While driving a message appeared on the dash "SERVICE CHARGING SYSTEM" and vehicle doesn't even accelerate(we stay in Des Moines and visited my cousin in Dallas,TX, this is where this issue happened). Luckily I was on local road I was able to pull off, what would be the situation if it happens on interstate with such high speed travelling vehicles behind me. I was driving with my 2 kids and wife…
2019 Chrysler Pacifica powertrain problems
moderate 76 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
76
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
1crash
When does it fail?
Of the 76 powertrain complaints filed for the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 75,000-100,000 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 76 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.
Powertrain accounts for 23% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 9 categories tracked.
The failure pattern owners describe
Buyer takeaway: A 2019 Pacifica owner is likely to face one of several serious powertrain failures—false park warnings causing freeway immobility, transmission lurching/hard shifts, complete loss of power on hybrids, shifter lockups, or unexpected engine shutdowns. Many failures persist despite multiple dealer visits and parts replacement, and some occur even after recall work.
The 2019 Pacifica powertrain shows a pattern of distinct, recurring failures across electronic, mechanical, and control systems. The most dangerous issue is a false "not in park" warning that erupts without warning during freeway driving, preventing acceleration, disabling hazards, and sometimes leaving the engine unable to restart—owners report this happening 10+ times on a single vehicle and forcing dangerous restarts while coasting in traffic lanes.
Transmission problems are widespread: owners describe aggressive lurching and hard slamming shifts at highway speeds (37–60 mph), delayed acceleration response (2.5–3 seconds), and jerking so violent it wakes sleeping children. Service Bulletin 21-027-17 has been applied without fixing the issue.
Plug-in hybrids suffer sudden, total loss of motive power during highway driving—engine and electric motor fail simultaneously, leaving the vehicle coasting. Dashboard warnings ("Service Charging System," "Vehicle Will Shut Off Soon") appear, power inverter modules are replaced, and the same failure recurs. Some owners report this happening after manufacturer recalls were completed.
Electronic shifter failures lock the transmission in unintended gears or prevent engagement entirely. Owners also report unexpected engine shutdowns (some vehicles shut down repeatedly over months, intervals of 6+ months apart), multiple transmission control module failures, and auxiliary battery failures every 6 months to 2 years despite repeated replacement.
Dealers consistently struggle to replicate or diagnose these failures in short test drives. Multiple dealer visits (4–7+ times) and parts replacement (shifter assemblies, control modules, batteries) often fail to resolve issues permanently. Some vehicles remain in dealer shops for 44+ days without repair.
Same Chrysler Pacifica powertrain reports on nearby years: 2017 · 2018 · 2020 · 2021 · 2022
Failure modes owners describe
Erroneous "Not in Park" Warning / Loss of Vehicle Control
Vehicle displays false "car is not in park" warning while actually in park or drive, preventing acceleration, disabling hazard lights, and preventing restart. Occurs during highway driving without warning. Vehicle may continue to coast, requiring manual steering to safety.
When: 50,000–80,000 miles; unpredictable frequency (reported 10+ recurrences in one vehicle)
Symptoms owners cite: False "car is not in park" message on dashboard; Loss of acceleration capability; Hazard lights disabled; Vehicle unable to restart while warning persists; Vehicle coasting uncontrollably on freeway
Repairs/costs cited: No diagnosis achieved after multiple dealer visits (7+ weeks of service time in one case); issue not reproducible in dealer test drives
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No permanent fix identified; customers advised to wait for diagnosis; warranty consideration withheld pending diagnosis
Transmission Lurching, Hard Shifting, and Jerking
Transmission exhibits aggressive lurching, hard slamming shifts, and jerking during acceleration or gear changes, particularly at highway speeds (37–60 mph). Occurs intermittently then becomes constant. May wake occupants from sleep due to severity.
When: 35,000–96,000 miles; intermittent early, progressing to constant
Symptoms owners cite: Lurching forward during gear shifts; Hard slamming shifts; Vehicle jerks during acceleration; Delayed transmission response (2.5–3 seconds); Vibration in front cabin; RPM rise without acceleration response
Repairs/costs cited: Service Bulletin 21-027-17 applied without resolution; some dealers suggest transmission replacement ($8,000+); valve body replaced in some cases without success
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Warranty covers to 60,000 miles; Service Bulletin 21-027-17 issued but ineffective; STAR case requested by owners; Mopar protection plans reportedly offered in past for similar issues
Complete Loss of Motive Power (Hybrids) / Charging System Failure
Vehicle loses all propulsion (engine and electric motor simultaneously) during highway driving, often while cruise control active. Dashboard displays "Service Charging System" or "Vehicle Will Shut Off Soon" warnings. Vehicle coasts to stop and cannot restart immediately; requires wait time (15 min–45 min) or multiple restart attempts. Occurs post-recall in some cases.
When: 30,000–70,000 miles; multiple incidents per vehicle over months
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of engine and motor power at speed; "Service Charging System" error message; "Stop Safely - Vehicle Will Shut Off Soon" warning; Dashboard power-cycles; Transmission indicator knob loses illumination and becomes non-responsive; Air conditioning stops; Braking and steering remain functional
Repairs/costs cited: Power inverter module (PIM) replaced multiple times (same failure recurs); dealer diagnostic inconclusive; vehicle must be towed
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 19V-886 and 20V-334 completed in some cases before subsequent failures; Recall 1803A182 (hybrid control processor reprogramming) applied but loss of power episodes continued; Investigation PE-22-008 ongoing for plug-in hybrids; case numbers issued (e.g., Stellantis case [redacted])
Electronic Shifter Malfunction / Stuck in Gear
Electronic shifter locks into unintended gear or fails to engage desired gear. Shifter may be stuck in reverse while vehicle feels like neutral and rolls; stuck in park preventing drive/reverse engagement; or shifts erratically to unintended gear (e.g., move to D, engages R). Vehicle becomes partially or fully inoperable.
When: 10,000–59,000 miles; intermittent to persistent
Symptoms owners cite: Shifter locks in unintended gear; Shifter stuck in reverse, park, or intermediate gear; Shifter indicator light inoperable; Vehicle fails to respond to shifter input; "Service Shifter" or "Service Gear Shifter" message displayed; Inability to shift into drive or reverse; Shifter knob becomes non-responsive
Repairs/costs cited: Gear shifter assembly replaced; transmission control module replaced; body control module, ABS module, wiring module replaced in some cases; ground wires tightened; repeated repairs without permanent resolution
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified; case numbers issued; engineers referred to assist dealer diagnosis; no permanent fix achieved; some customers referred to override procedure (press start twice, press accelerator 10 sec, press start to turn off) as workaround
Unexpected Vehicle Shutdown During Driving
Engine shuts off abruptly while vehicle is in motion, including at highway speeds. No warning precedes failure in many cases. Vehicle may become unresponsive to restart for extended periods (15 min–several hours).
When: 475–200,000 miles; intervals of 6+ months between incidents (unpredictable)
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shuts off without warning; Vehicle coasts to stop; Engine will not restart immediately; Engine sputters and stalls on restart attempt; Check engine light illuminated; No warning lights or messages preceding shutdown
Repairs/costs cited: Batteries (primary and secondary) replaced multiple times; aftermarket stop-start eliminator installed as workaround; multiple dealer visits without diagnosis
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recalls issued (exact numbers not specified in narratives) but many owners report recalls did not resolve issue; stop-start system suspected but not confirmed as root cause
Transmission Electrical / Control Module Failure
Transmission control module (TCM) or related electrical systems fail, causing erratic transmission behavior, loss of shifter control, inability to engage gears, and multiple warning messages. May include low-voltage faults, "no CAN bus" errors, and safety system cascading failures.
When: 20,000–53,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: "Service Shifter" message deactivates shifter; "No CAN bus" error; All safety controls flash on/off; Fuel gauge fluctuates; Warning lights flash intermittently; Unintended deceleration or inability to accelerate; Transmission skips gears
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission control module replaced/reflashed; body control module replaced; electronic shifter replaced; both batteries replaced; grounds inspected and tightened; multiple repairs at single dealership (44+ days) and independent shops without resolution
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer notified; case numbers issued; no permanent solution identified; software update (unknown) attempted at one dealer without success
Auxiliary / Dual Battery System Failures
Auxiliary battery fails prematurely or repeatedly. Vehicle equipped with two interdependent batteries; when one fails, vehicle may not start. Auxiliary battery requires replacement every 6 months to 2 years.
When: 6 months–2 years after purchase; recurring
Symptoms owners cite: Auxiliary battery light illuminated; Vehicle will not start; Loose wiring connections at auxiliary battery
Repairs/costs cited: Auxiliary battery replaced multiple times; wiring tightened; one dealership quoted $1,000 for wiring repair; aftermarket battery may not be compatible
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No extended warranty for auxiliary battery; dealers acknowledge issue but offer no permanent fix
Cylinder Misfire and Head Gasket Failure
Engine misfires (rough idling, difficult cold starts, rough running at idle and under load). Coolant leaks into head gasket, causing cylinder misfire. Occurs around 60,000 miles; reported as widespread for this model.
When: 60,000–63,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Rough idling; Difficult engine starts (multiple attempts needed); Rough running at red lights and low speeds; Check engine light illuminated; Coolant leaking into head gasket
Codes mentioned: P0303 (Cylinder 1 Misfire)
Repairs/costs cited: Head gasket replacement quoted at $4,500; customers advised repair is owner responsibility (out of warranty)
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall; issue acknowledged as common in 2019 Pacifica models but treated as design/manufacturing flaw without warranty coverage
Steering Control Loss at Highway Speeds
Steering pulls unpredictably left or right at highway speeds (60–65 mph), requiring firm corrective input. Occurs randomly and without warning. May worsen when large trucks pass vehicle. Dealer unable to diagnose or replicate issue.
When: Variable highway speeds (60–65 mph)
Symptoms owners cite: Steering pulls left or right without driver input; Unpredictable pulling direction; Requires firm steering wheel grip to maintain lane; Becomes unstable when trucks pass; Vehicle veers from intended path
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer test drive inconclusive (mileage not incremented, suggesting no actual test); no repair attempted
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chrysler case number opened (58533009); owner directed to request dealer test drive; Electronic Power Steering Module reduces assist at higher speeds per design documentation
Transmission Failure Requiring Replacement
Transmission fails completely, requiring full replacement. Often occurs without prior warning or accompanied only by vague error messages. Vehicle becomes inoperable.
When: 2,000–96,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle unable to accelerate despite engine running; Vehicle unintendedly decelerates; Check engine light illuminated; Transmission grinds or makes unusual noises; Axle rods require replacement
Repairs/costs cited: Full transmission replacement needed; costs not specified in most cases; one quote mentioned $8,000+ service expense; vehicle not repaired in many cases due to parts unavailability or warranty denial
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Vehicle not under recall; warranty coverage denied after 60,000 miles or at mileage-specific limits; Stellantis stated transmission parts on backorder nationwide (estimated 7 days but longer delays reported)
Engine Shutdown with Loss of Control Systems
Engine shuts down while vehicle in motion; simultaneously, multiple dashboard warnings appear (brakes, ESC, lane keep assist, airbags, seat belt), and control systems become unresponsive. Vehicle loses ability to accelerate or stall management.
When: 31,800–51,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shuts off abruptly; Multiple warning lights illuminate (brakes, ESC, lane keep, airbags, seat belt); "Rear Parking Assist Not Available" message; Check engine light illuminated; Vehicle unable to restart or restarts then stalls repeatedly; Vehicle stalls during return drive from dealer
Repairs/costs cited: ORC module, transmission control module, body control module, ABS module, wiring front end module replaced; battery recharged; vehicle still not repaired after multiple dealer attempts
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer case opened; low-voltage fault identified but root cause not resolved; software update attempted at third dealer without success
Engine Mounting Bolt Failure
Engine mounting bolts back out, allowing engine to move or shift position, causing mechanical damage to engine and drivetrain components.
When: 46,000 miles (3 years old)
Symptoms owners cite: Loud metallic clanking from front left area; Mounting bolt found backed out of hub and steering knuckle; Bolt lodged on CV shaft end
Repairs/costs cited: Owner identified issue; no dealer inspection or repair completed
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer not notified; no recall or known service bulletin
Wheel Bearing Hub Mounting Bolt Failure
Front wheel bearing hub mounting bolt backs out unexpectedly, creating mechanical noise and potential wheel bearing damage.
When: 46,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Loud metallic clanking while driving at 40–50 mph; Mounting bolt backed out of hub and steering knuckle; Bolt lodged on CV shaft
Repairs/costs cited: Owner documented with photos; dealer inspection not confirmed
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Manufacturer not notified; no known recall
Synthesized from 76 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 5 most recent
This Pacifica shifted hard from 1st to 2nd gear about a month ago. We were driving 75 mph and then the vehicle lost all power on the interstate. Had to shut the car off and turn it back on before I continue on my way.
The following has happened twice. Once with me and once with my wife. The van is in reverse. My foot is on the brake. I am getting ready to reverse the van to get out of a parking space. Suddenly, the van lurches forward when I take my foot off the brake. The lurch is not soft of mild, it is shocking and frightening. In one case, we hit the car parked ahead of us. In both cases, had a person…
The contact owns a 2019 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while stopped on an incline, the vehicle hesitated while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact restarted the vehicle and the failure recurred while reversing. The contact restarted the vehicle however, the failure persisted after shifting to drive(D). The lights on the gear shifter…
Vehicle more and more frequently clunks the transmission when accelerating or shortly after excelerating to highway speeds. First started around 60k+ miles. Can tell when it will occur because the engine RPMs don't match the throttle input. RPMs rev just as transmission is ready to shift. Slight feeling of being out of control for a moment, especially in the rain. A quick Google search shows us…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2019 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 2019 Chrysler Pacifica?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 76 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 15 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 12,700 and 59,000 miles, with the median around 26,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 12,700; a quarter make it past 59,000. 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/2019/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.