2018 Chrysler Pacifica: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict
Used CHRYSLER PACIFICA shoppers should review this model-year complaint and recall record before making an offer. Current data includes 500 complaints, with Engine Problems as the top reported area.
2018 Chrysler Pacifica Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated energy efficiency for the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. Values shown in MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent).
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 3 trims analysed.
2018 Chrysler Pacifica Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
11.6% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
11.6% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica has 500 owner complaints, 11 crash-related complaints, and 12 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Engine Problems. NHTSA reliability signal: Notable Issues.
- Make
- Chrysler
- Model
- Pacifica
- Model year
- 2018
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 500
- Crash-related complaints
- 11
- Safety recall campaigns
- 12
- Top reported component
- Engine Problems
- Reliability signal
- Notable Issues
- EPA MPGe combined
- 22
- EPA MPGe city / highway
- 18 / 28
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- Electric range (miles)
- 570
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Most Common 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Engine Problems
Electrical Faults
Transmission / Drivetrain
Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Electrical Faults, Transmission / Drivetrain. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Should You Buy a Used 2018 Chrysler Pacifica?
This CHRYSLER PACIFICA year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection.
Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs.
May Suit
This year may suit buyers who prioritize complete maintenance records and pass a pre-purchase inspection.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers who want a lower-risk ownership profile may prefer comparing nearby model years before committing.
What to Check Before Buying a Used 2018 Chrysler Pacifica
Inspection Focus
- Inspect the most frequently reported complaint components on this model year
- Confirm recall repairs were completed and documented
- Check for accident damage, title brands, and mileage inconsistencies on the exact VIN
Before You Close the Deal
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2018 Chrysler Pacifica, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
The CHRYSLER PACIFICA has 500 NHTSA complaints and 12 recalls on record. 11 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Recall context: 12 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase.
- 500 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 12 federal recall campaigns
- 11 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
All 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Complaints by Category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 238 | 2 | 4 | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 142 | 5 | 4 | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 102 | 2 | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 97 | 2 | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 55 | 2 | 3 | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 34 | — | 2 | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 14 | 1 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 14 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 11 | 1 | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 10 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 7 | — | — | — | |
| Lane Departure | 5 | 1 | 1 | — | |
| Structural Problems | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Back Over Prevention | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 4 | 4 | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Hybrid Propulsion System | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Chest Clip | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Buckle | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Harness | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
Real Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
Sticking steering during gradual turning from 30-70mph.
Positions during small steering corrections, especially at highway speeds and during straight-line driving. Condition feels like temporary increased steering effort or intermittent reduction of electric power steering assist. Additional force is required to move the steering whe…
The manufacturer's mandatory 73B Safety Recall update (Vehicle Fires) creates a critical software-induced communication failure on the central vehicle network. Following the 73B flash, the vehicle developed an Active SGW U0001-00 CAN C Bus network fault, which permanently blocks …
The A! Sign comes on to immediately stop because the van will shut off.
I was in a motor vehicle accident when my passenger side vehicle got t-boned on 3/22/26. My 2018 chrysler pacifica limited airbags failed to deploy and the driver and passenger sustained whiplash injuries.
In reference to recall query RQ24004, the appropriate software was installed under recall O3A for Loss of Motive Power on my 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. However, on multiple occasions the vehicle has displayed "Stop Safely - Vehicle Will Shut Off Soon". Once on 6Apr2026 and …
We experience a sticking between 11 and 1 when driving at slow (parking lot) speeds and at highway speeds. It makes it more difficult to drive on the high around long turns, because if it's a gentle turn, holding the right angle of turn is difficult if it's sticking around that a…
The contact owns a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated while driving the vehicle at and undisclosed speed his heater is would not work, until the vehicle is fully moving and running. The contact stated he could hear a clicking Nosie coming from the engine bay and as well a…
2018 Pacifia developed a leak in the left bank head gasket. The vehicle only has 53,000 miles. From the forms it sounds like this maybe a common issue. So I am reporting the issue to hopefully help push the company to cover build or design issues. The gasket shouldn't break …
Chrysler performed the 73B recall and n my van in August of 2025. Ever since performing this recall the van has a continuous stream of check engine lights and error codes. The van has been at the dealership at least 6 times for well over 100 days. The check engine lights and erro…
I purchased my vehicle through Carvana. My engine light is on. I received a notification that there’s a manufacturer recall on my vehicle which is Code CDJR XD1 Crankshaft position sensor - however it’s not listed on your website.
The contact owned a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while attempting to park the vehicle in a parking lot, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the accelerator was inadvertently depressed, causing the vehicle to unintendedly accelerate. There was no warning lig…
When turning slightly right or left, the lower steering column makes a clicking sound while staying stuck and you have to forcefully move the steering wheel in the opposite direction to get the steering unstuck. A safety hazard of possible over correction could send someone into …
I am experiencing the exact issues identified in NHTS Campaign Number: PE25009. The steering system on my 2018 Chrysler Pacifica exhibits a sticking sensation during gradual turns, particularly when the steering wheel is positioned near the 11 o'clock or 1 o'clock position. It is…
2018 Chrysler Pacifica PHEV subject to Safety Recall 73B (NHTSA 24V-536) for HV battery fire risk. Following the recall repair at Fremont CDJR (Newark, CA) in January-February 2025, this vehicle has experienced systematic cascading hybrid drivetrain failures across 5 repair visit…
Our 2018 Pacifica (3.6L Pentastar) has a blown head gasket at 160K miles. I didn’t realize this was a common problem until I researched youtube and Chrysler forums and found 100’ of conplaints and examples. I can’t believe how widespread the issue is and Stellantis has done nothi…
My 2018 Pacifica Hybrid suffered a catastrophic suspension separation while driving—the exact failure described in Safety Recall V15. The driver fortunately arrived at home safely only seeing smoke coming out form the tire rubbing against the wheel hood. Although my VIN isn't sho…
Head gasket and engine failure at 61,000 miles.
The back seat stow and go on passenger side closes randomly on while child is sitting in the seat. We are using a booster seat, so when it hits the booster seat it can't close any farther on the child. I had it looked at by a mechanic which said it would cost 1500 to repair. W…
As I am driving a warning pops up on the dash and says “ power steering unavailable service required “ while that shows up the steering wheel locks up. It goes away abruptly but it causes me to over turn.
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica.
2018 Chrysler Pacifica Recalls
12 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. 12 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
2018 Chrysler Pacifica Buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica reliable?▾
Notable Issues. NHTSA currently shows 500 owner complaints, 11 crash-related complaints, and 12 recall campaigns for this model year. This CHRYSLER PACIFICA year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica?▾
#1: Engine Problems (238 complaints). #2: Electrical Faults (142 complaints). #3: Transmission / Drivetrain (102 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica, NHTSA complaints include 11 crash-related reports and 9 fire reports out of 500 total complaints. 7 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica have any recalls?▾
Yes. 12 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. A major recall area is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE. 12 recall campaigns are on record, so recall completion status should be confirmed on the exact VIN before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica?▾
This CHRYSLER PACIFICA year shows a meaningful number of reported issues, so buyers should only proceed after a careful records review and inspection. Model-year complaint trends can reveal recurring trouble spots before you spend money on inspections, financing, or repairs. Pay extra attention to Engine Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Chrysler Pacifica reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Check the Exact Vehicle History Before You Buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.