C2217 on 2017-2024 Chrysler Pacifica: Electric Power Steering Failure Causes & Fixes

What's Unique About the 2017-2024 Chrysler PACIFICA

On the Chrysler Pacifica, this code is taken very seriously by the manufacturer. Multiple Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) explicitly state that the presence of C2217-00 is sufficient cause to replace the entire electric steering gear assembly. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority, ⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority] This differs from some other vehicles where a more extensive diagnostic path is required. The issue is common enough that NHTSA has opened an investigation (PE25009) into intermittent power steering failures on these vans, specifically looking at a 'sticking' sensation reported by numerous owners.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Tap your situation to follow the diagnostic path that matches what you're seeing on this vehicle.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Complete loss of power steering assist
• Steering becomes extremely heavy and difficult to turn
• "Service Power Steering" warning light illuminated on the dashboard
• Steering feels like it sticks or binds, especially near the 11 and 1 o'clock positions when making gradual turns.
• A sudden release of steering assist after sticking, which can cause an overcorrection by the driver.
• Shimmy or rattle in the steering wheel during slow, hard turns.

Most Likely Causes

1. Internal Failure of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) Rack Assembly 🔴 High Probability → Shop Steering Gear The EPS module is integrated into the steering rack, making it a single, non-serviceable point of failure. TSBs #19-007-25 and #9003584 directly authorize replacement of the steering gear when this code is present, indicating it's the expected failure mode. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority, ⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority] Numerous owner complaints and an NHTSA investigation corroborate the high failure rate.
   How to confirm: After verifying good battery voltage (13.5-14.5V when running) and checking for other related codes, the presence of C2217-00 is the primary confirmation. A professional scan tool is needed to read this chassis code from the EPS module.
   Typical fix: Complete replacement of the electric power steering rack and pinion assembly, followed by a four-wheel alignment and a 'Proxy Alignment' procedure to configure the new module to the vehicle's network.
   Est. part cost: $1900-$2950

Rare But Worth Checking

• Poor Battery Voltage or Ground Connection: → Shop Vehicle Battery The EPS module is highly sensitive to voltage. A weak battery, failing alternator, or a poor ground can trigger internal fault codes like C2217. A specific recall (V53 / 19V-348) was issued for 2017-2019 Pacificas because sealer could accumulate on the battery ground connection, causing a loose joint and intermittent loss of power steering. Always test the battery and inspect the main ground connections before condemning the expensive rack.
• Wiring or Connector Issues: Damage or corrosion at the main connector to the EPS rack can cause communication and power issues, leading the module to set an internal fault code. A visual inspection of the harness 🎬 Watch: Diagnosing a dead CAN bus and power steering loss. and connector where it attaches to the rack is a wise, though less common, diagnostic step.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Scan for Codes: Use a professional-grade scan tool capable of reading Chassis (C) codes to confirm the presence of C2217-00 in the EPS module.
2. Check for TSBs: Verify if TSB #19-007-25 or #9003584 applies to your vehicle. These bulletins state that C2217-00 is a direct cause for replacement. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority, ⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]
3. Test Battery and Charging System: Before condemning the rack, ensure the battery is fully charged and passes a load test. Check that the alternator is providing stable voltage (typically 13.5-14.5V). Low or unstable voltage can trigger false positives.
4. Inspect Power and Ground Connections: Crucially, inspect the main battery ground connection at the chassis stud. Recall V53 (NHTSA 19V-348) was issued for this exact point failing due to sealer contamination on 2017-2019 models. Also inspect the main power and ground wires and the connector at the steering rack for any signs of corrosion or damage.
5. Confirm Diagnosis: If voltage and connections are good and the C2217-00 code is active and persistent (returns after clearing), the diagnosis is a failed steering rack assembly.
6. Replace and Calibrate: Replace the entire electric power steering rack assembly. After installation, a four-wheel alignment and a Proxy Alignment are mandatory. The Proxy Alignment uses a compatible scan tool (like the dealer's wiTECH) to introduce the new steering module to the vehicle's other computers, ensuring all systems work together correctly.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Electric Power Steering Rack and Pinion Assembly (OEM #68594339AC (AWD), 68594338AC (FWD)) — This is the complete unit that contains the failed internal control module. The module is not serviced separately. TSBs call for the replacement of this entire assembly. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority] Note that part numbers differ for All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) models.
  Trusted brands: Mopar
  OEM price range: $2000-$3000
  Aftermarket price range: $1200-$2500

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• U113E — Indicates lost communication with the Electric Power Steering (EPS) module, which is expected when the module has failed internally and is no longer communicating on the CAN bus network. [OWNER COMPLAINT]
• C2210 — Another code indicating an internal fault within the EPS module, often appearing alongside C2217 as part of the internal self-test failure. [OWNER COMPLAINT]
• P058C — Indicates low battery voltage, which can be a contributing factor or a result of the EPS system issues. [OWNER COMPLAINT] This code reinforces the need to check the battery and charging system first.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• 19-007-25: States that if a customer experiences a MIL and code C2217-00 is set, the Electric Power Steering Module has an internal fault and replacement is the prescribed repair. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]
• 9003584: Authorizes the replacement of the electric power steering gear if DTC C2217-00 is present, after ruling out other external electrical or communication issues. [⭐ MANUFACTURER TSB — highest authority]

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• NHTSA has opened a preliminary evaluation (PE25009, formerly PE24011) into intermittent loss of power steering on 2017-2018 Pacifica models. The investigation focuses on numerous complaints of steering that sticks near the 11 and 1 o'clock positions, requiring excessive force, which may be followed by a sudden release of assist causing overcorrection.
• A safety recall (V53 / NHTSA 19V-348) was issued for 2017-2019 models (built between Oct 11, 2016 and Nov 20, 2018) for a poor battery ground connection that could lead to an intermittent loss of power steering assist. The cause was identified as sealer from the wire harness manufacturing process contaminating the ground stud.
• Owner complaints frequently mention total steering rack failure requiring replacement at significant cost, often between $4,000 and $5,000. One owner of a 2017 Pacifica reported a dealer quote of over $7,000, later reduced to $5,000, for a failure at 83,000 miles.

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• CAN Bus Voltage at Star Connector — expected: Approximately 2.5 volts on both CAN High and CAN Low when the bus is idle (bias voltage).. Failure: A sawtooth pattern or voltage peaks significantly above or below 2.5V indicates a corrupt or bad bus signal, which can be caused by poor pin retention in the connector.
• Battery Voltage During Flashing/Programming — expected: Must be maintained between 13.2 and 13.5 volts.. Failure: Dropping below 13.2V or climbing above 13.5V can interrupt the flash process for the EPS module, potentially causing it to fail.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH or equivalent: Proxy Configuration Alignment — This is mandatory after replacing the EPS module (steering rack). It copies the vehicle's configuration from the Body Control Module (BCM) to the new EPS module, allowing it to be recognized and function on the vehicle's network. A flashing odometer is a key indicator that a proxy alignment is needed.
• wiTECH: Reset ECU (for EPS module) — After completing a flash or programming update to the EPS module, an ECU reset must be performed to prevent false warning messages, such as for the Active Lane Management system.
• wiTECH: Restore Vehicle Configuration — This function, found under the 'Guided Diagnostics' tab, may be required before a Proxy Alignment if vehicle configuration data is lost or corrupted.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• EPS Torque Sensor Connector — The gray connector on the Electric Power Steering (EPS) module, which is integrated into the steering rack assembly.. TSB 19-001-17 explicitly warns technicians NOT to disconnect this connector during diagnosis. Disconnecting it and cycling the ignition can falsely trigger an active C2217-00 DTC, leading to an unnecessary replacement of the entire steering rack.
• CAN Bus Star Connector (C-CAN) — Located under the glove box area. It's a central hub where all the C-CAN data lines meet.. Poor pin retention or corrosion in this connector can cause intermittent communication loss with the EPS module, leading to a loss of power steering and potentially setting various communication codes alongside C2217. Wiggling the wires at this connector while observing CAN signal on an oscilloscope can confirm a bad connection.
• Battery Ground Stud (Recall V53) — On the chassis, under the hood. The battery is located under the air intake duct on the right side of the engine bay.. A known issue on 2017-2019 models where sealer contaminated this ground connection, causing intermittent voltage drops to the EPS module and triggering faults. This was the subject of NHTSA recall 19V-348.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• YouTube channel 'KOEO' (2017 Chrysler Pacifica) — No power steering, zero communication with the power steering control module on a scan tool.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initial scans showed no communication with the EPS module, which would typically lead to replacing the steering rack.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The technician found that the CAN bus wire for the power steering module was broken inside its insulation. There was good signal coming out of the star connector but no signal at the module itself. Repairing the broken wire restored communication and power steering function without replacing the rack.

OEM Part Supersession History

• Multiple, including 68288305AA, 68416739AA, 68460390AB → 68594339AC — Part has been revised multiple times by the manufacturer.
  Heads up: This part number is for All-Wheel Drive (AWD) models.
• 68525334AB, 68594338AA, 68594338AB → 68594338AC — Part has been revised multiple times by the manufacturer.
  Heads up: This part number is for Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) models.

Model Year Variations Within This Range

• 2017-2020 vs 2021-2024: The 2021 model year marked a significant refresh for the Pacifica, introducing updated styling, the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, and making All-Wheel Drive (AWD) more widely available across trims. While this changed many electronic and some drivetrain components, the fundamental design of the electric power steering rack and the C2217 failure mode appear to remain consistent across the entire 2017-2024 range.