(UPDATED SEPT. 2024) It’s been over four years since we brought our 2019 Chrysler Pacifica home, and with nearly 110,000 miles on the odometer, it’s definitely time for an in-depth review. We’ve put this minivan through its paces in a variety of situations, and we’re excited to share our long-term ownership experience and provide a comprehensive Chrysler Pacifica review for anyone considering this vehicle.
Why We Find the Chrysler Pacifica So Useful
We’ll admit, the minivan life wasn’t initially in our plans. Like many, we probably pictured ourselves in a more “exciting” SUV. However, the Chrysler Pacifica has completely changed our perspective. Its sheer usefulness has been a delightful surprise, making it an indispensable part of our lives.
For us empty nesters, the Pacifica has primarily served as our go-to vehicle for just the two of us. From quick day trips and routine shopping excursions to extensive cross-country explorations, this minivan has excelled in every role.
The comfort level is outstanding, the driving experience is surprisingly enjoyable, and the fuel efficiency is commendable. Consistently achieving up to 30 mpg on the highway, especially with favorable winds, is a significant plus. Furthermore, the Pacifica’s ease of entry and exit is a boon, particularly appreciated by those with mobility concerns. And let’s not forget, when we purchased it, the Chrysler Pacifica offered excellent value for the price, a key factor in our initial decision.
Perfect for Group Travel: Chrysler Pacifica Passenger and Luggage Space
Beyond solo or duo travel, our Chrysler Pacifica review must highlight its exceptional capacity for group trips. Accommodating up to seven passengers with ample luggage space, this minivan truly shines when traveling with family or friends. We’ve comfortably fit two large suitcases and two carry-on bags in the rear cargo area, even with all seats in use.
The rear-seat entertainment system has been a lifesaver on long journeys, keeping passengers engaged and content. We recall one memorable road trip where Ann and our daughter Meghan enjoyed a movie marathon in the second row, making miles of highway fly by.
The inclusion of a standard 110v plug-in is another thoughtful feature, proving invaluable for charging laptops and other devices on the go. While its travel capabilities are undeniable, the Pacifica’s versatility extends far beyond road trips.
Unmatched Cargo Capability: Chrysler Pacifica Stow ‘n Go Seating
A standout feature in any Chrysler Pacifica review is the Stow ‘n Go® seating system. In mere minutes, the second and third-row seats can be effortlessly folded and stowed beneath the floor, transforming the minivan into a cavernous cargo van. This ingenious design has been a game-changer for us. We’ve transported countless bins and boxes between our Nebraska home and our Airbnb in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, “Postcard Place.” Furthermore, assisting with downsizing projects for family members has involved numerous trips to second-hand stores, all easily managed thanks to the Pacifica’s cargo capacity.
The beauty of Stow ‘n Go is that the seats remain with the vehicle. Upon reaching our destination, reverting from cargo van to a seven-seater is just as quick and simple, taking about two minutes. This flexibility is particularly convenient when you want to switch between hauling cargo and accommodating passengers.
Beyond boxes and bins, we’ve used our Pacifica to transport a wide array of items. From yard waste and branches to furniture and even a snowblower, this minivan has handled it all. In essence, we often utilize it like a pickup truck, but with the added benefit of enclosed and weather-protected cargo space.
For hauling items in inclement weather, the enclosed cargo area of the Pacifica offers a distinct advantage over a traditional pickup truck, keeping your belongings safe and dry.
Pandemic Versatility: Curbside Pickup and Minivan Dining
Continuing our Chrysler Pacifica review focusing on usefulness, the pandemic era revealed even more unexpected advantages. Curbside grocery pickups became a regular occurrence, and the Pacifica’s power liftgate made the process seamless. Simply opening the rear door allowed grocery workers to load our orders while maintaining a safe distance.
During restaurant closures and limited dining options, we yearned for takeout from our favorite Lincoln, Nebraska eateries. However, the 40-minute drive home often resulted in lukewarm and less-than-fresh meals. That’s when Ann ingeniously conceived of another use for our minivan: dining in.
By bringing a portable table along, we transformed our Pacifica into a mobile dining room. Surprisingly, it was quite enjoyable, enhanced by the minivan’s surround sound stereo system for mood music. For more details on our unique “minivan date nights,” you can read about it HERE.
Emergency Restroom on Wheels: Another Pacifica Surprise
Another unexpected benefit during the pandemic, particularly before widespread vaccination, was the Pacifica’s role as a mobile restroom. Avoiding public rest areas on long road trips, especially on six-hour drives to Pawhuska, was a priority. Once again, our minivan provided a solution.
Equipping ourselves with a “Luggable-Loo” (a camping toilet bucket with a seat), the Pacifica offered the privacy and convenience needed for roadside relief. Further details on this unconventional use can be found HERE.
Chrysler Pacifica Durability and Reliability After 100,000 Miles
No Chrysler Pacifica review would be complete without addressing durability and reliability. After 100,000 miles, we’re pleased to report remarkably few issues. (Knock on wood!). We’ve experienced only two minor maintenance incidents.
- At 94,000 miles, a wheel speed sensor malfunctioned. This triggered warning lights and disabled the ABS and forward collision warning system. While braking remained normal and the vehicle was drivable, the anti-lock braking feature was unavailable. A dealership repair addressed the issue for approximately $350.
- At 109,000 miles, an ignition coil failed. The dealership resolved this within a couple of hours, also for around $350.
- Around the same mileage, the auto start-stop function ceased working due to a dead auxiliary battery. Initially, we opted not to replace it, aware of potential high costs and finding the auto start-stop feature somewhat bothersome. However, upon returning from a two-week trip to a dead main battery in the airport parking lot, we learned the auxiliary battery drain issue. Replacing it at the dealership proved surprisingly affordable, with a total cost of about $150, including a $65 battery and labor.
The exterior paint has impressively withstood the test of time and diverse driving conditions, including inclement weather and gravel roads. It still maintains a like-new appearance.
We’ve also had no issues with the transmission or auxiliary battery (post-replacement). Routine maintenance, including scheduled oil changes and a new set of tires after 60,000+ miles, has been performed as expected.
Minor Areas for Improvement in the Chrysler Pacifica
In the spirit of a balanced Chrysler Pacifica review, we considered areas for potential improvement, though these are admittedly minor “First World problems.”
- Air-conditioned front seats would be a welcome addition, particularly in warmer climates. This feature, unfortunately, was tied to a sunroof option we didn’t desire.
- A memory function for driver’s seat position, common in our other vehicle, would enhance convenience for multiple drivers.
- Additional cupholders in the passenger area would be beneficial when traveling with a full van of people.
Final Verdict: Our Overall Chrysler Pacifica Review
Despite these minor points, we wholeheartedly love our Chrysler Pacifica! As empty nesters in our 50s, admitting minivan enthusiasm might be unexpected, but it’s genuinely true. We are seriously considering another Pacifica for our next vehicle.
Initially hesitant about choosing a minivan over an SUV, the Pacifica’s advantages have won us over completely. Practicality, comfort, and fuel efficiency outweigh any perceived “uncool” minivan stigma. With current gas prices, we are exceptionally grateful we opted for the fuel-conscious Pacifica over a gas-guzzling SUV.
If you’re interested in our initial minivan purchase decision-making process, you can read about it in THIS POST from 2019. For more travel, food, and healthy living inspiration, follow us on social media @postcardjar on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
