Last updated: 2026-03-14

Chrysler Pacifica vs Mercedes-Benz GLE: Reliability Compared

Chrysler Pacifica reliability comparison

Chrysler Pacifica

63
GoodReliability score: 63 out of 100, rated Good
VS
More ReliableMercedes-Benz GLE reliability comparison

Mercedes-Benz GLE

68
GoodReliability score: 68 out of 100, rated Good

Choosing between the Chrysler Pacifica and the Mercedes-Benz GLE? 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 Mercedes-Benz GLE currently leads with an average score of 68/100 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 Mercedes-Benz GLE Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Mercedes-Benz GLE is in its fourth generation (W167), which was introduced in 2020 and received a facelift in 2024. Being mid-cycle, the GLE benefits from a matured platform that likely has resolved early issues encountered at the start of a new generation. Historically, Mercedes-Benz vehicles have shown improved reliability as they progress through their generation cycle, with most teething problems addressed in subsequent updates. In contrast, the Chrysler Pacifica lacks detailed generational data, making it challenging to assess its evolution and reliability trends. Without specific generation information, it's harder to pinpoint where the Pacifica stands in its lifecycle. Generally, vehicles that lack this detailed history may not offer the same level of predictability in reliability as those with a clearly defined generational timeline.

Verdict

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is more reliable than the Chrysler Pacifica, scoring 68/100 vs 63/100.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE and Chrysler Pacifica both present challenges in reliability, but the GLE edges out its competitor with a slightly higher average reliability score of 68/100 compared to the Pacifica's 63/100. Despite having more recalls (98 over 8 years), the GLE has a significantly lower owner complaint rate per 10,000 units sold at 0.6 compared to the Pacifica's 27. While the Pacifica has fewer recalls and a known annual repair cost of $647, its higher complaint rate highlights more frequent user-reported issues. Overall, the GLE appears to offer a more reliable ownership experience when considering complaint frequency.

Key Differences

  1. 1Chrysler Pacifica has 31 fewer total recalls
  2. 2Mercedes-Benz GLE has 26.4 fewer complaints per 10k sold
  3. 3Mercedes-Benz GLE scores 5 points higher in reliability

Category Scoreboard

1Chrysler Pacifica
—
2Mercedes-Benz GLE
Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Chrysler Pacifica vs Mercedes-Benz GLE: Which Is More Reliable?

Chrysler Pacifica vs Mercedes-Benz GLE at-a-glance reliability comparison
MetricChrysler PacificaMercedes-Benz GLE
Reliability Score63/10068/100
Years Tracked98
Total Recalls6798
Complaints per 10k Sold270.6
Year Wins1 (1 tied)5 (1 tied)

What Are the Common Problems With the Chrysler Pacifica and Mercedes-Benz GLE?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE and Chrysler Pacifica exhibit distinct problem profiles. The GLE's most significant issues pertain to the electrical system and power train, with the latter having a slightly higher incidence of crash-linked complaints. In contrast, the Chrysler Pacifica faces a broader range of issues, notably in the power train and electrical system, both of which have a higher total number of complaints compared to the GLE, and a considerable number are crash-linked. Additionally, the Pacifica's steering system reports a notable frequency of problems, including crash-linked incidents, a concern less pronounced in the GLE.

Chrysler Pacifica vs Mercedes-Benz GLE common problem areas comparison
ComponentChrysler PacificaMercedes-Benz GLE
POWER TRAIN6.5Average0.1Very Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM6.4Average0.1Very Low
ENGINE3.5Average0.1Very Low
STEERING2.5Low—None
UNKNOWN OR OTHER1.2Low—None
SERVICE BRAKES0.9Very Low—None
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM0.6Very Low—None
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL0.5Very Low—None
AIR BAGS0.5Very Low—None
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM0.4Very Low—None
BACK OVER PREVENTION0.3Very Low—None
SUSPENSION0.1Very Low—None
STRUCTURE0.1Very Low—None
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING0.1Very Low—None
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE0.1Very Low—None
SEATS—None—None
FUEL SYSTEM—None—None
TIRES—None—None
VISIBILITY—None—None
EXTERIOR LIGHTING—None—None
SEAT BELTS—None—None
VISIBILITY/WIPER—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 Mercedes-Benz GLE?

Independent repair cost data for the Chrysler Pacifica indicates an annual repair expense of $647, with an average of 0.4 shop visits per year. Unfortunately, similar data for the Mercedes-Benz GLE is unavailable, making a direct comparison difficult. However, luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz often have higher repair costs and frequencies due to complex engineering and premium parts. For cost-conscious buyers, the Chrysler Pacifica offers better value with its predictable and moderate repair costs. Over five years, the Pacifica's repair expenses total approximately $3,235, providing a clearer expectation for budget planning. Without data for the GLE, the Pacifica is the prudent choice for those prioritizing cost efficiency.

How Does Chrysler Pacifica vs Mercedes-Benz GLE Reliability Compare by Year?

Chrysler Pacifica vs Mercedes-Benz GLE year-by-year reliability scores
YearChrysler PacificaMercedes-Benz GLEEdge
202470/1007R / 52C70/1008R / 59CTie
202365/1008R / 148C70/1005R / 29CMercedes-Benz GLE
202262/1006R / 284C68/10011R / 58CMercedes-Benz GLE
202157/1006R / 355C65/10022R / 76CMercedes-Benz GLE
202064/1005R / 201C61/10036R / 112CChrysler Pacifica
201960/1009R / 352C70/1006R / 22CMercedes-Benz GLE
201851/10018R / 980C69/1009R / 51CMercedes-Benz GLE
2026(predicted)69/100(predicted)69/100(predicted)Tie

Best years to cross-shop: The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica scored 70/100 and the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE scored 70/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Chrysler Pacifica vs the Mercedes-Benz GLE?

If you prioritize reliability and fewer owner complaints, the Mercedes-Benz GLE might be the better choice for you. With a higher reliability score of 68/100 compared to the Chrysler Pacifica's 63/100, and significantly fewer owner complaints at 0.6 per 10,000 sold, the GLE stands out as a more dependable option. However, it’s important to note that the GLE has faced more recalls, totaling 98, which indicates potential issues that might require attention. On the other hand, if you're more focused on managing repair costs, the Chrysler Pacifica could suit your needs better. With an estimated annual repair cost of $647, it provides a clearer picture of expected expenses. Although it has a higher complaint rate of 27 per 10,000 sold, the Pacifica has fewer recalls at 67, suggesting fewer widespread issues. Consider the Pacifica if upfront repair cost transparency is a priority.

Chrysler Pacifica vs Mercedes-Benz GLE: Common Questions

Is the Chrysler Pacifica more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz GLE?
Based on our data, the Mercedes-Benz GLE is more reliable with an average score of 68/100 compared to 63/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Chrysler Pacifica or the Mercedes-Benz GLE?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE has more recalls (98) compared to the Chrysler Pacifica (67). 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 Mercedes-Benz GLE?
Adjusted for sales volume, the Mercedes-Benz GLE has a lower complaint rate at 0.6 per 10,000 sold versus 27 for the Chrysler Pacifica. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Related Reliability Comparisons

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

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

3

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.

4

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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