by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Review: Unreliable Year For The Upscale Minivan Buyers Should Avoid

Rating: 4.66
Based on 100 Owner Reviews â–¶
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The Chrysler Pacifica, introduced in 2017 as a replacement for the Town & Country, is a minivan known for its practicality and family-friendly features. The 2018 model continues this tradition. Key trims include L, LX, Touring Plus, Touring L, Touring L Plus, and Limited. New pricing ranged from around $27,000 to $44,000. Its Stow 'n Go seating, offering unmatched cargo flexibility, makes it especially popular.
The Good

The 2018 Pacifica offers a smooth ride, comfortable seating, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Its spacious interior and Stow 'n Go seating provide unmatched practicality. The efficient V6 engine balances power and fuel economy. For the emotional buyer, it's a stylish and well-equipped family vehicle; for the practical, it's a reliable and versatile workhorse.

The Bad

The 2018 Pacifica has been known to have some electrical issues, including problems with the infotainment system and power sliding doors. Some owners have also reported transmission problems. Check for recalls and ensure all software updates have been applied. The Stow 'n Go seats, while convenient, can be less comfortable than traditional minivan seats.

2018 Chrysler Pacifica: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.6L Pentastar V6
  • Horsepower: 287 hp
  • Fuel Economy: EPA estimated 19 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times: Around 7.3 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: 3,600 lbs
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • L: Basic features including cloth seats, 17-inch steel wheels, and a 7-inch touchscreen.
    • LX: Adds alloy wheels, upgraded cloth seats, and automatic climate control.
    • Touring Plus: Includes power sliding doors, remote start, and blind-spot monitoring.
    • Touring L: Leather seats, heated front seats, and power liftgate.
    • Touring L Plus: Adds an 8.4-inch touchscreen, premium audio system, and heated second-row seats.
    • Limited: Includes premium leather, power-folding third-row seats, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control.
  • Hybrid version available with a different powertrain (not detailed here as it is beyond the request for the standard gasoline model).

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2018
Make Chrysler
Model Pacifica
Trim -
Style 2WD
Type Minivan Van
Category Minivan
Manufacturing Details
Made In Canada
Manufacturing City WINDSOR
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 1964.05 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height 177.55 cm
Overall Length 517.65 cm
Overall Width 202.18 cm
Wheelbase Length 308.86 cm
Standard Seating 7
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.6-L V-6
Engine Size 3.6L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 9-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 9-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $26,995 USD
Invoice Price $26,865 USD
Delivery Charges $1,095 USD

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Accident
Check
Theft
Check
Open Lien
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Have?

The 2018 Chrysler Pacifica has faced several reported problems. One of the most frequent concerns revolves around the electrical system. This includes issues with the Uconnect infotainment system freezing or malfunctioning, power sliding doors failing to operate correctly, and problems with the vehicle's sensors. Some owners have also reported issues with the transmission, including rough shifting and occasional failure.
Recalls for the 2018 Pacifica have addressed various safety concerns, including potential issues with the fuel delivery system, seat welding, and the electronic stability control system. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN for outstanding recalls before purchasing.
Long-term reliability is a concern for some owners. The Pacifica's complex electrical system and transmission have demonstrated weaknesses over time. Regular maintenance and addressing issues promptly are essential to mitigate potential problems. Some model years before and after 2018 have exhibited similar issues, suggesting these are ongoing design or component flaws rather than isolated incidents.

How long will the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica last?

With regular maintenance, a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica can potentially reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-13 years of service. However, its long-term durability is somewhat questionable due to the reported electrical and transmission problems. Proper maintenance, including timely oil changes, transmission fluid checks, and addressing electrical issues promptly, is crucial. The vehicle's complex technology can also become a weakness over time, as older systems may become outdated or prone to failure.
Positive Owner Reviews
JeffinGBMch
I leased a new Pacifica Limited S in 2018 and when the lease expired after three years I bought it and drove it for three more years. I liked it so much that I just leased a new 2025 that is very similar to the 2018. The 2018 was extremely dependable and served us well for transporting my boys (grandsons), other family and friends, kayaks, bikes, skis, and numerous trips to Goodwill Industries. It never needed any significant mechanical repairs and it never left us at the side of the road in the nearly 90,000 miles we had it.
Jay Jeszenka
bought 2018 Pacifica in January 2019. lowest base model they had. no power doors or power folding seats (manual so nothing to break later). was disappointed in navigation option (looked like it was included, but was not). we ended up using android auto and that works ok so not a big deal. love the power. 3.6 liter engine gets us onto freeway with 7 people and luggage very quickly and easily. auto engine off at stops is great gas saving feature along with 9 speed auto transmission. no issues with transmission after 5 years of usage. plenty of space for storage. 2018 model complaint. no auto headlight on/off. Really Chrysler? that should have been a no brainer default in this day and age. Purchase price was $40,000 for the base model. (I always like to know what people paid for the car 🙂
CHMartin
This vehicle is perfect for what my family needs right now. Both my kids (5 & 2) can climb into it unassisted (any mom knows, giving the kids any level of independence is great). Both rows of seats stow into the floor. We have the back row stowed to give us lots of cargo room for the stroller, diaper bag, scooter, karate bag, etc etc etc. Love the automatic doors on both sides... a nice upgrade from when I was a kid and it was a manual slider only on one side! Our one downside, but it's a big one... the media center in this car was a total after thought. It does not connect as expected to my iphone, and the AppleCarPlay seems to open a secondary window (it's not native to the car like the Ford Sync). So far, I have not gotten the phone to connect correctly via bluetooth - I have to plug in. The audio varies wildly - I have to turn the volume up almost all the way to hear someone on the phone, but when the radio kicks on, the whole car vibrates. I can't turn the audio off without turning off the ENTIRE screen. There is no native GPS to the car that I can tell, which isn't a huge downside since we have our phones, but was definitely surprising to see. All in all, this is the car we need right now as a young family with a lot of stuff to cart around. It has a lot of family friendly features that I 100% appreciate. I imagine that the newer models have better media integration with the iPhone.
Negative Owner Reviews
Tdykshoorn
Terrible! Broken since day one!! I drive it home, day after every light lit up on the dash board. It just randomly shuts off and won’t start back up! The check engine light is on at only 13,000 miles, the rotors are bad already. Worst vehicle I’ve ever owned!
JT
This car is terrible. I have owned it for 1 year. In this time, I have had to take it in for 5 recalls. In addition to these recalls, I have had to take the car in for a check engine light, ignition malfunction, door seal problems, traction control malfunction, and the radio/navigation system automatically shuts off randomly while driving (they won't do anything about this because it doesn't happen when they test it in the shop). If I wanted to be without a car and have it in the shop twice a month I could have spent 1/4 the price on a 20 year old car. The price of the van may be tempting compared to other vans but IT IS NOT WORTH IT.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2018 Chrysler Pacifica boasts a range of tech features. Standard on most trims is the Uconnect infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Available entertainment features include a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 10-inch touchscreens, HDMI inputs, and wireless headphones.
Driver-assistance features vary by trim. Available features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning.
Safety features include standard airbags, electronic stability control, and antilock brakes. The 2018 Pacifica earned good crash-test ratings from the IIHS, including a "Top Safety Pick" award. NHTSA gave it a 5-star overall safety rating. Optional features include a 360-degree surround-view camera system and parallel/perpendicular park assist.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Billet Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Brilliant Black Crystal Pearlcoat
Granite Crystal Metallic Clearcoat
Jazz Blue Pearlcoat
Maximum Steel Metallic Clearcoat
Molten Silver Metallic Clearcoat
Ocean Blue Metallic Clearcoat
Red Velvet Pearlcoat
Stout Brown Metallic Clearcoat
White Knuckle Clearcoat
Interior Colors
Cognac/Alloy/Cognac
Alloy/Black/Alloy
Black/Alloy/Black
Toffee/Black/Toffee

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Prices and Market Value

The 2018 Chrysler Pacifica had a starting MSRP of around $27,000, with higher trims reaching up to $44,000 when new. Currently, used market prices range from approximately $15,000 to $25,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. The Pacifica depreciates at an average rate for its class. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, trim level (Limited trims hold value better), and any outstanding recalls or maintenance issues. The vehicle's reliability reputation also impacts resale.

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica are generally average for a minivan. Fuel costs are moderate, averaging around 23 mpg combined. Maintenance costs can be higher than average due to potential electrical and transmission issues. Repair costs can also be significant if major components fail. Overall, the Pacifica is not the most economical vehicle to own, especially considering potential repair expenses. Budgeting for potential maintenance is crucial.

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 41.26 liters
City Mileage 5.48 km/l
Highway Mileage 3.57 km/l

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Side Overall Star Rating
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating
Combined Rear Seat Rating
Overall Frontal Star Rating
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Overall Side Star Rating
Side Barrier Star Ratings
Side Pole Star Rating
Combined Side Barrier And Side Pole Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 60 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Insurance

Insurance for a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Minivan Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Compare to Other Minivan Van?

The 2018 Chrysler Pacifica competes with minivans like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Kia Sedona. The Pacifica's key advantage is its Stow 'n Go seating. In terms of performance, it's comparable to the Odyssey and Sienna. However, the Odyssey and Sienna generally have better reliability ratings. The Sedona is often a more affordable option but may lack some of the Pacifica's advanced features.
The Honda Odyssey offers a more refined driving experience and a stronger reliability record. The Toyota Sienna, known for its long-term reliability and available all-wheel drive, is another strong contender. The Kia Carnival (replacing the Sedona) provides a compelling blend of value and features.
Alternatives: If reliability is a top priority, the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna are better choices, despite potentially costing more upfront. If budget is a major concern, the Kia Carnival offers good value. If Stow 'n Go seating is essential, the Pacifica is a strong contender, but be prepared for potential maintenance costs.

Ranks #13 Van

1 2023 Toyota Sienna (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Odyssey (4.0★)
3 2001 Mazda MPV (4.0★)
4 2024 Ford E-Series Cutaway (0.0★)
5 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van (0.0★)
6 2023 Chevrolet Express Passenger (0.0★)
7 2021 Nissan NV200 (3.0★)
8 2023 GMC Savana (0.0★)
9 2023 Ram ProMaster (0.0★)
10 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn (0.0★)
11 2013 Volkswagen Routan (4.0★)
12 2007 Buick Terraza (0.0★)
13 2018 Chrysler Pacifica (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica a Good Minivan Van?

The 2018 Chrysler Pacifica is ideal for families who prioritize practicality and interior flexibility, particularly the Stow 'n Go seating. It's worth buying if you find a well-maintained example with a documented service history and no outstanding recalls. Consider higher trims like Touring L or Limited for added features and comfort. Purchasing a used Pacifica can be a good value, but be prepared for potential maintenance costs associated with electrical and transmission issues. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.

2018 Chrysler Pacifica Owner Reviews

4.66
Overall rating
Cancel
Thank You for Your Review!

We truly appreciate the time and effort you took to share your experience with us.

Uh oh!

Something went wrong, please try again later.

JeffinGBMch on January 3, 2025

I leased a new Pacifica Limited S in 2018 and when the

I leased a new Pacifica Limited S in 2018 and when the lease expired after three years I bought it and drove it for three more years. I liked it so much that I just leased a new 2025 that is very similar to the 2018. The 2018 was extremely dependable and served us well for transporting my boys (grandsons), other family and friends, kayaks, bikes, skis, and numerous trips to Goodwill Industries. It never needed any significant mechanical repairs and it never left us at the side of the road in the nearly 90,000 miles we had it.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Louise groner on August 4, 2024

Bad cars own 2018 Electrical bad in it .

Bad cars own 2018 Electrical bad in it . they gave a me another car had to pay more but my husband and mom are handicap I have a 2019 about 25000 mile and the electrical is mess up in this one too. Don’t not buy these cars

Was this review helpful?
0
1

Jay Jeszenka on September 19, 2023

Pacifica 2018 8-seat configuration base model

bought 2018 Pacifica in January 2019. lowest base model they had. no power doors or power folding seats (manual so nothing to break later). was disappointed in navigation option (looked like it was included, but was not). we ended up using android auto and that works ok so not a big deal. love the power. 3.6 liter engine gets us onto freeway with 7 people and luggage very quickly and easily. auto engine off at stops is great gas saving feature along with 9 speed auto transmission. no issues with transmission after 5 years of usage. plenty of space for storage. 2018 model complaint. no auto headlight on/off. Really Chrysler? that should have been a no brainer default in this day and age. Purchase price was $40,000 for the base model. (I always like to know what people paid for the car 🙂

Was this review helpful?
1
0

CHMartin on April 26, 2021

Perfect for our family

This vehicle is perfect for what my family needs right now. Both my kids (5 & 2) can climb into it unassisted (any mom knows, giving the kids any level of independence is great). Both rows of seats stow into the floor. We have the back row stowed to give us lots of cargo room for the stroller, diaper bag, scooter, karate bag, etc etc etc. Love the automatic doors on both sides... a nice upgrade from when I was a kid and it was a manual slider only on one side! Our one downside, but it's a big one... the media center in this car was a total after thought. It does not connect as expected to my iphone, and the AppleCarPlay seems to open a secondary window (it's not native to the car like the Ford Sync). So far, I have not gotten the phone to connect correctly via bluetooth - I have to plug in. The audio varies wildly - I have to turn the volume up almost all the way to hear someone on the phone, but when the radio kicks on, the whole car vibrates. I can't turn the audio off without turning off the ENTIRE screen. There is no native GPS to the car that I can tell, which isn't a huge downside since we have our phones, but was definitely surprising to see. All in all, this is the car we need right now as a young family with a lot of stuff to cart around. It has a lot of family friendly features that I 100% appreciate. I imagine that the newer models have better media integration with the iPhone.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

DeeC on April 7, 2021

Very comfortable and powerful

This is the perfect cross between a van and a luxury vehicle. Plenty of room inside for anything you want to do. The engine is so smooth and powerful, you have to watch for creeping on the speedometer. We have owned Chryslers for over 30yrs and this is one of their best.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Roger govind on April 5, 2021

Just what we were lookin for

This vehicle meets are family needs for seating , for storage, ease of access, comfort, and versatility. Appearance is very nice. Many up to date safety features.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Kim Oj on March 4, 2021

Very Comfortable and priced well.

This vehicle has all the comfort we were looking for. It’s a smooth ride with 8 passenger seating. It met out needs and more. We have a special needs child that we can transport easily and comfortably.

Was this review helpful?
1
0

SoCal Mike on February 25, 2021

Avis Car Sales

Excellent buy at a great price; well loaded and in excellent condition. I would buy this vehicle again as well as from Avis. Highly recommend

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Cindy Kennedy on February 24, 2021

Love the room it has for the family

Lots of safety features that was a big reason for the purchase. Love the side doors but most of all the comfort. Also gas mileage

Was this review helpful?
1
0

Gigi on February 21, 2021

Perfect fit

This vehicle is a perfect match for my granddaughter and her husband expecting our 3rd great granddaughter.. 3 car seats were not option in the terrain.

Was this review helpful?
1
0
Author Image
Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.