Experiencing issues with your 2017 Pacifica steering? You’re not alone. This owner’s story highlights a common and frustrating problem faced by some 2017 Pacifica owners: persistent steering issues that dealerships struggle to resolve. Purchasing a used 2017 Pacifica with 23,000 miles, the trouble began almost immediately. Upon driving off the lot, a slight steering wheel misalignment was noticeable, hinting at problems to come.
Initially addressed with a wheel alignment by the dealership, the fix was short-lived. While the steering felt true for about a year, the alignment issue recurred, initially dismissed as a consequence of rough road conditions. However, the problems escalated beyond simple alignment. A knocking noise emerged from the driver’s side, suggesting suspension issues. Another dealer visit led to the replacement of the top strut assemblies under warranty, which successfully eliminated the knocking.
Despite the noise being resolved, new symptoms arose. A subtle vibration became apparent when making sharp turns uphill, a concern that was initially overlooked due to prior frustrations with lengthy dealer service times and a lack of immediate severity. However, the reprieve was temporary. The clunking returned, and the steering wheel’s condition deteriorated significantly, particularly during high-speed braking. Suspecting wheel bearing or tie rod issues, the owner returned to the dealership, only to be told these components were not the source of the problem.
After an extended diagnosis period of a month, the dealership identified the steering rack as the likely culprit. However, the hefty $4,000 repair estimate, coupled with no guarantee of a definitive fix, deterred the owner from proceeding. Seeking a second opinion and hoping to avoid such a significant expense without assurance, the issue remained unresolved.
Moving to Florida in 2021 brought the steering problem back into sharp focus. Driving on winding backroads, a concerning steering wheel sticking issue developed, specifically when turning right between the 2 and 3 o’clock positions. The steering wheel would physically stick, requiring manual force to “free” it. A local Florida dealership acknowledged the severity of the sticking issue, suggesting it could indeed be a failing steering rack, potentially due to a sticking gear within the electric power steering system. The recommendation was to purchase a Mopar rack online for potentially lower cost, with an estimated $2500 for installation.
Currently, with 68,000 miles on their 2017 Pacifica and still facing significant payments, the owner plans to replace the steering rack at a local repair shop. The experience underscores the ongoing frustration and expense associated with unresolved steering problems in some 2017 Pacifica models. A follow-up report on the repair outcome is anticipated, offering potential insights for other owners battling similar “17 pacifica” steering challenges.
