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
Bought used in 2009 for $15K (CAD) - here we are in 2023 and it's still going strong at 250,000 km. We've had a few years where we had to replace parts or do bodywork, but we have averaged less than $1000/year on maintenance and repair. This car has been a reliable and comfortable companion that will be hard to replace!
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Vehicle year: 2017
We are thrilled with this minivan! Although we have only had it for a month, we can confidently say that it is a fantastic vehicle. As it is still new, we cannot comment on maintenance costs or resale value. However, we can say that it has the highest gas mileage of any van we looked at, with an impressive 28 miles on the road. The moon roof is a standout feature, as it spans the entire length of the car. The seats are incredibly innovative, folding down into the floor of the car, which is a brilliant space-saving feature. The roof rack is also a great addition, tucking away neatly to save on gas mileage. The advertised price we paid for this beautiful car, inside and out, was without sales tax, other fees, and extended warranty. It is a very comfortable and easy car to drive, with so many features that we are still discovering. We are delighted with our purchase! Update: We have now owned the minivan for over 6 months and it is still an amazing vehicle! The only thing we would change is to have more hanging space for clothing. We bought some hooks that clip onto the headrest posts of the front seats, which has helped. We also noticed that the speed control does not always maintain the set speed when going downhill, but lowering the speed by one mile seems to hold the speed in check better. We bought rubber mats online to protect the interior carpeting. This is such a comfortable and easy ride that we are planning to take it camping this summer and are looking forward to sleeping inside with the moon roof open. We feel very fortunate to own such a luxurious vehicle!
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Vehicle year: 2020
I have been a proud owner of a Chrysler vehicle since 1989. At the time, my family had grown to seven children, and we needed a reliable and spacious car. We started with a Town and Country, but when it was no longer available, we switched to a Pacifica. I absolutely adore the safety features of my vehicle. It alerts me when someone is on my side and warns me if it is not safe to change lanes. This has been especially helpful during my bi-annual trips from Minnesota to Texas. The comfort level is fantastic, and I appreciate that it has had fewer recalls than other vehicles. I would definitely purchase another one. Vans like this have an enormous amount of space, and you can fit more than you can in a pickup. I cannot recommend it enough!
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Vehicle year: 2004
I wasn't initially thrilled with the long list of recall items on the website for the 2004 models. However, after doing some research, I found that other types of vehicles also had a long list. Before making a final commitment, I had the car fully checked. Now that I've purchased the Pacifica, I absolutely love it! It's really fun to drive and doesn't feel like a minivan. There's plenty of room for my tall sons and me, and it looks really nice. Overall, I'm completely satisfied.
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Vehicle year: 2008
I totally agree with you! The Chrysler Pacifica is an amazing vehicle that provides a great driving experience both on the highway and in town. It's not sluggish at all when you want to pass another car, and the fact that it's interfaced with Mercedes-Benz technology only adds to the driving experience. Congratulations on paying off your Pacifica, the ride just got even better!
Are you having problems with your Chrysler Pacifica?
Manuel Altenwerth 2025-01-09
Vehicle year: 2004
I loved the car when I bought it. Although it is definitely a safe car to drive, it can be quite expensive to maintain. Have you experienced unexplainable stalling? How about heat issues when the blower motor and resistor go out? Or the shaking in the front of the car due to the need to replace the outer tie rod and nut set? Additionally, the inner ones need to be replaced after just 10,000 miles. And let's not forget about the need to replace the tires about every two years. My suggestion would be to invest in an extended warranty or consider getting a second job.
Tyson Conroy 2025-01-08
Vehicle year: 2023
I am disappointed with the recent changes made by Chrysler to their entertainment system. Despite paying extra for a custom hybrid, the system does not come with a built-in DVD player and instead requires an expensive monthly hotspot to stream entertainment. While it is possible to use wires to hook up an external DVD player, this is a hassle that I would rather avoid. It is frustrating to note that my new Pacifica's system is inferior to the one in my 10-year-old Town and Country.
Adolphus Hermiston 2025-01-06
Vehicle year: 2004
I purchased my first Pacifica in the summer of 2004. Unfortunately, it broke down within two weeks, almost causing an accident on the 4-lane, and had to be towed back to the dealership. Despite this setback, I decided to give the Pacifica another chance and purchased a slightly used one of the same type, but a different color. However, after about a year, engine lights started coming on for no reason and transmission lights began flashing constantly. The car also started skipping after about two years, especially when the cruise was on. Despite these issues, I have continued to service it every 3,000 miles. Recently, the car stopped working while I was driving to work, with the steering going out and the car becoming unresponsive.
Niko Hills 2025-01-06
Vehicle year: 2021
The car works great when running. However, it was built during the pandemic and has had some quality control issues. The company has not been completely transparent about software problems that can cause the car to stop working. Unfortunately, my 2021 model needed major repairs after only 800 miles of driving.
Kirk Howell 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 2020
This van does not come with a power tilt/telescope steering column.