Pacifica?
With base prices starting under 27 grand, the Chrysler Pacifica is certainly a great option for someone looking for the most value-oriented family vans. The sleek design, upmarket cabin, and familiar layout made it an easy choice for those browsing in the lower part of the price spectrum. However, being a relatively new product, the Chrysler Pacifica suffered from glaring numbers of electrical and mechanical issues that are still troubling current model years. Though Chrysler has been quick on rolling out recalls, the issue seems to be far from over at this point. We are never against value-oriented products, but with a janky durability record, this one comes out as a tough pill to swallow and recommend as a used buy.