Dealing with a rotted k-frame crossmember for the front engine cradle; has caused the whole suspension to fail, effecting steering components, as well as, wearing out other parts such as, engine mounts and front end bushings on a car with less than 100,000 miles on it.
2004 Chrysler Pacifica steering complaints
Page 2 of 3: complaints 11 to 40 of 50, newest first, as owners wrote them.
I was driving today and it seemed that my steering was extremely hard to turn if I was mashing the gas, harder to turn to the right side of the car. If the car is coasting or I am breaking the steering is easier to control. I have stopped at my parents house on the way home to research what could be happening with my car and found this disturbing news. Unfortunately for me, this is my only source of transportation and I don't have the finances to just get another car...I'm so frustrated right now and I don't know what to do... The consumer stated while driving, she had difficulty steering the vehicle. She noticed when accelerating, the vehicle was hard to steer, but when braking or allowing the vehicle to coast it was a little easier to control. She managed to get the vehicle off the road. She discovered a portion of the support frame dropped from the vehicle, and it appeared the engine cradle was corroded with rust. Updated 12/04/14
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 chrysler pacifica. The contact stated that the steering wheel locked several times while driving various speeds. A local mechanic stated that the subframe and engine cradle were corroded, fractured, and contained holes. The vehicle was deemed as unsafe to drive. The manufacturer stated that the engine cradle replacement warranty had expired. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 110,000.
In january, the suspension on our 2004 chrysler pacifica (purchased 08/2003), seemed to have issues. A web search to investigate, LED me to a much more serious issue that effects '04 and '05 pacificas. I had our mechanic inspect the frame and sure enough, we were one of the many affected. Our mechanic told us the car was no longer safe to drive, and that the compromised frame caused the front right wheel to shift inwards. We were quoted between 4,000 and 5,000 dollars for our repairs. The car now sits in the garage as we hope for a resolution. After in depth research, I uncovered thousands of complaints related to the issue, two nbc news segments, and a petition. I also discover that a few years back, chrysler extended the warranty for vehicles produced between february and march of 2004. However, since our vehicle did not fall under this provision, we were never informed that we may have been effected. I contacted chrysler and opened a case. I was instructed to write an email to the case manager that contained all of the information which I uncovered online (as if they didn't already know the issue existed). This proved to be a waste of time, as we were declined any assistance because our vehicle did not fall within the extend warranty. We have been the only owners of our vehicle, which has 68,000 miles, has been garage kept, and has been driven only by my 85 year old grandparents. Apparently, chrysler has made a business decision not to address this wide spread issue. There are thousands of owners driving unsafe vehicles, many of which are completely unaware that this issue exists. Us, as well as all other parties effected are due appropriate recourse, but I fear that we will have to cut ties with our vehicle before there is a resolution.
Out of no where last night I went over 45mph and my car gave out all control of the steering wheel. It works fine unless I go over 45mph it stalls out.
Was driving down highway at 55mph, with my niece in the car with me when the car started to pull to drivers side the pulled to passenger side. I slowed the vehicle down to under 40 it was still trying swerve and pull. Scared me and my niece. Has been clunking since about six months after I bought the vehicle in 2008.. Spent over a grand on new tie rods, suspensions, when I took it to different dealer for chrysler vehicles where a technician told me to stop wasting my money, they know there is clunk and dont know how to fix it. I emailed and left message for chrysler with no respinse. Looks like they know how to fix it but chrysler wont stand behind their product and fix the problem till someone dies and the families of the deceased have to sue the company, seriously! Stand behind your product, I dont think I will ever purchase a chrysler vehicle again and will inform all friends and family todo the same.
My chrysler pacifica"s engine cradle has extensively corroded with rust and has become a danger to drive .this was a national problem reported on chicago television nbc channel 5. Chrysler claims that they are investigating..I would appreciate if someone from your organization can look at this cradle and the danger my family has been put in. Chrysler also claims that my car was built prior to the problem metal on 2004/2005 . Need for someone to inspect thank you
The engine cradle cross member of my vehicle has rotted to the point that the car is unsafe to drive. There is a service note for a small window of pacificas included on a warranty for the same problem, but only for the cars built within a certain date. Chrysler is aware of the problem, but will do nothing to correct it. The cradle incorporates the engine mounts, lower control arms, and steering. If it is not replaced, and breaks while driving, there will be a complete loss of control of the vehicle. I know that my vehicle is not the only one with such a serious issue.
The engine cradle cross member of my vehicle is rotting to the point that I can no longer have the car safety inspected in pa. There is a service note for a small window of pacificas included on a warranty for the same problem, but only for the cars built within a certain date. Chrysler is aware of the problem, but will do nothing to correct it. The cradle incorporates the engine mounts, lower control arms, and steering. If it is not replaced, and brakes while driving, there will be a complete loss of control of the vehicle. I know that my vehicle is not the only one with such a serious issue.
I noticed some difficulty with steering. I purchased and used some power steering fluid. This did not make a difference. I was driving on my own street when the steering completely stopped working. I was able to get the car into my yard. When I had the car looked at I was informed that the cradle that holds the engine was completely rusted and the engine is falling and that is what damaged the steering. I have been informed that this will cost more than 3000 to repair.
While having my vehicle checked for a power steering leak at an independent mechanic, I received call from mechanic that if there was any way possible that I can come down to the service station because the problem was bigger than the leak. Once there he showed me the serious rust through on sub frame rails and engine cradle with noticeable cracks going upward on sub frame. He stated that the cause to my power steering leak is due to this sub frame being in the condition it is and it's vibration. He suggested that I contact chrysler for a recall because he knows of the same problem on honda's & toyota's that were already recalled. After reading the forums and searching for a recall there is an extended warranty but unfortunately I fall under the state of nj were this state is not eligible for the extended warranty. This is outrageous and a safety recall should be issued right away. With so many complaints I will move forward and start a class action law suit for not issuing a full scale recall to all 2004 pacifica owners in every state. They clearly recognize the danger in their faulty design and manufacturing yet still refuse to issue a safety recall by only providing an extended warranty to some pacifica owners. This is a serious danger to my family and a fatality waiting to happen.
The front wheel studs are breaking off the vehicle and this is the second time this has happened in the last 3 months both time there has been brand new studs and bolts put on. It has caused the wheel to fall off the vehicle and cause other damages to the fender.
Sub frame rusted out
I bought this 2004 pacifica from a dealer about a month ago. Took it to the shop to get my shocks looked at and they told me they wouldn't do any work on it because the sub frame was rotted so badly they advised me not to drive or put any money into the vehicle because it is a safety issue. Also there is clicking coming from the steering wheel when you turn left or right. And also a week after I purchased the vehicle the blower motor resister is bad.
Driving around 40 the vehicle started to shake. I thought maybe a wheel bearing or tie rod was the issue. Upon taking it to the shop to get checked I was told that the engine cradle was rusted to the point of almost failing. I am currently having the cradle replaced. Had that occurred at a higher speed I hat to think what may have happened. I called chrysler and was told there is a replacement program for vehicles built between feb 23rd and mar31st 2004. Because my vehicle was built january 23rd 2004 it was not covered and I received no letter. Despite the fact I was driving a vehicle with the same problem in a very dangerous state. There should be a nationwide safety recall.
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 chrysler pacifica. While driving approximately 30 MPH, the contact noticed a rattling noise from the front end of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The technician advised the contact that the inner tie rod and sway bar links for the front suspension would have to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 96,000.
Sub frame completely rusted apart, resulting in dangerous front end conditions and expensive repair. Found similar issues for other pacifica owners through research and believe this is a defective part and should be covered and recalled before someone gets hurt or killed.
I purchased this vehicle used with very low mileage. It is in great condition until I started hearing a noise in the front end. I took into the garage to have new tires and brakes put on it. When the mechanic put it on the rack, he said that the frame was rusted through. So, instead of new tires and brakes I now need a new frame. I am just thankful that I was not driving while this happen. I was wondering if this problem as affected other owners also.
2004 chrysler pacifica taken to mechanic after purchasing used with 69,500 miles for "clunking" noise in front-end. Replaced parts included: sway bar linkages, tie rod ends, and struts and mounts all of which needed replacing. But the noise was still there. The mechanic then used a tool he called "chassis ears" to pinpoint the source of the noise. He found that the subframe (engine cradle) was rusted at the point that it mounts to the body, just under the front passenger-side floorboard. Upon further inspection rust was apparent on the drivers-side also. This is a major safety issue!!! The entire front-end of the vehicle including: engine, transmission, and all front-end suspension and steering is held in place by this subframe (engine cradle). What happens when this totally fails while driving with six people in the vehicle? Why has this not become a mandatory safety recall? Does someone have to get killed before this gets someones attention? This is not an isolated incident as can be seen by this website. The federal safety agency please help!!!
I own a chrysler pacifica 2004 awd. The vehicle has had numerous suspension problems, such as a clicking sound and an unstable vehicle. I believe it might be the front cradle of the vehicle but am not sure if this is the exact cause. Also, when I brake, the car makes a huge thud sound. I replaced the brakes and rotors as the dealer has done but the noise is still there. Please investigate this matter as many other pacifica owners have encountered this. Thank you so much.
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 chrysler pacifica. The contact stated was driving 35 MPH when the steering failed, making it very difficult for the contact to control the steering. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer where it was diagnosed. The technician advised the contact that the engine cradle was rusted and fracturing. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was not available. The failure and current mileage was 83,000.
After turning right at stop light and proceeding slowly with acceleration, a loud/shaking noise was heard from 2004 chrysler pacifica (similar to a cell phone placed on vibrate instead of ringing when a call is received). Within seconds, vehicle unintentionally accelerated and I was unable to stop it, even after pressing on brakes. I was a block away from where I had to turn to enter our subdivision, traveling down a two-lane road. Thankfully, no cars were traveling in opposite direction, or coming out of our subdivision, so I was able to turn left to enter our subdivision. To try to slow car down, I had to press down on brakes as hard as I could while turning the wheel, which caused the vehicle to swerve, almost hitting a light pole. After turning and stopping the swerve, the vehicle accelerated even further, reaching the '4' on the tachometer (before the turn, it had been at a '3'). As I approached the four-way stop in our subdivision, I again stepped on the brakes as hard as I could, but it had no effect. The tachometer read '4', but the speedometer showed 30 MPH, regardless of how hard I pressed on brakes. I could not brake at all, and was losing the ability to steer as I approached the sign. The only way to stop the vehicle was to place it in 'park'(which made the tachometer go even higher) and remove the keys to turn off the car as quickly as I could. This stopped the car right in front of the stop sign. I waited about 30 seconds and attempted to restart car, but after ignition key was turned, tachometer revved up again to '4', though speedometer read '0'. Husband maneuvered car the one block home by placing it in 'neutral'. This is the first incident of this nature. Chrysler to be notified in morning, as I called after business hours (7:41 pm cst). Myself, two kids, and two dogs were in the car driving down what is normally a busy two-lane road and into subdivision full of playing children, truly a miracle no one was injured.
2004 chrysler pacifica. Consumer states several problems with vehicle related to the engine, air conditioner blower and alternator *tgw the consumer stated when the vehicle was first purchased, the air conditioner blower was not working properly and had to be replaced. Later that year, there was a whining sound coming from the front of the vehicle near the engine, however the dealer was unable to find the source and to this day, the noise is still present. The consumer stated there was a whining sound coming from or near the power steering pump which was eventually replaced, however the noise continued. The motor mounts, tie rods and rocker arms were replaced.
I had a bad vibration in the front . So I took it to the dealer since I had a factory extended warranty bumper to bumper., they said the car needed tires. So I changed the tire it still vibrated. Go back now it is the rack & pinion bushings are bad . But I need to replace the k frame because a weld is broken. They say I broke it cause there are scratches on it. {not that vibration did it} so I paid to have a new one put in . 8 months later the motor mounts break and the engine drops 2" from the ground . Thank god my family was not driving down a highway. So I take it back and they say because there is scratches on it again that broke the bushings .once again I ended up paying to have it fixed.
Tl*the contact owns a 2004 chrysler pacifica. The contact took her vehicle to the dealer because the steering wheel shakes while driving 65 MPH. In addition, a nail was found in the tire. The dealer stated that inner tie rods and tire balancing were needed. They further stated that the engine cradle was corroded. The dealer took pictures to send to the manufacturer so they could be advised on how to proceed. The contact is currently waiting on a return phone call from the manufacturer. The failure mileage was 62,000.
Tl*the contact owns a 2004 chrysler pacifica. The contact has been taking his vehicle to the dealer for an oil change and service ever since it was purchased. The dealer stated that the frame of his vehicle was rusted through and failed. The vehicle was unable to be driven and the contact must pay for the repair costs. The dealer never warned him of any failures. The manufacturer stated that they could not assist. The vehicle is still at the dealer awaiting repair. The failure mileage was 71,000. Updated 02/06/09 *bf the vehicle pulled to the left. The dealer performed an alignment and replaced the tie rod ends. Updated 02/06/09.
2004 chrylser pacifica engine cradle rusted out, tie rod replaced about one yr ago. Dealer won't cover cost d/t warranty expired. 53,000 miles on car. Major safety issue d/t engine/trans could fall out while driving. Instructed only to drive car if necessary. Avoid bumps! Have found multiple c/o on internet on same matter. I should not have to pay for poor quality of metal used on frame work.
Tl*the contact owns a 2004 chrysler pacifica. While driving 20 MPH, the vehicle began to shake and made a thumping sound. The vehicle also tends to pull to the right. The vehicle was diagnosed by the dealer, but the failure continues. The current mileage was 51,200 and failure mileage was 6,000. Updated 6/16/08 *cn the left rear seatbelt would not retract, the outer tie rod ends, the blower motor and resistor were replaced because the vehicle didn't have any heat, the battery was stalling. The heated seat were not working. Updated 06/16/08
Vehicle was in fatal accident . Driver complained of hearing clicking noises days before accident. Took vehicle to be serviced at the place where vehicle was purchased. The vehicle checked out fine. Driver felt steering wheel lock and was unable to steer while driving on interstate he says could not steer vehicle at all vehicle uncontrollably flipped 6 times . No air bags deployed .
Car fights steering.
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