Why does my Pacifica Hybrid jerk when I let off or press the gas?

Short answer: Some on-and-off throttle jerk is normal hybrid behavior, especially in L mode. But Pacifica Hybrid owners have had a jerk turn out to be a failing transmission. If it is getting worse, record a video and get the codes read. If the van is 2017-2023, ask about TSB 21-014-26 and the 10 year, unlimited mile XE1 transmission extension.

Symptom: The van jerks, bucks or clunks when you lift off the accelerator and press it again, often at low speed in traffic, and sometimes passengers notice.

What to check first

1. Note when it happens: L mode, cold start, hybrid mode, speed.
2. Take a video with sound for the dealer.
3. Get stored codes read, even with no warning light.
4. Ask the dealer to check the transmission fluid for metal.
5. Ask about TSB 21-014-26 and the XE1 extension for 2017-2023 vans.
6. Run your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Likely causes

1. Transmission problem covered by the extension. Some owners with a jerk found metal shavings in the transmission fluid or later had the transmission fail. FCA's XE1 extension covers certain 2017-2023 transmissions for 10 years with unlimited miles when the van sets specific codes.
2. Driveline lash from regenerative braking. Regenerative braking uses the electric motor to slow the van and recharge the battery. Owners noticed jerks most in L mode one-pedal driving, which some think is how the system switches between driving and slowing.
3. Worn engine or transmission mounts. Mounts are the rubber blocks holding the engine and transmission. Worn ones let the drivetrain move and clunk. One owner had them replaced and still had the jerk.

What it usually costs

Owners report transmissions replaced or rebuilt under warranty. Mounts were also replaced under warranty for one owner.

Is it safe to keep driving?

A mild jerk is usually drivable, but if it comes with warning lights or loss of power, stop driving and have it checked.

DIY or shop?

Diagnosis and repair are dealer jobs. DIY is limited to noting when it happens and reading codes.

Recalls, bulletins and complaints in plain words

• Related recalls: NHTSA lists these recalls for Pacifica plug-in hybrids: 17V371000 (2017-2018, inverter diodes can fail and the van won't move), 18V740000 (2017-2018, the gas engine may not restart properly after running in electric mode), 20V334000 (2017-2020, the 12-volt isolator post behind the driver's seat can develop high resistance), and battery fire recalls 22V077000 and 24V536000 (2017-2018) and 24V538000 (2019-2021). Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. If your car is part of a recall, the dealer fixes it for free.
• Plain words: The complaint count below shows how often owners reported problems that mention these words to NHTSA. A count is not proof of a defect.
• NHTSA complaints: 58 keyword-matched complaints for Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid 2017–2024 (of 266 unique complaints queried, NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-11-01; keywords: jerk, clunk, lurch, hesitat, transmission, backlash, shudder) (NHTSA returned no data for 7 model-year queries). This counts complaints that mention these words. It is not a defect finding.

What owners report

• In 2023 PacHy Jerk on Reddit r/pacificahybrid, a 2023 Pacifica Hybrid owner had jerking when pressing and releasing the pedal, and dealers called it normal. A 2025 owner said the bucking is real, other owners noticed it mostly in L mode or when the cold engine starts, and one said new engine mounts didn't stop it.
• In Transmission jerking. on Reddit r/pacificahybrid, a 2023 owner felt the transmission disengage and re-engage when lifting off and back on the pedal, enough for passengers to notice. Replies said one 2022 was getting a transmission rebuild, and another 2023's dealer found metal shavings in the fluid and replaced the transmission under warranty without any code.
• In Trust the new transmission fix for the 2023 PacHy? on Reddit r/pacificahybrid, a 2023 owner's transmission failed at 19,000 miles, was replaced, and failed again within 4,000 miles. Others linked the NHTSA bulletins for the rebuild procedure, including a February 2026 version, and one said their rebuilt unit was fine so far.
• In FCA TSB 21-014-26: Internal transmission wiring connector short and Motor A bearing failure warranty extension XE1 on NHTSA, the February 5, 2026 bulletin covers 2017-2023 Pacifica hybrids built between August 12, 2016 and December 27, 2022. It applies when the check engine light comes on with codes P0A3F, P0A43, P0A45 or P0C1A, and the van may be in limp mode.

Quick tip

If dealers keep saying 'normal', document it every time. A stored code or a fluid sample is what turns a complaint into a warranty repair.

Vehicle focus: Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, 2017-2024; the bulletin covers 2017-2023.

Safety / mechanic note

A transmission that's failing can cut power without warning. Verify with a mechanic.