3 Common Chrysler Pacifica Problems

A list of some of the most common issues Pacifica owners have to deal with.

  1. UConnect Frozen with Blank Screen

    Uconnect infotainment systems will often boot into a blank screen, freeze while the vehicle is in REVERSE, become unresponsive to the touch, or reboot at random times. The system has grown over the years, both in size and features, but the …

    Continue reading article "UConnect Frozen with Blank Screen" Ram console with uConnect loaded on the infotainment screen
  2. TIPM Electrical Problems

    If you've heard of a TIPM, chances are you own a vehicle from Fiat-Chrysler (FCA). Think of it like a command center for all the electrical functions of your car, and in FCA's case a very, very disfunctional one.

    Continue reading article "TIPM Electrical Problems"
  3. Pacifica Cradle Rot

    The 2004-08 Pacifica might as well be nicknamed the engine-dropper because they have a common issue where the engine cradles rust, rot and split apart to the point where the engine can fall out. Why these years specifically? And what is Chr…

    Continue reading article "Pacifica Cradle Rot"

What Pacifica Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

Pacifica Generations

The Pacifica has 2 generations, each with their own issues. Using the same PainRank™ system we've determined that you're better off avoiding the 1st generation (2004–2008).

Pacifica Key Numbers

  1. 776 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  2. 244 service bulletins

    Documenting the process of troubleshooting common problems.

  3. 18 recall campaigns

    Time-sensitive, free repairs for widespread safety problems.

Pacifica Class-Action Lawsuits

The Pacifica has been named as a class vehicle in the following lawsuits.

  • Rasnic et al v. FCA US LLC.

    1. Case Filed

      This plaintiff alleges their Dodge Dart Uconnect system began to freeze and then shut off in April 2016, leaving a blank, black screen that didn't work, so the plaintiffs took their car to a dealership for repairs while the Dart was still under warranty. The dealership replaced the Uconnect system on May 14, 2016, but that same day the replacement system began to randomly black out.

Recent Pacifica News

There's a lot of news out there, but not all of it matters. We try to boil down it to the most important bits about things that actually help you with your car problem. Interested in getting these stories in an email? Signup for free email alerts over at CarComplaints.com.

  1. A second lawsuit has been filed concerning Uconnect defects in the 2017-2019 Chrysler 300 and Pacifica.

    Much like the first, the plaintiffs claim the system is nothing but an endless series of reboots and headaches.

    The plaintiffs say the Uconnect 8.4A system is still defective after multiple replacements. And that there's at least 17 technical bulletins about the 4th generation Uconnect system, but none of them seem to actually do anything productive.

    The case, Pistorio, et al., v. FCA US LLC, was filed in Michigan.

    keep reading article "Lawsuit Says Chrysler's Uconnect Often Freezes and Loses All Functionality"
  2. There's something seriously wrong with the 8.4A and 8.4AN Uconnect systems and a lawsuit wants Chrysler to do something about it.

    Namely because the defects limit access to backup cameras, navigation systems, and climate control.

    But also because having the system freeze and endlessly reboot is super annoying. Full stop.

    The plaintiffs tell the familiar tale of bringing in their vehicle multiple times and having software updated and parts replaced. And yet, the problems still exist and dimish the resale value of their cars.

    The case, Gerritsen, et al., v. FCA US, LLC, et al., was filed in California.

    keep reading article "Uconnect 8.4A System and Repair Process Is Woefully Defective, Says Lawsuit"
  3. Pay extra attention if you’re driving around in a 2018 Pacifica or Pacifica Hybrid minivan.

    Fiat-Chrysler says the vans could experience a sudden separation of the right front lower control arm ball joint studs from the steering knuckles. That’s a disaster if you’re a fan of steering control.

    All vans built between 11/01/2017 and 03/01/2018 will be recalled starting next month.

    keep reading article "Pacifica Realled for Sudden Loss of Steering Control"
  4. What's worse than seat belts that don't work? How about seat belts that don't work and can turn into projectiles in a crash.

    The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica minivans have overhead seat belt stow clips that can break and cause the seat belts to be useless in a crash. The clips can also turn into projectiles and cause harm to occupants.

    The issue was narrowed to Pacifcas built between 02/22/2016 and 04/28/2016, roughly 3,500 vans. They'll all need to be recalled, but Chrysler hasn't said when that'll begin.

    keep reading article "2017 Pacifica’s Rear Seat Belts Recalled"