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I always make it a habit to get to know the parts manager at a dealership.
They give me the same price they would charge another dealer, usually 20 - 25% off.
Also, please be aware that promotion (or specific reference by url) of other message boards is not allowed in our discussions, since this would conflict with our policy on promotion/solicitation. Sorry this is just one of our rules. There are some exceptions to this rule, however they must be approved by management. Please feel free to email if you have any questions regarding any of our policies. Okay?
To Everyone - If enough owners are interested, we can start up a Pacific Owners Club right here at Town Hall. Basically what this does is set up a special area for you, linking all the Pacifica discussions together... and adding new discussions as needed. This will of course make it easier for you to communicate with other Pacifica owners on a number of different topics....
So let me know if you're interested. You can post your response here, or send me an email if you'd like. Thanks for your participation! ;-)
Revka
Host
Hatchbacks & Wagons Boards
Thanks for the comments on the message boards in general. I had already done a search but believe it or not there are lots of things that fit the "pacifica" + "message board" category that have nothing to do with the car. I'll be sure not to request the item again so no one violates the board policies.
Btw, every discussion here technically resides on one of the 14 main message boards here at Town Hall. Of course depending on what search method you're using to access the discussions, you may not automatically recognize what message board you're on (i.e. Wagons, SUVs, Owner's Clubs), not to mention, some of our discussions are linked to more than one main message board.
Hope this clarifies things a little better for you. Bottom line: you're posting on the correct board. ;-)
Revka
Host
Hatchbacks & Wagons Boards
Thanks in advance.
I think the point was that for a few more bucks you can have the best quality and technology available in the world today.
Those who have actually BOUGHT a Pacifica know them best.
We KNOW he technology in this vehicle is superior to most of it's competition.
Sure, a 5 speed auto and some more power would be nice, but otherwise it has the competition beat feature for feature.
That wonder of modern [Honda] technology blew up on me at 6,100 miles.
And I never had any problems with the 4-speed tranny in my 300M, except for a couple of speed sensors failing (quick and inexpensive repair)
Which is why it's funny to see people like jmess put down the vehicle - sometimes, it not just the technology, or a review or a consumer guide you read - at the end of the day, driving is an emotion, if it's not that - then you would be fine on fourwheels with no sheet metal.
To some people, a car is just another appliance.
That's why they sell so many Accords, Camrys & Buicks.
Each to his own!
I knew that I was taking a chance with reliablity. With Lexus, that is a given. But I truly feel that Chrysler has done just about everything right with the Pacifica. Any feature that may prove annoying to some drivers can usually be turned off, like the lady in the navigation system, which I liked at first,but have just changed to tone only to draw my attention to the screen.
Power-wise, I've been able to maintain 70+ mph on long 7% grades without straining by using the Auto Stick for 3rd gear. It's not perfect, but I'm happy with it. Highlights, in my opinion, of the Pacifica are: Very smooth ride; very comfortable first and second row seating, with decent third row; excellent ergonomics with a great looking interior; great navigation and sound systems; ease of entry and exit; memory system for seats, mirrors, pedals and radio; interior lighting gives an aircraft feel; DVD for backseat entertainment while front passengers can still listen to the radio or CD; power liftgate; lower cg for better handling; AWD that will handle all the situations I will encounter (I'm not an off-roader). Plus many more that make me feel good every time I drive it (I now look for excuses to drive somewhere).
Of cource, every vehicle on the planet has room for improvement, but the Pacifica's are minor: a better lever for the tilt steering wheel; a first class paint job (no orange peel), at least as an option; a better radio antenna; lower the rear window wiper or increase the size of rear window. I have talked to Chrysler and they are working on bumper sensors and a rear-view camera. I would also like to see a larger sunroof or a second one (or two running length-wise for the passengers).
My analog clock was the only thing that did't work correctly, but it was quickly replaced by my dealer. The only other "problem" is that occasionally, for no apparent reason, the climate control display will go blank. Has anyone else experienced this?
A great car. A grand slam as far as I'm concerned.
Chrysler said the Pacifica is one of the first to offer standard side curtain air bags as well as inflatable knee blockers to protect occupants' legs. Mike Donoughe, Chrysler's vice president for family vehicle development, said he hoped the ratings would catch the attention of parents. Auto companies often use NHTSA ratings in their advertising.
The Chrysler Pacifica was not given a rollover rating. Chrysler spokeswoman Angela Ford said NHTSA wanted to wait until its new tests were in place before it tested the Pacifica.
To Aviate - Appreciate the feedback regarding a Pacifica Owner's Club. Anyone else into participating in Pacifica Owner's Club here? You can post your response in this discussion, or send me an email if you'd like. Thanks!
To hayem- Sorry, didn't mean to skip you a few posts back. Congrats on your Pacifica, and thanks for your first 2 week impressions.
Revka
Host
Hatchbacks & Wagons Message Boards
Our 300M club is highly organized, do we want to do the same with the Pacifica?
Also: Got a really great looking stainless steel exhaust tip (shame on Chrysler) today; looks great.
Anyone interested, e-mail me off my profile for more info.
Of course, I won't feel like an official member until mine arrives (they tell me 4 weeks from yesterday), but love all of the feedback from those already behind the wheel.
RE: gas mileage, while this vehicle is obviously bigger than a 300M, I routinely get 30mpg on cruise control at 75 mph out of my 3.5l. It definitely increased after lots of miles.
One issue that may confuse potential buyers is the fact that some competitors list a higher cubic volume for cargo space. This is deceiving since the Pacifica is not as tall as the others. What counts for me is the square footage of flat space available for cargo, and for this the Pacifica ia superior. I bought my Pacifica with the need for hauling around the country a seven foot radio controlled model of a WWII bomber. With the extra width of the Pacifica, this can be done even with one second row seat up. With the seat down, there is plenty of room for the extra equipment and luggage required.
I think the Pacifica has GM's Cadillac division very worried about their SRX. It will have more power, but it will cost tons more than the Pacifica without offering any more advantages. The SRX also screams station wagon.
Two years ago I was hoping that Chrysler would make a sport wagon version of the Intrepid to fill my needs. I'm glad I didn't get my wish.
I test drove the Pacifica, and, while it has a lot to recommend it, there were also some cheap touches that stood out.
To everyone - Since we're getting more owners here everyday, I thought it would be a good idea to start up a new discussion: Chrysler Pacifica - Maintenance & Repair Issues.
If you're experiencing a problem with your Pacifica or want to discuss any kind of maintenance issue..., you can post your messages there. For your convenience, you'll also find a direct access to this discussion in the Helpful links (left side). Talk to everyone later. ;-)
Revka
Host
Hatchbacks & Wagons Boards
However, these sort of debates can also be an annoying distraction for owners that want to discuss issues that pertain to their vehicle ownership. I suppose that's one the main reason for creating Owners Clubs... and having discussions specifically for ownership needs.
Once a Owner's Club board is created, we also link up any other related (non-owner) discussions throughout Town Hall onto this board... to make it easy for owners to participate in more than one discussion if they choose to do so. Hope this helps to clarify matters.
So we don't take this discussion off topic any further, feel free to email me if you have any further questions/comments about multiple boards.... Thanks. And now, back to the subject of the Chrysler Pacifica! ;-)
Revka
Host
Hatchbacks & Wagons Boards
I finally got to test drive one, and was a bit underwhelmed. When we got back to the salesman's desk to discuss the pricing, I was amazed that to get this vehicle equipped the way I wanted, it would be closed to $40K! That's well over $600/month for a lease, with minimal or no down payment.
Why would I pay this much for a Chrysler when that money is in the same ballpark as the BMW and Acura? It's crazy - especially for the first year of this model.
If DC had an absolutely stellar reputation for quality, I couldn't see paying this much for what amounts to be a tall station wagon.
So, no Pacifica for me. Maybe I'll wait for the Magnum.
Pacifica: Advantages include the roominess, love the styling, can get it stacked with the Nav and the Rear entertainment center, and can get a good price on it. Disadvantages are mainly related to resale concerns and longevity.
Volvo: beautiful car, but expensive, dealers are not willing to deal, and does not have an integrated DVD entertainment system.
I can get a good price on the Volvo and a great price on the Pacifica. But I cant decide which... Any thoughts? One thing that bothers me the most is that the Volvo doesnt have a beautifully integrated entertainment system like the Pacifica's.. i watched a DVD on the intermezzo system and it was phenomenal. I also like the idea that my girls can watch the DVD in the back and my wife and I can listen to a CD in the front.. no problems..
But, I dont think this is in itself a deal breaker.. any thoughts?
Which one do you see yourself smiling in a year or 2 down the road?
You didn't mention how long you plan to kep it, or annual mileage. I drive 25,000 mi+ per year, and plan to keep the Pacifica for about 30 months,
so I'm buying an extendet warranty.
Our 8 year old just loves the Pacifica, especially the DVD entertainment and Nav systems.
Just for the record, I put 130,000 miles on 2 300Ms with the same powertrain with NO problems.
Good luck whatever you do!
BTW, in my opinion, this is a much nicer message board than the XC90!
One added benefit of the Pacifica is that it is a 2004 model, so you get alnost a 6 mo free ride on depreciation!
Try to get the owners manual, or at least the "Quick Reference Guide" for your 24 hour test, in will greatly aid the experience.
Good luck & have fun!
I LOVE THIS CAR. I WANT THIS CAR.
I thought it was a little underpowered, but hey, I am not driving Le Mans..
The only thing is that with 2 kids in car seats, it would be very difficult to bring along another adult passenger.. you cant install the car seat in the second row until the passenger gets into the third row first, and reverse the order when the 3rd row passenger exits. Plus because of the captains seats, my wife wont be able to sit in the 2nd row with my girls as she is want to do sometimes.. And there is no way I am putting my kids in the 3rd row, so dont even mention it..
My heart is really broken. Now I will buy an MDX or an XC90, but I am emotionally attached to the Pacifica. I think it is a real winner..
I rented some DVDs and jesus christ, the infinity sound system is unbelievable.. Even my cynacial sister-in-law was BLOWN AWAY by the rich, deep, textured sound.
I think that people who have older kids or who just want a larger vehicle should really consider this car..
It is a real winner, other than the lack of the bench seating, which, in my case unfortunately, is a deal breaker.
BOO HOO HOO!!!
or wait 'till your kids grow up and get a Pacifica then.
I was however, shocked at how much this car is under powered! All show and no go! Our current car, a 1999 Sable SW can run circles around this slug. Not only is it woefully under powered, the engine noise under moderate acceleration is frankly, unacceptable for a 38K vehicle. Under heavy acceleration it is untolorable.
If this car is going to go anywhere in the upscale market, Chrysler had better address this issue quick. We have crossed the Pacifica off our list and are off to look at the Honda Pilot and the Acura MDX. I'm very disapponted that the domestic cars still cannot keep up with the imports.
The underpower issue likely due to the same 3.5 L, V6, 350 HP engine from the 300M, which weighs 3600#, being used in the Pacifica, which weighs about 4500#.
So far I have gotten the Rear Bumper Scuff Pad, and Splash Guards (front and rear) installed by the dealer. I also bought the front Slush Mats, but they did not come with the retntion clips. My dealer is looking into this but have not heard from them in a couple of weeks.
I have linked this discussion onto that board, but it will always reside here in Wagons.
Looking forward to meeting everyone!
KarenS
Host
Owners Clubs
As far as power goes, Chrysler should probably reprogram the transmission computer to downshift sooner but after 2800 miles I have learned to just punch the accelerator a little more than I am used to, or use the Auto-Stick. I plan on keeping my Pacifica for at least eight years.
Our 8-year-old likes the third row even when I'm the only other person in the car!
Don't give up yet!
Or course you don't have that ready to crash through the jungle look that so many people feel they need nowadays. ; ^ )
Jay
For everyone's information, after more than 2800 miles I can feel an increase in power now that the motor is broken in and the computer has "learned" my driving habits.
Ruski: The B-25 is the Mitchell with two engines, the B-24 Liberator has four. They both have twin vertical tails, however. I'll be taking my seven foot R/C B-25 in the Pacifica to Oregon in August for our first long trip. My hobby had a big influence on my choice of vehicle.