Is the Chrysler Pacifica more reliable than the Lexus NX?

Based on our data, the Lexus NX is more reliable with an average score of 78/100 compared to 63/100. That's a significant difference worth considering.

Which has more recalls, the Chrysler Pacifica or the Lexus NX?

The Chrysler Pacifica has more recalls (67) compared to the Lexus NX (47). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.

Which has fewer owner complaints, the Chrysler Pacifica or the Lexus NX?

Adjusted for sales volume, the Lexus NX has a lower complaint rate at 6.3 per 10,000 sold versus 27 for the Chrysler Pacifica. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Last updated: 2026-03-14

Chrysler Pacifica vs Lexus NX: Reliability Compared

Chrysler Pacifica

Good

More Reliable

Lexus NX

Good

Choosing between the Chrysler Pacifica and the Lexus NX? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two midsize minivans.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Lexus NX currently leads with an average score of 78/100 compared to 63/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Chrysler Pacifica and Lexus NX Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Lexus NX is in its second generation, which debuted in 2021 for the 2022 model year. This generation is relatively new, and buyers should be aware that newer platforms can sometimes exhibit first-year issues as manufacturers work out initial kinks. The first-generation NX, which ran from 2015 to 2021, received a facelift in 2018, indicating a mature and well-sorted platform by the end of its cycle. In contrast, the Chrysler Pacifica lacks detailed generation history, making it challenging to evaluate its reliability based on generation changes. Without specific generational data, prospective buyers may need to rely on other factors, such as brand reputation and consumer reviews, when considering the Pacifica's reliability.

Verdict

The Lexus NX is more reliable than the Chrysler Pacifica, scoring 78/100 vs 63/100.

The Lexus NX demonstrates a stronger reliability profile with an average score of 81/100 compared to the Chrysler Pacifica's 63/100. Despite having 47 recalls, the NX's overall reliability is bolstered by its fewer owner complaints per sales volume, though specific sales data is unavailable for normalization. The Pacifica, with 67 recalls and a complaint rate of 27 per 10,000 sold, also shows higher estimated annual repair costs at $647. Key differentiators include the NX's superior reliability score and fewer complaints relative to sales, making it a more reliable choice.

Key Differences

1Lexus NX has 20.7 fewer complaints per 10k sold
2Lexus NX has 20 fewer total recalls
3Lexus NX scores 15 points higher in reliability

Category Scoreboard

0Chrysler Pacifica

—

3Lexus NX

Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Chrysler Pacifica vs Lexus NX: Which Is More Reliable?

Chrysler Pacifica vs Lexus NX at-a-glance reliability comparison
Metric	Chrysler Pacifica	Lexus NX
Reliability Score	63/100	78/100
Years Tracked	9	9
Total Recalls	67	47
Complaints per 10k Sold	27	6.3
Year Wins	0	8

What Are the Common Problems With the Chrysler Pacifica and Lexus NX?

The Lexus NX and Chrysler Pacifica exhibit distinct problem profiles, with the Pacifica experiencing a notably higher number of total complaints. The Pacifica shows significant issues with the power train and electrical system, both categories registering over 500 complaints, with multiple reports being crash-linked, indicating potential safety concerns. In contrast, the Lexus NX's most reported issues are less severe, with the highest being in the "unknown or other" category and fewer crash-linked complaints across categories. While the NX has relatively low numbers in areas like the power train and service brakes, the Pacifica's pronounced issues in these components suggest a need for more comprehensive reliability improvements in these areas.

Chrysler Pacifica vs Lexus NX common problem areas comparison
Component	Chrysler Pacifica	Lexus NX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	6.4Average	0.4Very Low
POWER TRAIN	6.5Average	0.1Very Low
ENGINE	3.5Average	—None
STEERING	2.5Low	—None
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	1.2Low	0.5Very Low
SERVICE BRAKES	0.9Very Low	0.2Very Low
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	0.4Very Low	0.4Very Low
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM	0.6Very Low	—None
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	0.5Very Low	—None
AIR BAGS	0.5Very Low	—None
STRUCTURE	0.1Very Low	0.2Very Low
BACK OVER PREVENTION	0.3Very Low	—None
FUEL SYSTEM	—None	0.2Very Low
SUSPENSION	0.1Very Low	—None
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	0.1Very Low	—None
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE	0.1Very Low	—None
VISIBILITY/WIPER	—None	0.1Very Low
VISIBILITY	—None	0.1Very Low
SEATS	—None	—None
WHEELS	—None	—None
TIRES	—None	—None

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

Which Is Cheaper to Maintain: Chrysler Pacifica or Lexus NX?

The Chrysler Pacifica has an annual repair cost of $647, with an estimated repair frequency of 0.4 visits per year. Unfortunately, specific data for the Lexus NX is unavailable, making a direct comparison challenging. However, industry estimates often highlight Lexus vehicles for their reliability, suggesting potentially lower repair frequencies and costs. Over five years, the Pacifica's repair expenses could total around $3,235. Without concrete figures for the Lexus NX, cost-conscious buyers might still lean toward the Lexus due to its reputation for durability and lower repair frequency, which can translate into long-term savings and fewer disruptions.

How Does Chrysler Pacifica vs Lexus NX Reliability Compare by Year?

Chrysler Pacifica vs Lexus NX year-by-year reliability scores
Year	Chrysler Pacifica	Lexus NX	Edge
2025	71/1008R / 13C	77/1007R / 13C	Lexus NX
2024	70/1007R / 52C	77/10014R / 129C	Lexus NX
2023	65/1008R / 148C	77/10010R / 27C	Lexus NX
2022	62/1006R / 284C	75/10013R / 19C	Lexus NX
2021	57/1006R / 355C	82/1000R / 30C	Lexus NX
2020	64/1005R / 201C	82/1000R / 26C	Lexus NX
2019	60/1009R / 352C	77/1002R / 41C	Lexus NX
2018	51/10018R / 980C	79/1001R / 36C	Lexus NX
2026(predicted)	69/100(predicted)	77/100(predicted)	Lexus NX

Best years to cross-shop: The 2025 Chrysler Pacifica scored 71/100 and the 2021 Lexus NX scored 82/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Chrysler Pacifica vs the Lexus NX?

If you prioritize reliability and peace of mind, the Lexus NX is the stronger choice with a reliability score of 81/100 compared to the Chrysler Pacifica's 63/100. Despite having 47 recalls and 321 owner complaints, the Lexus NX stands out for those who value long-term dependability and fewer issues with its top concerns mainly involving the electrical and fuel systems. On the other hand, if keeping maintenance costs predictable is important to you, consider the Chrysler Pacifica. With an estimated annual repair cost of $647 and a repair frequency of 0.4 times per year, it offers a clear view of expected expenses. However, be mindful of its higher recall count of 67 and the more frequent issues with the powertrain and engine systems. Overall, for superior reliability and peace of mind, the Lexus NX is recommended. Choose the Chrysler Pacifica if you prefer a vehicle with more predictable maintenance costs, despite its lower reliability score.

Chrysler Pacifica vs Lexus NX: Common Questions

Is the Chrysler Pacifica more reliable than the Lexus NX?: Based on our data, the Lexus NX is more reliable with an average score of 78/100 compared to 63/100. That's a significant difference worth considering.
Which has more recalls, the Chrysler Pacifica or the Lexus NX?: The Chrysler Pacifica has more recalls (67) compared to the Lexus NX (47). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Chrysler Pacifica or the Lexus NX?: Adjusted for sales volume, the Lexus NX has a lower complaint rate at 6.3 per 10,000 sold versus 27 for the Chrysler Pacifica. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

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How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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