RoadVitals

2017 Chrysler Pacifica Powertrain (other) Problems

Owner-reported complaints naming the powertrain system, filed with NHTSA

Data refreshed

Powertrain (other) reportsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
463
Latest Jul 29, 2026
Share of all reportsThis category as a share of every owner report on file for this model year. One report can name more than one component, so the categories overlap.
31%
of 1,490 total
Crash or fire reportedReports in this category whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. The reporter's own answer on the NHTSA form, not a verified finding.
7
Injuries or deaths reportedTotals the submitters entered on their own reports in this category. Not verified by NHTSA and not a casualty statistic.
8

What this page shows

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials. Every record below is an owner-reported complaint about the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica submitted to NHTSA — not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. 463 reports on file name it.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Owner reports naming powertrain

The 25 most recent of 463, in the owner's own words

ElectricalEnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Jul 29, 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
ElectricalFuel systemPowertrain (other)
Filed Jul 13, 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
EnginePowertrain (other)Steering
Filed Jul 6, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle suddenly experienced reduced power and hard shifting. Additionally, the steering wheel suddenly became difficult to turn while driving. The cause of the failures was not determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failures, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 50,000.

NHTSA ID
11748500
Incident
Jul 6, 2026
Mileage
50,000 mi
ElectricalFuel systemPowertrain (other)
Filed Jun 16, 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
Powertrain (other)
Filed May 19, 2026

The contact owned a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle independently shifted gear into Neutral. Several warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed; however, the failure could not be repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

NHTSA ID
11738700
Incident
Mar 30, 2026
Mileage
85,000 mi
Powertrain (other)
Filed Apr 23, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the vehicle intermittently started jerking. The vehicle shifted into another gear. There were no warning lights illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,090.

NHTSA ID
11733231
Incident
Jan 1, 2026
Mileage
89,090 mi
EngineFuel systemPowertrain (other)
Filed Apr 16, 2026

My 2017 Chrysler Pacifica experienced repeated engine timing and oil system failures. The vehicle first developed a check engine light and engine timing code (P000D – camshaft position slow response). The vehicle was inspected by a dealership service department. Shortly after, a major engine oil leak was discovered from the oil cooler / oil filter adapter assembly. The vehicle required repair of the oil cooler assembly and associated seals. After that repair, the vehicle continued to experience engine timing issues. The dealership later confirmed failure of the cam phaser components associated with the engine timing system and performed a repair. Within days of the repair, the check engine light and engine timing code returned again. The failure involves the engine valve timing system and oil pressure dependent components based on Autozone code check. Improper camshaft timing can affect engine operation, cause loss of power, rough running, or possible engine stall while driving, which creates a safety risk in traffic. The issue has been inspected and confirmed by a dealership service department. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request.

NHTSA ID
11731657
Incident
Mar 11, 2026
ElectricalEnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Apr 14, 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
Powertrain (other)
Filed Mar 26, 2026

Vehicle “slams” into gear and goes into “limp” mode. RPM’s increase dramatically and speed accelerate ration is very low. Check engine light on and several U codes show. And P0301

NHTSA ID
11727352
Incident
Mar 16, 2026
ElectricalPowertrain (other)
Filed Mar 26, 2026

For several months I have been having problems off and on with my vehicle not shifting into drive, neutral, or reverse. It runs fine but becomes undrivable. Until this last time, I was always able to keep trying, let it sit overnight, etc... and it would eventually shift into gear. Currently it does not, I had to have it towed to a shop to be repaired. This is a problem, the vehicle has left me stranded on several occasions. My daughter was recently home from collage and I could not let her use my car for fear she would get stranded somewhere. It was towed to a local shop, who was able to confirm that the transmission has an internal short. This is a very common occurrence with this vehicle. The transmission can not be repaired and it needs a new one. Each time the transmission would fail a dash light would come on with a P in a circle with an explanation mark next to it and an engine light. This happened several times, in the past I was able to clear the light and drive the car, but this time it would not clear. The transmission is shoot and needs to be replaced. I purchased the car new in February of 2017, and have always properly maintained the vehicle. It has approximately 79,800 miles on it. I have researched this issue and it is very common, this is a known problem with the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. I have attached a Warranty Bulletin that seems like it should cover my vehicle, but I called the Chrysler Customer Hotline and they are telling me my vehicle is not covered. I have taken care of this vehicle, I drive it very gentle, there is no way this transmission should have gone bad. I am going to get this repaired at the shop, they have ordered me a new transmission. The Chrysler case ID # is [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11727269
Incident
Mar 21, 2026
Driver assistanceEnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Mar 17, 2026

This car has had so many issues in the 2 years that i have had it. Blown head gaskets, hard shifting, cruise control getting stuck in a high gear and not shifting. When fixing the head gasket it was apparent that it wasnt the first time being fixed. For such a nice vehicle it has way too many problems for the amount i purchased it for. There needs to be some sort of compensation for this. Upon looking into these issues there are thousands among thousands of people with the same head gasket issues and transmission issues as well.

NHTSA ID
11725086
Incident
Dec 26, 2025
BrakesPowertrain (other)Steering
Filed Mar 9, 2026

The vehicle is experiencing multiple serious mechanical failures affecting the brake system, powertrain, and steering/wheel components. The brake system produces a constant hissing sound and appears to have lost braking assist. When the brake pedal is depressed the vehicle continues to roll forward and requires excessive force to stop. The vehicle has rolled forward while braking at intersections, creating a significant safety hazard for both the driver and surrounding traffic. These symptoms were first reported on February 4, 2026. Shortly afterward the vehicle was inspected by a Chrysler dealership, which documented a brake vacuum leak in the braking system. Despite that inspection and documentation, the braking condition has continued to worsen and the vehicle no longer feels safe to operate. The braking performance is inconsistent and stopping distance appears to be increasing. In addition to the braking failure, the vehicle experiences powertrain issues including transmission hesitation, delayed shifting, and loss of power during acceleration and when driving uphill. The vehicle also has severe vibration and instability originating from the front driver-side wheel or steering area while driving, which affects vehicle stability and control. These combined mechanical failures involving braking, drivetrain operation, and steering/wheel stability create a serious safety risk during normal operation, particularly while braking in traffic or attempting to maintain control of the vehicle. The vehicle currently feels unsafe to operate due to these worsening conditions and unresolved mechanical defects.

NHTSA ID
11723172
Incident
Feb 4, 2026
ElectricalEnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Feb 19, 2026

The CAN BUS connector (found in the glove box area) fails periodically and without warning. It affects everything on the vehicle; it stops the car from shifting, car won't start up, windows stop working, all of the warning lights turn on, etc. The issue seems to be a manufacturing defect; the soldering cracks after a while, so the low voltage applications malfunction. Many people have noticed the problem, but the dealerships refuse to do a recall or address the issue properly. The vehicle has been in and out of the dealership probably 10 times in the last 7 months or so. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This problem is unsafe because it can occur while driving on a freeway which can cause an accident. Every warning light comes on when the malfunction happens.

NHTSA ID
11719228
Incident
May 1, 2025
EnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Feb 8, 2026

I keep getting the same codes every few weeks. P0732

NHTSA ID
11716601
Incident
Dec 18, 2025
ElectricalPowertrain (other)Steering
Filed Jan 27, 2026

After purchasing a used 2017 Chrysler Pacifica from Massey Cadillac of Orlando, a warning light appeared during the initial drive indicating a malfunction in the Auto Start/Stop system (capital letter “A” inside a circle with an exclamation point). The system was disabled and indicated service was required. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Chrysler dealership, which confirmed that the auxiliary ESS (Engine Stop/Start) battery was missing, not failed. Installation of the auxiliary battery and associated mounting hardware was required, indicating the component was not present in the vehicle at the time of inspection. The auxiliary ESS battery is part of a safety-related system. The servicing dealership advised that operating the vehicle without this battery can result in intermittent loss of power steering assist and potential loss of motive power without warning, increasing the risk of a crash. The condition was confirmed by an authorized dealer and is available for inspection upon request. The warning indicator appeared immediately upon operation of the vehicle following purchase. No collision occurred, but vehicle occupants, including children, were placed at risk due to the missing safety component.

NHTSA ID
11713758
Incident
Jan 27, 2026
ElectricalPowertrain (other)
Filed Jan 9, 2026

I am reporting a serious safety issue with my 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, purchased in February 2024. The vehicle experiences repeated drivetrain shutdowns and unsafe operation due to confirmed failures in the transmission control module and valve body, diagnosed by Chrysler Dodge Jeep in North Las Vegas, Nevada. These malfunctions prevent proper gear engagement while driving, creating a significant risk to myself, my five children, and others on the road. Multiple dashboard warnings—including “Service Electronic Stability Control,” “Park Sense Unavailable,” “Park Brake Temporarily Unavailable,” “Blindspot Alert Temporarily Unavailable,” “Service Trance Stop Safety Shut Off Engine to Engage Park,” and “Accessible Cruise Control Unavailable”—have appeared intermittently since purchase. Dealer inspections and diagnostic reports confirm the problem, but repair costs exceed the vehicle’s value, leaving the issue unresolved. This ongoing safety hazard requires immediate investigation to prevent potential harm to passengers and other drivers.

NHTSA ID
11710009
Incident
Sep 29, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Jan 9, 2026

Vehicle was purchased with 95,xxx miles. Within 10 days sporadic transmission jerks and stalls started. Taken to repair facility 3 times over next 2 months with no issues found. During long distance trip transmission felt rough and sluggish. Transmission was serviced. Engine light on. Repair facility replaced all spark plugs, coil packs and cleared codes. 2 weeks later light came back on. Transmission still not functioning properly. Repair facility called Chrysler specialist technician in and no issues found. Engine codes cleared. Engine light came on next day. Repeatedly faulting for cam response slow. Repair facility replaced lifters and rockers in cylinder 6. All cam sensors and solenoids replaced. Engine light stayed off for 3 weeks. A RECORD. Light back on but no issues found during 3 hour test scan. Transmission still shutters, jerks and stalls. Total “repairs” $68xx.xx and over 28 days out of service. Vehicle now has 128,xxx miles and is barely drivable.

NHTSA ID
11709818
Incident
Jun 30, 2023
Powertrain (other)Steering
Filed Jan 7, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving 60 MPH, the message “Service Rack and Pinion Gears” was displayed. The contact stated that it was difficult to turn the steering wheel to the left or right. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to an independent mechanic. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and replaced the rack and pinion gears and the steering module. The vehicle was repaired; however, after the repair to the steering, the contact experienced a failure with the transmission. The contact stated that while stopped at traffic signals, after depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the engine was running but was vibrating roughly, and then the vehicle jolted forward. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent at first but had become a recurring failure. The contact stated that during another failure, while the engine was running, the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The vehicle was towed to a dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the transmission control module needed to be reprogrammed. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the shifter module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred, and the contact had the vehicle towed to the same dealer. The dealer had the vehicle for several days and called the contact to pick up the vehicle, and informed the contact that the vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle had failed again, and the vehicle was no longer able to start the vehicle. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 184,136.

NHTSA ID
11709337
Incident
Nov 7, 2025
Mileage
184,136 mi
ElectricalEnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Dec 17, 2025

It loses power alot especially uphill. It smells like burnt oil all the time. Smokes out exhaust. Hesitates anytime you put the gas down. And then clunks around sometimes too

NHTSA ID
11705544
Incident
Dec 1, 2025
ElectricalPowertrain (other)
Filed Dec 3, 2025

I had the recall for 73B performed in mid October to my 2017 EV/Hybrid Pacifica- 2017 and only 67K miles. No issues before. Since the recall service I’ve brought it in twice with the same problems stating Hybrid Battery needs conditioning/service. I suspect it’s the recall update that has caused all types of issues. I did go to auto zone before I brought the vehicle in just this Monday to get the codes. U0412, P1A29, P0A7F- invalid Data received from Battery energy control Module A - Lost communication with Hybrid Battery Pack Sensor Module- A Deterioration. If you google 73B recall service problems on Chrysler Pacifica - the following appears: Failure to charge and engine light: Some owners have reported that the vehicle no longer charges after the recall service and has a check engine light, with error codes like P0A0A (High Voltage System Interlock Circuit) and P0A7F (Hybrid/EV Battery Pack Deterioration), says Reddit users. Intermittent check engine light: Other owners have noted the check engine light comes on intermittently after the recall service, sometimes disappearing on its own. Battery concerns: Some owners who already had issues with the battery before the recall now report that the recall service did not resolve their problems, and a new, more significant battery issue may have developed. It appears that the issue with the Hybrid battery is not being resolved and the service recall for 73B amplifies issues for the Hybrid Pacifica Models. It may be a ploy from Chrysler for owners to get “rid,” of our vans. I’m contacting the lawyers of the class action lawsuit with this information. It’s so unreasonable for Chrysler to do this and not offer further support. The time, stress, anxiety and loss of a proper running vehicle has really impacted my family.

NHTSA ID
11702643
Incident
Oct 13, 2025
ElectricalPowertrain (other)Steering
Filed Nov 29, 2025

My 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Touring-L has suffered repeated and dangerous electrical failures since purchase. Shortly after buying it from AutoNation Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM in Valencia, CA, I had to return it twice for electrical repairs that kept it in service several weeks under warranty. About two years later, while still under extended warranty, the engine underwent a complete rebuild for multiple-cylinder misfire codes that were likely caused by intermittent CAN-bus voltage loss rather than a mechanical defect. Over the past nine months, the vehicle has again developed severe electrical faults while driving: sudden loss of power steering assist, all dashboard lights illuminating, windshield wipers activating spontaneously, and the engine failing to shut off using the Start/Stop button. The vehicle has also stalled without warning while driving in traffic or idling at red lights, restarting only after 5–10 minutes and blocking traffic lanes, placing me and surrounding drivers at significant risk. Two major repairs in the last two weeks failed to resolve the defects: (1) repair of the CAN-bus system after the vehicle would not start and acted erratically while driving, and a week later (2) replacement of the brake-booster vacuum pump, which was shorted internally and caused CAN-bus shutdown, complete steering loss, sudden braking, and no engine power. The vehicle is currently at Dependable Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Canoga Park, CA, awaiting further diagnosis despite repeated repair attempts. These symptoms match Chrysler TSBs 08-007-17 and 08-033-21 concerning Body Control Module water intrusion and communication faults. This ongoing electrical defect has caused steering loss, random stalling, ignition failure, and unpredictable vehicle behavior—issues widely reported by Pacifica owners. It poses a serious safety hazard and warrants immediate investigation and recall.

NHTSA ID
11702031
Incident
Oct 15, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Nov 21, 2025

This van has a factory defect of the engine. These engines have known issues with blowing head gaskets and Chrysler doesn't seem to care. There are hundreds and hundreds of reports of this issue and these are just the people online talking about it. I am sure there are thousands more. https://www.pacificaforums.com/threads/2017-pacifica-engine-failure-owners-list.52928/page-19?post_id=723158&nested_view=1#post-723158

NHTSA ID
11700750
Incident
Mar 5, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Oct 26, 2025

Backup camera - blue screen or black screen. This has been reported several times and was recalled for the 2021-2023 Pacifica. This is dangerous. The transmission jerks really hard between 2-3 great which has also been reported as a normal occurrence that Chrysler has not addresses.

NHTSA ID
11695643
Incident
Oct 1, 2025
ElectricalEnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Oct 19, 2025

The van have issues with a head gasket, Chrysler is aware yet the dealers keep selling the van with this known problems, I reached out to Chrysler and they said they cannot help. I had the van less than a year and I had the van serviced multiple times. Im attaching this link to show you guys that there ia a lot of people having the same problem, everything starts with the smell of the coolant then the misfire PO201, po301, then after taking it it was po305 and po205, https://youtu.be/sUfTxNBkRLU?si=JoLL29t6YbHZIiVg they speak on the video how they replaced the apparently bad part then the codes come back. I had this vehicle less than a year and I had so many issues, in my search I found this happening to multiple pacifica owners. vehicle starts misfiring creating a real possibility of having an accident as the car speed had to be reduced, specially if we are on the highway.

NHTSA ID
11694432
Incident
Jun 20, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Oct 14, 2025

The transmission in our 2017 Chrysler Pacifica has had issues with slipping, or not engaging as well as violent, hard gear shifts for at least the last 40K miles. We have taken it to the dealership several times, but the dealership said they drove the van and could not replicate the issues. It is important to note that the issues are intermittent and there is no obvious reason why it happens sometimes and not others. There have been countless instances where the van starts rolling forward from a stop and effectively slips into a neutral position before hard shifting back into gear and moving forward. Sometimes when pressing the accelerator at a dead stop the engine revs up before the transmission engages and starts to move forward. Both of these issues create serious risk of being in the middle of an intersection when this happens as the slipping is most often when attempting to accelerate from a dead stop. The hard shifts are very abrupt and startling when they occur. There does not seem to be a certain speed or gear that is more or less likely to trigger the violent shifts but they are occurring more and more often as time goes by. There have been a handful of instances where the transmission shifted gears and initiated a shudder that went away upon the next upshift in gears.

NHTSA ID
11693373
Incident
Jan 1, 2020

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

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