Chrysler Pacifica

bapriebe · April 2008

My dealer told me when I first enquired that I could not use regular steel rims with the tire pressure monitoring sensors on my '04.

pssimon · April 2008

Depending on how long you keep your cars you may find this of interest..... I had been told by my dealer that you can buy an extended warranty from the dealer that matches the drivetrain warranty.... this means that just like you have drivetrain coverage forever, you can buy a Max Care to match it.... that way, except for the deductible, your car is covered FOREVER on everything but consumables!

To me, thats the way to go! You might never need to replace the car if they will fix it forever! They had told me the Max Care ended up about 10% of the price of the car. A bargain in the long run!

Thoughts?

---Paul in Southern NJ

galneedshelp · May 2008

Hi--I'm one of the owners with the same fuel gauge problem. Thanks for the info on the TSB-- I found the # NHSA 10009793 . Was is an expensive fix? I'm on a tight budget and curious if this is a DIY project. Thanks!!

waterdr · May 2008

Don't overlook the Ford Taurus X. It is built on the Volvo platform and is very similar to a PAC as far as layout. I really did not like the way they drive, but as well as the PAC's, they are really popular in town around here.

The GM trios (Enclave, Outlook, Arcadia) are awesome. But also pretty pricey. This was my vehicle of choice, but $12,000 more then the '07 Pac that I bought with like for like options.

steelydanfan · May 2008

I agree, the Ford Taurus X falls into this CUV category, and I should have brought that up. I think pssimon slammed Fords in his original post, so I didn't pursue that car make other than defending it.

A legitimate knock I would make on the Ford Taurus X is that it has been a slow seller for Ford, and it wouldn't surprise me one bit if they cancelled it in the near future. Personally, I wouldn't replace a cancelled Pacifica with a maybe-soon-to-be-cancelled Taurus X. The fact that they are offering $4K rebates right now on this vehicle is a telling fact. Also, Ford renamed it the Taurus X in an effort to boost sales, it was formerly known as the Ford Freestyle..........Why anyone would name a vehicle after a swimming stroke is beyond me.....

I agree that the Ford Taurus X has tested pretty well in car rags, but it just hasn't caught on. I know the biggest knocks on it have been the underwhelming 200 HP V6 , which is not much in this category. It also has just a 2000lb tow rating, which is half of most of the others we have already mentioned.

sandyl · May 2008

The dealership is going to replace my radio (only 22K on my 2006), but I find this problem very strange. I can get FM, Satellite, use the CD player, etc. I just cant seem to hear AM stations. The seek finds them, but you cannot hear them.

Has anyone heard of this before?

pssimon · May 2008

Things I like about the Pacifica:
2x2x2 seating"
"The capacity of the vehicle when the seats are folded down"
the flexibility of changing form strictly "limo" to "part limo" when taking long road trips with the family.
It feels good on the road.

With 3 kids, separating them is a good thing!

pssimon · May 2008

For those few that thought I was slamming Ford..... it wasn't really a slam to Ford as much as a compliment to Chrysler. Ford's just aren't up to the level of Chrysler in some areas, thats all.

Does it show I've been driving a Chrysler product since 1974 (except for few weird years when I had a 1982 Honda Accord.... one of my bigger mistakes! Never a Honda owner again!)

djag · May 2008

I finally bought a 2008 new Limited with all options on Ebay for $29,000 new looking at many other options. I have a leased 2005 Limited which as been terrific and every way. The 6 speed and 4.0 liter make a big difference. I honestly could not find a better option especially for the price. Considered the new GM crossovers (Saturn, Buick, etc.) but they really were not dealing. While they are now discounting Pacificas $4000 there are no new Limiteds at this price. They are all gone. I am convinced that even though they are orphans, at least the Limiteds will hold their value because of the MB engineering and the E model drive train in this vehicle. This was the first and last vehicle they did jointly before selling Chrysler. Sorry MB it didnt work for you. I hope Chrysler make it but it is a long shot with $4 gas.

waterdr · May 2008

Good points.

Both the PAC and the Freestyle/Taurus X seem to be extremely popular in town here. I tried both...could have lived with either, but settled on the PAC for styling and the way I was treated at the dealer.

Our local Ford dealer is pretty "old school" while the Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge dealer is very modern with amazing service hours.

After now putting 10k on my Limited PAC, I still love the car. The 2+2+2 seating is great, BUT, sometimes I wish I has a 7 passenger setup rather then just six. Keep in mind, when you have 5 people in this vehicle, there really is not much room for luggage. Unlike a large sedan where you have a huge trunk to use. When you have 6, you are screwed.

pssimon · May 2008

I agree on the luggage issue..... We do take family trips and there are 5 of us. If it wasn't that I can fold down the unused third row seat this car wouldn't work for us.... but it does, so it does!

qbrozen · May 2008

well, if the 2+2+2 seating is at the top of your list, if I'm not mistaken, that leaves just the Pac, mazda5, and benz R-class. The Pac is dead, so that leaves 2. And they are at FAR ends of the spectrum.

Certainly, the mazda5 is not going to feel or drive like the Pac, nor does it have as much room. The Benz is quite nice, and available with a diesel, but its quite costly.

pssimon · May 2008

Exactly! Thats my problem..... The car I want has gone away. The R class is obscenely expensive and not worth it, so it isn't an option. As for the Mazda.... well.... it's a Mazda. Enough said there!

This is why I am so confused right now!

qbrozen · May 2008

As for the Mazda.... well.... it's a Mazda. Enough said there!

:confuse:

Seriously, I like Chrysler, but, as an owner of one, I certainly do NOT look down on the likes of Mazda. So, no, you didn't say enough there. I hope you are referring to something subjective like styling or ... I don't know what. Mazda makes pretty darned good cars.

joe29001 · May 2008

Just because the Pacifica is discontinued doesn't mean that you can't find one. The dealerships here have plenty and likely will for some time. I bought one in late March (it was a 2007). I wouldn't rule out a 2008 (or a 2007) just because it's discontinued. If you're concerned about support, remember that it's covered by a lifetime warranty.

qbrozen · May 2008

yup. Another Pac is what I suggested originally.

rodut · May 2008

I really loved the Pac even if it was clunking (remember that I invented the
"CLUNKING COMES STANDARD" logo ?).

But the level of happiness I reached when I traded our 3 years old Pacifica, for a brand spanking new 2008 Pilot SE, doesn't match any level of happiness I felt recently. The unfixable front end was unacceptable for me. The fact that the transmission broke in the middle of the Canadian winter didn't help, nor the worn ball joints (at 50,000 Kms ?!?!).

Driving away in my clunking free Pilot ... and seeing the Pacifica in the mirror ... that was like being a teenager again ! Priceless !

By the way, the 2008 Pilot was just discontinued (the 2009 looks different), so the deal was impossible to reject ! When I saw the deal I knew that Pacifica was history !

ADIOS Chrysler !

qbrozen · May 2008

We traded our Pilot for a Pacifica. When we recently went to find a replacement for the Pac, we went back to test drive a newer Pilot. It just doesn't feel in the same league as the Pac. while I love and miss the powertrain of the Pilot, the Pac is much quieter and feels much more upscale. After almost 3 years in the Pac, it was even more apparent when driving the Pilot. It really felt ... dare I say ... cheap.
Now, if we could have the Pilot powertrain in the Pac's packaging, we would never look elsewhere.

But ... then we found the volvo blew them both away.

b25nut · May 2008

Like you Paul, I don't think I could be happier with my Pacifica. I've had mine since April 2003 and with 78,000 miles it still drives and looks (well, almost) as good as new. I plan on driving mine for at least another four years. What are the reports on the Enclave and the CX-9? They seem to come closest to the Pacifica without getting outrageous in price. Can you live with a little less room in a MKX?
I checked out the Dodge Journey last week and couldn't have been more disappointed. My choice for replacement was going to be Chrysler, but if this is the direction that Chrysler is headed, it looks like that won't happen.

pssimon · May 2008

I too looked at a Dodge Journey... what a disappointment. Everything about it looks so cheap compared to a Pacifica. The seats look thin and less comfy, the dash looks less classy....everything just seems a step down from the Pacifica.

What a shame... it could have been my answer.

philbon · August 2008

I am concerned about towing a travel trailer with my 2005 Pac AWD with 3.5liter engine. I have not acquired the trailer yet so I am doing due diligence on insuring the safety and wisdom of this endeavor.

I would of course get the towing package installed along with the braking accessory. But I am interested in any comments or experiences anyone has had in this area. The trailer would weigh about 3,000# and I plan to drive hundreds of miles each day. Thanks.

pssimon · August 2008

Is anyone else having problems with their headlights? Not the bulbs but the plastic lenses in front of the bulbs. It has become very hazy ( and slightly pitted) and I suspect reducing the strength of the light.

Has anyone found a solution to correct this short of replacing the entire lamp housing?

Thanks....

---Paul in Southern NJ

galneedshelp · August 2008

I had a similar problem with my '96 Caravan (proud owner of a '04 Pacifica now!). The headlights on my Caravan were SO hazy I was afraid to drive at night. I thought I would have to replace both headlamps which, unfortunately, was over $120! Went to Checker Autoparts and they have a headlight restorer creme that you can rub over your lenses. It costs around $8 ($5.99 on sale). It instantly took the haze off of the lenses, making them in near new condition! Unbelievable! My son tried it on his "96 Mustang and it worked just as well.
I still don't understand why they got so hazy in the first place--my car was garaged most of the time.

pssimon · August 2008

Thanks.... I found their web page (http://www.myheadlight.com). They say they sell at Walmart. I'll try to check them out.

Thanks again....

steelydanfan · August 2008

Down here in Texas, I usually see "hazy lenses" in conjunction with a car that is left outside in the hot sun repeatedly......since yours was garaged, I dunno about that one.

I guess it is possible , if you used the wrong cleaner repeatedly, or lousy carwashes, to "cloud" the lens chemically, I have never read much on the care of these things one way or another.........

suewho321 · August 2008

Is it a goner? I will test it in the morning, but just discovered I left my key remote fob in my pants pocket and ran it through the washer tonight. I discover it when I went to take the pants out and put in dryer . If it is a goner, how much is a new one likely to run me? thanks!

caliberchic · August 2008

I lost one once and was quoted $130.

suewho321 · August 2008

Thanks! I tried it the next morning, and it worked fine, doesn't appear to be any residual damage! ( Thank goodness, as it was MY key and my husband's 300 key -- and I don't have an extra 300.00 around to replace the 2 keys!)

steelydanfan · August 2008

I have read in other posts that you can order another key/remote fob via sites like ebay and program them yourself for much less than $130. The catch is this: you have to have BOTH original fobs to program a 3rd, for security reasons. So, you can't wait until you lose one to do it.

You can even get a "valet or car repair" key for even cheaper, using this "extra" key for those situations.......

galneedshelp · August 2008

I purchased an extra key set from ebay as it was a lot cheaper than going through the dealer. I just ordered a replacement key and reprogrammed it myself using the instructions provided (very easy). The remotes are also more expensive (but cheaper than $130). I figured I would rather have a working key without the remote than shell out that amount of $$$ for a remote replacement. Glad your remote survived the washer, though!!

soch · September 2008

I tried to exchange my 2006 Pacifica Touring (with 26 U package -rear sensor, power lift gate, adj. pedals, etc) with a Honda Odyssey (as they r having 3500 below invoice clearance). The dealer offered by $13K!!! I had paid 31K for it. I only have 15K miles on it.

Well I will be keeping my Pacifica and cribbing about it's difficulties when towing more than 4 passengers for a few more years.

In long dirves (>30mins), adults can't sit in the 3rd row. And it's impossible to keep infant seat in the third row. What was I thinking buying Pacifica instead of being a Van (soccer mom/dad) a few years ago!!!

letsgetmikey · October 2008

I have an 07 base Pacifica as a company fleet car. It's being replaced next month, since it has 60k miles. The fleet company is offering these for sale at around $7k.

It has just about every option, but it's a base model.

Mikey.

pssimon · October 2008

Considering I have an '04 and love it, I'd be curious what fleet company is selling them for $7K. As a Pacifica lover, I think that's a steal!

Are they selling to the public at that price?

---Paul in Southern NJ

letsgetmikey · October 2008

The fleet company gives the driver of the car right of first refusal at a set price. After about a week, it goes into the general sales pool to other employees.

Historically, it's been a hit or miss proposition to buy, since if someone wanted to buy a car it was sight unseen and they are scattered all over the country. No reconditioning, as is sale.

The cars that aren't purchased by employees are sent to the auction.

The last car I had was an 04 Grand Prix that was a piece of junk that they wanted a ton of money for. I slammed it so hard on the condition survey when I turned it in that it never showed up for sale and went straight to the auction.

I was a bit surprised at the low prices showing up on Pacificas, since the fleet company usually has prices that are a bit on the high side.

I don't need another car right now, but if I did I'd jump all over this one.

Mikey

jen812 · November 2008

I own a 2004 Pacifica and am having so many problems with it that I am going crazy. I contacted Chrysler Corp. and I am having trouble with the Chrysler Corp. Customer Service (1-800-992-1997). I contacted them 3 days ago was told that I could extend the 7/70K mile powertrain warranty for $150 (I am the second owner). After explained my situation and asking that the $150 fee be waived I was told that Chrysler would waive the fee as a "one time goodwill gesture" and that it would take 24 hours for the update to reach the dealership computer and to then call and set up my repair appt. So, I call to set up the appt. today, NO WARRANTY! UGH! Once again I contact Chrysler, and surprise, they have to record of the rep. saying that Chrysler would waive the $150 fee. I have spent over 3 hours on the phone with Chrysler to no avail. Does any know how to contact anyone "higher" up in Chrysler? I ask to be transfered to a manager/supervisor and am told that I am at the end of the road. I even asked to be transfered to the secretary for the CEO and was told no. I am so frustrated.
ANY HELP would be so much appreciated.

rolltide12nc · November 2008

so was this a wheels car. i purchaed a 2007 from them for 7k with 70k but it has leather 6 disk 6cd changer. It doesnt have the compass which ticks me off or sirius. I am trying to find a newer radio with sirius which i can replace this radio. anyone have any cross reference sites on radios. also how would i add the compass mpg. it has tire pressure and oil change. its a 3.5 liter. I can get and extended warranty for 24 months of 24k miles for 500.00 but i hear those are rips off.

let me know if any one know of radio sites, and how to add the compass to the pac.

rolltide12nc · November 2008

so was this a wheels car.

rolltide12nc · November 2008

yes

rolltide12nc · November 2008

yes it is a wheels vehicle

letsgetmikey · December 2008

Yes, mine was a wheels car too. Mine sold to another employee the first day it was available.

Mine also has the 6 disc changer with the DVD player, but it has no video console. The local Chrysler dealer said it would be $955 to install it.

Mikey.

b25nut · April 2009

I have now owned my Pacifica for a full six years and couldn't be happier. Only once (when the battery finally died) has it not started on the first turn of the key. I still have the original brakes. Most people still think its an almost new car (until they notice the lack of the new car smell). The only things I have paid for are oil, filters and one set of tires that still have at least 38K+ miles left on them. I've hauled trash cans, a 12 foot Christmas tree and six people to dinner in comfort all in the same day with the same vehicle. I couldn't ask for more. The Pacifica has the best ergonomics of any car I have seen or driven. It will be very hard to match when I replace it in four years.

pssimon · April 2009

I have to agree with you. The best car I ever owned. Got mine July 2003. It has 147,600+ miles on it. My biggest complaint right now is that the display on my radio (w/ the 6 disc changer) has gone dark. Audio still works great. I just need to remember what I programmed for each button!

Paul

my3rdrx · April 2009

I surely agree with both of you ~ If Chrysler were still making the Pacifica, I would have gotten another one after leasing two (04 & 06)! But, since it's not the case, I got a Mazda CX-9 instead!

pssimon · April 2009

What I don't understand is that there are LOTS of 2008 Pacificas still around, new on dealers lots..... yet even thought company is in such dire condition, they refuse to really deal on them. Bottom line is about maybe 10-12% off sticker after all of the "deals" going on..... for a 1 and almost a 2 model year old car. Wouldn't you think they would want to unload all that stock and put some cash INTO the company as opposed to still be paying to hold on to that iron? I woul dbuy an '08 if they made it worth my while, but they refuse!

Go figure.

jtg61 · April 2009

I brought my 2005 3.8L Pacifica in for an oil change and saw four 2008 Pacifica's sitting on the dealer's lot. One was a beautiful Clearwater Blue Touring WP Chrysler Signature Series for $34k MSRP. It was built in Oct 07 and this was Mar 09 so it was sitting on the dealer's lot for 17 months. It only had 43 miles on the odometer so it hadn't been driven much. I had read online that dealer's were letting them go for $10k off MSRP to get rid of them. I had no intention of trading in my 05 Pacifica but I figured it couldn't hurt to offer them $24k for this 08 Pacifica. To my surprise they took it and I drove away in the 08. This was a huge upgrade from my base 05 Pacifica. I couldn't be happier. Take a look at your local dealer's inventory on Chrysler's website to see if they have any 08's sitting on their lot. You might be able to get a better deal than I did. BTW The dealer told me these remaining 08's didn't sell because they didn't have the DVD installed in the back.

pssimon · April 2009

That's ok... I don't want the DVD in the back this time! When I got mine in '03 the kids were smaller so I needed the entertainment for them. Now, they are teenagers and they all have iPods and phones so they can do their own video.

Guess I need to take a look.

pssimon · April 2009

Found a leftover 2008 that stickers at $38,920 (Limited with AWD) being offered for $29,400. I am hoping I can chew them down a little more. Am I wrong to figure 25% (maybe up to 30%) off sticker to be too good a deal to pass up?

Am I a fool to take it? I know I can't get as much car as this for under $30K (maybe a lot under $30K). I know all the risk of buying a Chrysler these days but bang for the buck, could I ever possibly do better?

All thoughts appreciated...

Paul

jtg61 · April 2009

I bought a leftover 2008 Pacifica Touring WP Chrysler Signature Series for $10k under MSRP. It doesn't get any better than this. It was manufactured in Oct '07 which is close to the end if the line (12-12-07). My dealer's service department checked for Recalls and TSB's and couldn't find any. When you think that the '04 was first offered for sale in '03, this is five model years for the Pacifica. They got all the kinks worked out of the Pacifica and the '08 model year is about perfect. Finally getting the 4.0L and 6-speed in '07 was the crowning achievement. You have a unique opportunity to purchase a new Pacifica with a Lifetime Powertrain Warranty. The window of opportunity is nearly closed. The current incentives apply to the remaining '08's and you'll get the sales tax credit. You should definitely go for it. If you don't get it, somebody else will.

irismg · April 2009

I hope you don't mind my question They're saying that Chrysler Corporation will cease to exist after 2010. What happens to the lifetime powertrain warranty at that point? Thanks

pssimon · April 2009

Well.... as I see it there are two options:

1. If the deal with FIAT goes through, then everything continues as normal and all warranties continue.

2. If they really do go under, Mr Obama said that the government would assume all warranties, so again, the warranties continue.

So.... I wouldn't worry what happens... either way, the coverage is there.

At least that's how I see it!!

Paul

Chrysler Pacifica

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