CarComplaints.com Notes: Engine cradle rot is a serious problem in the 2004-05 Chrysler Pacifica. Chrysler admits they didn't apply enough coating to the vehicle's sub-frame during assembly, but only offered to cover a very small portion of the vehicles they messed up.

So what happens when your engine cradle rots? Well, the engine could fall out for starters. It could also cause problems with the suspension and other components but did I mention THE ENGINE CAN FALL OUT? The worst part is you might not know because there's no way to see the problem without getting under the car.

If you have a 2004-05 Pacifica, make sure to have your mechanic inspect your sub-frame for rust and corrosion.

1.7

hardly worth mentioning
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
100,213 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2005 Chrysler Pacifica drivetrain problems

drivetrain problem

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2005 Chrysler Pacifica Owner Comments (Page 3 of 5)

« Read the previous 20 complaints

problem #43

Apr 302010

Pacifica

  • miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would intermittently jerk forward followed by a knocking noise from the front and bottom of the vehicle. The contact had not taken the vehicle for diagnostic testing. Both dealer and manufacturer were made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was not available.

- Brooklyn , NY, USA

problem #42

Mar 052014

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • miles
NHTSA please notice how many people have submitted this problem. Over 50 just since this January. Subframe corrosion to the point the mechanic didn't even think it should be driven home. Engine, transmission, front wheels could all fall at any moment. Why hasn't anyone done anything about this" I see over 50 people have complained about this very problem since only this January. Luckily we noticed it, hate to think of all the other Pacifica drivers out there that have no idea the danger they are in. What will it take? one death? two deaths? how many people, Chrysler? this is obviously a major problem and needs to be fixed at no cost to the consumer. Who has $2500 to repair their car" not us. Will be contacting Chrysler to no avail I'm sure but worth a try.

- Hammond, IN, USA

problem #41

Feb 262014

Pacifica

  • 128,000 miles
I have a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica that has failed inspection due to extensive engine cradle rust. This vehicle's body and undercarriage is immaculate except for the engine cradle "K frame". I have contacted Chrysler and they are unwilling fix the problem because it is 20K miles over the power train warranty even though there is no other rust issues on the vehicle. After doing research, I have discovered that I am not alone in this battle! I am within 8 months of the previous recalled vehicles from Chrysler for this same issue and I believe that Chrysler should extend their recall as this is a potential dangerous issue that is growing with this specific model vehicle.

- York, ME, USA

problem #40

May 132008

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • 39,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

I purchased a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica in 2007 and it had 25,000 miles on it. When the vehicle had 39,000 miles on it I started having issues with the transmission. While driving, the check engine light came on and the car would get stuck in gear (stuck between 1st and 2nd gears). After I shut the car off and restarted it, I could drive it by using the tiptronic shifting system (manually shifting gears). The problem is a sensor on the transmission that costs over $2000 between parts and labor. At 72,000 miles I had to replace the catalytic converter and the front end components I.e control arms, tie rods, etc. After contacting Chrysler about the catalytic converter which has a gov't mandated warranty of 80,000 mile warranty, they did give me the money I spent on the catalytic converter part only). Well, the Chrysler now has 104,000 miles on it and it needs another catalytic converter and all the front end parts that were previously repaired need to be replaced again! that is insane! I looked on the internet and Chrysler knows this is a huge issue because their are companies selling this front end repair kit. But since I need the car I guess I have to eat these costs yet again. At 68,000 I replaced a hdmi headlight that costs over $160 per bulb. Soon after I began to smell something burning, and the new head light burned out. I had to replace the bulb again at an additional $160 and this little silver box that the light sits in for $80. Now at 104,00 miles both parts need to be replaced again, and according to Chrysler dealer, this issue has nothing to do with electrical harness, it is not under warranty, and I have to eat this cost too. In my opinion the tickets are cheaper than the part. Many of the Chrysler dealers do not try to help diagnose problem and they remind me everything is out of warranty - great job!

- Peekskill, NY, USA

problem #39

Feb 202014

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • 121,000 miles
I initially took my car in because I hear a noise in the wheel well. After an additional day of holding the vehicle, I was told that my cradle that basically housed the major engine components was corroded and needed to be replace. I was provided a total of over $2300 for the parts alone. After researching the part, I found many incidents reported that this is a known issue by Chrysler. I as well was told that I had extended power train warranty when I purchased the vehicle used in June of 2013. This is a major safety defect; as this car (and others) are not structurally sound. I drive my 7 year old daughter and 10 year old son in the vehicle everyday. I also make a 68 mile highway commute round trip to and from work in the vehicle. This should be something that is recalled and I want to know what is Chrysler going to do about the matter. I see there are recalls for seat belts that save lives. Recalling the structure of the vehicle should be included as failure of this component is catastrophic. It will save lives to recall and repair.

- Lansing, IL, USA

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problem #38

Feb 182014

Pacifica

  • 161,000 miles
The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated as the transmission slipped. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted about the failure. The failure mileage was 161,000. The VIN was unavailable.

- Las Vegas, NV, USA

problem #37

Feb 082014

Pacifica

  • 128,052 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

TL-the contact owns a 2005 Chrysler pacific. The contact stated she took her vehicle for an oil change. The mechanic informed the contact that her under carriage was corroded, and that the engine cradle was about to be disengaged. The vehicle had not been taken to a dealer or a independent mechanic for diagnosis or repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the problem. The approximate failure mileage was 128,052.lj

- Bristow , RI, USA

problem #36

Feb 032014

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • 124,000 miles
When I start my car from a parked position, I put the car in reverse and it stalls out. It throws the car in neutral. I also ended up in a ditch. I had to leave the car at my job. Unable to drive it home from work. My mechanic will come and tow my car to his shop.

- Norcross , GA, USA

problem #35

Jan 202014

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • 111,000 miles
Found out in December 2013 getting tires, that engine cradle had serious rust and to watch it. Engine light came on in January 2014, and car needed transmission work. Mechanic took frame off and it rained rust particles from the horribly corroded engine cradle frame. Called Chrysler, wanting to speak with supervisor. I was told that a supervisor would call me within 24 hrs. Never happened. Called again a week later, and that operator found out my original message was never delivered to a supervisor. And now I"M waiting again for 24 hrs for someone to call me.

- Pittsburgh, PA, USA

problem #34

Jul 022012

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • 112,000 miles
Transmount and subframe replacement needed.

- Washington Crossing, PA, USA

problem #33

Oct 062013

Pacifica

  • 100,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving 60 mph, the vehicle decelerated and all the warning lamps illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. The technician diagnosed that the transmission control module was defective and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included in recall NHTSA campaign number: 06V432000 (power train). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 100,000.

- Wichita, KS, USA

problem #32

Jul 132013

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • 215,000 miles
Vehicle stalling - brought to mechanic and was advised this was already a Chrysler recall issue. Contacted Chrysler and was advised that the date of manufacture was a few months outside the recall date and they could not help. VIN # [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

- Weeki Wachee, FL, USA

problem #31

May 302013

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • 118,451 miles
I was driving back from a picnic with my family, going home my car just stopped white smoke was pouring out of the tailpipeand smelt gas really bad it was a horrible experience but my main problem is I only have had this car sine February 19 2013 and so I called my insurance company and had it towed to my home.I called my warranty company they said bring it to the nearest Chrysler dealership and have it looked at so I did in the mean time I check to see any recalls on my vehicle and there is one for the fuel module and power train so I got a phone call from the person that I was speaking with he said my car caught on fire and now I need a new engine this is a 5000.0 dollar engine that I don't have now my warranty said they were not going to cover it and the guy I am financing the car said for me to eat the loss well I am very unhappy right now because I have no car and no answers to why this happened I also don't want anyone else to go through this kind of thing thank god my family was not in the car when it caught on fire or there would be more serious consciences if anyone could please contact me in trying to help me figure out what happened that would be great everyone I talk to said that Chrysler should be able to help me. I am not looking to have to bring in a lawyer or anything like that I would just like to know how would you feel if it happened to you and if possible how to restore my faith in Chrysler again.

- Taunton, MA, USA

problem #30

May 202013

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • 105,000 miles
I had gotten a catalytic converter approximately 2 years ago and now the Chrysler dealer say I need another one I thought they last longer than that, instead they say its wear and tear I do not think so I think there is a defect in the emission.

- Canoga Park, CA, USA

problem #29

May 152013

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • 80,000 miles
Car was stalling the nit before, pedal started getting stuck. I go home and park the car. The next morning I get in the car to take me daughters to school and cars gear shift will not move out of park. Car will turn on but gears wont move. 80, 000 miles on car 2005 Chrysler Pacifica touring. I have consumer report of the same problems and pink plastic piece breaking not only on Chrysler Pacificas but a recall on the Dodge magnum, chargers, and the Chrysler 300. This issue is happening to a lot of Chrysler and Dodge cars there need to be a recall on the Pacificas as well. If U google Chrysler Pacifica transmission gear shift U will C im not the only one. I guess this why this car was discontinued. Something should be done. People are not aware of how to contact about this issue. Is it fair that consumers have to pay almost 600 dollars to fix an issue that clearly most of Chrysler and Dodge cars are all having. A recall needs to happen for the transmission gear shift in Pacificas now since were experiencing the same problems as the Dodge charger, magnum, and Chrysler 300.

- Belleville, NJ, USA

problem #28

Apr 192013

Pacifica 6-cyl

  • 97,269 miles
The subframe (which holds up the engine) has thoroughly rusted through creating the danger of the engine and transmission falling from the frame. I am told the car is unsafe to drive. Chrysler has acknowledged a defect in materials used to construct cars in February and March of 2004 and has extended the warranty to 150,000 miles for those vehicles. As mine was produced 4 months later they are denying any liability and refusing any assistance. The defect is identical to one that is covered on cars made 4 months prior, and they have been unable to provide any documentation showing the material used on my vehicle is not from the defective batch. I may have defective parts but they cannot provide a method to identify those defective parts. Chrysler is unwilling to even examine the vehicle, instead using the VIN as their only reference as to coverage. I found it interesting that when I referenced others receiving assistance outside the parameters of the extended warranty I was told that based on customer loyalty there may be assistance for some but it was not available to me. I am concerned that customer loyalty plays a role in the safety of their (past) customers. I'm not sure how many people expect their frame to fail in 8 years but this could be a major safety factor for both passengers and any vehicle around them when an engine falls from a car. How many complaints are needed before action is taken?

- Bourbonnais, IL, USA

problem #27

Dec 012012

Pacifica

  • 140,000 miles
The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving in reverse at approximately 1 mph, the vehicle suddenly stalled. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The contact also stated that the failure recurred intermittently. The vehicle was taken to a private mechanic where it was found that the computer system had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 06V432000 (power train). The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

- 239 Janice St, OH, USA

problem #26

Jun 042012

Pacifica

  • 41,000 miles
The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while making a right turn at an unknown speed, the vehicle stalled and all the gauges and lights became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer twice who reset the caliber on the computer but the failure recurred. The contact was also informed that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 06V432000 (power train). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was 41,000.

- Sterling Heights, MI, USA

problem #25

Jan 202013

Pacifica

  • 124,410 miles
The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that the vehicle would stall repeatedly and without warning when driving 50 mph and below. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for repairs under NHTSA campaign id number: 06V432000 (power train) however, the failure was not corrected. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where a diagnostic was performed. The dealer also test drove the vehicle but was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 124,410 and the current mileage was 124,417.

- Lunenburg , MA, USA

problem #24

Oct 172012

Pacifica

  • 120,000 miles
The contact owns a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica. While driving approximately 25 mph, the vehicle suddenly stalled. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The technician advised that the fuel pump would have to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the mechanic and the contact was then advised that the power train control module would have to be reprogrammed. The contact referenced NHTSA campaign id number: 06V432000 (power train:automatic transmission:control module (tcm, PCM)) that could have been related to the failure. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the contact's VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.

- Wet Palm Beach, FL, USA

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