In a segment that has lost popularity over the years, the Chrysler Pacifica still remains one of the top choices for Americans needing a minivan. Yet, there have been some serious Chrysler Pacifica transmission problems they face.
The 2020-2026 Chrysler Pacifica, particularly the hybrid model, has faced critical transmission failures, including several recalls and driver complaints for hard shifting and complete failure. While some issues can be easily repaired, others are causing ongoing issues that qualify for lemon protection.
The Lemon Pros have helped other Californian Pacifica drivers receive compensation for their defective Pacifica. Our practice area focuses on common transmission system failures and holding the automaker responsible. We offer free consultations to help our clients, so nothing is stopping you from getting a fair evaluation. Contact us today.
In this guide, we cover all of the transmission problems being reported on the Chrysler Pacifica. We also explain when you should seek compensation for your Chrysler Pacific transmission issues.
The Chrysler Pacifica has been facing some serious new car issues, including complete transmission failure. There have been two transmissions used in new Pacifica models. Specifically, the 3.6L V6 engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission (948TE), while the hybrid motor comes with an eCVT setup, known as the eFlite. There’s no manual transmission option in the Pacifica.
The NHTSA has even opened an investigation into Chrysler because the internal transmission wiring connector can short and cause an unexpected engine shutdown. While there has been a recall to reset and update the software in the transmission control module, it appears to still be creating issues for drivers.
There could be several reasons that the Chrysler Pacific transmissions fail prematurely. Here are a few that have been noted:
It’s also worth noting that many experts believe there have been serious design flaws with CVT models in general. For example, Motor Trend states that CVTs may not last as long and may require more aggressive maintenance than a typical automatic transmission.
Affected vehicles have been dealing with slipping gears, difficulty shifting gears (hard shifting), various warning lights, transmission fluid leakage and complete failure.
Gear slipping occurs when a vehicle’s transmission unexpectedly shifts out of gear or fails to stay engaged. This common transmission problem causes a loss of power or hesitation while driving.
In the 2020–2026 Chrysler Pacifica, gear slipping has been reported, especially in earlier models, often caused by worn clutches, low or contaminated transmission fluid, or software issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission.
Delayed or hard shifting happens when the vehicle hesitates or struggles to change gears smoothly, causing noticeable jerks or a rough driving experience.
In some cases, this issue in the 2020–2026 Chrysler Pacifica can be linked to software glitches in the transmission control module. However, it’s also caused by mechanical problems like worn shift solenoids or low transmission fluid, often accompanied by warning lights or diagnostic trouble codes.
Transmission failure or lockup causes the vehicle to suddenly lose power or become stuck in one gear while driving, posing serious safety risks for some 2020–2026 Chrysler Pacifica owners.
Depending on the failure, there could be an electrical system issue causing the problem or a defective transmission control module. These failures appear more frequently in early model years, leading to extended dealer repairs and manufacturer-issued recalls or service campaigns.
Common warning lights related to transmission issues in the 2020–2026 Chrysler Pacifica include the Check Engine Light and the transmission temperature warning light. Diagnostic trouble codes (OBD-II), such as P0700 (transmission control system malfunction) and P0730 (incorrect gear ratio), are common with the Pacifica models and often indicate underlying transmission faults needing professional diagnosis.
Transmission fluid leaks in the 2020–2026 Chrysler Pacifica can lead to low fluid levels, causing slipping, overheating or rough shifting. Leaks are often traced to worn seals, damaged gaskets or loose transmission lines.
Drivers may notice red fluid under the vehicle or a burning smell. If left unchecked, fluid loss can cause serious internal damage to the transmission components, triggering warning lights or complete failure.
Pacifica Hybrid models may experience unique transmission issues, such as jerky transitions between EV mode and gas or delays when switching gears. Some problems stem from the complex integration between the battery system and the electronically controlled eFlite transmission, occasionally triggering warning lights or reduced performance.
Chrysler has been aware of the transmission issues and has released a car recall to fix the problem. Because of the sudden power loss leading to engine shutdown and the poor driving experience, Chrysler has offered to update the software in select 2020 and newer Pacifica models.
Also, several technical service bulletins (TSBs) have been issued for the Chrysler Pacifica addressing transmission concerns, including software recalibrations to fix hard shifting, gear slipping or delayed engagement. TSB 21‑043‑20 (issued in July 2020) covers the reprogramming of the TCM and is probably the most comprehensive outline of what needs to be done.
The best way to find out if there are recalls or relevant service bulletins for your Pacifica is to do a VIN lookup on the NHTSA.gov website. This site shows you all of the recalls that are open for your particular model.
Yes! You have legal options if your Chrysler Pacifica experiences ongoing transmission issues. Here are the most common routes to consider:
Is my car a lemon? Under California state guidelines (Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act), your vehicle must meet the following requirements before a Lemon Law claim can be filed:
You can file a Lemon Law claim if the car was acquired new, either by financing, purchase or lease. Also, there are some allowances for used cars if there’s an unrepairable defect.
Starting a Lemon Law claim is best done with the help of a qualified attorney. Here are the steps we recommend:
Step 1: Gather all your repair records and warranty documentation. It’s good to show proof of regular maintenance and the issues you’ve encountered, whether they are transmission oil leaks, a loss of motive power or decreased fuel efficiency.
Step 2: Speak with the dealership and the manufacturer about the situation. You can ask about any open Pacifica recalls or TSBs that help your case.
Step 3: Let your Lemon Law attorney handle the claim. Whether Chrysler refuses to help or is willing to settle, you should have an attorney working for you. The average Lemon Law settlement is much higher with a lawyer on your side.
You can sue a dealership if there is a valid Lemon Law claim or breach of warranty. To win your case, you want as much evidence as possible of the situation. Gather together your repair invoices, service records and any communication you’ve had with the dealership or Chrysler support. Before filing a claim, you need to send the manufacturer a demand letter outlining what you expect and a deadline for them to respond.
When there are transmission problems with the Pacifica, you may notice any number of symptoms, such as the engine stalling, electrical issues or trouble when it tries to switch gears. While regular maintenance is essential for a better driving experience, it can’t make up for serious mechanical failures by the manufacturer.
The Lemon Pros are equipped to handle your Pacifica claim. As the best Lemon Law attorney in California, we’ve secured millions in compensation for other clients. There’s no need to continue driving a defective minivan when you can contact us and get a free case evaluation at no obligation to you.
The earlier the model year, the more likely it is to have problems. Therefore, the 2020 and 2021 Chrysler Pacifica should be completely avoided. While later models have shown some improvements because of software updates, there are still reports of transmission slipping, delayed shifting and complete failure. Check the service history and any open recalls before buying a used Pacifica.
A class action lawsuit was settled in 2021 against FCA US LLC, awarding drivers compensation for a defective crankshaft position sensor that led to a lack of reliability and a safety risk when the engine would stall. There could be a similar transmission-related lawsuit in the future if enough customers come forward with complaints.
The Lemon Law process can take anywhere from a couple of months to a year, depending on the situation. If you decide to get a new transmission as a result of your Chrysler Lemon Law case, you will also need to factor in the time for these extensive repairs.
Aside from the transmission complaints, Pacifica owners also discuss a lack of power when pushing on the gas pedal. Many drivers find that it lacks the acceleration to keep up with moving traffic. Furthermore, the car has been less reliable as a result of brake issues that make it hard to stop safely and the short-circuiting of the speed sensors on the wheels.
In some cases, Chrysler will offer to continue repair attempts to fix the damaged parts or the short circuit in the transmission control module. Many owners prefer to push for either a Lemon Law buyback or a replacement vehicle. However, if the issues aren’t severe and you believe the car may still be reliable, you can also choose the cash and keep settlement.
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