2018 Chrysler Pacifica Owner Complaints

I am writing to offer corroborating evidence for NHTSA PE25009. The electric power steering system malfunctioned, and on this vehicle, that is a single unit with the rack and pinion, electric assist motor, and controller. At any point in time, the driver can turn the steering wheel and the vehicle will fight them. If attempting to turn left, it’ll maybe get as far as 11:00 and refuse to turn more. For a right turn, it’s the same but 1:00. This could easily cause a crash. The issue has been confirmed by Parkway Chrysler in Pampa, TX. As far as I know, no representative of the manufacturer has inspected the component other than the dealer service center. All warning messages (Service Power Steering in the gauge cluster) are concurrent with the temporary failure described above; no prior warning is offered.

NHTSA ID

11766601

Incident

Sep 12, 2026

Intermittent loss of power steering, giving the sensation of "sticking" when the wheel is turned about 30 degrees clockwise. Generally happens at highway speeds, but can happen at lower speeds too. Steering feels locked me momentarily, needing extra force to either continue the turn past 30 degrees or to bring it back to center.

NHTSA ID

11766254

Incident

Aug 15, 2026

Head gasket blown! Vehicle is under 100k miles, never overheated, service properly maintained. When researching symptoms, I discovered I am one of hundreds if not thousands of 2017-2018 model Pacifica owners who have suffered this issue. Heads are known to be faulty and Chrysler will not address the root of it. It's very possible this could lead to a locked engine while driving and cause harm to driver or others.

NHTSA ID

11766251

Incident

Sep 1, 2026

Intermittent Loss Of Electric Power Steering. Steering sticks at 11:00 and 1:00 and has to be pulled back to prevent running of the road. NHTSA Action Number- PE25009

NHTSA ID

11766213

Incident

Jun 10, 2026

I have a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica with approximately 125,000 miles. At around 110,000 I started to notice that the steering would randomly stick when driving at speeds between 25-45 mph. Now, the steering wheel is beginning to stick almost everytime I drive the van, but seems to get worse after about 20-30 minutes of driving. This now seems like a severe safety hazard at both neighborhood and highway speeds. As I turn the wheel when driving down the road, the steering wheel becomes physically stuck when passing through the 11 o'clock and 1 o'clock positions. In order to return the wheel to 12 o'clcok, I have to extert extra force, can feel the power steering kick back in, and the van will sharply react as the steering wheel straightens risking an over-correction accident. This is now a recurring issue and makes it very difficult and dangerous to drive my vehicle. These symptoms seem to exactly match what my research has uncovered online regarding a failing steering rack and column. I believe a NHTSA invesigation has already been opened into this safety issue (seems to match the description for NHTSA PE25009).

NHTSA ID

11765669

Incident

Sep 20, 2026

The steering wheel of my 2018 Chrysler Pacifica sticks when I turn to the left (around 10-11 o'clock) and to the right (around 1-2 o'clock). Going about 40 miles per hour I can take my hands off the wheel and the steering will continue to stay locked in that position until I push it out of that locked position. I still own this vehicle as it is our family vehicle. If you are a driver that allows the steering wheel to turn itself back straight and not realize that it sticks, this could cause an accident. Even forcefully turning back causes an over correction and it is getting worse. Have not gotten it inspected yet. This issue just started within the last 2 weeks, August/September 2026. There are no warning lights. Main battery has no corrosion. Vehicle has 96,966 miles on it. Seems related to -- NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: PE25009

NHTSA ID

11764317

Incident

Sep 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica. While the contact's son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the shifter module warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted by phone and was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a shifter module failure. The contact was informed that the shifter module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. While the contact's son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. In addition, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction and several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The contact stated that the following day, the vehicle was started; however, the gear shifter failed to shift as needed. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and the battery was replaced, but the failure reoccurred. The dealer was contacted by phone and made aware of the failure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The contact was informed that the failure was possibly caused by the wiring harness. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the parts were discontinued. The manufacturer was contacted by phone, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.

NHTSA ID

11764165

Incident

Jun 30, 2026

Mileage

82,000 mi

I am a disabled Army veteran reporting a severe safety defect and dangerous commercial configuration of adaptive mobility equipment installed by Mobility Works ([XXX]). The business sold me a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica wheelchair van with a heated transfer seat sight-unseen. The dealership delivered a completely non-conforming transfer seat that did not match the photo I bought it from and listed on the window sticker or marketing materials. The installed seat was missing critical structural spacer component, causing the driver's seat to wobble and was especially bad while turning. Furthermore, the vehicle frame creaks loudly under the weight of a VA-issued 400lb power wheelchair, indicating underlying structural collapse from a hidden September 8, 2018, insurance total-loss salvage event. On XXX, the non-conforming transfer seat failed completely. It jammed and refused to rotate, trapping me inside the vehicle. Because of my physical disability, I was entirely helpless and stranded, requiring an emergency response from 911 personnel to extract me from the vehicle. The dealer's regional service manager has inspected the vehicle and admitted that a spacer was missing that cause the seat to wobble and drivers needing 3" cushion to sit on to see over the dash. The vehicle represents a severe, active life-safety hazard to disabled consumers. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11763998

Incident

Jul 13, 2026

While driving my vehicle at approximately 75 MPH on the interstate the steering wheel froze/stuck while executing a long sweeping curve. The steering wheel would not turn and my wife whom was drivng was applying excessive pressure to the steering wheel to keep the vehile from running off the shoulder of the road almost lost control of the van when the steeringwheel broke loose and over corrected and the van made a sudden, sharp turn. This occured during an essentual 2 hor drive to a medical appointment. This vehicle matches the exact failure criteria currenly under active investigation by the NHTSA under PE25009 for steering binding. The manufacturer (Chrysler) refuses to honor or repair this known defect under warranty creating a sever and immediate hazaard for families operating these vans at highway speeds.

NHTSA ID

11763987

Incident

Sep 8, 2026

We had to replace both head gaskets last July with only 70,000 miles on the vehicle. The repair cost was $4,600.00. This August, we started experiencing coolant leaks again. We discovered the cylinder heads are warped now. This was checked last year and it was not the main issue then. It is extremly disappointing that now at 80,000 miles we are looking at another $5000.00+ repair. There needs to be a recall on the engine cylinders and head gasket.

NHTSA ID

11763638

Incident

Aug 25, 2026

During the turns the steering wheel in 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid locks-in. It requires extra force to unlock the steering wheel. This usually happens when the wheel is at 11 or 1 o'clock (30 degrees either direction). This is more noticeable at slow turns like on exit ramps.

NHTSA ID

11763313

Incident

Jul 9, 2025

Steering sticks on occasion when turning at highway speeds both left and right around the 1 and 10 o'clock position

NHTSA ID

11762431

Incident

Sep 5, 2026

Reference: NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: PE25009 In the last month, I've noticed steering problem with my mini van. I have to use both hands to steer in a curve and it jerks when coming out of the curve. It feels as if i am loosing control of the van. It also happens when i am changing lanes and steer the wheel past 11 and 1 oclock. It feels as if the car is fighting me to steer.

NHTSA ID

11762408

Incident

Sep 5, 2026

The head gasket failed at 89,000 miles. The engine gave P0305 Cylinder 5 misfire codes and would run rough causing difficult to drive in standard traffic flow. There are borescope pictures of coolant in cylinder 5. We stopped using the vehicle until the repair can be completed. This appear to be a WIDESPREAD problem for 2017-2019 Chrysler Pacifica which are numerous on the road and could be hazardous if these vehicles failed on regular roads and highways. See [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11762395

Incident

Aug 1, 2026

Blown head gasket

NHTSA ID

11761937

Incident

Aug 3, 2026

While driving my 2018 Chrysler Pacifica FWD with approximately 86,000 miles, I have noticed abnormal steering behavior when going around gradual curves. The steering does not feel smooth and natural through the turn, and I feel like I have to pull/force the steering wheel to continue through the curve. The steering can feel like it is sticking or resisting rather than smoothly following the turn. This is concerning because it affects the vehicle’s steering response while driving. I brought the vehicle to a mechanic, who inspected it and diagnosed a problem with the steering rack assembly. I was quoted approximately $3,400 to replace the steering rack assembly. I am reporting this because I understand NHTSA is investigating steering problems involving 2017–2018 Chrysler Pacifica vehicles, including reports of steering sticking during gradual turns. The steering wheel does not simply pull to one side; rather, it feels as though the steering itself is resisting or sticking while I am making the turn.

NHTSA ID

11761425

Incident

Aug 23, 2026

My 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid unexpectedly rolled after being parked in my residential garage. The van has very low mileage ~60000 miles and is still under Battery Manufacturer warranty. The vehicle had been operating normally and was parked with P displayed on the instrument cluster. It remained unused for approximately 6 days. When the garage door was opened, the vehicle unexpectedly rolled several feet. I believe the closed garage door may have prevented it from moving earlier. A family member who happened to be present stopped the vehicle before a potentially more serious incident occurred. The vehicle and garage door were damaged. Afterward, the vehicle would not start/enter READY mode. The P indicator flashed, selected gear indicators flashed, and “Service Transmission” appeared. The vehicle ultimately required towing. An independent diagnostic scan identified multiple faults, including P07B5-00 (Park Pawl Position Sensor 1 Circuit Performance), P1625-00 (Park Pawl System Failure), and P0AA4-00 (Hybrid/EV Battery Negative Contactor Circuit Stuck Closed). Stevens Creek Chrysler later verified P0AA4-00 as ACTIVE. Their initial reset/weld-check procedure failed and the DTC returned. The dealer then opened Chrysler STAR Case 102963024. Chrysler Technical Assistance provided a PIN/procedure, after which the reset succeeded and vehicle operation was restored. The vehicle was subsequently road-tested and returned to me. However, neither Chrysler nor its authorized dealership has explained why a vehicle parked with P indicated was able to roll, whether the Park-related DTCs were connected to the incident, or whether the condition could recur. I am reporting this because an unexplained rollaway of a parked vehicle presents a serious safety risk. I remain concerned whether the vehicle is safe to park and whether similar incidents may affect other Pacifica Hybrid vehicles.

NHTSA ID

11760827

Incident

Jul 16, 2026

Steering wheel gets stuck on curbes at higher speeds (1 o clock angle). Needs to be pulled back into place to avoid accident. This problem began at around 80k miles on the car. Also gets stuck at 11 o clock as well. My family does not feel safe driving this vehicle because of this issue.

NHTSA ID

11760714

Incident

Dec 27, 2024

While driving the vehicle, the steering wheel is sticking between the 11 o’clock and 1 o’clock position.

NHTSA ID

11760647

Incident

Aug 3, 2026

The wheel suddenly became difficult to turn while driving due to a loss of power steering, but it soon regained normal function. However, not many trips after that, the power steering completely failed. It has not regained function.

NHTSA ID

11759929

Incident

Aug 23, 2026

intermittently, but increasingly, when turning the wheel it feels almost like it gets temporarily stuck or like i no longer am controlling the steering. i notice it more often to the right, but have felt similar to the left. its a bit disconcerting, a bit like when your car starts to slide on ice. i haven't lost control yet but it does not inspire confidence.

NHTSA ID

11759818

Incident

Jun 22, 2026

When in a turn the steering wheel can feel stuck and you have to jerk the wheel to get it unstuck. Which could cause issues if there are cars driving next to you. This seems to be happening more and more often.

NHTSA ID

11759307

Incident

Apr 24, 2026

Another incidence of a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica with "sticky" or intermittent loss of power steering while driving. This is not chronic at this point in time but is a problem that can catch one out if not paying attention. I ran my vin # and it shows no outstanding unfixed recalls but obviously this is a recurring safety problem that needs to be addressed. Recall V53 / NHTSA 19V-348 are the numbers that pop up from NUMEROUS complaints describing this very same issue.

NHTSA ID

11759290

Incident

Aug 24, 2026

SUDDEN, INTERMITTENT STEERING LOSS. THE VEHICLE CAN BE INSPECTED ANY TIME. MY SAFETY AND OTHERS ARE AT RISK. DEALER HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO REPAIR PROBLEM "SERVICE STEERING SYSTEM" WARNING LIGHT COMES ON.

NHTSA ID

11759106

Incident

May 13, 2026

My vehicle has developed an intermittent and potentially serious safety-related failure. When the Engine Stop/Start system automatically shuts the engine off at a red light or stop sign, the vehicle sometimes fails to restart. At the same time, the electronic gear selector becomes locked, preventing me from selecting Neutral or moving the vehicle out of the roadway. The vehicle is therefore effectively immobilized in traffic. The only recovery method I have found is to disconnect both the main and auxiliary batteries for approximately 10 minutes, reconnect them, and then restart the vehicle. The check-engine light also comes on when the failure occurs. Both the main and auxiliary batteries have already been replaced on August 3rd, 2026, so this is not simply a matter of replacing an old battery. I brought the vehicle to the dealer on August 14, 2026 for inspection. Because I had previously been forced to disconnect the batteries to recover the vehicle, no diagnostic trouble codes were available when the dealer performed its inspection. I understand why this makes diagnosis more difficult, but the absence of codes after the system has been reset does not eliminate the underlying intermittent failure. I am particularly concerned because Chrysler has issued service information addressing closely related problems on the 2018 Pacifica, including S2008000075, concerning no-start, Stop/Start inoperative and Service Shifter conditions, and PCM bulletin 18-001-19, which addresses 2018 Pacifica conditions involving engine restart performance, battery state-of-charge performance, improper powerdown, ECU performance, and TCM/shifter communication faults. My vehicle also previously received the Y65 Engine Stop/Start campaign in 2021. Now in persistent no-start condition remaining in the failed state and can't be reset. The instrument panel powers up, the check-engine light remains illuminated, the vehicle produces a click when the Start button is pressed.

NHTSA ID

11759046

Incident

Aug 14, 2026