Last updated: 2026-03-14

Chrysler Pacifica vs Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon: Reliability Compared

Chrysler Pacifica reliability comparison

Chrysler Pacifica

63
GoodReliability score: 63 out of 100, rated Good
VS
More ReliableFord Transit-Connect-Wagon reliability comparison

Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon

70
GoodReliability score: 70 out of 100, rated Good

Choosing between the Chrysler Pacifica and the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon? 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 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon currently leads with an average score of 70/100 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 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Ford Transit Connect Wagon is in its third generation, which began in 2021. This generation is relatively mature, suggesting that initial issues typical of new platforms have likely been addressed, potentially enhancing reliability. The second generation, which ran from 2014 to 2023, received a facelift in 2019, indicating a well-sorted platform over time. The Chrysler Pacifica lacks detailed generation history, making direct comparisons challenging. However, it's important to note that mature platforms, like the current Transit Connect Wagon, often provide more predictable reliability, while newer models may experience early production challenges.

Verdict

The Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon is more reliable than the Chrysler Pacifica, scoring 70/100 vs 63/100.

The Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon demonstrates superior reliability with an average score of 70/100 compared to the Chrysler Pacifica's 63/100. The Ford model also has a significantly lower owner complaint rate of 2 per 10,000 sold, versus the Pacifica's 27, and fewer total recalls—27 over six years compared to the Pacifica's 67 over nine years. While both vehicles share common issues such as power train and steering problems, the Ford's lower complaint rate and recall history suggest better overall reliability. However, specific repair cost estimates for the Transit-Connect-Wagon are unavailable, which could be a consideration for potential buyers.

Key Differences

  1. 1Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon has 40 fewer total recalls
  2. 2Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon has 25.0 fewer complaints per 10k sold
  3. 3Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon scores 7 points higher in reliability

Category Scoreboard

1Chrysler Pacifica
—
3Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon
Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint RateSafety Rating

Chrysler Pacifica vs Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon: Which Is More Reliable?

Chrysler Pacifica vs Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon at-a-glance reliability comparison
MetricChrysler PacificaFord Transit-Connect-Wagon
Reliability Score63/10070/100
Years Tracked96
Total Recalls6727
Complaints per 10k Sold272
Safety RatingNHTSA overall
2026 NHTSA
2023 NHTSA
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Year Wins06

What Are the Common Problems With the Chrysler Pacifica and Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon?

The Chrysler Pacifica exhibits a higher volume of complaints across multiple categories, notably in the power train and electrical system, both with over 500 complaints and a significant number of crash-linked incidents. The Pacifica also shows concerns in the engine and steering systems, with the latter having 13 crash-linked complaints. In contrast, the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon has a relatively lower total complaint count, with the power train being the most problematic area but with minimal crash-related issues. While the Pacifica's service brakes and vehicle speed control also present safety concerns due to crash associations, the Transit-Connect-Wagon's complaints are less severe and more dispersed, indicating a less critical impact on vehicle reliability and safety.

Chrysler Pacifica vs Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon common problem areas comparison
ComponentChrysler PacificaFord Transit-Connect-Wagon
POWER TRAIN6.5Average0.7Very Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM6.4Average0.1Very Low
ENGINE3.5Average—None
STEERING2.5Low0.1Very Low
UNKNOWN OR OTHER1.2Low0.2Very Low
SERVICE BRAKES0.9Very Low0.4Very Low
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
VISIBILITY—None0.1Very Low
SEATS—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 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon?

According to industry estimates, the Chrysler Pacifica incurs an annual repair cost of $647, with an average of 0.4 repair visits per year. This suggests relatively low repair frequency and potentially fewer disruptions for owners. Over five years, this equates to about $3,235 in repair costs. Unfortunately, specific data for the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon's repair costs and frequency isn't available, making a direct comparison challenging. However, if cost-conscious buyers prioritize predictable expenses and lower repair frequency, the Chrysler Pacifica presents a reliable choice. Without detailed data for the Ford model, the Pacifica's quantified maintenance costs and low repair frequency offer a more transparent and potentially economical option over time.

How Does Chrysler Pacifica vs Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon Reliability Compare by Year?

Chrysler Pacifica vs Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon year-by-year reliability scores
YearChrysler PacificaFord Transit-Connect-WagonEdge
202365/1008R / 148C78/1000R / 0CFord Transit-Connect-Wagon
202262/1006R / 284C72/1001R / 4CFord Transit-Connect-Wagon
202157/1006R / 355C69/1004R / 5CFord Transit-Connect-Wagon
202064/1005R / 201C67/1008R / 27CFord Transit-Connect-Wagon
201960/1009R / 352C65/1008R / 46CFord Transit-Connect-Wagon
201851/10018R / 980C68/1006R / 21CFord Transit-Connect-Wagon

Best years to cross-shop: The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica scored 65/100 and the 2023 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon scored 78/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Chrysler Pacifica vs the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon?

If you prioritize reliability and fewer owner complaints, the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon is a better choice. With a reliability score of 70/100 and only 27 recalls, it stands out for its dependability. The low rate of owner complaints, just 2 per 10,000 sold, suggests a smoother ownership experience. This model is ideal if you want peace of mind and fewer visits to the service center. On the other hand, if you are more concerned with annual repair costs and don't mind a slightly lower reliability score, consider the Chrysler Pacifica. It has an estimated annual repair cost of $647 and a manageable repair frequency of 0.4 times per year. Despite its higher recall count of 67, it might suit you if upfront repair cost estimates are a significant factor in your decision-making process.

Chrysler Pacifica vs Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon: Common Questions

Is the Chrysler Pacifica more reliable than the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon?
Based on our data, the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon is more reliable with an average score of 70/100 compared to 63/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Chrysler Pacifica or the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon?
The Chrysler Pacifica has more recalls (67) compared to the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon (27). 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 Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon?
Adjusted for sales volume, the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon has a lower complaint rate at 2 per 10,000 sold versus 27 for the Chrysler Pacifica. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.
Is the Chrysler Pacifica or Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon safer?
Based on NHTSA crash test ratings, the Chrysler Pacifica has a higher overall safety rating of 5/5 stars compared to 4/5 for the Ford Transit-Connect-Wagon. Check sub-ratings (frontal, side, rollover) above for a more detailed safety comparison.

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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