Chrysler Pacifica problems
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Chrysler Pacifica model years
Common Chrysler Pacifica problems
The Chrysler Pacifica is a popular minivan, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported. These issues range from electrical and engine problems to transmission and paint concerns.
One of the most reported problems with the Chrysler Pacifica is its faulty paint, which bubbles and prematurely peels off, exposing metal surfaces. This issue is particularly prevalent in the 2017 model year, and it can lead to rusting and further damage to the vehicle's exterior.
Another common problem with the Pacifica is its transmission. Cruise control defects, transmission problems, and carbon buildup are all issues that have been reported by owners.
In addition to these issues, the Chrysler Pacifica has also been known to have problems with its steering, suspension, and body/paint. Some owners have had to replace the nine-speed automatic gearbox, which can start to run jerky and dry before finally breaking down. The sliding doors can also open or close unexpectedly, which can be a safety concern.
Recalls have also been a problem for the Chrysler Pacifica. There are over twenty recalls for the Pacifica, with one affecting all model years (2017 to 2023) of the Pacifica hybrid. A wiring connector inside the transmission could short-circuit in some cases, resulting in a loss of power. The vast majority of recalls concern early-generation Pacifica models (2017 and 2018), hybrid or otherwise. These often affect only a small number of units, but they can still be a cause for concern for Pacifica owners.
In conclusion, while the Chrysler Pacifica is a popular and well-designed minivan, it has its share of common problems that owners have reported. These issues range from paint and transmission problems to electrical and safety concerns. It's worth noting that many of these issues have been reported in earlier model years, and that more recent models may have addressed some of these concerns. However, potential buyers should still be aware of these issues and do their due diligence before purchasing a Chrysler Pacifica.
What problems does the Chrysler Pacifica have?
On the other hand, the Pacifica has experienced problems with its steering, transmission and suspension. Some owners have had to replace the nine-speed automatic gearbox, which can start to run jerky and dry before finally breaking down. Like many others, the Pacifica is not immune to electronic glitches.
What years to avoid on Chrysler Pacifica?
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).
Are Chrysler Pacificas reliable?
The Chrysler Pacifica minivan has above-average reliability scores on RepairPal with a 3.5 out of 5, but its annual repair cost is pricey. Cruise control defects, paint peeling and rusting, and transmission problems are notable common problems for the Pacifica minivan.
How many miles will a Chrysler Pacifica last?
150,000 to 200,000 miles
On average, a well-maintained Chrysler Pacifica for sale can be expected to last anywhere from 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. This translates to about 10 to 15 years of use. However, it's important to note that these are just estimates, and individual experiences may vary.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chrysler Pacifica years
We have researched Chrysler problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chrysler Pacifica cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chrysler Pacifica model years:
- Chrysler Pacifica 2017
- Chrysler Pacifica 2005
- Chrysler Pacifica 2004
- Chrysler Pacifica 2006
- Chrysler Pacifica 2018
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chrysler Pacifica model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chrysler Pacifica years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chrysler Pacifica car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chrysler Pacifica , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chrysler Pacifica vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Pacifica model years
A total of 176 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Pacifica model years
There were a total of 100 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Pacifica model years
There were a total of 154 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Pacifica model years
There were a total of 13 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 6123 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chrysler Pacifica . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chrysler Pacifica vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chrysler Pacifica 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 2C4RC1BG2HR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Touring L with 3.6L engine. Odometer 78623 miles. Noted rough idling of engine for a few seconds when started. Later in day, at low speeds, check engine light came on solidly (no flashing) for a few seconds and then turned off. Early next morning took van to reputable local mechanic who has maintained the vehicle according to Chrysler recommendations. They pulled error code P0305 Cylinder misfire. They removed and inspected spark plug which showed minor deposits. Looked in cylinder with bore scope which showed orange-redish discoloration on piston. Put new spark plug on #5 and swapped coil #5 with coil #3. Coolant was low but no coolant leak was discovered. Van never had an overheating episode. All maintenance was performed according to Chrysler recommended schedule, first by local Chrysler dealership, and then by this same mechanic shop. Diagnosis, warped or fractured cylinder head resulting in coolant leak into cylinder. Pictures were taken by shop and available on request.
Chrysler Pacifica 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 2C4RC1BG8KR
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On 4 occasions upon stopping at either traffic lights or stop signs the vehicle has completely shut off and shift to park on its own. The first time it shown the hood was open, upon checking the hood was locked. The other times there were no alerts indicated on the instrument panel.
Chrysler Pacifica 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 2C4RC1BG8KR
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: After backing up and putting the vehicle in DRIVE the backing up camera will remain on for up to 10 second.
Chrysler Pacifica 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 2C4RC1N74NR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The vehicle is equipped with multizone AC, and one day the REAR passenger AC system malfunctioned. This occurred during the heatwave period this summer. The AC would not turn off, after multiple attempts, neither through the infotainment screen nor the manual buttons. We tried all possible ways to turn it off and it would not. Furthermore, it was automatically set to high heat, and the temperature also could not be changed. It is available for inspection if needed. Our [XXX] child was the rear seat occupant at the time, and was on the verge of overheating. We took the vehicle to the dealership, explained the issue in detail, and also showed them the clear video evidence of the problem. Because the issue was intermittent, they did not inspect it nor repaired it because it was working fine in their possession. Manufacturer was also notified of the issue, and repeated the same dialogue as the dealer, which is, that they can not resolve it if they can not reproduce it. There were no warning codes, lights, or messages for this issue. After receiving the vehicle back from the dealer, unrepaired, the problem happened again the same day. It is now back at another dealer hoping to be repaired and the issue diagnosed/reproduced. This is making us very nervous if it happens again, during a freeway drive or a long road trip, our road safety and children's health is at risk. The dealership and manufacturer have not demonstrated urgency for this matter, and treat it as any other "intermittent" issue. They advised us to bring it back if it occurs again. Should we really be testing these diagnostics on the road with our children's safety or comfort at stake? Thank you for giving us the opportunity to bring this matter to your attention. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Chrysler Pacifica 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 2C4RC1H79KR
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Recall # 72B/NHTSA 24V-538 The recall was issued on July 18th. Today is October 24th. That's more than 3 months and there's still no info on a remedy or a timeline.
Chrysler Pacifica 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 2C4RC1BG9HR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power with no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 168,854.
Chrysler Pacifica 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 2C4RC1GG9LR
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: My van once again gave the stop safely, vehicle will shut off soon & stopped right in the middle of the intersection. I’ve lost count on how many times this has happened!!
Chrysler Pacifica 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 2C4RC1H77LR
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Chrysler Pacifica 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 2C4RC1S76MR
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: My wife was driving driving the vehicle on October 21st, 2024. She was shifting from Park to Drive just after our children got out of the vehicle in the school parking lot when the whole vehicle froze up and the dashboard lite up with all error lights including the engine light. It was flashing "Service Hybrid Battery System", "Service Transmission", "Turn off parking brake" and the Vehicle began to power cycle on and off, then on with gas motor, then on with electric motor. The vehicle could not be powered off and it could not be shifted out of gear and the parking brake could not be disengaged. The tow truck had to drag our Pacifica onto the flatbed while it continued to turn on and off and cycle through the engine and hybrid system. This vehicle has 36,000 miles and just had the transmission replaced under the "Recall for hybrid transmission systems" This is the second time this has happened, it originally occurred at 7000 miles and after the dealer had it for a week we were told there was no problem. The dealer had to pull a bunch of fuses and the 12v battery to get the vehicle to stop turning off and on, the same thing happened this time when it was dragged off the flatbed at the dealer.
Chrysler Pacifica 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 2C4RC1N70JR
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The unresolved recall with no remedy stems from an earlier recall is entering its fourth month with no further communications from the manufacturer about the status of the remedy. There has been no compensation provided to car owners with increased carrying costs due to the manufacturing failures, decreased car valuation due to repeated failed attempts to remedy the same recall, nor indirect costs of extended stress and fear. I am unable to park my car by my house due to the fire risk, which has required me to buy monthly parking passes. I am unable to charge my car, which has caused increased gas costs. I previously paid to install a level 2 charger in my home, which I am unable to use. Additionally a concerning electrical noise has started to occur when starting the car or long after turning the car off. I am continually anxious about driving this car with my children, but I have no other choice to continually put all of us at risk. Jul 18,2024 Manufacturer Recall Number73B NHTSA Recall Number24V-536 Recall Status Recall Incomplete, remedy not yet available
Chrysler Pacifica 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 2C4RC1BG0NR
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Wheel Bearing failure at 70,000 miles. Almost caused a head on crash.
Chrysler Pacifica 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 2C4RC1BG0NR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: This vehicle is 2 years old. It died while I was away from home. It was diagnosed as needing two new batteries. This is the 3rd Chrysler vehicle that I have had to replace batteries in. One vehicle required two battery replacements. This is an ongoing issue, it has to be a known issue. There needs to be some accountability with Chrysler
Chrysler Pacifica 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 2C4RC1GG3HR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while children were attempting to exit the vehicle from the rear driver’s side sliding door, the door failed to open as needed. The contact attempted to manually open the door from outside the vehicle and was unable to open the door. The contact stated that while driving to the dealer to service the door, the door ajar message was displayed on the instrument panel, accompanied by a warning chime. The contact closed the door which corrected the failure. Once the vehicle was at the dealer, the failure was diagnosed, and the contact was provided an estimate for the repair. Upon investigation, the contact discovered Manufacturer Communication Number: 08-027-18(Electrical System) which was linked to the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle had been repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
Chrysler Pacifica 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 2C4RC1S73NR
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Van shut down on the freeway last night. 3 warnings came up on dash. Stop Safely, Vehicle shutting down soon engine warning light red turtle, "limp mode" light van is a 2022 pacifica hybrid limited with less than 25000 miles
Chrysler Pacifica 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 2C4RC1GG3HR
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, there was an abnormal odor coming from the engine compartment. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that there was a leak in the fuel rail and the fuel rail needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,200.
Latest 5 recalls Chrysler Pacifica
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 48 recalls for different components of the Chrysler Pacifica.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Chrysler Pacifica 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-24
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Pacifica and 2020-2021, 2023 Voyager vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the side curtain air bags may prevent the air bags from deploying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will secure the connector, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is A8B.
- Model: Chrysler Pacifica 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-24
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Pacifica and 2020-2021, 2023 Voyager vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the side curtain air bags may prevent the air bags from deploying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will secure the connector, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is A8B.
- Model: Chrysler Pacifica 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-24
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Pacifica and 2020-2021, 2023 Voyager vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the side curtain air bags may prevent the air bags from deploying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will secure the connector, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is A8B.
- Model: Chrysler Pacifica 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-24
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Pacifica and 2020-2021, 2023 Voyager vehicles. An improperly secured connector for the side curtain air bags may prevent the air bags from deploying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 214, "Side Impact Protection" and 226, "Ejection Mitigation."
- Consequence: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will secure the connector, free of charge. All vehicles have been remedied. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 7, 2024. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA's number for this recall is A8B.
- Model: Chrysler Pacifica 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-13
- Manufacturer: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC)
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Chrysler (FCA US, LLC) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Dodge Durango, 2021-2023 Chrysler Pacifica, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, 2022 Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, Chrysler Voyager, 2022-2023 Jeep Compass, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram Promaster vehicles. The radio software may prevent the rearview image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A rearview camera image that does not display decreases the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the radio software or the software will be OTA, "Over-The-Air," free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning July 9, 2024. Owners may contact FCA US, LLC customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA US, LLC's numbers for this recall are 66B and 79B.
Latest negative Chrysler Pacifica car reviews
Latest positive Chrysler Pacifica car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2004
I have owned and rented dozens of cars, but the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica stands out as the best car I have ever driven. It not only looks great, but also drives great, and has a lot of Mercedes in it. It truly is an elegant car, and I wouldn't change a thing about it. Although some of the features, like the second seat CD player, are not useful to me since we have no children, I'm sure they will help with the resale value. However, I cannot imagine ever wanting to get rid of this ride. During our search for a comfortable seating option for my wife's serious back problem, we test drove 8-10 vehicles, but this car was head and shoulders above the others.
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Vehicle year: 2007
The car was purchased new in 2007 and has since covered 100000 miles. It has had no repairs and the original brakes are still in good condition. The upholstery shows no signs of wear and tear. The car has only required regular maintenance, which has been affordable.
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Vehicle year: 2004
I bought this car when it was only 1 year old and had 15k miles on it. Initially, it required some warranty work such as tie rod end and rear transaxle leak, but I bought an extended warranty because of the repairs. Since then, it has been a solid car. Although it is under-powered, it is a great highway cruiser. The cabin is large, comfortable, and well-appointed, which is perfect for me as I am 6'4
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Vehicle year: 2021
We absolutely adore our 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Pinnacle with about 500 miles on it! The exterior looks fantastic and the interior in the Pinnacle trim is simply incredible. Even my wife, who always said she would never drive a minivan, changed her mind after experiencing the Pacifica. It is fully electric for 32-35 miles and then turns into a hybrid, and we are still on the original tank of gas after two weeks and 500 miles - which is quite impressive for a 7 passenger vehicle. Not only is it efficient and interesting being electric, but it is also very comfortable and enjoyable to drive. The Pinnacle trim level (top trim level) offers more features for a $52-53k msrp than you would find in a $70-100k SUV. It boasts high-end leather, a full glass roof, heated & cooled seats & heated steering wheel, rear screens that allow kids to play games with each other, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, parking assist (it can almost drive itself) and pretty much any other feature you could ask for. The only downside to the hybrid version is that you lose the stow and go seats, rear heated seats, no vacuum and you can't get the larger wheel package. But being fully electric on most trips around town while being able to carry 7 people comfortably makes up for that. With young kids, it is so much more practical and easier to get in and out of than a three-row SUV. In addition to being a great vehicle for anyone with young kids, it is also a 6,000 pound GVWR so it qualifies for the current 100% bonus depreciation or section 179 depreciation plus being all electric it also qualifies for the $7,500 federal income tax credit. If you use it in your business and can make use of the full $7,500 tax credit it ends up being the greatest bargain on four wheels with a third row of seats on the planet!We were in the market for a new car before the end of 2020 to take advantage of bonus depreciation. We almost went for a Mercedes GLS or Cadillac Escalade ESV, both of which are very nice SUVs. However, we found a Pacifica Hybrid Pinnacle in the color we wanted on December 31st and it won our hearts over the other SUVs, despite costing a lot less.
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Vehicle year: 2023
Hello! Thank you for sharing your experience with your Pacifica Hybrid Limited. It sounds like you're getting great gas mileage, especially for your daily use! On longer trips, it's still getting good mileage, but not quite as high. It's interesting to see how the electric recharge affects the mileage as well. You've done some great calculations and it's great to hear that it's saving you money compared to a gas minivan. Thanks for sharing!
Are you having problems with your Chrysler Pacifica?
Darrin Jacobs 2025-10-02
Vehicle year: 2004
This vehicle immediately caught our eye on the lot due to its spacious interior and high safety rating. We purchased it with the intention of using it for family trips and long drives. However, after a couple of years, we realized that it was not suitable for the snowy conditions in Colorado Springs. We had to purchase winter tires to make it work. Unfortunately, after three years, we started experiencing some issues with the control arm, in-dash computer, fuel gauge, struts, mounts, sway bar, and more.
Larry Parker 2025-09-27
Vehicle year: 2018
The vehicle has experienced a stalling issue and has come to a complete stop while driving on the roadway.
Ellsworth Gibson 2025-09-25
Vehicle year: 2019
I have experienced several issues with my 2019 Pacifica since day one, including problems with the radio computer and other electronics. Despite seeking assistance through the lemon law, I have not received the support I needed. Recently, the FCW warning lights went off three times in one week, and I took it to the dealership for service. However, I was disappointed to receive an estimate for over $1,000 for repairs that did not address the issues I had reported. While the oil was changed, the sensor issue was not resolved. I am dissatisfied with the service I received and would not consider purchasing another Chrysler vehicle. If the FCW warning lights go off again, I will need to return to the dealership.
Esteban Shanahan 2025-09-23
Vehicle year: 2022
This minivan has unfortunately experienced several issues since purchase, including two necessary tows due to hybrid battery issues and two recalls related to fire risk. The latest recall is still awaiting a fix from Chrysler and as a precaution, we are currently unable to plug in or park the vehicle near buildings or other cars. Despite these challenges, we remain confident in the expertise of our mechanics and the commitment of Chrysler to resolve these issues in a timely manner.
Reinhold Paucek 2025-09-20
Vehicle year: 2021
The van has been experiencing some issues such as random starting problems, bugs in the radio which runs everything, and the tailgate not closing after being open for a minute or two. It is recommended to avoid the hybrid models.