Valve Body. These may cause over drive cycling.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2006 Chrysler Pacifica engine problems
moderate 148 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100 · see engine across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
148
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$3,100
1crash
When does it fail?
Of the 148 engine complaints filed for the 2006 Chrysler Pacifica, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 148 engine complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Engine accounts for 20% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 12 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering engine on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
NAG1 (5A580) Valve Body As per Warranty Bulletin D-13-22, please use R2108213A$ valve body for all Warranty (W), Mopar (M) and Mopar Vehicle Protection (F) claims.~ Assembly also includes Filter (52108325AA) and Gasket (52108332AA).~
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Part Description: 5.7L Long Block Issue Description: This 5.7L Long Block Assembly is compatible with both EGR and Non-EGR applications. An EGR Block-Off Plate (53032739AA) must be ordered when installing this Long Block Assembly in a Non-EGR application. Unless, the EGR Block-Off Plate is being transferred from the old engine.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Part Description: 5.7L Long Block Issue Description: This 5.7L Long Block Assembly is compatible with both EGR and Non-EGR applications. An EGR Block-Off Plate (53032739AA) must be ordered when installing this Long Block Assembly in a Non-EGR application. Unless, the EGR Block-Off Plate is being transferred from the old engine.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Part Description: Valve Body Assembly Issue Description: Valve body design was changed between 2010MY and 2011MY applications. To prevent mix matching valve bodies and solenoid packs the connectors are color coded.~ Valve bodies with a white connector can be used on 2010, 2009, 2008..., model years. Valve bodies with a gray connector can only be used on 2011, 2012, 2013..., model years.~ Solenoid packs with a white connector are used with 2010, 2009, 2008..., model years. Solenoid packs with a gray connector are used with 2011, 2012, 2013..., model years.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners report three distinct categories of engine-related failures on 2006 Pacificas, each with serious safety implications.
Stalling without warning is the most frequent complaint. Drivers experience sudden, complete engine shutdown—often during low-speed left turns—with no warning lights or symptoms beforehand. The steering wheel locks, power steering is lost, and the vehicle cannot be steered safely. Owners report this happening at parking-lot speeds (5–10 mph) through highway speeds (70 mph). Many report the stall is preceded by a previous PCM/fuel pump recall (NHTSA 04V113000, 06V432000) that did not cover their vehicle; several describe the same symptoms as the recall addresses.
Engine cradle/subframe rust is the second major issue. Multiple owners report severe corrosion, often with holes punched through the metal at weld seams, typically occurring between 55,000 and 76,000 miles. This is not surface rust—mechanics describe the cradle as rotted through, a safety hazard because the subframe supports the engine and front suspension. Chrysler extended warranty coverage for 2004–2005 Pacificas (bulletin D-10-34) but refuses to extend it to 2006 models, despite owners presenting identical failures. Repair costs run $4,000–$5,000.
Excessive oil consumption and ticking/knocking noises (rocker arm, connecting rod bearing, and engine mount failures) round out the powertrain concerns. Owners report burning 1 quart per 1,000 miles or more, starting around 37,000–60,000 miles. Engine mount failures occur as early as 32,000 miles. One owner's vehicle required a complete engine replacement at under 40,000 miles.
Same Chrysler Pacifica engine reports on nearby years: 2005 · 2007 · 2008
Failure modes owners describe
Engine Stalling During Turns and Normal Driving
Complete, sudden engine shutdown without warning, typically during low-speed left turns but also at highway speeds. Power steering lost; vehicle coasts to a stop. Restarting immediately after shutdown resolves the issue temporarily.
When: Occurs early in vehicle ownership (1,650–13,000 miles reported), some as late as 106,000 miles; no consistent pattern by mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Complete engine shutdown without warning; No illuminated warning lights before stall; Steering wheel locks (power steering loss); Stall during left turns, both parking-lot speeds (5–10 mph) and highway speeds (40–70 mph); Stall while idling or performing tight maneuvers; Engine restarts immediately after being placed in Park
Codes mentioned: P0420 (catalytic converter circuit), P0700 (transmission control system fault)
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers unable to duplicate failure in many cases; owners report previous PCM/fuel pump recall work (campaigns 04V113000, 06V432000) on 2004–2005 models did not resolve same symptoms on 2006 models. One owner received TSB 18-03-05 (Update Flash) after stall; repair effectiveness unclear.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA campaigns 04V113000, 06V432000, EA06013 exist for earlier model years. Vehicle owner VINs typically fall outside recall applicability. Chrysler declined assistance on out-of-warranty vehicles.
Engine Cradle (Subframe) Severe Corrosion
Rust and rot of the front engine cradle/subframe, with holes punched through metal at welded sections. Most severe at weld seams. Corrosion occurs despite low mileage and no evidence of rust elsewhere on vehicle.
When: Typically discovered around 55,000–110,000 miles; in some cases after 8–9 years of ownership; one owner reported cradle failure after only 1 year of ownership (76,000 miles at time of inspection)
Symptoms owners cite: Visible corrosion and holes in front engine cradle at welds; Cradle completely rotted through in some sections; Cradle able to be penetrated by a finger; Vehicle fails state inspection due to safety hazard; No other body or undercarriage components show equivalent rust
Repairs/costs cited: Repair costs $4,000–$5,000. Chrysler dealership estimates range from $4,000–$4,400 plus labor. Chrysler extended warranty (bulletin D-10-34, effective March 16, 2012) covers 2004–2005 Pacificas manufactured Feb. 23, 2004–March 31, 2004 (small window); 2006 models refused despite identical symptoms.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler warranty bulletin D-10-34 (Extended Warranty for Front Engine Cradle, 2004–2005 Pacificas) exists. Chrysler denies coverage for 2006 models, citing vehicle out of warranty. Some owners report being told frame rot is 'owner caused' and not a factory defect after digital imaging review.
Excessive Engine Oil Consumption
Abnormally high oil burn rate with no visible leaks or smoke from exhaust. Owners report 1 quart per 1,000 miles or more; Chrysler deems this 'acceptable' per manufacturer tolerance.
When: Typically starts at 37,000–60,000 miles; one owner reported it at 38,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Oil level drops 1–1.5 quarts between 3,000-mile oil changes; No visible leaks beneath vehicle; No smoke from exhaust; Engine running hotter than normal (per owner observation)
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs performed by owners. One owner reports internet sources suggesting piston rings do not fit engine cylinders properly. Dealership told one owner Chrysler considers 1 quart per 1,000 miles 'within manufacturer tolerances' and declined further investigation.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler stated 1 quart per 1,000 miles is acceptable and within manufacturer tolerances; declined further investigation or warranty service.
Engine Ticking, Knocking, and Valve/Rocker Arm Failures
Loud ticking, rattling, or knocking noises from engine, often associated with internal component failures (rocker arms, valve shafts, connecting rod bearings, engine mounts). Some occurrences involve multiple repairs of same issue.
When: Rocker arm failures reported around 58,900 miles; connecting rod bearing debris notification applies to engines with build dates Sept. 5–July 26, 2006; engine mount failures as early as 32,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loud ticking noise from engine; Rattling sounds; Grinding noise on acceleration; Jerking forward when accelerating from stop; Reduced gas mileage and engine power; Noise similar to truck engine; Mechanic warned engine could 'blow' if ignored
Repairs/costs cited: Rocker arm and valve shaft replacements performed at dealership, multiple times on same vehicle. Chrysler Customer Satisfaction Notification F35 addresses Engine Connecting Rod Bearing Debris for 3.5L engines (VIN position 8: 'G', 'V', or '4') with build dates Sept. 5–July 26, 2006. One owner's ticking noise coincided with reduced mileage and power. Repairs have not permanently resolved issue in some cases.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler Notification F35 issued for connecting rod bearing debris; applies only to vehicles with specific engine build date codes. One owner reports their VIN matches specifications but Chrysler excluded them from notification.
Engine Mount Failure
Mechanical failure of motor mounts (front, rear, or both), leading to metal-on-metal contact, knocking, grinding, and excessive engine movement. Failures recur shortly after repair.
When: Failures reported as early as 32,000 miles; recurrence within 3 weeks to 6 months of repair
Symptoms owners cite: Loud knocking or grinding noise on acceleration; Vehicle jerks or lurches forward from complete stop; Engine rocks excessively during acceleration or deceleration; Stalling when vehicle shifted into reverse; Fluid leakage from failed mount
Repairs/costs cited: Rear motor mount replacement; one owner had to replace same mount twice within 6 months. Parts back-ordered for 3 weeks in one case. Repair occurs out of warranty (at 32,000 miles, post-3-year warranty). One dealer stated the part should not need replacement 'normally' and should not fail at such low mileage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall or warranty extension identified in complaints. Dealer indicated part should not require replacement at this mileage.
Catalytic Converter and Emissions System Failures
Catalytic converter failures and emissions system problems leading to check engine lights, failed emissions tests, and unburnt fuel smell in cabin. Converter replacement occurs twice in short timeframe for some owners.
When: Reported at various mileages (one owner replaced converter twice within 1+ year of ownership)
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light on; Gas cap warning light on continuously despite new OEM caps; Unburnt fuel smell in cabin; Failed emissions test; EVAP fault codes present but check engine light not illuminated; Fuel smell noticed upon acceleration and braking
Codes mentioned: EVAP codes (specific codes not stated)
Repairs/costs cited: Catalytic converter replacement costs reported around $1,000.25 in one case. One owner's converter appeared rusty and used despite being a dealership replacement. One owner suggests original catalytic converter and O2 sensors were defective from manufacture.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler settled lawsuit with EPA in 2005–2006 regarding defective catalytic converters. One owner requested Chrysler warranty coverage citing this settlement and defective catalytic converter history.
Primary Fuel Pump Hose Cracking and Fuel Leak
External hose connecting primary and secondary fuel pumps cracks at the connector nozzle due to design flaw: original hose was approximately 3–5 cm too short, requiring stretching to connect pumps. Crack leads to fuel leak.
When: Timing and mileage not specified by owner
Symptoms owners cite: Fuel leak from external connector nozzle
Repairs/costs cited: Both fuel pump and hose replacement required. Modified hose available as replacement part; original owners unaware of defect until specific service performed. Costly repair to replace both fuel pump and hose.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Replacement hose has been modified; no recall or proactive customer notification mentioned.
Transmission Solenoid and Control Module Failures
Transmission control module (TCM) and PCM failures; transmission shifts erratically or locks; one case involved both engine control module and transmission control module failures requiring replacement of both.
When: One case at 98,000 miles; another involving transmission jerking and high RPM at 80,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine jerks and revs to 6,000 RPM while vehicle traveling only 40 MPH; Check engine light illuminates; Transmission control module light illuminates on dash after engine control module replacement; Transmission shifts erratically
Codes mentioned: TCM (Transmission Control Module) fault
Repairs/costs cited: Engine control module replacement cost approximately $3,000 at one dealer; transmission control module replacement; one dealership wanted $1,000 just to drop transmission for diagnosis. Recall NHTSA 06V432000 exists (PCM/TCM) but affected vehicle VINs often excluded.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: NHTSA Recall 06V432000 (Powertrain: Automatic Transmission: Control Module) exists; many vehicle VINs stated as not included in recall applicability.
Gas Pedal Sticking
Accelerator pedal becomes difficult to press or sticks, requiring hard pressure to depress. Owner concern is increased accident risk due to unintended acceleration.
When: Reported on vehicles with various mileages; timing unclear
Symptoms owners cite: Gas pedal difficult to press; Pedal sticks and requires hard pressure to depress
Repairs/costs cited: No specific repair noted in complaints; one owner mentions this as part of larger suite of defects.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No manufacturer response documented in complaints.
Synthesized from 148 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 5 most recent
Tl*the contact owns a 2006 Chrysler pacifica. While accelerating, the vehicle hesitated. The dealer stated that there was carbon build up on the throttle body. The cost to repair the failure was $200. The vehicle has not been repaired. The contact is in the process of notifying the manufacturer. The failure mileage updated 06/11/09.*jb
Tl* the contact owns a 2006 Chrysler pacifica. While the vehicle was undergoing routine service, the technician noticed rust on the engine cradle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with severe engine cradle rust. The vehicle was unsafe to be driven and was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was 89,000.
2006 Chrysler pacifica was deemed unsafe to drive on 12/12/15 upon taking car in for an oil change. Mechanic stated that subframe is rusted and has a 6 inch hole meaning that the engine could fall off the car. I do know that there was a problem with 2004 and 2005 models and didn't expect to hear the news on my 2006 model.
Tl* the contact owns a 2006 Chrysler pacifica. The contact stated that while making a left turn at 35 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The failure recurred on numerous occasions. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 100,000.
Tl* the contact owns a 2006 Chrysler pacifica. While driving 60 MPH, the engine light illuminated and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was able to restart. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact was aware of NHTSA campaign number: 06v432000 (power train); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was 48,000.
Had engine trouble with your 2006 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 engine problem on the 2006 Chrysler Pacifica?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 148 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $3,100 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Across the 129 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most engine failures cluster between 40,840 and 103,000 miles, with the median around 75,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 40,840; a quarter make it past 103,000. 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 $3,100 for engine 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 engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine 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/2006/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.