Quote: "Even if I love it, I wouldn't buy it again..."
rodut, I'm glad that you finally are convinced that the Pacifica is "Pacificrap"... I have not signed in this forum for a while because I'm so disgusted and tired with the problems showing up one by one with my "Pacificrap". Just about every problem I read in this forum, I have already had it or it's about to show up. On top of that, my dealer is clueless. I have to bring it back many times to fix just one problem. The famous line "Unable to duplicate the problems"... "Parts back order"...Sounds familiar??? I have a job and I work for the living just like everybody else. They don't pay me for the time I spend at the dealership. It's a lot of valuable time wasted!!!
By reading this forum and doing my own research, I think I know more than my dealer about the Pac. Many time I have to direct them to the right issue with TSB. Why would Chrysler release such a nice (well almost nice) car and did not pay attention to the QA and training their technician?
This is the way Chrysler (and my dealership) do business and as a result, they lost my business forever.
Yes, rodut, INCOMPETENCE is a right word. Hey, Chrysler I hope you hear this forum.
That is good...Pacificrap. and rodut, I am sorry that your PAC turned into a lemon like so many others. You really were the champion of the PAC for quite a while on these forums. If the PAC can sour your opinion then what hope does anyone else have.
and will DC every get its act on quality together?
I just noticed your post and am experiencing the exact same situation with my 2004 PAC - 36K. How was the problem finally resolved, was it the powertrain control module?
Yes, unfortunately the LX 470 will end up costing me a little more, but that's kind of the price that I am willing to pay for something that I can literally drive until the tires fall off. I looked at the LX, Toureg, etc. before the Pacifica, but thought that I would save myself some money by going with the Pacifica. Oh well..
The clunky thing is just annoying to me.. maybe the sound varies per model, etc. but it's very noticeable to me and for $43+, I should not have to tolerate that. Some people are content, but I've never liked having the feeling as if I am not getting my money's worth or having to "settle" with something. Oddly enough, the dealership has been unable to fix the intermittent satellite radio issue (fading in and out, and not even working until the vehicle is restarted) and this has been addressed at least 5 times. They just cannot figure out what's wrong.
Heck, I may even consider looking at the RX330 just to "save" a little more money, but overall go out to the Lexus GX and RX forums here on edmunds, the GX forum has less than 100 posts under "Problems and Solutions?" Evidentally, someone's leading a heavy QA initiative over at Toyota!
I was looking at the Pacifica, but ended up buying the Ford Freestyle. While not as plush as the Pacifica on the interior, there's a lot more room and I only paid $25K. I have over 13K miles and no problems, and if you look on the Freestyle board you won't find nearly as many problems as with the Pacifica.
What are you talking about ?!?! A little more ?!?! On the: http://www.lexus.ca the Lexus LX470 is listed at $101,400 Canadian dollars (plus tax). For my Touring FWD Pacifica I paid (after discounts) CAN$ 35,000 (plus tax).
Toyota / Lexus doesn't discount cars a lot, so it comes at: 3 Pacificas = 1 Lexus 470
Sorry, but the barely perceptible noise I have doesn't justify paying 3 cars for one !!! Let's be fair, even if Chrysler doesn't know how to make a dead silent suspension ! If price is no object why don't you buy a Greyhound bus ? They are dead silent !
My Aunt and our cousin both purchased the Freestyle after considering, and then being scared off of buying a PAC. In fact my aunt's freestyle was one of the first ones off the line, she got it last November. Both are very happy, both liked the luxury and the ride of the PAC but once they started researching the PAC and talking to people they went with the Freestyle.
Which begs the question...if Chrysler had any quality control at all going for the PAC and could actually have put out a PAC with the quality it should have...how many thousands more units would they have moved? I know of 3 people who were ready to buy a PAC, loved it upon first look/drive but then did not buy one because of all the problems.
My PAC is wonderful and drives quieter than most of the competitors. Maybe, the mfg date on the PAC matters? Mine was built June '05 and got it in July '05 and put on about 800 miles so far and it's just a breeze.
For one, not many happy and contended PAC owners come and post how beautiful their PAC is because, I believe, they enjoy driving it rather than posting on these forums. I know couple of highly contented PAC owners (> 10 K miles) who are not aware of a forum like this at all. Go figure!
Just because Lexus LX470 forum has less postings means nothing... Maybe, the owners of LX have hefty amounts to spend on cars and don't give a squat posting minor annoyances rather than taking it to the dealer and fixing it.
For the value and quality, I don't think any other competitor can beat PAC. Period. Agree that there are some problems on PACs manufactured before Sep or Aug '04 but the ones that are built later are of prime quality or at least, that's what the owners I know vouch for!
For anyone buying a new car, you can probably find a "Problems & Soulutions" forum on it, whether it be edmunds.com or any other site. I found the same when I bought my Xterra two years ago and have not any problems.
I think whatever vehicle you buy you will always have a risk.
I have a 2004 pacifica with about 40K miles. I am recently having intermittent problems with the engine starting and immediately shutting off. I have had it serviced for this problem at least 4 times and they cannot diagnose the problem. It has occurred after driving 100 miles at a stretch or 5 miles. The engine always turns over and starts, but then everything shuts down. It will eventually start and run, if you give it a lot of gas before putting it into gear. Has anyone else experienced this same issue and how was it resolved? I've already had the powertrain control module replaced under recall a year ago.
My wife has a 05 PAC with 10,000m and loves it,except it has started stalling at random times. It is at the 5*service dealership and they don't know what to do. I refused to drive it home with the risk of wrecking it while it stalled. I have seen on other postings about needing the "throttle modulator"? and PowertrainControlModule needing to be replaced. I don't know what these are or what they do. I would like to know before I tell the 5* service department about them. This is a huge risk that DC is taking. This could easily escalate to a Firestone issue as soon as the cars start stalling on the interstate, intersection, or wherever. If anyone has found the answer, please reply.
When you post your problems, can you give the TRIM as well? This will help us to narrow whether the problem is with the Base AWD or Touring FWD or Limited and so on. Since Limited and Touring trims have more options (lots of electronics), the problem might be some what related to that as well. Just a thought. Thanks.
The Pacifica is not as bad as these forums indicate. My early 2004 has not had near the problems described on these forums, runs flawlessly, and we routinely take long road trips on the weekends........
As for the Freestyle, a vehicle that is competent, I'm sure, but OH SO BORING, I will bet you money that the Pacifica sales will be higher than Freestyle sales when all is said and done...........I mean, how many ways can you make an Explorer ?....................
And did I mention the 2000 lb tow capacity for the Freestyle ?
I agree on that, I just recently bought an 04 awd 17k on it w/ all the options (knock on wood) but I have not experienced any problems. Other than the smell the previous owner left. I've already put 2k on it and so far so good. My neighbor just bought a "Limited" freestyle a week ago, over the weekend we compared apples to apples.Not to brag but NO WAY that ford came close to the pac, Oh yeah, he's the have the 18" wheels and the power folding mirrors. But overall the Pac has a nice masculine stance, the interior is more classy and elegant look to it than any fords. And he paid more for something that don't even have a navigation as an option. Let me remind people that there's thousand satisfied Pac owners out there. No car is perfect. Check out other forums.
I couldn't disagree with you more! I love my Pacifica, and other than a few inconsequential items, the car has been flawless. Nothing major wrong with the vehicle in 40,000 miles (knock wood ).
Given the chance to do it again, or buy something else, I wouldn't hesitate! I'd be lined up to buy another Pacifica in no time flat! :shades:
dcdchau, sorry you have had such a bad time with your Pacifica, but I don't and can't believe yours is the norm. Mine and a few others I know about certainly prove the car!
My main thing with the PAC is that the interior is too small for the size of the exterior. The Freestyle may be plainer on the inside, but it's a lot more roomy and can hold 7 plus luggage inside. I need more utility than elegance in a car, but to each his own.
Just looking at the picture of the new 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-CLASS... Does it look like a Pacifica with a different spin? Does anybody know if there is any review on this new R-CLASS model? Or any comparison to the Pacifica and other crossover?
I think the main reason for that is safety and sound deadening (not sure). The Pac rides a lot stable and more quiet. But the freestyle seems to have more power. But anyways, I'm satisfied w/ my Pac.
I just noticed today that the area where the center speaker is located seems kinda caving in. I hope is not a big deal, no rattles or squeak yet. :confuse:
I have a '05 Pac Turing AWD with less than 3500 miles & 3 months old. I've had it in shop 3 times, for total of 4 days for the same complaint. When starting out from a stop, it accelerates smoothly through 1st. But after it shifts into 2nd the engine sags/stutters/surges until over ~3400 RPM. After it shifts into 3rd, it usually returns to smooth acceleration and eventually shifts into 4th (OD).
My complaint has been the sagging/stuttering/surging. Almost always in 2nd, except under hard acceleration. And sometime in 3rd.
The first time into service the dealer found no codes -- therefore, no problem found. This was just over 1000 miles, 5 weeks old.
The second time I took it in was because I had a couple of incidences where I've pulled into traffic and it stutters so bad it stops accelerating and I've been approached rather quickly from behind. Which to them, looks like I've pulled out in front of them and slowed down. Again, dealer says they drove it, no codes = no problem. And I disagreed. When I went to pick it up, I could tell they put 1.5 miles on it. I drove around the block and almost got hit from behind again. So I complained and set another appointment for 2 days later - this past Tuesday.
So the third time they had car all day and called me. Again, no codes, they drove it, no problem. I complained. They said they would keep it overnight, try it again the next morning. In the afternoon I called. They said they had driven it a couple of times - different people. No one thought there was a problem. So I said I would go to dealer and take someone for a ride to show them the problem. One of the Service Advisors went for a ride with me. As soon as I pulled out onto the road, it shifts into 2nd and I can feel it stuttering and unresponsive. It's a subtle feeling, but I can feel it because I'm the one pushing on the gas peddle and knowing it's not accelerating! My ride-along says he still isn't sure what I'm feeling. I stop and start out again. Then he says he feels what I'm describing as I'm driving. Get ready - THEN he tells me that the engine management system IS DESIGNED to reduce the power in 2nd gear in the 2005 Pacs. I just about went ballistic. During that discussion, I find out that they had some contact with their factory service support and was told about this 2nd gear power reduction. But they hadn't told me -- until I kept complaining. The Service Advisor tells me it is the "Torque Management FEATURE". Some FEATURE!
Well I've almost been rear-ended twice. We all know the Pac is so underpowered anyway. And at times when it sags in 2nd so bad, I feel like it can't hardly get out of its own way! I think this thing is dangerous to be on the road with.
The dealer says there is nothing they can do.
I've driven two (2) 2004 Pacs. They accelerated smoothly in 2nd. So I can believe this is a '05 only problem.
Does anyone else notice this situation? Have you complained? Had you had it in for service? Have you heard this or a different story about this.
That is the biggest crap I've ever heard from a Dealer. Torque managment??? What for? Not as if you had 600 lbs torque to deal with....
No, it is not normal. I do not have such hesitation with my 05 Touring. Try a different dealer but, get if fixed as it appears to be a dangerous situation.
As to the Pacifica being underpowered, I disagree on that. Certainly I would prefer the feel and the torque of a V8 but the 3.5 is a pretty fair compromise. You simply have to recognize that it is a 4 valve engine and as such it breathes and develops power at higher RPMs. If you keep the engine at such RPMs (over 3500) for uphill and passing, the power is sufficient. I live in the mountains and I am not left behind by too many cars on those winding, uphill climbs.
I've been reading this forum for a year. Some of the complaints didn't phase me one bit. However, some made me say "No way am I buying this car". However, w. a touch of reluctance, I went and bought a Pac. I made the decision to buy it because I simply accepted that no car (aka machine) is perfect. I've read Tourag, Sienna, XC90 forums for a year now and to some degree, there are niggling problems w. all cars.
I was very pleasantly surprised by the perception of quality in the Pac. It's 4-speed is very smooth, and the cabin very quiet. Very un-Chrysler.
JC,
I have not experienced your stalling/sputtering issue. But I have noticed a reluctance for the transmission to downshift when I want it to shift.
A couple of times now, all highway, I've felt like the car was unwilling to move faster when I wanted a little more "giddyup". The engine and tranny are so smooth that it's difficult to tell what gear you're in sometimes. It feels like the engine is not producing the power needed to get you moving faster comparable to the amount of gas pedal pressure applied. I keep applying pressure until I get a surge of power as the tranny kicks down to the lower gears.
This car wants to stay in the higher gears for as long as possible. I guess for fuel economy purposes. It will downshift, but you have to press down hard enough for the computer to really understand that you want more power.
Before buying this car, my expectations regarding power were low. The car performed slightly better than I expected being that this car weighs alot w. so-so power and a 4 speed tranny.
If it's really sputtering on you on the highway, be careful. Good luck. I do hope you they fix it for you.
Happened three times yesterday on flat, open highway.
Cruise set at 72, RPM in normal range at 2800/3000, all of a sudden revved to over 4000. Routine stretch of highway, not passing, not climbing and not going downhill.
I think the safety ratings are the same for both, and I haven't seen anything saying that the Pac is quieter, plus I doubt if the variance in interior inches is all from soundproofing material. Mostly it's because of the overall design. The Pac is basically a Caravan with a lower roof, while the Freestyle is a new design based on the Ford 500.
The Pac is not a Caravan, for one thing it has a Mercedes derived multilink rear suspension. I think they have more different than common features, although I could be wrong.
Does the Freestyle share the Ford 500 engine? The reviews of the 500 engine have been less than stellar. Ford is in serious trouble with their new designs, and Chrysler is doing very well, so the marketplace is voting.
Ingeniousguy, About your post 1281 suggestion, I don't have and don't need reading glasses. You could have some trouble with your memory though, because in post 1276 you talk about the the LX470, and in post 1272 you talk about the GX470. Sure the price is different.
I answer so late because I was enjoying my beautiful and reliable Pacifica in the Acadia National Park, in Maine. Better drive it than post about it (or give medical advice).
Would like to also complain, I just bought my Silver Pac it is a FWD 205 Touring edition, with leather, heated seats, Satellite radio and special tires. I bought it not even two weeks ago and am having trouble with small scratches on both sides of the doors, the door bumper panels and took it back to let them know I was sure they must have been on there when I bought it. They insisted I parked near cars that opened their doors into mine. I have been very careful, as this is a new car not to park too near anyone and in a week an a half must have at least 6 or 7 marks on these bumpers. They also said their QA person inspected the vehicle very well before it left the lot. Well, they said they would pay for 1/2 of having it repainted. But, now I am wondering if it is the paint that is weak and is breaking down. I did not see these until I washed it by hand for the first time. It has not even been to a car wash yet, boy! I have been a Chrysler owner for a long time. I was one of the owners who had the Caravan that had terrible paint peeling on the roof in the 90's. You would have thought I would have learned. Really, though I love this car and how it drives and rides and hope I am not in for some trouble with paint again. Chrysler was not too generous with fixing that problem in the 90's Good luck with your problem. If anyone else is having these problems please let me know, so that I also can take it to my dealer so he doesn't think I am somehow parking where I shouldn't be.
I thought silver will hide scratces a lot better than dark colors. Anyways, I too have scratches that seems to appear out of nowhere. :confuse: It's posted somewhere in this forum, something about new paints that's safe for the environment. I have the midnight blue and lil scratches shows.
After two years of driving the most annoying car I've ever owned, my 2004 FWD POC (piece of crap) is now owned by someone else. After way too many trips back to the dealer for way too many problems - yes, I had them all except the peeling paint and stinky seat belts - I dedicated to dump it after the latest failure which many of you might be approaching and do not know it. Since most of you probably have far fewer miles on your Poc than mine had you might want to start listening real closely to the engine when you get up around 60K. I got so I ignored most noises since none of them seemed fixable but at 65,000 miles a piercing vacuum leak noise started. The car ran ok but started getting a little more sluggish than normal.
My Poc needed an intake manifold, gaskets and manifold actuator plus various parts to to bring it back to its normal underpowered self. Some $700 dollars worth of stuff and labor. Since I still had 2,850 miles left on the 70K warranty, the tab was picked up by DCX. I still have good things to say about my dealer's service department but the Poc, it's lack of quality and its pathetic re-sale value certainly left a bad taste in my mouth. Good luck to all of you -- over and out!
The situation you mention about the car's reluctance to downshift is also part of my complaint. It seems that when mine starts sputtering in 2nd or 3rd and I keep pushing further down on the gas peddle trying to stay out of someone's way, you have to go all the way to the floor to get it to downshift. I'm still complaining about mine.
Unfortunately, another gear and a couple of more horses and there would probably be less complaints. In my case, it's not so bad, just takes getting used to. I just remind myself that this is a heavy car so I need to think twice when deciding to pass. My 99 Intrepid (traded in for the Pac) was pretty good at passing, especially w. Autostick. I don't expect this car to do what my Trep did. But as a cruiser, this is smooth and hard to beat. But you're right that you have to really press down on the gas to get that downshift. I try to reduce those downshifts as much as possible these days. Especially w. gas prices going up. I do hope Chrysler looks into your symptoms further.
It does look a little like the Pac doesn't it? Can you imagine your Pac if it had a "7-speed trans......5.0-litre V8 with around 305hp"? Just do a google search on "2006 R-Class" and it comes up with a couple of links to try.
Has anyone had a problem with starting their Pacifica? I am experiencing a problem where when I go to start the vehicle, it turns over and then dies. This happens about 4 or 5 times until it kicks in completely. I've taken it in for service and they checked it out on their system but can't find anything wrong with it. Any experiences with this?
I'm also having the exact same problem with my 2004 AWD. It's been in for service twice, and was told there were no codes, even though they did duplicate the problem. For about 2 weeks everything was fine after a bottle of STP complete fuel system cleaner, but the problem returned yesterday. I would also love to know the cause.
Count me in also guys! Just started having the same problem with my 2004 AWD Pac (32,000 miles). Car stalling immediately after start-up, doesn't matter hot or cold, have to really hop on the gas to keep it running when starting it. Have it at the shop now, would like to give my service dept help on a possible cause--Anyone get any answers yet on what this could be? Thanks for any input!
Ironically, (as if the clunking issue isn't already enough) my vehicle began stalling YESTERDAY! As I am typing this message I am sitting here on hold with DCX Customer Service.
I have an 2005 Limited AWD and now it has approximately 13,000 miles on the odometer. Last night while attempting to curb-side park, I came to a complete stop, put the vehicle in reverse and hit the gas to find that the vehicle was unresponsive, yes.. it DIED! I kind of looked at it as a possible "one-time" affair until today. The vehicle has stalled on me twice today, once while makiing a rolling left-hand lane turn with oncoming traffic!
Well, I remembered there had been several complaints about this so I am saving all of the and having customer service add my new issue to the my case log. This is rediculous people! I really do like my vehicle, but you are all right. This condition is very unsafe! Any resolution to the stalling issue??
What a coincidence. My trade-in was a 98 Intrepid ES. That had been my first Chrysler product in about 25 years. (I'm starting to date myself.) My Trep had 90K+ miles, still had original battery & brakes. I thought the leather interior showed a lot of wear though. It had been good on gas. Where I'm at, MO Ozarks, the downshift is a natural on some hills.
In case you didn't read it in the news, FORD has decided ALREADY to KILL the FREESTLYE as it is today. Do a news search for FORD FREESTYLE and the article should pop up. This is from July 19, 2005.
Two days after my last post, my 2004 AWD PAC is now undriveable, unless I shift into neutral while stoping and hop on the gas to rev the engine to prevent a stall. Its going into the dealer tomorrow, they feel they may need to REPLACE the engine control module. This module was a recall item on the 2004 model but the recall only stated the need to RE-PROGRAM the module, so thats all that was done at the time. I'll be driving my son's car untill this is resolved. I now have 39 K on the PAC, and am hoping this will be covered under the 7/70 powertrain warranty.
You got 90K on the original brakes? That is awesome. Unfortunately for me, I went through about 4 rotors, 2 calipers, and pads on my Trep before finally giving up at 60k miles, they kept overheating and turning blue. Just bad luck I guess.Engine and tranny were fantastic, brakes and AC(evaporator) were terrible. You're right, it was very poor leather quality. It cracked despite my regular conditioning. Hopefully, the Pac will treat me much better. The Pac, at least, has the perception of quality. Maybe it will hold true over 5 years.
The passenger side front airbag went off by itself in my 2004 Pacifica just after backing out of my driveway. I didn't hit anything (not even a bump) and no airbag warning light came on. Chrysler tried to say that airbags weren't warranty items. My position was that 1. Airbags are not specifically excluded 2. Only one air bag went off indicating a defect and 3. Even if I had hit something and only the passenger airbag delpoyed it is still a defect. After three weeks Chyrsler aggreed to cover under warranty, but now I am not sure I can trust it not to go off again. What if it happens at interstate speeds and not the driveway? How many people might be killed?
Im' thinking :lemon:
Has anyone else had this problem. If so, please post.
Just got our 2004 AWD Pacifica (24,000 miles) back from the dealership today. It has been stalling after start up a off and on for the last two months. Brought it in 3 times and no one could come up with any codes from the diagnostic computer. Yesterday we had to have it towed in and, sure enough, they were able to start it and found no error codes and could not replicate the problem. We had the D15 Recall for the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) reprogramming done in March, so that wasn't the fix. They replaced some solenoid last time and that didn't work. This time, they replaced the IAC (idle air control) Motor and said that since the last time we brought it in, several other Pacificas came in with similar problems and none have come back after having this done. So lets keep our finger crossed! :confuse:
I've read numerous posts about the Pacifica, both good and bad. I'm leaning against the purchase at this point, but I was curious. Is anyone having problems located in the Mid-Atlantic USA region? I've noticed many posts from folks located in California. Thanks.
It's back to the dealer this morning for an oil change. The rain was steady all night last night and it turns out to be a blessing. While driving to the dealer, I see water coming into the car through the lift gate. I stop the car right away thinking that may be the gate was not properly shut but it was... So here I am at the dealer showing this problem to them. YES for the very first time they CAN NOT say NFF (No fault found)!!! NFF appears a lot in my repair work order in the pass. It's like you have to get NFF few times before they fix your problems. Now they just inform me that they have to send it out to another place to get the water leak fixed. They do not have a "specialist" in house!. In the pass they kept my car for 3 days to fix a water leaks into the carpet on the driver side. Even though I directed them to the right TSB and they still could not fix it. I am so dissatisfy with the service I receive. I am thinking it's time to find another dealer which also means I have to go an extra 25Km to the other dealer. Now this becomes a new problem as the other dealer shuttle bus does not go far enough to drop me off. In Canada they do not give loaner!!! It a no win situation here. Try to call DC but it's a waste of time. No lemon law in Canada either. It's NFG. If you live in Canada, read all my post and it takes no time to realize that the Pacifica is definitely a Pacificrap!!!.
I live in Alexandria, VA and have had my 04 PAC AWD since February 04 and just had my 15,000 mile service done yesterday. Other than having the rattling noise fixed in the first month, I have had absolutely NO problem with the vehicle.
Since it's a lease vehicle, I don't baby the car at all and push it pretty hard and it always responds accordingly without any trouble. I'd recommend it to anyone!
Hi there! I am brand new to these boards. I have come here today because my brand spanking new 2005 FWD PAC is stalling while driving at slow speeds. I am unaccustomed to car troubles and I HOPE this is just a bug that can be corrected. This is the second time it's happened, while driving, and it only has 1,600 miles on it!
Anyway, my story is so similar to yours, it's uncanny. The first time I took it in, July 27th, they couldn't replicate the problem and they couldn't find any diag. codes either. They also couldn't enter my visit into their service system (even though they told me they would), since they showed me as having a 300 model (NO IDEA WHY - NEVER EVEN LOOKED AT ONE!), so they now have absolutely NO record of me being there before for the same issue. This really ticks me off, but that's another topic.
Well, two days ago, August 17th, it happened again while I was driving at a slow speed. I had just turned into my parking lot at work and wa-la----NOTHING! It was all I could do to coast into a parking space since "standing" on the brakes is very hard for me to do and steering is as well, naturally (it's a big, heavy vehicle).
I called the dealer immediately and dropped it off yesterday. They gave me a loaner and said that they would call me. Well, NATURALLY, they found no diag. codes again and they were ready give the car back to me again. I reminded them that this was the second visit for this issue in several week's time and I further expressed that their answer was unacceptable and the car is UNSAFE. And, I told them I would be keeping their loaner until they fix the problem. So, I am now dealing directly with their service manager.
Last night, the service manager asked permission to drive my car home to see if he could replicate the problem by driving under the same conditions. I told him to do whatever he needs to do to get it fixed. He said that he thinks it could be the IAC, too, since it seems to happen after driving at a normal rate of speed, slowing down to a very low speed and just before making a turn. He suggested that maybe it was "skipping" steps . Evidently, there are generally 40 steps to an IAC motor and perhaps my car is missing the last 5 steps before slowing down, so it stalls. I am so not mechanical, so forgive me.
Well, I guess I am just hopeful that others have had their IAC changed and can offer some positive feedback. I can't wait to get out of the loaner Jeep Liberty I have(hate it!) and back into my PAC. I pray this will be the last time for this issue.
Comments
rodut, I'm glad that you finally are convinced that the Pacifica is "Pacificrap"...
I have not signed in this forum for a while because I'm so disgusted and tired with the problems showing up one by one with my "Pacificrap". Just about every problem I read in this forum, I have already had it or it's about to show up. On top of that, my dealer is clueless. I have to bring it back many times to fix just one problem. The famous line "Unable to duplicate the problems"... "Parts back order"...Sounds familiar??? I have a job and I work for the living just like everybody else. They don't pay me for the time I spend at the dealership. It's a lot of valuable time wasted!!!
By reading this forum and doing my own research, I think I know more than my dealer about the Pac. Many time I have to direct them to the right issue with TSB. Why would Chrysler release such a nice (well almost nice) car and did not pay attention to the QA and training their technician?
This is the way Chrysler (and my dealership) do business and as a result, they lost my business forever.
Yes, rodut, INCOMPETENCE is a right word. Hey, Chrysler I hope you hear this forum.
Bye for now... And happy posting.
and rodut, I am sorry that your PAC turned into a lemon like so many others. You really were the champion of the PAC for quite a while on these forums. If the PAC can sour your opinion then what hope does anyone else have.
and will DC every get its act on quality together?
The clunky thing is just annoying to me.. maybe the sound varies per model, etc. but it's very noticeable to me and for $43+, I should not have to tolerate that. Some people are content, but I've never liked having the feeling as if I am not getting my money's worth or having to "settle" with something. Oddly enough, the dealership has been unable to fix the intermittent satellite radio issue (fading in and out, and not even working until the vehicle is restarted) and this has been addressed at least 5 times. They just cannot figure out what's wrong.
Heck, I may even consider looking at the RX330 just to "save" a little more money, but overall go out to the Lexus GX and RX forums here on edmunds, the GX forum has less than 100 posts under "Problems and Solutions?" Evidentally, someone's leading a heavy QA initiative over at Toyota!
http://www.lexus.ca
the Lexus LX470 is listed at $101,400 Canadian dollars (plus tax).
For my Touring FWD Pacifica I paid (after discounts) CAN$ 35,000 (plus tax).
Toyota / Lexus doesn't discount cars a lot, so it comes at:
3 Pacificas = 1 Lexus 470
Sorry, but the barely perceptible noise I have doesn't justify paying 3 cars for one !!! Let's be fair, even if Chrysler doesn't know how to make a dead silent suspension ! If price is no object why don't you buy a Greyhound bus ? They are dead silent !
Which begs the question...if Chrysler had any quality control at all going for the PAC and could actually have put out a PAC with the quality it should have...how many thousands more units would they have moved? I know of 3 people who were ready to buy a PAC, loved it upon first look/drive but then did not buy one because of all the problems.
For one, not many happy and contended PAC owners come and post how beautiful their PAC is because, I believe, they enjoy driving it rather than posting on these forums. I know couple of highly contented PAC owners (> 10 K miles) who are not aware of a forum like this at all. Go figure!
Just because Lexus LX470 forum has less postings means nothing... Maybe, the owners of LX have hefty amounts to spend on cars and don't give a squat posting minor annoyances rather than taking it to the dealer and fixing it.
For the value and quality, I don't think any other competitor can beat PAC. Period. Agree that there are some problems on PACs manufactured before Sep or Aug '04 but the ones that are built later are of prime quality or at least, that's what the owners I know vouch for!
For anyone buying a new car, you can probably find a "Problems & Soulutions" forum on it, whether it be edmunds.com or any other site. I found the same when I bought my Xterra two years ago and have not any problems.
I think whatever vehicle you buy you will always have a risk.
When you post your problems, can you give the TRIM as well? This will help us to narrow whether the problem is with the Base AWD or Touring FWD or Limited and so on. Since Limited and Touring trims have more options (lots of electronics), the problem might be some what related to that as well. Just a thought. Thanks.
As for the Freestyle, a vehicle that is competent, I'm sure, but OH SO BORING, I will bet you money that the Pacifica sales will be higher than Freestyle sales when all is said and done...........I mean, how many ways can you make an Explorer ?....................
And did I mention the 2000 lb tow capacity for the Freestyle ?
Given the chance to do it again, or buy something else, I wouldn't hesitate! I'd be lined up to buy another Pacifica in no time flat! :shades:
dcdchau, sorry you have had such a bad time with your Pacifica, but I don't and can't believe yours is the norm. Mine and a few others I know about certainly prove the car!
Good luck....
Exterior dimensions:
PAC Freestyle Length, Width, Height
199 199
79 74
67 68
PAC: Row 1, 2, 3
Leg 41, 39, 30
Head 40, 40, 35
Cargo 80, 44, 13 behind row 1, 2, 3
Freestyle:
Leg 41, 40, 33
Head 39, 39, 39
Cargo 85, 47, 21
I just noticed today that the area where the center speaker is located seems kinda caving in. I hope is not a big deal, no rattles or squeak yet. :confuse:
My complaint has been the sagging/stuttering/surging. Almost always in 2nd, except under hard acceleration. And sometime in 3rd.
The first time into service the dealer found no codes -- therefore, no problem found. This was just over 1000 miles, 5 weeks old.
The second time I took it in was because I had a couple of incidences where I've pulled into traffic and it stutters so bad it stops accelerating and I've been approached rather quickly from behind. Which to them, looks like I've pulled out in front of them and slowed down. Again, dealer says they drove it, no codes = no problem. And I disagreed. When I went to pick it up, I could tell they put 1.5 miles on it. I drove around the block and almost got hit from behind again. So I complained and set another appointment for 2 days later - this past Tuesday.
So the third time they had car all day and called me. Again, no codes, they drove it, no problem. I complained. They said they would keep it overnight, try it again the next morning. In the afternoon I called. They said they had driven it a couple of times - different people. No one thought there was a problem. So I said I would go to dealer and take someone for a ride to show them the problem. One of the Service Advisors went for a ride with me. As soon as I pulled out onto the road, it shifts into 2nd and I can feel it stuttering and unresponsive. It's a subtle feeling, but I can feel it because I'm the one pushing on the gas peddle and knowing it's not accelerating! My ride-along says he still isn't sure what I'm feeling. I stop and start out again. Then he says he feels what I'm describing as I'm driving. Get ready - THEN he tells me that the engine management system IS DESIGNED to reduce the power in 2nd gear in the 2005 Pacs. I just about went ballistic. During that discussion, I find out that they had some contact with their factory service support and was told about this 2nd gear power reduction. But they hadn't told me -- until I kept complaining. The Service Advisor tells me it is the "Torque Management FEATURE". Some FEATURE!
Well I've almost been rear-ended twice. We all know the Pac is so underpowered anyway. And at times when it sags in 2nd so bad, I feel like it can't hardly get out of its own way! I think this thing is dangerous to be on the road with.
The dealer says there is nothing they can do.
I've driven two (2) 2004 Pacs. They accelerated smoothly in 2nd. So I can believe this is a '05 only problem.
Does anyone else notice this situation? Have you complained? Had you had it in for service? Have you heard this or a different story about this.
Please, share you experience with me.
Thanks, JC
No, it is not normal. I do not have such hesitation with my 05 Touring. Try a different dealer but, get if fixed as it appears to be a dangerous situation.
As to the Pacifica being underpowered, I disagree on that. Certainly I would prefer the feel and the torque of a V8 but the 3.5 is a pretty fair compromise. You simply have to recognize that it is a 4 valve engine and as such it breathes and develops power at higher RPMs. If you keep the engine at such RPMs (over 3500) for uphill and passing, the power is sufficient. I live in the mountains and I am not left behind by too many cars on those winding, uphill climbs.
I was very pleasantly surprised by the perception of quality in the Pac. It's 4-speed is very smooth, and the cabin very quiet. Very un-Chrysler.
JC,
I have not experienced your stalling/sputtering issue. But I have noticed a reluctance for the transmission to downshift when I want it to shift.
A couple of times now, all highway, I've felt like the car was unwilling to move faster when I wanted a little more "giddyup". The engine and tranny are so smooth that it's difficult to tell what gear you're in sometimes. It feels like the engine is not producing the power needed to get you moving faster comparable to the amount of gas pedal pressure applied. I keep applying pressure until I get a surge of power as the tranny kicks down to the lower gears.
This car wants to stay in the higher gears for as long as possible. I guess for fuel economy purposes. It will downshift, but you have to press down hard enough for the computer to really understand that you want more power.
Before buying this car, my expectations regarding power were low. The car performed slightly better than I expected being that this car weighs alot w. so-so power and a 4 speed tranny.
If it's really sputtering on you on the highway, be careful. Good luck. I do hope you they fix it for you.
Nelson
Cruise set at 72, RPM in normal range at 2800/3000, all of a sudden revved to over 4000. Routine stretch of highway, not passing, not climbing and not going downhill.
Any similar experiences?
Does the Freestyle share the Ford 500 engine? The reviews of the 500 engine have been less than stellar. Ford is in serious trouble with their new designs, and Chrysler is doing very well, so the marketplace is voting.
About your post 1281 suggestion, I don't have and don't need reading glasses. You could have some trouble with your memory though, because in post 1276 you talk about the the LX470, and in post 1272 you talk about the GX470. Sure the price is different.
I answer so late because I was enjoying my beautiful and reliable Pacifica in the Acadia National Park, in Maine. Better drive it than post about it (or give medical advice).
My Poc needed an intake manifold, gaskets and manifold actuator plus various parts to to bring it back to its normal underpowered self. Some $700 dollars worth of stuff and labor. Since I still had 2,850 miles left on the 70K warranty, the tab was picked up by DCX. I still have good things to say about my dealer's service department but the Poc, it's lack of quality and its pathetic re-sale value certainly left a bad taste in my mouth. Good luck to all of you -- over and out!
:sick:
But you're right that you have to really press down on the gas to get that downshift. I try to reduce those downshifts as much as possible these days. Especially w. gas prices going up.
I do hope Chrysler looks into your symptoms further.
I have an 2005 Limited AWD and now it has approximately 13,000 miles on the odometer. Last night while attempting to curb-side park, I came to a complete stop, put the vehicle in reverse and hit the gas to find that the vehicle was unresponsive, yes.. it DIED! I kind of looked at it as a possible "one-time" affair until today. The vehicle has stalled on me twice today, once while makiing a rolling left-hand lane turn with oncoming traffic!
Well, I remembered there had been several complaints about this so I am saving all of the and having customer service add my new issue to the my case log. This is rediculous people! I really do like my vehicle, but you are all right. This condition is very unsafe! Any resolution to the stalling issue??
Thanks!
formerly ingeniousguy... now living4goodlife
1. Airbags are not specifically excluded
2. Only one air bag went off indicating a defect and
3. Even if I had hit something and only the passenger airbag delpoyed it is still a defect.
After three weeks Chyrsler aggreed to cover under warranty, but now I am not sure I can trust it not to go off again. What if it happens at interstate speeds and not the driveway? How many people might be killed?
Im' thinking :lemon:
Has anyone else had this problem. If so, please post.
:confuse:
:lemon: :mad: :sick:
Is there anymore icon for me to post???
Since it's a lease vehicle, I don't baby the car at all and push it pretty hard and it always responds accordingly without any trouble. I'd recommend it to anyone!
I am unaccustomed to car troubles and I HOPE this is just a bug that can be corrected. This is the second time it's happened, while driving, and it only has 1,600 miles on it!
Anyway, my story is so similar to yours, it's uncanny. The first time I took it in, July 27th, they couldn't replicate the problem and they couldn't find any diag. codes either. They also couldn't enter my visit into their service system (even though they told me they would), since they showed me as having a 300 model (NO IDEA WHY - NEVER EVEN LOOKED AT ONE!), so they now have absolutely NO record of me being there before for the same issue. This really ticks me off, but that's another topic.
Well, two days ago, August 17th, it happened again while I was driving at a slow speed. I had just turned into my parking lot at work and wa-la----NOTHING! It was all I could do to coast into a parking space since "standing" on the brakes is very hard for me to do and steering is as well, naturally (it's a big, heavy vehicle).
I called the dealer immediately and dropped it off yesterday. They gave me a loaner and said that they would call me. Well, NATURALLY, they found no diag. codes again and they were ready give the car back to me again. I reminded them that this was the second visit for this issue in several week's time and I further expressed that their answer was unacceptable and the car is UNSAFE. And, I told them I would be keeping their loaner until they fix the problem. So, I am now dealing directly with their service manager.
Last night, the service manager asked permission to drive my car home to see if he could replicate the problem by driving under the same conditions. I told him to do whatever he needs to do to get it fixed. He said that he thinks it could be the IAC, too, since it seems to happen after driving at a normal rate of speed, slowing down to a very low speed and just before making a turn. He suggested that maybe it was "skipping" steps . Evidently, there are generally 40 steps to an IAC motor and perhaps my car is missing the last 5 steps before slowing down, so it stalls. I am so not mechanical, so forgive me.
Well, I guess I am just hopeful that others have had their IAC changed and can offer some positive feedback. I can't wait to get out of the loaner Jeep Liberty I have(hate it!) and back into my PAC. I pray this will be the last time for this issue.
Regards!
Kerri