2018 Chrysler Pacifica Problems

Notable Issues

Used CHRYSLER PACIFICA shoppers should review this model-year complaint and recall record before making an offer. Based on 500 real NHTSA owner complaints, with Engine Problems the most reported area.

201710 years2019

Before you buy

This 2018 Chrysler Pacifica has 500 NHTSA complaints — top issue: Engine Problems.

A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.

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500
Complaints
11
Crashes
9
Fires
7
Injuries
Fatalities
12
Recalls

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Fuel Economy

✓ EPA Official Data

EPA-rated energy efficiency for the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. Values shown in MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent).

18
MPGe City
1832 range
28
MPGe Hwy
2833 range
22
MPGe Combined
2232 range
570
Miles Range
Regular Gasoline
⚠️Costs $3,000 more than avg vehicle over 5 years

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 Program

Official crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.

Overall

5/5

11.6% rollover risk

Frontal Crash

5/5

Side Crash

5/5

Rollover

4/5

11.6% probability

Stability Control: StandardForward Collision Warning: OptionalLane Departure Warning: Optional

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.

Quick Answer

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.

2018 Chrysler Pacifica — key reliability facts
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

Common problems

Most common 2018 Chrysler Pacifica problems

Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.

#1
238
complaints

Engine Problems

Crash-related:2
Fires:4
#2
142
complaints

Electrical Faults

Crash-related:5
Fires:4
Injuries:1
#3
102
complaints

Transmission / Drivetrain

Crash-related:2
Injuries:1

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.

Buyer verdict

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.

Pre-purchase

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

Check the exact car

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.

AI verdict

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.

Key Findings
  • 500 total complaints filed with NHTSA
  • 12 federal recall campaigns
  • 11 crash-related complaints on record
Top Concerns
  • Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
  • Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
  • Verify service records for frequently complained components
Data note: NHTSA complaints are consumer-submitted and do not confirm a manufacturing defect Complaint volume is influenced by sales volume — popular models naturally accumulate more complaints

Full breakdown

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.

ComponentComplaintsCrashesFiresAvg MileageVolume
Engine Problems23824
Electrical Faults14254
Transmission / Drivetrain1022
Steering Defects972
Uncategorized Issues5523
Fuel/Propulsion System342
Unintended Acceleration141
Brake System1411
Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB111
Suspension Failures10
Seat-Related Issues7
Lane Departure511
Structural Problems5
Back Over Prevention5
Airbag Malfunctions44
Wheel Issues3
Door Lock Issues3
Equipment3
Visibility/Wiper3
Seat Belt Issues2
Hybrid Propulsion System2
Tire Issues2
Visibility1
Headlight/Taillight Failures1
Chest Clip1
Buckle1
Harness1

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.

In their words

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.

Showing 400 most recent complaints of 500 total. View all on NHTSA

Steering DefectsMay 23, 2026

Sticking steering during gradual turning from 30-70mph.

Steering DefectsMay 22, 2026

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…

Transmission / DrivetrainMay 20, 2026

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 …

Uncategorized IssuesMay 20, 2026

The A! Sign comes on to immediately stop because the van will shut off.

Airbag Malfunctions CrashMay 16, 2026

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.

Transmission / DrivetrainMay 14, 2026

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 …

Steering DefectsMay 12, 2026

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…

VisibilityMay 12, 2026

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…

Engine ProblemsMay 12, 2026

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 …

Electrical FaultsMay 11, 2026

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…

Engine ProblemsMay 4, 2026

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.

Airbag Malfunctions CrashMay 1, 2026

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…

Steering DefectsApr 30, 2026

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 …

Steering DefectsApr 27, 2026

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…

Transmission / DrivetrainApr 24, 2026

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…

Engine ProblemsApr 23, 2026

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…

Steering DefectsApr 21, 2026

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…

Engine ProblemsApr 20, 2026

Head gasket and engine failure at 61,000 miles.

Seat-Related IssuesApr 13, 2026

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…

Steering DefectsApr 12, 2026

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.

Page 1 of 20

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica.

Safety recalls

2018 Chrysler Pacifica recalls

12 campaigns

NHTSA 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.

Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

#18V395000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE14/06/2018
Safety recall

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

#18V492000POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION26/07/2018
Safety recall

POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT

#18V493000POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT26/07/2018
Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

#18V332000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING17/05/2018
Safety recall

SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM

#19V143000SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM28/02/2019
Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

#19V348000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERYSep 5, 2019
Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD

#18V524000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOODSep 8, 2018
Safety recall

EQUIPMENT

#17V824000EQUIPMENT21/12/2017
Safety recall

SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER

#17V542000SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER31/08/2017
Safety recall

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

#19V886000BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERADec 12, 2019
Safety recall

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:CONNECTORS/PLUGS/RECEPTACLES

#23V010000ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:CONNECTORS/PLUGS/RECEPTACLES17/01/2023
Safety recall

EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY:WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINTS/SECUREMENT:LATCH/ANCHOR:

#25V876000EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY:WHEELCHAIR RESTRAINTS/SECUREMENT:LATCH/ANCHOR:17/12/2025

Across model years

Compare Chrysler Pacifica model years

Compare complaint and recall volume across years to see whether 2018 lands in a lower-risk or higher-risk part of the model timeline.

Research more

Keep researching before you buy

Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.

Questions

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.

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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.

Before you buy

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.