What 1,475 owners told NHTSA about the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Awd

2017 Pacifica, 58,000 miles. Engine light comes on, error code is "00305 Engine misfire on cylinder 5". Replaced sensor and ignition coil and spark plugs, but error keeps coming back. The mechanic found that the head gasket is leaking anti-freeze into the cylinder. Looking online this is a common problem with Pacifica 3.6L engines, many people have had the same problem, there is a defect with the engine I checked for a recall, but there is nothing open for my VIN.

NHTSA ODI 11741625

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 ODI 11741658

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 ODI 11739862

I have owned the car for years, and have always taken good care of vehicle with scheduled oil changes, tune ups, etc. and now I am being told I need a new head gasket because there is a leak. Being a 2017 with just over 100,000 miles and regular care this should not be happening. It caused issues with a fuse and now a new starter needs to be put in too. An awful smell was coming from the vehicle making me sick and my child while having to drive. What appeared to be heavy smoke started coming out. A light came on staying engine was hot so had to pull over on the side of the road and be towed. I had the mechanic who towed the chrysler pacifica tell me I had a head gasket leak and needed a new one but he does not repair them. I searched over 10 other repair shops and they would not touch due to the ongoing issues with the Pacifica's. I finally found a mechanic who stated the same as the prior mechanic that my head gasket needed to be replaced, and it was a big job that would be awhile before he could even get to. I am asking for assistance with this repair as this seems to be an ongoing issue with them.

NHTSA ODI 11738441

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 ODI 11731657

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 ODI 11731214

Check engine light came on at 87K miles, took to dealership and code was P0303. Dealer had to replace 6 spark plugs, warped head, head gasket and oil change. Dealership knew of this problem with faulty heads from the manufacturer and no recall has been started from Chrysler. Car has never overheated or shown any other symptoms. It has been 2 years, 3 months and less than 27K miles and I have another check engine light with the same code. Dealerships says I have another blown head gasket, and it needs to be replaced. Vehicle cannot be driven until it is replaced.

NHTSA ODI 11730753

The check engine light is on my Chrysler Pacifica 2017 Limited with error codes P0302 and P0306, indicating misfires in the second and sixth cylinders. The vehicle was purchased brand new in 2017 from a Chrysler dealership in Olathe, Kansas and currently has approximately 97,000 miles. So far, the spark plugs and valve cover gasket have been replaced, but the same error codes persist. The mechanic is now recommending head gasket replacement, with an estimated repair cost of up to $5,000, which is extremely high. After researching this issue online, I found that thousands of Chrysler owners have experienced the same problem, yet no recall or corrective action has been issued by Chrysler. I contacted Chrysler customer support directly, but was informed that no assistance could be provided because the vehicle is out of warranty. We chose to purchase this vehicle based on the trust, reliability, and customer service reputation of Chrysler, but unfortunately, this experience has not reflected those values. An engine failure of this magnitude at this mileage is unacceptable, especially when it appears to be a known and widespread issue. I strongly believe Chrysler should take responsibility and provide assistance for this engine defect.

NHTSA ODI 11727357

My 2017, Chrysler Pacifica van just stopped for no reason whatsoever scaring me to death, I was just driving with no issues then all of a sudden as, drove into a Restaurant parking lot my van just turned off on its own before I could get in parking spot. It would not restart so I had to get it tolled. Ended up spending over $3000 two different Mechanics, one being the Hawk Chrysler dealer, in Forest Park, Illinois, the other one a private mechanic Abes Auto Repair in both cases I had lots of work done it was one issue after another, First I was told it could be the starter, than the, battery, after returning (engine light back on within 24 hours or less of work completion) then injectors, spark plus, gasket, cylinder all replaced and still continues to have engine issues. Every time engine the Engine light turned back on shortly or a day after, the engine being serviced. Whats worst is each time the engine light comes on it is new issue. So far no resolution to date. This last time the Mechanic had my Pacifica for exactly a month and one day got it back light was off drove it 30 minutes light came back on new service issue. I have paid more into the Chrysler that I owe. At this point I have no choice but to park it and continue to pay my van payments for a van which seems to have several issues one after another. Now my engine light is blinking so I cant not even take it to a repair shoppe. There is something going on that service people are not able to fix.

NHTSA ODI 11727085

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 ODI 11725086

we've had to replace the engine. Twice and the electric power steering quit, working completely.And now they want five thousand dollars to replace it.When it's a known problem.

NHTSA ODI 11722346

Vehicle lost power, steering, and breaks on the george washington bridge in NYC causing it to roll into the back of another vehicle.

NHTSA ODI 11721632

Around October/November 2025, the vehicle began having intermittent steering issues that have progressively worsened. The steering wheel becomes stiff or feels stuck, and at times it jerks on its own before correcting. Other times I must pull harder to get it to respond, causing over‑correction and difficulty maintaining my lane. This has happened at various speeds, including 65–70 mph on the interstate, and I nearly collided with another vehicle due to sudden loss of steering control. The vehicle also has ongoing electrical malfunctions. The center screen glitches, causing the heat/air settings to scroll on their own, the radio to constantly scan, and the touchscreen and knobs to stop responding. The navigation system shows incorrect locations, sometimes placing the vehicle in another state or in the ocean. The system has also made random phone calls on its own and has added a second call during an active call without input. During one incident while turning at an intersection, the vehicle lost power and shut off mid‑turn. I coasted to the side of the road and restarted. At the same time, the screen blacked out and flickered, and the ignition button malfunctioned. No warning lights appeared. The battery has died multiple times and has been replaced several times, and software resets have not resolved the issues. These problems were intermittent at first, making it difficult to take the vehicle to a dealer, but they have recently become more frequent and severe. While researching possible causes, I discovered that NHTSA has an open investigation involving similar steering and electrical failures in this model. The combination of steering malfunction, electrical instability, uncommanded inputs, and an engine shutdown presents a significant safety risk.

NHTSA ODI 11720987

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 ODI 11719228

I keep getting the same codes every few weeks. P0732

NHTSA ODI 11716601

Oil leak from oil filter housing

NHTSA ODI 11715581

2017 Chrysler Pacifica at 70k miles, check engine light came on. After engine warm up, engine starts to rough idle. Diagnosis is misfire on cylinder 2 (code P0302). In addition, vehicle voltage fluctuates in gage cluster between 12-14 volts. No issue until engine is warm and no issue above idle or with load. Injectors were checked and fine, coils and leads were replaced. Fix did not work. Took to Chrysler dealership for addition diagnosis. Dealership diagnosis is cylinder head warpage due to overheating. Single owner of vehicle, regularly maintained and with no “low coolant” engine light.

NHTSA ODI 11708676

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 ODI 11705544

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 ODI 11694432

The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH and turning the steering wheel to the left or the right, the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. The power steering engaged and jerked the wheel to the left or the right of center. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 154,000.

NHTSA ODI 11691777

The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while driving at a slow speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle stalled. Additionally, the steering wheel seized. The message “No Letter D” or “P for Park”, was displayed and flashing on the instrument panel. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. After several minutes, the contact was able to restart the vehicle to continue driving. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHSTA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 128,000.

NHTSA ODI 11689566

I do all routine maintenance on my car and do my standard oil changes on time. I only have 80K miles on my car and may now have a head gasket issue. I have seen many online posts that there are many users that have experienced this issue and some looking to possibly do a class action law suit. Has this issue been looked into as a potential recall? When speaking with the dealership I advised that my check engine light had come on and I took it to my local repair shop and the code indicated it was either a coil or spark plug that needed to be replaced. My repair shop checked and it was the spark plug that needed replacing. The car was fine for 2 weeks then the engine light came on again. When speaking with the dealership they said that yes the code will usually first present as a coil or spark plug and the engine light stops blinking since it assigned a code. So that is why my engine light went off but now came back on. I am not sure why this should not be addressed by the manufacturer if so many people are having this issue with a head gasket issue with such low mileage. This repair is going to cost 1k-4k to fix which is ridiculous in an engine that is maintained and has only 80K miles.

NHTSA ODI 11684414

Engine ticking,blind spot not working

NHTSA ODI 11684094

The contact owns a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica. The contact stated that while his wife was attempting to park the vehicle with the brake pedal depressed, the engine unexpectedly began to rev. The vehicle then accelerated inadvertently, resulting in a collision with a pole in front of the parking space. There was no damage to the pole. The air bags did not deploy. The vehicle was towed to a collision center, and the insurance company declared it a total loss. No police report was filed. No injuries were sustained. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 76,000. The VIN was not available.

NHTSA ODI 11683184

After the latest 73B recall, the engine light sporadically turn on. In one occasion, while cruising at low speed ~25mph in the electric mode, the vehicle switched to gas engine mode even there was 16 electric miles on the battery. This issue was not there prior to the recall. Need investigation on the software reliability and the underlying battery issue

NHTSA ODI 11682589