First time shopping for domestic makes and haven't shopped for used car in a while.

We're looking to get a Chrysler Pacifica (AWD + Rear Seat Video)
Since this is going to be a loaded model, we'll likely get a USED one, unless the new-car deal is so good that makes more sense than getting a used one.

So,
1) How/where to find RELIABLE, used ones ?
2) Is the new models better ?
3) How/where to find best deal on new Chrysler ?

thanks

 

I just "sold" my wife's 2004 Pacifica to my parents....
1) The car was very solid for a Chrysler. Obvously it will be too soon to really tell, but the car held up well after 2ish years. It was fully loaded
2) The 2004 model only offered one engine (2.7 Ltr), and it kinda sucked..The 2005+ offers a better one. Other then that, it's exactly the same.
3) Look into a new one. When we got my wife's, they really came down.

 

I'd stay far far far away from the 2.7L V6. Besides having no power that thing has serious oil sludge problems later in the engines life. It has since the late 90's. DC Has never addressed it. They say it's not a problem & is user abuse.

 

So this engine for 2006 - "3.5-Liter V6 24-Valve MPI Engine"
is "new" and that replaces the 2.7 ? How is the 3.5 ?

 

Look into a new one. Pacifica's are not big sellers, so you should get a good deal, add to that the employee pricing stuff, and it should be a great deal.

Do your negotiations on line via email with the dealerships internet department!!!!
You will get a MUCH better deal this way. Basically contact 5 or more dealers in your area and ask for their internet price on the model you want. Then pit the dealers against eacher via emails to them to beat the lowest offers you receive. It works like a charm.

 

The Pacifica is also listed under Edmunds Top 10 Deals of the Month for August 2006 — Cars


http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/list/...4/article.html

 

Have you thought about an AWD Chrysler 300 or Dodge Magnum instead?

 

huh ? those are totally different cars mang

 

But do you really need a minivan? They are both based on the old E-class Benz. They also share the same engines and trannies and have awd. The just ride a little lower and handle a little better.

 

FWIW...a coworker of mine has a '05 Pacifica w/33K and can't wait to get rid of it. It's been in the shop many times for multiple issues. She describes it as falling apart...she's had some significant issues (front axle, trans. etc.)

I've driven it once and I was not all that impressed. The throttle is touchy; it's slower than a mule; and the interior is not all that large. Perhaps the reason that they are not selling is b/c there are better vehicles out there?

Good luck with whatever you do...

 

I personally own a pacifica and can help you with your decision. I bought mine last year brand new to replace my STI and received huge employee discounts during that time. Since then I have put 25,000 miles on the car and have enjoyed the vehicle. It rides like a luxury vehicle and is an excellent highway vehicle. I have two small children that are in car seats and it accomodates my family just fine. Mine is loaded with Navigation and the 6 disc dvd player. The navi is no where near as good as that in my old TSX but it gets the job done.

Performance is decent for a vehicle of this size especially if you use 89 octane. Anything less and it drives like shit. The engine actually feels better at 25k than it did new and reminds me alot like a vr6 with it broad torque curve- i have no problem keeping up with traffic.

The only problems i had were a stalling problem at slow speed (happend twice) that was fixed with a software upgrade. Other than that it has been a pleasant and rock solid vehicle. Also, be sure you are ready for the depreciation hit. Mine cost $37,000 and with discounts I got it for $31,000 but the value today is about $17k - $19k so I am in his one for the long haul. Just make sure you take an in depth test drive one on the highway and in the city before you make your decision. All of my buddies laugh, but i have no regrets as i plan on picking up a 335i or an m3 next year for my kicks.

Check out some pics of it below.

 

I guess i do need to answer your questions:

1) How/where to find RELIABLE, used ones ?
---New ones are pretty reliable.
2) Is the new models better ?
--I have the 3.5 liter engine and it is decent. However, a new model is coming out with a 4.0 liter engine and a 5 speed tranny.
3) How/where to find best deal on new Chrysler ?
Try the dealer. They may have some certified used ones on the lot, but as others have said you can get a good deal on a new one with the incentives that they have availible.

 

The 3.5L isn't new. I had the same engine in my 00 300M I Had. That engine however is a good one. Good power & reliable. It's been used since 99 in the 300M, Intrepid, & the new 300's.

 

If youre buying a Chrysler new your best bet is here: www.carmax.com

No one could touch their pricing when I went looking for mine. And I didnt have to argue with anyone. At the time the turbos were going for $3,000 over the $25,725 MSRP, I got mine for $22,500.

 

Don't buy American new ... Did you see that depreciation?

$17-19k? Holy Feck.

 

1) New ftw...for used, I guess look for one w/maint. records.

2) I know the A604 ultrajunk transmission should be better now...but still.

3) LOOK.