The 2017 model marked the start of the Pacifica’s sixth-generation with more than 800 complaints registered with the NHTSA. Serious electrical issues leading to engine stalls and loss of power steering made Chrysler recall the Pacifica four times.
Key Points
- The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica has eight recalls and more than 800 owner complaints registered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- Chrysler recalled the 2017 Pacifica four times over various issues concerning the electrical system leading to engine stalls, rollaways, and disengagement of the power steering assist.
- Problems with the anti-lock brake system and rear pinion brackets made Chrysler recall a couple hundred 2017 Pacificas.
- According to owner reports, the 2017 Pacifica’s most common issue is expensive transmission overhauls due to rough shifts.
- Several owners have complained about the brakes not engaging correctly and failing to stop the minivan, causing crashes.
Severe Electrical Problems Leading to Engine Stalls and Rollaways Made Chrysler Recall the 2017 Pacifica Four Times
Chrysler recalled the 2017 Pacifica four times over problems with the electrical system. The first recall pertains to models equipped with the 3.6L motor that could stall due to faulty engine control software.
The second recall concerning the electrical system is over the cruise control failing to deactivate, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy for both problems come courtesy of software updates.
Also, some 2017-2018 Pacificas were recalled for a rollaway problem. The most recent recall, however, covers models equipped with the engine stop/start system. A loose ground connection could intermittently cause a loss of power steering assist and engine stalls.
Ineffective Anti-lock Brake System and Flawed Seat Belt Buckles Led to Additional Recalls for the 2017 Pacifica
In 2017, Chrysler had to recall almost 50,000 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica models equipped with the eight-passenger seating option due to seat buckles unlatching unintentionally.
Chrysler also acknowledged that the center overhead seat belt stow clip could crack, not allowing third-row or second-row passengers to use the seatbelts.
There are two other recalls that pertain to crossed rear brake lines causing the rear anti-lock brake system to be ineffective, and a crack in rear pinion brackets that could lead to wheel wobbles.
However, the number of affected vehicles for these two issues combined is less than 900.
Many 2017 Pacifica Owners Complain About Rough Shifts and Transmission Hesitations That Can Cost Over $1,000 to Repair
The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica has more than 800 owner complaints registered with the NHTSA, and more than half are related to the powertrain.
Among these reports, transmission problems are the most common issue. Owners have dealt with rough, late shifts accompanied by loud bangs.
Several owners on the Pacifica Forum website echo these transmission issues, mentioning experiences with shuddering and a rapid loss of speed. “It feels as though the car can’t find the next gear,” says one owner. “The car revs but hesitates until it finally jolts forward so violent that it feels you were rear-ended by other car.”
According to Car Complaints, owners have spent $1,390 on average to fix the 2017 Pacifica’s transmission problems. However, some haven’t been able to find a permanent solution even after taking the minivan to dealerships several times.
One Car Complaints website user claims that even after replacing the entire transmission, “six months later when my vehicle reached 71,000 miles, the same problem appeared.”
Brake Pedal Going Soft and Being Slow to Respond Caused Hazardous Situations for Several Owners
Another common problem with the 2017 Pacifica pertains to the brakes, including reports of a hissing noise when braking, as well as the brakes failing to properly stop the vehicle.
Some owners have said that the brakes failed to stop the vehicle on different occasions. Others said the minivan rolled forward after depressing the brake pedal firmly.
At least eight owners reported to the NHTSA that they were involved in crashes because of this issue.
According to Car Complaints, replacing the brake booster fixes the problem most of the time. Some 2017 Pacifica owners have spent $800 on average to repair the brakes.
Expensive Transmission Overhauls, Along With Numerous Other Problems, Make the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Inferior to Other Popular Minivans
The 2017 model marked the beginning of the Chrysler Pacifica’s sixth generation and was one of the most problematic years for the minivan. For a seven-seater family hauler, the Pacifica offers a long list of impressive interior features and two potent powertrains with up to 287 horsepower.
But widespread engine and transmission issues overshadow the excellent qualities of the 2017 Pacifica.
Depending on the trim, a used 2017 Pacifica goes for $22,829 to $38,884, according to Kelley Blue Book. Within the same price range, the 2017 Honda Odyssey offers better tech and fewer problems. But the Chrysler Pacifica does stand out in fuel economy, offering up to 32 mpg on the highway.
Photos: Stellantis
