By Neil G. Chirico
Right before the second service interval (12,000 miles), the SRS warning light came on again, something we'd taken care of at the 6000-mile service. So now we're two for two: two service visits, two airbag clock springs. The second visit included a replacement cabin air filter (about $90), plus the usual oil and filter change and visual inspections (about $40). With the Pacifica's rear DVD entertainment system proving to be a hit, several editors have taken this minivan on family trips. "Chrysler has finally made interiors a priority," noted an editor. This van is attractively laid out, crafted of quality materials, and offers good ergonomics." Another interior item that generated multiple comments: "Chrysler's steering-wheel-mounted button controls, which are on the front and back surfaces of the wheel and allow for lots of hands-on system control."
| 2004 Chrysler Pacifica |
| Base price | $32,980 |
| Price as tested | $38,515 |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, AWD, 4-door, 6-pass minivan |
| Engine | 3.5L V-6, SOHC, 4 valves/cyl |
| SAE net hp @ rpm | 250 @ 6400 |
| SAE torque @ rpm | 250 @ 3950 |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| 0-60 mph, sec | 9.6 |
| EPA mpg | 17 city/22 highway |
| Total mileage | 14,501 |
| Average test mpg | 15.7 |
| Problem areas | None |
| Maintenance cost | $170 for 6000- and 12,000-mile services |
| Normal wear cost | $2/1 qt oil |