Chrysler Pacifica’s Power Steering Under Scrutiny: What’s Going On?

What’s the Problem

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into the 2017–2018 Chrysler Pacifica, covering about 287,000 minivans. Drivers report that the electric power steering (EPS) system intermittently fails during gradual turns, making the wheel difficult to control until the power suddenly returns.

Allegations

Owners have filed at least 94 complaints describing the same issue: when the steering wheel is held slightly off-center—around the 11 o’clock or 1 o’clock position—the steering assist can cut out. When it does return, it may come back forcefully, creating the risk of oversteering or sudden loss of control.

Recall/TSB

As of now, Chrysler has not issued a recall or technical service bulletin (TSB) specifically addressing these steering failures. The NHTSA’s investigation will determine whether a safety defect exists and whether a recall is required.

Symptoms

Owners describe the following warning signs:

  • Steering feels stuck or unusually heavy during gradual turns.

  • Loss of steering assist when holding the wheel slightly off-center.

  • Difficulty returning the steering wheel to center after the assist cuts out.

  • Abrupt or forceful return of power steering that makes the vehicle oversteer.

These are not minor inconveniences. A sudden change in steering effort could compromise driver control and increase the risk of a crash.

How to Proceed

Document Issues: Keep detailed records of all steering complaints, repair visits, and communications with the dealer. Ensure that the service advisor accurately records your concerns on each work order.

Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts: Generally, if the same steering issue persists after four or more repair attempts, or if your minivan is out of service for 30 cumulative days, you may qualify for relief under California’s lemon law.

Monitor Symptoms: If you experience heavy steering, loss of assist, or sudden return of assist while driving, stop using the vehicle until inspected by a dealer.

Call to Action

Protect Your Rights Under California Lemon Law
If you are like many Chrysler Pacifica owners now dealing with serious power steering problems, you may be entitled to compensation under the California Lemon Law.

Compensation may include:

  • A complete repurchase of your defective vehicle

  • A replacement vehicle

  • Or substantial cash reimbursement for damages already caused by the defect

If you’re in California and your Chrysler Pacifica has steering issues that the dealer cannot fix, call Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447 or complete our free Lemon Law case evaluation form today.

Protect Your Rights Under California Lemon Law
Unfortunately, FCA has taken advantage of California’s “new” lemon law, AB 1755 and Civil Code section 871.20 et seq. Because of these changes, vehicles purchased in California more than six years may no longer qualify for lemon law protections. If this concerns you, consider contacting your local state representative to express your disappointment that California’s lemon law has been weakened.

https://www.gov.ca.gov/contact/

FCAJoshua ValeroFCA Lemon Law, FCA, Lemon Law FCA