The Chrysler Pacifica was manufactured as one of the first crossovers in the American automobile market. It combined the driving characteristics of a car with the utility and space offered by a minivan or sport-utility vehicle. The Pacifica came in front- or all-wheel drive and had multiple upscale features, including a suspension derived from the Mercedes-Benz corporation. Earlier Pacifica models, 2004 through 2007, suffered from numerous "reliability woes and mediocre engines," according to Edmunds.com, a leading provider of automotive information.
Use a computer with Internet access to look up recall and technical service bulletin information for your Pacifica. Models manufactured between 2004 and 2006 all had one or two recalls. Two of the recalls include the automatic transmission control module and fuel system delivery hoses, both of which are significant repairs for the 2004 and 2006 models. TSB information can also help to troubleshoot problems that you may be experiencing with your Pacifica model. Recall and TSB information can be found at AutoZone, AutoRecalls and MyCarStats.
Inspect your Pacifica's engine for oil leaks and regularly check the oil dipstick for low oil level, which is common among several of the earlier Pacifica models. Check and replace the oil drain plug if it is leaking. Replace leaking gaskets by removing the component with the gasket applied to it, using a plastic scraper to remove the gasket and inserting a new gasket into the gasket housing groove. Use automotive silicone to help make the seal between the gasket and its mating surface. Pacificas with a 3.5-liter engine are also known for burning oil more quickly than other vehicles, sometimes requiring an extra quart every 1,000 miles or less.
Listen to your engine for excessive vibration or shaking, which is an indication of engine mount failure. If the shaking becomes too excessive, you may risk the engine pulling off of its own radiator hose, which can lead to losing most of the coolant fluid and nearly immediate engine overheating.
Use an on-board diagnostics scanner to plug into the OBD II port, which is located underneath the dashboard, below the steering column. OBD II scanners read engine troubleshooting codes for sensors and other electrical components. A common sensor issue with the Pacifica is the brake speed sensors, which affect the anti-lock braking system's performance. Replacement sensors are relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
Remove the transmission dipstick to check the fluid level and quality. The engine must be warmed up, idling between 400 and 800 rps and running before the transmission fluid can be checked properly. Wipe the dipstick clean with a cloth and reinsert it into the dipstick tube. If the dipstick indicates low transmission fluid, add more automatic transmission fluid by inserting a funnel to the top of the dipstick and pouring in the fluid. If the fluid is brown or black in appearance or smells like burnt toast, then it needs to be replaced.
