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2018 Chrysler Pacifica

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2018 Chrysler Pacifica is a popular minivan known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and Stow ‘n Go seating. The standard engine is a 3.6L Pentastar V6 producing 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. A plug-in hybrid version is also available, which combines a modified 3.6L V6 with an electric motor and a 16 kWh battery pack. Owners generally appreciate the Pacifica’s practicality, smooth ride, and available features. However, some common complaints include electrical issues, transmission problems, and concerns about overall reliability.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent oil additions between scheduled changes. Symptoms include the low oil pressure light illuminating, abnormal engine noise, and visible exhaust smoke in severe cases.
    • Solution: Some owners have had success with replacing the PCV valve. More severe cases may require replacing piston rings or the entire engine.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (PCV Valve), $1,500 - $5,000+ (Engine Repair/Replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Engine Misfires
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can cause rough idling, decreased acceleration, and a flashing check engine light. This can be caused by faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors.
    • Solution: Diagnosing the specific cause and replacing the faulty component(s) is required.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electric Motor (Pacifica Hybrid Only)

No Issues Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic (All Non-Hybrid Models)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Many owners have reported experiencing rough shifting, hesitation, and clunking noises, particularly during low-speed driving and gear changes. This can be caused by valve body issues, internal transmission damage, or software glitches.
    • Solution: Some owners have had success with software updates to the transmission control module (TCM). More severe cases may require valve body replacement or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250 (Software Update), $800 - $1,500+ (Valve Body Replacement), $3,000 - $6,000+ (Transmission Rebuild/Replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Hybrid Transmission (Pacifica Hybrid Only)

No Issues Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

  • Uconnect System Freezing/Crashing
    • Description/Symptoms: The Uconnect infotainment system can freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, climate control, and other vehicle functions.
    • Solution: Performing a hard reset of the Uconnect system, updating the software, or replacing the Uconnect module can resolve the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Hard Reset), $100 - $300 (Software Update), $500 - $1,500+ (Uconnect Module Replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sliding Door Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The power sliding doors may fail to open or close properly, become stuck, or exhibit unusual noises. This can be caused by faulty actuators, sensors, or wiring issues.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty actuator, sensor, or repairing the wiring can fix the problem.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Backup Camera Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera may fail to display an image, show a distorted picture, or flicker intermittently.
    • Solution: Replacing the backup camera unit or repairing the associated wiring can resolve the issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain or failure, requiring jump starts or battery replacement.
    • Solution: Replacing the battery, checking for parasitic draws, or addressing charging system issues.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Automatic liftgate failing to open or close
    • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate may fail to respond to button presses or the key fob.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty liftgate actuator or sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Stow ‘n Go Seat Mechanism Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty folding or unfolding the Stow ‘n Go seats, or the mechanism jamming.
    • Solution: Lubricating the mechanism, repairing damaged components, or replacing the seat assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+ (Lubrication/Minor Repair), $500 - $2,000+ (Seat Assembly Replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Dashboard cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material
    • Solution: Replacement of the entire dashboard or use of dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000+ (Dashboard Replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Chrysler Pacifica, while praised for its practicality and features, can suffer from a range of issues. Electrical problems, particularly with the Uconnect system and sliding doors, are relatively common and can be frustrating for owners. The 9-speed automatic transmission has also been a source of complaints due to rough shifting. While some issues can be resolved with software updates or minor repairs, more serious problems like transmission rebuilds or engine work can be costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and carefully inspect the vehicle’s history and condition before making a purchase.

Chrysler, Pacifica
Chrysler Pacifica 2018
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