2017 Chrysler Pacifica Electrical Problems

The vehicle has suffered multiple severe safety hazards involving the power sliding doors and the primary dashboard infotainment screen. 1. POWER SLIDING DOORS (BODY DEFECT): Both the left (driver) and right (passenger) power sliding doors have experienced a critical structural hardware failure of the center roller hinge assemblies. The passenger-side center roller wheels completely shattered during operation, causing the entire heavy sliding door to catastrophically detach and fall completely off the vehicle frame. The driver's side door center roller is now showing identical cracking plastic, binding, and imminent failure. This presents an extreme risk of severe crush injuries or trapping passengers. 2. UCONNECT TOUCH SCREEN (ELECTRICAL & VISIBILITY DEFECT): The factory 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment touch screen has suffered an internal hardware failure that causes the screen to flash and strobe violently and continuously, even during system reboots. This flashing creates an intense driver distraction and cabin blinding hazard during night driving, severely compromising road visibility. Furthermore, the failure completely disables the backup safety camera and the ability to operate vehicle defrost and climate safety controls.

NHTSA ID

11775038

Incident

Nov 1, 2026

safety complaint regarding a severe CAN bus communication failure in the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica (gas model, base trim, no Engine Stop-Start) resulting in a sudden loss of transmission control while driving. The defect manifests as an intermittent loss of communication between the Electronic Shifter Module (ESM) and the Transmission Control Module (TCM). Without warning, the rotary shifter (PRNDL) indicator lights go dark and a "Service Shifter" message appears. This triggers a cascade of safety system failures, disabling Electronic Stability Control, Forward Collision Warning, and Blind Spot Alerts. Most critically, the loss of network data causes the vehicle to enter "limp mode," locking the transmission in its current gear and refusing to upshift or downshift, creating a severe crash hazard in active traffic. The root cause is a physical hardware defect in the CAN-C Star Connector junction block (Part No. 68321746AA) located behind the passenger-side glovebox. The pin receptacles inside this distribution block degrade and lose tension, allowing data wires to vibrate loose. Striking the passenger-side dashboard physically reseats the pins, instantly restoring network communication, shifter lights, and transmission function. Dealerships are misdiagnosing this defect by following factory diagnostic trees that mandate replacing the functional Electronic Shifter Module (an ineffective $1,400 repair) instead of addressing the faulty Star Connector. My vehicle has been at the Chrysler dealership since initial diagnosis with no resolution, as the dealer refuses to repair the known wiring defect without first replacing the functional shifter. The sudden loss of transmission control and active safety systems due to this faulty communication block is an extreme safety hazard. Chrysler must issue a mandatory recall to replace these degraded Star Connectors.

NHTSA ID

11774630

Incident

Sep 7, 2026

While driving and accelerating in the Walmart parking lot, the van immediately locked up, slammed myself and my kids forward, and was locked where it would not engage any gear other than park.

NHTSA ID

11773335

Incident

Oct 23, 2026

Made a right hand turn onto residential street and van immediately parked itself mid turn which would have resulted in accident had someone been behind me. Vehicle was able to restart and reach destination but now P1B14 code is thrown. This is unacceptable for a car to shift into park while in motion. Code is related to known earlier issue with van that was supposedly repaired. 2 weeks ago while inching into a parking spot the van seemed to have lost power for a split second but resumed as I finished parking. I feel very unsafe in vehicle.

NHTSA ID

11772083

Incident

Oct 18, 2026

This occurred on [XXX]. I was driving with two passengers heading west bound on [XXX] in Ohio and starting to go off an exit ramp. The passenger side power window went down without anyone pressing a button. I pulled up on the driver-controlled passenger window switch to correct the window, and it went up. But, either immediately upon going up or shortly after (I don't remember), the van experienced a series of electrical faults. The CEL came on, I start hearing warning chimes, the infotainment screen rebooted. I heard a clicking noise from under the hood, which I later learned was the parking pawl trying to engage. Dash screen said something about "speed too high to shift to park." Momentarily the wheel jerked hard - I think I lost power steering (if the car fully shut off I think that's what happened). I gained control and directed the car to the side of the road. I don't know what state the car was in at this point - either fully off or electrically on but no engine power. In any case, I shifted to park, pressed the on/off button and the car fully shut down. After a couple of minutes I attempted to start the car again, and it started right up with no issues. The CEL was lit, but the car drove fine. When I got to my destination about 20 miles away, I checked the battery terminals. I found that the negative terminal could be turned about a quarter turn if I used some force, but it was not what I would consider 'loose'. I still tightened the connection as much as I could, to the point that the connection was now immovable. The CEL cleared after a few cycles of turning the car on and off. A scan later showed that code P1B14 was stored. I called multiple Chrysler dealerships and each told me that they could not diagnose the problem unless it was actively acting up. The car has not malfunctioned since the incident four days ago. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11770677

Incident

Oct 8, 2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Intermittent loss of EPS assist during gradual turns, especially when the steering wheel is near the 11 o’clock or 1 o’clock position. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Not being able to control the steering wheel puts my safety and others at risk. No, the problem has not been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center. No, the vehicle or component has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others. No, there weren't any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and it occurs when the steering wheel is at 11 or 1 o'clock at speed.

NHTSA ID

11770457

Incident

Oct 11, 2026

Steering sticks during a gradual turn. It will catch up but then causes over correction. This has happened multiple times and based on my research, this is a model-wide problem. See campaign PE25009 for more details.

NHTSA ID

11765727

Incident

Sep 19, 2026

Put the car in park car instantly cut off didn't come on. It was having electronic issues said service ABS system, service steering control and I had to get it towed. Had the whole car diagnosed brought a new battery the another was fried due to corrosion.(the issue was the wiring harness) One month later put the car in park car did not come back on stated ABS system and steering control needed to be serviced once again battery fried. Towed again once again got a new battery. Had a diagnostics.and it was the was wiring harness again. 3rd time in a year when the car shuts down, it’s impossible to use anything in the car. If the windows were rolled down, you can’t roll the windows up. If the door was left open, you can’t close the door. You can’t even shift the car to neutral even with the manual function, you can’t shift the car to neutral. Everything is locked.

NHTSA ID

11765443

Incident

Sep 12, 2026

On XXX, my 2017 Chrysler Pacifica suffered a catastrophic malfunction on [XXX], only 3.4 miles after I picked it up from Mall of Georgia Chrysler. The dealership had kept it for over two weeks to diagnose an intermittent “Service Shifter” warning and communication fault codes. While driving in traffic, the gear indicator unexpectedly cycled among Drive, Neutral, and Park. The vehicle stalled, moved unpredictably, displayed flashing warnings, and sounded chimes. I could no longer reliably control its propulsion or determine whether it would remain in gear. This nearly caused a multi-vehicle collision before the vehicle became disabled and had to be towed. This was not merely a “Service Shifter” warning. The safety event involved an unexpected Neutral condition, loss of reliable propulsion and gear control, stalling, and a simultaneous electrical malfunction. Christian Brothers Automotive had replaced both batteries and the service shifter module. The warning continued, with stored codes U0103, U1465, U1467, and U11E3. Mall of Georgia Chrysler identified the same codes but again replaced the main battery and service shifter module. The vehicle malfunctioned after those repairs, was returned for further diagnosis, and then suffered this roadway failure immediately after its next release. Despite repeated repair attempts, no root cause has been documented. The dealership proposed replacing another transmission-related module and electrical component but could not guarantee the repair. I am concerned that parts are being replaced through trial and error while the safety defect remains unresolved. Chrysler TSB 21-027-17 Rev. A addresses transmission shift and drivability concerns in certain 2017 Pacificas, including code U0103. I ask NHTSA to investigate this as a loss-of-propulsion, unintended-Neutral, transmission-control, and electrical-communication safety defect—not simply a dashboard warning. The vehicle remains unsafe to operate. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.

NHTSA ID

11762230

Incident

Aug 31, 2026

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of the purchase, the mileage was 139,000. The contact stated that while attempting to resell the vehicle at the dealer, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy and that the actual mileage was 158,000.

NHTSA ID

11761525

Incident

Apr 1, 2026

Mileage

158,000 mi

Vehicle steering wheel regularly gets stuck when doing slight turns to the left. This started at least around February of 2026 if not end of 2025, however didn't know i could file a complaint until now and it is getting worse. Have to increase force of turn to overcome the sticking and has nearly caused accidents with me and my family in the vehicle. it is increasing in it's frequency to be a near (multiple time) each day issue. it has not been inspected. no warning lights or messages occur for this, however I do get at different times a warning light that the battery saver backup can not work at specific times, unrelated to the times i have the eps issue. upon searching it is the exact issue others desribe " The 2017–2018 Pacifica models have documented complaints and federal investigations regarding an EPS defect. The steering gear or motor can stick or catch near certain turns (like 11 or 1 o'clock), requiring extra effort before releasing abruptly." this

NHTSA ID

11760436

Incident

Aug 28, 2026

The contact owned a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked at the residence and unoccupied for over 24 hours, the contact's son smelled smoke, looked out the bedroom window, and observed flames coming from the tailgate and the rear of the vehicle. The contact's son notified 911, and the fire department responded and extinguished the fire. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was towed to Next Gear Auto Sales (Easton, PA). The vehicle was destroyed. The vehicle was not insured. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ID

11758502

Incident

Aug 17, 2026

I have been had intermittent loss of power steering during gradual turns and then suddenly it returns. Very dangerous situation!!

NHTSA ID

11756793

Incident

Aug 12, 2026

While driving, the vehicle unexpectedly shut off without warning. The engine stalled while the vehicle was in motion, causing an immediate loss of acceleration and power and creating a serious safety hazard in traffic. This vehicle previously received the Safety Recall U01 repair in January 2018, but the same engine stall condition has returned. The recall remedy does not appear to have permanently corrected the problem.

NHTSA ID

11753606

Incident

Jul 22, 2026

The backup camera rarely works anymore. It will show a variety of the following: - A blue screen - A black screen - A still image - It works correctly (Rarely happens). The still image is a great cause of concern for safety. It still shows the guiding lines as I am moving the steering wheel, so it almost looks like I am moving in real-time. If the still image is showing nothing behind my vehicle, it could cause me to back over something/someone because camera did not display real-time video. (Attached photos show a vehicle behind my car, but when I turn on the camera, there is a still image. The third image shows the guide turning on the still image). Dealer has stated it is a known issue, but there is not a recall. Many reports of this issue can be found in online forums. Vehicle has not been inspected by manufacturer, police, or insurance. There were no warning lamps or other symptoms prior to the failure. Issue has been intermittent for about a month.

NHTSA ID

11750165

Incident

Jun 17, 2026

While driving at highway speed, my 2017 Chrysler Pacifica PHEV suddenly entered limp mode, displaying a red turtle warning light and red battery icon, and lost propulsion. My family was forced to pull onto the shoulder of a busy expressway, creating an immediate safety risk to occupants and other drivers. The vehicle was towed to an authorized Chrysler dealership where it has remained for nearly four weeks. A wiTECH scan confirmed the Battery Pack Control Module is showing as unprogrammed. A second scan three weeks later confirmed the BPCM remains unprogrammed and three active DTCs are present. The dealership has confirmed these findings but is attempting to release the vehicle in this condition. Records show Recall 03A for loss of motive power was previously performed on this vehicle. The same symptoms have recurred, suggesting the recall remedy may not have been effective. The dealership is denying warranty coverage while refusing to program the BPCM that would confirm or deny that coverage. Stellantis customer care has closed my case twice without resolution. I have formally refused pickup on safety grounds.

NHTSA ID

11750023

Incident

Jun 17, 2026

The back up camera does not turn on immediately. Sometimes it takes up to 3 minutes for it to turn on, after shifting into reverse. I understand this is a violation of the safety requirement for a back up camera. There is not an open recall for this particular issue on this VIN. The dealer service department confirmed the issue but has not offered a solution. It has not been inspected by the police or insurance representatives. There are no warnings or messages related to the issue. It first occurred approximately 1 year ago.

NHTSA ID

11748940

Incident

Jul 1, 2025

The backup camera does not work 9 out of 10 times. Sometimes the screen is a blank blue, purple, or black screen. Sometimes its a frozen picture and Sometimes it flickers like a broken tv. Has been happening for a couple month now. Have not had it looked at yet because of costs involved with going to a dealer.

NHTSA ID

11746664

Incident

Feb 1, 2026

our 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid High Voltage (Hybrid) Battery pack experienced a failure. Check Engine Code P0A7F-00 active. The vehicle now refuses to charge the Hybrid Battery in any way other than using the on-board gas generator. The failed component is available for inspection and was reported to the local dealership. Originally the dealership advised the Battery Pack would be covered under TSB: 08-299-25. 3 weeks later they informed us Chrysler refused to replace the battery pack under the recall warranty. Recall warranty advised "Hybrid/EV Battery Pack "B" Deterioration was one of the check engine codes covered by the recall warranty. P0A7F-00 check engine code description is Hybrid/EV Battery Pack Deterioration. Check Engine light has been illuminated since the issue first appeared.

NHTSA ID

11744617

Incident

May 11, 2026

My 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid entered limp mode and was taken to Central Florida Chrysler Dodge on XXX. The service advisor, [XXX], identified three recalls, which needed to be completed, after claiming they had completed them, the issue persisted. I authorized a coolant flush without being informed it involved the battery cooling system. Further diagnostics revealed a failed hybrid battery. However, Chrysler denied the battery replacement claim, citing contamination from “incorrect” coolant. I dispute this reasoning, as I was not properly informed about the coolant issue and believe there is no proof that it caused the battery failure. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a warranty or recall claim cannot be denied without clear evidence linking the fluid to the failure. I have opened a case with Chrysler (Case #XXX) and am requesting that the battery replacement be honored under the recall, especially since recall guidelines indicate that unresolved issues after software updates may require component replacement. After a days of back and forth, not the dealership claims the PIM is not the original part of the vehicle and for that reason it would be covered under warranty. However the law is clear and Chrysler is obligated to replace it since this part is also part of the recall they claimed was completed. Now the dealer wants US$ 5K to replace the PIM. I need NHTSA to intervene please. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11744433

Incident

May 12, 2026

The vehicle has an unresolved electrical/propulsion failure involving sudden shutdowns while driving and CAN C bus/lost-communication faults. Since the high-voltage battery was replaced through a recall-related repair, the vehicle has had repeated shutdown/loss-of-communication events, occurring dozens of times. In the most serious incidents, while driving at speed, the dash flickered, windshield wipers activated unexpectedly, headlights turned off, turn signals would not work, and steering locked or became difficult to control. The vehicle then completely shut off while still moving. After shutdown, the hazard lights would not work. One documented incident occurred on the interstate at about 70 mph. This puts occupants and others at risk because the vehicle can suddenly lose motive power and critical electrical/control functions at the same time, including lighting, signals, hazards, instrument display, and steering/control assistance. The vehicle has been inspected multiple times by a Chrysler dealership. Dealer records documented multiple modules losing communication on the CAN C bus. The dealer replaced the shifter module as a possible contributor, but the problem continued. The dealer later corrected loose pin tension at a communication/star connector, but the vehicle continued to shut down and later scan reports still showed widespread active/stored CAN and lost-communication faults across powertrain, hybrid control, body control, braking/ABS, steering, and shifter-related systems. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. The problem has been confirmed by dealer scan reports and repair records, but the root cause remains unresolved. The manufacturer has been contacted through customer care and repair/scan documentation was submitted. The exact root cause is UNKNOWN, but dealer findings indicate an unresolved major electrical/CAN communication problem possibly involving the harness, connector network, or communication system.

NHTSA ID

11741658

Incident

Apr 15, 2026

I pulled into the Dollar General and before I could get to my parking spot the vehicle made a beep sound and stalled and wouldn't move . There were no warning lights that came on. It wouldn't accelerate and I was nervous for the traffic that would be pulling in behind me. I put the vehicle in park and turned off the vehicle to see if it would start again. After restarting the vehicle I was able to drive to parking spot. This is the first time this has happened and we were trying to check for safety recalls in this vehicle but are nervous of any further occurrences that would cause engine failure for us and the cars around us.

NHTSA ID

11739862

Incident

May 25, 2026

The power steering will intermittently go out when traveling down the roadway and when making right and left hand turns. Once the power steering goes out there is an alert triggered and the alerts the driver the power steering assist is malfunctioning and the steering wheel is very difficult to control or turn and jerks the steering wheel. Also, the power steering will re-engage and return to normal function without warning and then go back out again.

NHTSA ID

11732928

Incident

Apr 21, 2026

The auto start/stop malfunctioned and then the engine sounded like it was going to die. It is available to look at. I thought it was going to stop in the middle of the road. Unknown Unknown The auto start stop light came on and said it was unavailable. They just first appeared today. And the engine light is on.

NHTSA ID

11731214

Incident

Apr 14, 2026

I experienced a check engine light and intermittent starting issues with my vehicle (Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid 2017). [XXX] At times, the vehicle would not start, but after some time it could start again. After researching the issue online, I found that there are active safety recalls for this vehicle related to the hybrid system (including battery and inverter/PIM). I immediately contacted the dealer: [XXX] An appointment was scheduled for April 1, 2026 at 4:00 PM. I dropped off the vehicle at approximately 3:50 PM and handed over the keys. Prior to visiting the dealer, I purchased a diagnostic subscription tool to better understand the issue, as many owners report dealers misdiagnosing these problems. The diagnostic results indicated issues related to the PIM (Power Inverter Module), including required updates and possible internal diode failure. This matches the symptoms I experienced, where the vehicle would intermittently fail to start. I have attached photos showing error messages related to PIM update and hybrid system faults. On the next day, the dealer informed me that they would only perform a diagnostic for $180 instead of processing the issue under recall. I believe this is incorrect, as the symptoms match known recall conditions (loss of power / hybrid system failure), and recall-related diagnostics should not be charged to the customer. The dealer is refusing to proceed under recall and is attempting to charge for diagnosis. This is a safety issue and should be handled under recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11728737

Incident

Apr 1, 2026