Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA Vehicles built after on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. All 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the vehicle you are repairing has a crack in the flex plate or failed pump bushing inspect and confirm that both (2) dowel pins
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2005 Chrysler Pacifica powertrain problems
moderate 108 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
108
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 108 powertrain complaints filed for the 2005 Chrysler Pacifica, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 100,000-125,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 108 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 14 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
Transmission Kit with Torque Converter 1. All Promaster (VF) 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the transmission bracket to the transmission case fasteners are removed during servicing, the fasteners (Part Number 06511385A$) are one-time usage. Vehicles built prior to 10/23/2015 requires Service Kit PN 68461214AA; includes Transmission Isolator PN 68264483AA, and Adaptation Bracket 68264479AA and Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA Vehicles built after on or after 10/23/2015 will require only the Fastener Service Kit PN 68329056AA. 2. All 3.6L/62TE equipped vehicles. If the vehicle you are repairing has a crack in the flex plate or failed pump bushing inspect and confirm that both (2) dowel pins
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Generic Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Procedure This bulletin involves programming a generic PCM with software.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗POWER TRANSFER UNIT (PTU) CLICK/POP SOUND.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗POPPING/CLICKING/SNAPPING SOUND IN FRONT END. FRONT HALF SHAFT AND FRONT HUB ASSEMBLY. GPOP - ISSUE REVIEW SYSTEM.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2005 Pacifica exhibits a consistent pattern of powertrain failures. Engine stalling dominates complaints—vehicles die without warning at any speed, especially during turns or acceleration, sometimes needing to be towed. Owners trace many stalls to fuel pump or PCM issues covered under NHTSA recall 06V432000, but Chrysler denied coverage for vehicles with VINs outside a narrow manufacturing window, despite identical symptoms.
Transmission problems run close behind: TCM failures cause the vehicle to lurch forward at stops, refuse to shift, or get stuck in Park. Gear shifter assemblies seize, trapping owners—Chrysler never recalled this despite issuing recalls for the same part on Dodge Charger and Magnum models. Owners report paying $600 to $2,000+ for repairs.
Frame corrosion is catastrophic. Multiple owners describe engine cradles rusted completely through with structural holes, risking engine and transmission drop. Chrysler covered this for February-March 2004 builds with a 150,000-mile warranty extension but refused identical cases built weeks later, citing the VIN alone.
Secondary issues compound the cost: catalytic converters fail by 72,000 miles requiring replacement again by 104,000. Front suspension wears repeatedly. Headlight assemblies burn out prematurely. One owner's engine caught fire within months of purchase. Warranty denials and dealer refusals to diagnose are standard complaints.
Same Chrysler Pacifica powertrain reports on nearby years: 2006 · 2007 · 2008
Failure modes owners describe
Engine Stalling Under Load/Acceleration
Engine stalls without warning during acceleration, turning, or general driving. Occurs at various speeds and can happen repeatedly. Vehicle may restart normally or require jump-starting. Often associated with fuel pump module issues and PCM/TCM software defects covered under recall 06V432000.
When: Typically 25,000 to 140,000 miles; earliest reports around 8,000 miles for some stalling behavior.
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden engine shutdown while driving or at stops; No restart or delayed restart after stall; Stalling most common during left turns; Check engine light illumination; Loss of power steering and braking (some cases)
Codes mentioned: P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor A Circuit), P0700 (Transmission Control System), P0461 (Fuel Level Sensor A Range/Performance), P2066 (Fuel Level Sensor B Performance)
Repairs/costs cited: Owners report replacement of fuel pump module ($1,000–$1,210 mentioned); PCM reprogramming or replacement; dealers citing repair costs between $881 and $2,000+.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Recall 06V432000 (Campaign F-44): Fuel pump module replacement for vehicles built August 1, 2004–September 30, 2004; PCM software reprogramming for all 2005–2006 models built July 8, 2004–November 11, 2005. Began November 21, 2006. Many owners report their VINs were deemed ineligible despite similar symptoms.
Transmission Control Module (TCM) and Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Failure
TCM or PCM failure causes loss of transmission function, jerking, hesitation, inability to shift gears, or unintended acceleration. Some vehicles exhibit symptoms even after recall repair was supposedly completed.
When: 39,000 to 200,000 miles; failures recurring in some cases after initial recall repair.
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission stuck in gear or unable to shift; Jerking and hesitation during acceleration; Unintended lunging forward at stops; Check engine light with TCM/PCM codes; Loss of motive power on highway; Immobilizer system engaging unexpectedly, locking steering and brakes
Codes mentioned: P0700 (Transmission Control System), P0740 (Torque Converter Clutch)
Repairs/costs cited: Replacement cost cited as $881–$2,000+. Some owners report transmission flush, fuel injector cleaning, and other diagnostics performed without resolution. Parts reported on back order at dealerships.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 06V432000 covers PCM/TCM reprogramming for 2005–2006 vehicles built within specified date range. Many owners report VINs excluded from recall despite exhibiting identical symptoms. Manufacturer refused assistance for vehicles outside recall window or with previous repair claims.
Fuel Pump Module Malfunction
Secondary fuel pump module develops improper press fitting at inlet, causing fuel supply interruption. Fuel gauge may display incorrect level. Fuel may spill during refueling. Engine may die due to fuel starvation.
When: Early build vehicles (August–September 2004 manufacturing); failures reported through 120,000+ miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalls due to fuel starvation despite gauge showing fuel; Fuel spilling from filler neck during refueling; Fuel gauge reading incorrectly; 'Miles to empty' sensor inaccurate
Codes mentioned: P0461 (Fuel Level Sensor A Range/Performance), P2066 (Fuel Level Sensor B Performance)
Repairs/costs cited: Fuel pump module replacement required; cost range not clearly specified in narratives but combined with other repairs, totals cited as $1,000–$2,000+.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 06V432000 specified fuel pump module replacement only for 2005 vehicles built August 1–September 30, 2004. All 2005–2006 vehicles receive PCM reprogramming. Owners report disputes over whether VINs qualify for fuel pump replacement versus reprogramming only.
Engine Cradle (K-Frame) Severe Corrosion
Engine cradle/K-frame undergoes extensive rust and corrosion, creating holes and structural weakness. Owners report danger of engine and transmission falling from frame. Affects vehicles with both excellent body condition and minimal other rust.
When: 8–10 years of ownership; detected at inspection or during diagnostics for unrelated issues. Failures typically 80,000–105,000+ miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Visible rust holes in engine cradle; Extensive corrosion throughout K-frame; Frame failure preventing inspection pass; Structural concern for suspension and drivetrain support
Repairs/costs cited: Owners cite replacement costs exceeding $2,000–$5,000+. Chrysler extended warranty to 150,000 miles for vehicles built February–March 2004, but vehicles built April 2004 or later are typically denied coverage despite identical material defect.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler issued extended 150,000-mile powertrain warranty for 2004 vehicles built February–March 2004 with defective materials. Vehicles built outside this date range denied assistance. Manufacturer refuses vehicle inspection and relies solely on VIN to determine coverage.
Transmission Gear Shift Stuck in Park
Gear shifter becomes seized or locked in Park position. Vehicle cannot be placed in Drive or Reverse despite engine running. Owners report pink plastic component failure in shift assembly, affecting Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Charger, Magnum, and Chrysler 300.
When: Reported at 80,000 miles; occurs on very cold days or randomly.
Symptoms owners cite: Gear shifter immobilized in Park; Vehicle cannot shift despite brake pedal engagement; Shifter click heard but no gear engagement; Problem more pronounced in cold weather
Repairs/costs cited: Gear shifter assembly replacement required; one owner cited ~$600 repair cost. Parts reported discontinued by Chrysler, making repair impossible.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall identified for 2005 Pacifica shift assembly issue, despite similar recalls on Dodge Charger, Magnum, and Chrysler 300. Manufacturer denies responsibility.
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Noise and Failure
Transfer case (PTU) on AWD models develops noise and becomes inoperable at low mileage. TSB 21-020-05 issued by Chrysler recommending PTU replacement. Manufacturer denies warranty coverage citing 'normal wear and tear' on major drivetrain component.
When: Approximately 40,000 miles; vehicle became inoperable while crossing highway.
Symptoms owners cite: Loud noise from transfer case; Transmission/PTU suddenly inoperable; Vehicle stalls in traffic
Repairs/costs cited: PTU replacement cost can exceed $2,000. Chrysler states 75,000-mile warranty is void for non-original owners.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: TSB 21-020-05 issued recommending PTU replacement for noise. Chrysler denies warranty assistance, citing normal wear and tear. Warranty denied for non-original owners despite low mileage.
Accelerator Pedal Sticking or Unresponsive
Accelerator pedal becomes stuck or sticks especially after cruise control use. Throttle body requires cleaning, but problem recurs. On vehicles with power pedal adjustment, forward positioning limits pedal travel range, causing cruise control malfunction.
When: Reported from 8,000 miles onward; recurring issue after repair.
Symptoms owners cite: Throttle body sticking requiring cleaning; Pedal unresponsive to input; Problem recurs after repair; Reduced pedal stroke when pedal set forward; hits floor; Cruise control unable to operate properly
Repairs/costs cited: Throttle body cleaning performed; vacuum hose replacement noted in one case. Owner reports design flaw in pedal adjustment system.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Engine burns oil at excessive rate (1 quart per 1,000 miles) despite valve seal replacement. Chrysler claims this consumption rate is normal policy, contrary to owner manual specifications and dealership acknowledgment that issue is unique to few vehicles.
When: Reported at routine service intervals.
Symptoms owners cite: Oil level dropping 3 quarts between 3,000-mile service intervals; Vehicle becoming dangerously low on oil; Burning smell
Repairs/costs cited: Valve seals replaced at dealership but did not resolve issue. Owner notes that at this consumption rate, oil drops 2 quarts below safe minimum.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler claims 1 quart per 1,000 miles is normal per policy. Dealership manager stated issue not typical for Pacificas and appears unique to few vehicles.
Catalytic Converter Premature Failure and Repeated Replacement
Catalytic converter fails well before 80,000-mile government-mandated warranty expires. Requires replacement again by 104,000 miles. Owners note Chrysler offers only parts reimbursement, not labor.
When: First failure around 72,000 miles; second failure at 104,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalling; Check engine light illumination
Repairs/costs cited: Catalytic converter replacement; Chrysler reimbursed parts only (~$160–$200 range estimate), not labor. Second replacement required within 32,000 miles.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler provides parts reimbursement for catalytic converter failure within 80,000-mile government warranty, but not labor costs.
Front-End Suspension and Component Wear
Front-end suspension components (control arms, tie rods, rotors) wear prematurely and require repeated replacement. Same components failing multiple times over vehicle life.
When: First major failure at 72,000 miles; same components requiring replacement again at 104,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Vibration in front left above wheel; Left rear rotor wearing significant groove; Clicking and popping noises from front wheels (starting at 8,000 miles, progressing to constant)
Repairs/costs cited: Control arms, tie rods, rotors replaced at dealership. Aftermarket 'front-end repair kits' sold to address known issue. Subsequent failures treated as out-of-warranty.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler denies warranty coverage for repeated front-end failures citing mileage limits and normal wear.
Headlight Bulb and Assembly Premature Failure
HDMI headlight bulbs burn out prematurely at 68,000 miles (costing $160 per bulb). Replacement bulb fails again within short period. Silver reflector box holding light also fails and requires replacement ($80).
When: First bulb failure at 68,000 miles; second failure shortly after replacement; assembly failure at 104,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Headlight dimmer than opposite side; Burning smell from headlight assembly; Bulb burnout within short interval
Repairs/costs cited: $160 per bulb; $80 for reflector assembly. Dealer claims not covered under warranty and not related to electrical harness.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealer states issue out of warranty and unrelated to electrical harness. Repairs not covered.
Engine Failure and Fire
Engine catches fire after stalling while driving. White smoke pours from tailpipe with strong gas smell. Engine failure occurs shortly after ownership begins (within 3 months of purchase), necessitating complete engine replacement.
When: February 19, 2013 purchase; failure within first months of ownership.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle stalls while driving; White smoke from tailpipe; Strong gasoline smell; Engine fire develops; Complete engine failure
Repairs/costs cited: Complete engine replacement required; cost $5,000. Warranty company denied coverage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 06V432000 noted but warranty company and financing company denied responsibility. Owner received no assistance from Chrysler.
Fuel Pump Insufficient Pressure and Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
Fuel pump fails to deliver sufficient pressure, causing stalling. Fuel gauge displays incorrect levels, making driver unable to determine actual fuel status. Occurs even after recall fuel pump replacement.
When: Early miles (10–40 MPH stalls reported); recurring at 90,000+ miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine stalls despite adequate fuel in tank; Fuel gauge reads incorrectly or erratically; Fuel spills from filler neck during refueling; 'Miles to empty' calculation inaccurate
Codes mentioned: P0461 (Fuel Level Sensor A Range/Performance), P2066 (Fuel Level Sensor B Performance)
Repairs/costs cited: Fuel pump module replacement; fuel level sensor diagnostics performed. Some repairs cited at $1,000–$2,000 combined with other fuel system work.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 06V432000 includes fuel pump replacement and PCM reprogramming. Many owners report their VINs excluded or repairs deemed already completed by previous owners without verification.
Axle and Bearing Failure with Persistent Noise
Clicking and popping noises from front wheels beginning at low mileage (8,000 miles), progressing to constant audible failure. Dealership attempts multiple repairs including axle, hub bearing, and hub assembly replacement without resolution. Owner concerns about safety lead to vehicle being parked.
When: Starting at approximately 8,000 miles; persistent through multiple repair attempts.
Symptoms owners cite: Clicking and popping noise from front wheels during turns; Noise progresses to constant clicking and popping at all times; Noise persists despite multiple repairs; Safety concern for owner
Repairs/costs cited: Axles, hub bearings, hub assemblies, and gaskets replaced multiple times (8+ attempts) without resolving issue.
Alternator and Battery Discharge Defect
Alternator fails to charge battery properly, causing repeated battery discharge and failure. Battery requires replacement multiple times. Root cause eventually identified as PCM failure, but dealership misdiagnosed as battery/alternator issue.
When: Reported at 72,800–200,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Battery repeatedly discharged; Vehicle stalling while in motion; Battery warning light illumination; ABS warning light illumination alongside stalling; Alternator requiring replacement despite being new
Repairs/costs cited: Battery replaced twice; alternator replaced once. PCM ultimately identified as root cause but repair cost $1,000 at dealership, nearly half vehicle value at time.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 06V432000 intended to address PCM issues but vehicle not included in recall despite purchase after recall period.
Synthesized from 108 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
Tl* the contact owns a 2005 Chrysler pacifica. The contact was driving approximately 50- 65 MPH when the vehicle suddenly stalled without warning. The vehicle was able to be restarted after several minutes and was taken to both the dealer and an independent mechanic. Both the dealer and the mechanic advised the contact that the failure could possibly have been caused by the transmission. A…
The transmission goes into neutral when cold or braking. This keeps re-occurring. *tr
Tl* the contact owns a 2005 Chrysler pacifica. While driving approximately 25 MPH, the vehicle suddenly stalled. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnostic testing. The technician advised that the fuel pump would have to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the mechanic and the contact was then advised that the…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2005 Chrysler Pacifica?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2005 Chrysler Pacifica?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 108 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 95 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 58,000 and 128,000 miles, with the median around 93,814. A quarter of owners report trouble before 58,000; a quarter make it past 128,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2005/Chrysler/Pacifica.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.