2021 Chrysler Pacifica Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Electrical14924.5%
- Engine14023.0%
- Powertrain (other)11919.5%
- Fuel system7612.5%
- Driver assistance609.9%
- Steering162.6%
- Interior & seats122.0%
- Brakes111.8%
- Body & structure81.3%
- Visibility61.0%
- Airbags40.7%
- Other / unspecified30.5%
- Exterior lighting20.3%
- Suspension20.3%
- Tires & wheels10.2%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
My vehicle has open Safety Recall 66B. My radio, navigation, and touchscreen worked normally until a recent dealership service that included a 12-volt battery replacement and high-voltage battery recall service. Immediately after I picked up the vehicle, the touchscreen developed a “ghost-touch” issue and began operating by itself. The dealership stated in writing that Recall 66B may address the issue, but that they have previously experienced radios locking up and becoming unusable while performing the recall software update. They stated that this was the reason they intentionally did not perform Recall 66B during my initial service visit. I asked the dealership to confirm with Stellantis or management who would be responsible if the radio became unusable while performing the safety recall. The dealership later told me that they had spoken with their manager and confirmed that if the recall caused the radio to lock up, replacement would be my financial responsibility because the vehicle is out of warranty. I am NOT declining Recall 66B. I want the safety recall completed. However, I do not believe I should be required to assume the financial risk of the radio becoming unusable as a result of the recall procedure itself. I am asking NHTSA to review this situation and the dealership’s handling of Safety Recall 66B.
I am reporting a critical manufacturer-imposed restriction that prevents the completion of a life-saving safety campaign, Recall 52D (NHTSA ID: 24V362), which carries a strict "Park Outside and Do Not Charge" advisory.My vehicle has an active fault code P0E15 (Electric Coolant Heater control performance), which is a well-known, widespread factory defect in Chrysler Pacifica Hybrids. When I took the vehicle to an authorized Stellantis/Chrysler dealership to perform the urgent 52D safety flash, the dealer officially refused to perform the recall. They stated that the manufacturer's diagnostic software (wiTECH) completely blocks the 52D software update from being uploaded if the P0E15 fault is present.I contacted FCA US Customer Care (Case Number: 97720299), and they officially replied that they will not issue a corporate override for their diagnostic software. They are conditioning the execution of a critical fire-safety recall on me privately paying for the repair of a separate known manufacturer defect (P0E15 heater), due to the vehicle's export status.This is a severe threat to public safety and an unacceptable corporate practice. A manufacturer should not be allowed to design diagnostic tools that block critical, life-saving safety recalls due to other unrelated factory defects, effectively forcing owners to drive potential fire hazards unless they pay for commercial repairs. I request NHTSA to investigate FCA US's refusal to deploy safety updates on vehicles with active P0E15 codes.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
I am writing about a mechanical failure on my 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Recently, I took my vehicle in for 2 recalls associated with this model. Recall #: 66B, pertaining to the rearview camera & 52D, which corresponds to the high voltage battery. Recall #: 52D could not be completed at the certified Chrysler dealership due to the failure of the Electric Coolant Heater, throwing diagnostic trouble code, (P0E15-00). Due to my vehicle being past its warranty period, at the time of service, by 9,190 miles, I had to pay $1356.70 for the Electric Coolant Heater to be replaced, before my No-charge Recall #52D could be completed. While my vehicle is technically past its warranty period by 10,387 miles], I am reaching out because this specific component, the Electric Coolant Heater, is a well-documented failure point across the Pacifica Hybrid community. The breakdown of this heater directly impacts the vehicle's cabin climate control and the proper thermal management of the hybrid battery system, creating a significant inconvenience and safety concern during cold weather. Section 6 of the NHTSA 26V362 manufacturer filing states that the required remedy includes a software flash to track the battery pack's thermal performance. Because the high-voltage coolant heater core regulates that thermal loop, it is functionally impossible to safely execute the software parameter updates while the module is malfunctioning or failing the dealership's "soak test".
The contact owns a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the engine seized. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was restarted and driven to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the failure was not duplicated. The contact was informed that several unknown software updates were completed. The failure reoccurred three months later. The contact stated that the failure was a persistent failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
I brought my vehicle to the dealer for safety recall 52D more than three weeks ago. They will not return the vehicle to me because they say the battery can explode. They have not offered enough money to cover the base model rental car. (I have since rented a slightly better car at my own expense. The allowance would not have covered the cheapest car, though.) No parts have been ordered. The dealer is not returning phone calls to Chrysler customer care. The dealer claims Chrysler technicians won't return their calls. No timeline for repair has been made. I do not believe they intend to return or repair my vehicle.
This 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has a severe and recurring history of catastrophic high-voltage hybrid powertrain and transmission failures that cause a sudden loss of motive power while driving, presenting an immediate safety hazard. The vehicle has already required two full automatic transmission (eFlite EVT) replacements under factory warranty due to internal failures. It has experienced multiple high-voltage component repairs, including software modules for the power inverter. The vehicle is currently experiencing a recurring failure and is displaying active diagnostic trouble code P0A78 (Drive Motor "A" Inverter Performance), indicating a critical fault in the high-voltage hybrid propulsion system. Prior to the current failure, the check engine light illuminated, and the vehicle experienced propulsion system degradation. This failure mode risks a sudden shutdown of the hybrid drive system at highway speeds, creating a severe risk of rear-end collisions or being stranded in active traffic. The recurring nature of these transmission and inverter failures indicates a systemic safety defect in the hybrid propulsion system. The issue and the active P0A78 code have been pulled, reproduced, and confirmed by an authorized dealership (Diehl Automotive of Robinson), where the vehicle is currently held and available for inspection. The manufacturer has been notified via an open corporate case (#97399722).
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
I am reporting a critical manufacturer-imposed restriction that prevents the completion of a life-saving safety campaign, Recall 52D (NHTSA ID: 24V362), which carries a strict "Park Outside and Do Not Charge" advisory.My vehicle has an active fault code P0E15 (Electric Coolant Heater control performance), which is a well-known, widespread factory defect in Chrysler Pacifica Hybrids. When I took the vehicle to an authorized Stellantis/Chrysler dealership to perform the urgent 52D safety flash, the dealer officially refused to perform the recall. They stated that the manufacturer's diagnostic software (wiTECH) completely blocks the 52D software update from being uploaded if the P0E15 fault is present.I contacted FCA US Customer Care (Case Number: 97720299), and they officially replied that they will not issue a corporate override for their diagnostic software. They are conditioning the execution of a critical fire-safety recall on me privately paying for the repair of a separate known manufacturer defect (P0E15 heater), due to the vehicle's export status.This is a severe threat to public safety and an unacceptable corporate practice. A manufacturer should not be allowed to design diagnostic tools that block critical, life-saving safety recalls due to other unrelated factory defects, effectively forcing owners to drive potential fire hazards unless they pay for commercial repairs. I request NHTSA to investigate FCA US's refusal to deploy safety updates on vehicles with active P0E15 codes.
Driving on the interstate at high speed, when check engine light comes on, warning message - Stop Safely Vehicle Will Shut Off - and red turtle warning indicator (limp mode). After a short time, vehicle will no longer accelerate. I pulled over to the shoulder, stopped and shut off engine. Restarted after a few minutes and everything appeared to work fine, with check engine light on. About 15 minutes later, it happened again. The dealership serviced the vehicle. Found error code P0A78 for driver moteo "A" inverter performance. Used Stellantis Technical Service Bulletin 08-253-24 to diagnose (both modules were out of date) and complete the indicated updates. This is a known issue that has affected many vehicles (per internet forums and that Stellantis has created a TSB. It is an extremely dangerous situation causing the vehicle to enter "limp mode" and requiring the driver to stop in a matter of minutes. Stellantis should recall all potentially affected vehicles to update the modules proactively.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
Nothing exciting happened. It was a really bad rain/storm and I was driving as normal and I guess the front crash detection glitched out. I tried all the simple fixes tried to get it code tested and nothing pops up. So my front breaking doesn’t work meaning I can’t even use cruise control either. Also this maybe the a two for one. But the car was recalled for the backup camera and I went to get the recall done TWICE and it still didn’t fix the issue and Chrysler refuses to fix the issue.
The contact owns a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V436000 (BACK OVER PREVENTION); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that the part was no longer available. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds on several occasions, the steering wheel started sticking, making it difficult to steer turn the steering wheel to the left or the right, and the steering wheel overcorrected after making a turn. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the electronic rack unit needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 95,507.
The vehicle has had a suspension problem since purchasing the dealership has not been able to determine the issue after replacing the axle,struts, low arm control,motor mount now the state the steering wheel rack
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
Both second-row seats in my 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid have developed serious safety-related mechanical problems. While my children were seated in the second-row seats and the vehicle was being driven, the seat locking mechanism suddenly released. I heard a sudden release sound, the seat release lever moved, and the lower floor-locking mechanism disengaged, allowing the seat to become unsecured and move/slide while the vehicle was in motion. This problem affects both second-row seats. The seatbacks also do not remain securely locked in position. I am extremely concerned that if a second-row seat or seatback unexpectedly releases while a child is seated in it, the occupant may not be properly protected during normal driving, sudden braking, or a collision. I brought the vehicle to an authorized Chrysler dealership for inspection. The dealership provided an estimate of approximately $6,302 to repair the second-row seats. I was informed that because the vehicle has more than 100,000 miles, it was not eligible for Goodwill assistance. My concern is not simply the cost of an out-of-warranty repair. Both second-row seats have experienced locking/anchoring problems, including an actual incident in which the seat became unsecured while the vehicle was being driven with my children seated in the second row. I am asking NHTSA to investigate whether this represents a safety defect involving the second-row seat locking and anchoring mechanisms.
The contact owns a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that the second-row seat failed to remain in the upright position, causing the seat to collapse forward or backward while the vehicle was being driven. The vehicle was inspected by a dealer who confirmed the seat failure but stated that the vehicle was not covered under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V181000 (Seats). The contact received an estimate for the part; however, the part was on backorder. An independent mechanic later inspected the vehicle and suggested that the vehicle should be covered under the recall; however, inquiries to other dealers and the manufacturer resulted in consistent confirmation that the VIN was not under recall. A temporary repair was performed on the vehicle by the initial dealer; however, a permanent repair was not performed. The failure mileage was approximately 74,000.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
Car rolls forward when in reverse and takes a dangerously long time to slip into gear. Car rolls back when foot is taken off brake, especially on hills.
The contact owned a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that occasionally, while driving at various speeds, upon depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle would surge forward 3 to 4 feet before proceeding to slow down or come to a complete stop. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was advised that the failure was not duplicatable and nothing was found to be wrong with the vehicle. The local dealer proceeded to replace the spark plugs, the brake fluid, field spark plug weld, and gasket cylinder head cover, however the contact stated that after the repair the failure increasingly persisted leading them to be involved in a crash where the contact stated that while driving on a highway at 55 MPH, there were two vehicles stopped ahead, the contact depressed the brake pedal and the vehicle proceeded to surge forward and crash into the vehicle Infront of them with the entire front end of their vehicle. The impact caused the vehicle in front of the contact to crash into the rear end of the vehicle in front. That vehicle sustained damage to the entire rear and front end of the vehicle as the impact caused that vehicle to crash into the rear end of the vehicle in front of it. No property damage was reported. The vehicles came to a stop upon rebound after the impact. The air bags were deployed. The vehicle was towed to an auto body center, and no warning lights were illuminated. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed. The contact was injured while seated in the driver's seat; the passenger in their vehicle was not injured. An individual in the vehicle in front of the contact was injured. The contact sustained injuries to their ribs and sternum. Medical treatment was needed for the injuries, and the other individual also required medical treatment for unknown injuries. The individual at the front of the line in this collision was not injured. The local dealer was contacted however, the vehicle was not diagnosed as it was decla
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
The passenger sliding door on my 2021 Chrysler Pacifica is stuck half way open and will not move. The vehicle was parked and we opened the automatic door and it opened fine. I pushed the close button and it closed half way and stopped. The cables that connect the door to the open/close motor are hanging out. I called the Chrysler dealership and they tried to schedule me an appointment next week. I asked how to get it to the dealership and they said to drive it in. I said the door is stuck half way open and its not safe. They said to either drive it in or tow it in. I asked if there was a recall or an extended warranty. They said there was not and that I would have to pay for all repairs out of pocket. The motor actuates but since the cables don't move it faults out. I have pushed and pulled as hard as I can and the cables will not move. This puts all passengers in danger as the door is part of the structural integrity especially in a side impact collision.
Dear Sir, I am submitting this formal complaint regarding severe misconduct, fraud, and reckless endangerment committed by Hyundai Escondido, Hyundai Motor America, and Ally Financial in connection with the sale and financing of a dangerously defective 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Touring AWD (VIN: [XXX] ). 1. Background of the Case On [XXX] I purchased the above-referenced vehicle from Hyundai Escondido under the representation that it was a Hyundai Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle that had passed rigorous manufacturer standards. The dealership provided me with a Carfax report showing no prior accidents or major repairs and falsely assured me that the car was in excellent condition. However, immediately after purchase, I discovered that the vehicle had severe hidden defects, including: •Extensive flood damage, which was concealed at the time of sale and significantly compromised the car’s electrical and safety systems. •Prior frame and structural damage from an accident that was never disclosed. •Critical electrical malfunctions causing the vehicle to swerve uncontrollably on its own, without any driver input. •Severe safety risks, which nearly resulted in an accident with another vehicle carrying a baby on board. •Substantial mechanical and structural issues requiring over $20,000 in repairs, making the car unsafe and unusable. Despite reporting these issues on the first day of ownership, Hyundai Escondido refused to acknowledge or rectify the matter. 2. Hyundai Escondido’s Role in Fraud and Misrepresentation •Knowingly sold a flood-damaged and structurally compromised vehicle without disclosure. •Misrepresented the vehicle as a Certified Pre owned. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
The side back doors do not work all of a sudden when you push the button on the vehicle frame inside of the van. This is on both sides of the van. They will only shut by pushing buttons on the outside door handles. Also, the windshield wipers will only work on high. There is no intermittent, low, or medium speed working.
Since January 2024, the rearview camera on my 2021 Chrysler Pacifica has functioned inconsistently. I brought the vehicle to Glendale Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram for this problem, and they informed me it was a known issue with an open service bulletin for a software update, expected in Q3-Q4 2024. Despite this safety concern, I continued to drive the vehicle as no solution was available. Upon the release of the software update, I returned the vehicle, but the update did not resolve the issue. I was then told to await another software update. It is now June 2025, and there's another separate recall for this same issue, with a new software update that has also failed to address the safety problem. On July 25th, 2025, I contacted Chrysler because their branded service center is recommending $1,200 in parts and labor to fix an issue that was initially reported under warranty. I believe Chrysler is acting in bad faith and endangering the public by negligently addressing safety concerns and using protracted software updates as an excuse.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
Another driver failed to yield to traffic and drove right into the side door, gas tank and rear wheel at about 35 mph. Not a single airbag was deployed within my 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. I did sustain injury
The contact owned a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while stopped in congested traffic, the vehicle was rear-ended by another vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed. As a result, the vehicle was sent careening head-on into the vehicle ahead before coming to a complete stop. The air bags did not deploy. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed a total loss by the contact's insurance provider. A police report was filed, and injuries were reported. The contact's daughter was transported to an area hospital by EMT and treated for nondescript injuries to her neck and shoulders. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 108,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
Vehicle is new and delivered on 08/27/21. Complaint: The front axle nuts on vehicle loosen over time. The first incident was reported to I-10 Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram on 09/29/23 (see Invoice), with 24,832 miles as a noise coming from the front left suspension. This dealer replaced both front hubs at that time which resolved the noise. The second incident was reported to Chrystal Chrysler Jeep Dodge Center on 02/13/24 (see Invoice) with 27,952 miles as a noise coming from front left axle. Dealer mechanic went on test drive with me and found noise coming from front left axle shaft nut. RO states, "Found axle nut not torqued to specs. Tight down left front axle nut. Test drove vehicle. No noise found after repair.". The third incident was reported to Hemet Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram on 08/26/25, and I asked them to check the torque on the front axle nuts. They told me that the odds that they would be loose again was very small and they would need 2 days to diagnose the issue. Because I was leaving for a vacation road trip with the vehicle within a few days, I decided to take it to an independent automotive shop (Cam Stones Automotive Inc.) on 08/26/25 and reported that the vehicle has a history of the axle nuts loosening over time. I asked that they check the torque on the front axle nuts (see Invoice). The invoice states, "Retorque axle nuts and apply lock tight. Suggest contact dealer or NHTSA as to permanent fix. 120 Ft. Lbs.". As I'm sure you are aware of the danger in axle nuts that loosen over time. Is there a Recall on this issue? If not, are you investigating complaints of the axle nuts loosening time and time again?
Car would make a grinding noise over 5mph. We looked under the vehicle to find a loose bolt to the left of the left tire.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
Similar to the Ford recall, the LED Daytime Running Light Module is defective. This LED went out in under 3 years and Chrysler won’t fix it. This is a problem that many people are experiencing, and they want $2,000 to replace the entire head lamp system.
There are clearly many design flaws on my 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. One issue I am having with this car is the Daytime Running Lights. These are expensive LED lights that should function for the life of the vehicle. Unfortunately, I believe there is a problem with the control module on the LED lights, and part of the driver's side light does not function. This is a clear safety issue, and seems to be very common problem people are having with the 2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. I notified Chrysler about the issue, and because the car was just over 36 months old, they would not repair the issue. They told me I would have to pay for a complete replacement of the headlight which would cost over $1000. Just today, I noticed Ford posted a recall for the same issue they are having with their Daytime Running Lights. I believe it is only fair for Chrylser to provide a voluntary recall on this same issue because of the clear safety hazard it can creates. What is the purpose of Daytime Running Lights if they don't function properly. This is a minivan I rely on to safely transport my family, and I do not want to risk a hazardous collision because Chrysler refuses to repair a faulty part in their vehicle.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
The vehicle has had a suspension problem since purchasing the dealership has not been able to determine the issue after replacing the axle,struts, low arm control,motor mount now the state the steering wheel rack
The contact owns a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 - 35 MPH, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the wheel well or near the front underbody near the air dam, as if there was a piece of ice stuck in the air dam. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed that the front wheel hub hardware was loose, affecting the wheel bearings, and causing the failure. The contact was informed that the wheel hub hardware and front wheel bearings needed to be replaced, and the front wheels needed to be rotated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2021 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving approximately 30 - 35 MPH, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the wheel well or near the front underbody near the air dam, as if there was a piece of ice stuck in the air dam. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed that the front wheel hub hardware was loose, affecting the wheel bearings, and causing the failure. The contact was informed that the wheel hub hardware and front wheel bearings needed to be replaced, and the front wheels needed to be rotated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .