2017 Chrysler Pacifica Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2017 Chrysler Pacifica: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might offer further insight into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step in this process; by connecting it to your vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve error codes that provide specific information about the issue at hand. Once you have the error codes, take the time to interpret them, as they will guide you toward understanding the underlying problem. Additionally, researching common issues associated with the Pacifica, such as faulty oxygen sensors or catalytic converters, can help you identify potential causes. By following these initial diagnostic steps, you can gather the necessary information to effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and determine the best course of action for repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensure it is tightened properly. If that’s not the issue, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a faulty sensor can affect engine performance and emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or failures, can also illuminate the check engine light, indicating a need for further investigation. Worn spark plugs are another common culprit, as they can disrupt the ignition process, leading to engine misfires. The mass airflow sensor is crucial for maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture, and any issues here can also trigger the warning light. Lastly, don’t overlook the ignition coil and the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve, as malfunctions in these components can lead to similar symptoms. Addressing these issues promptly not only helps in resolving the check engine light but also ensures the vehicle runs efficiently and reliably.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, it is crucial to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could range from minor to severe. Ignoring this alert can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and may escalate into more significant engine damage, which can be costly to repair. Moreover, some underlying problems could pose safety risks while driving, making it imperative to act swiftly. By seeking a professional diagnosis as soon as the light comes on, you can identify and address any issues early, ultimately saving yourself from more extensive repairs and ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. Prioritizing this check not only maintains your Pacifica's performance but also protects your investment in the long run.

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