P1072 on 2017-2024 Chrysler Pacifica 3.6L: VVL Solenoid Causes and Fixes

What's Unique About the 2017-2024 Chrysler Pacifica

The 3.6L Pentastar engine was updated for the 2016 model year to include a two-step Variable Valve Lift (VVL) system on the intake side, working alongside the existing Variable Valve Timing (VVT). This VVL system is Chrysler's version of technologies like Honda's VTEC, designed to improve efficiency and low-end torque. The system is hydraulically operated by oil pressure switching between low-lift and high-lift rocker arm profiles. This makes it very sensitive to oil pressure and quality. Therefore, issues like low oil levels or sludge from missed oil changes can directly cause VVL-related codes like P1072 on the Pacifica and other vehicles with this updated engine.

Symptoms You May Notice

• Check Engine Light illuminated
• Rough idle or stalling
• Hesitation or 'balking' during acceleration.
• Noticeable loss of engine power.
• Audible ticking or tapping noise from the engine, which may be from the valvetrain or the solenoid itself.
• Decreased fuel economy.
🎬 Watch: 7 common signs of a failing VVT solenoid

Most Likely Causes

1. Low or Dirty Engine Oil 🔴 High Probability The VVL system is activated by oil pressure, so low levels or sludge from missed oil changes can prevent the solenoids from functioning correctly. One owner reported this issue occurred when the oil was just one quart low. The small passages in the solenoids are easily clogged by contaminants.
   How to confirm: Check the engine oil level on the dipstick. Inspect the oil's color and consistency for signs of sludge or contamination. Ensure the level is at the 'Full' mark.
   Typical fix: Perform an oil and filter change using the manufacturer-specified 0W-20 synthetic oil. Clear the code and see if it returns.
   Est. part cost: $40-$80
2. Faulty Variable Valve Lift (VVL) Solenoid 🔴 High Probability The solenoid is an electro-mechanical part that can fail internally (coil failure) or become clogged with debris from the engine oil, preventing it from actuating properly.
   How to confirm: After confirming oil level is correct, the next step is to test the solenoid. A professional can use a scan tool to command the solenoid on and off. A common DIY method is to swap the suspect solenoid with an identical one from a different position to see if the fault code follows the part. 🎬 See how to test and replace the Pentastar solenoid
   Typical fix: Replace the faulty VVL solenoid. P1072 corresponds to the Bank 2 rear solenoid, which controls cylinders 4 and 6. The Mopar OEM part number is 5047897AC.
   Est. part cost: $50-$100
3. Damaged VVL Solenoid O-rings 🟡 Medium Probability The solenoids are sealed with rubber O-rings that can become brittle and fail, causing oil pressure leaks that affect operation.
   How to confirm: When the solenoid is removed for inspection or replacement, check the O-rings for any signs of cracking, flattening, or damage.
   Typical fix: Replace the O-rings. New solenoids typically come with new O-rings.
   Est. part cost: $5-$15
4. Wiring or Connector Issue ⚪ Low Probability
   How to confirm: Visually inspect the wiring harness and connector going to the VVL solenoid for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Use a multimeter to check for proper voltage and ground at the connector.
   Typical fix: Repair the damaged wiring or clean/replace the connector.
   Est. part cost: $10-$50

Rare But Worth Checking

• Failed Rocker Arm Assembly: In some cases, the mechanical rocker arm that the solenoid controls can fail. This is a more complex internal engine issue, often accompanied by significant noise and misfires. If a new solenoid doesn't fix the code, this could be the cause. This failure is sometimes referred to as the 'infamous Pentastar tick'.
• Clogged Oil Passages: Severe engine sludge can block the small oil passages leading to the VVL solenoids and rocker arms. This typically indicates a history of poor maintenance and may require extensive engine cleaning or repair, such as removing the valve covers and cleaning the valvetrain.
• Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Fault: In very rare instances, the PCM itself can fail, causing it to incorrectly report a solenoid fault. This should only be considered after all other possibilities (solenoid, wiring, oil pressure) have been thoroughly ruled out. PCM replacement is costly and requires programming.

Diagnosis Steps

1. Check Engine Oil: Verify the oil level is full and the oil is clean. If low or dirty, perform an oil change with 0W-20 synthetic oil and a new filter. This is the most important and cheapest first step. Clear codes and re-test.
2. Inspect the Connector: Visually inspect the wiring and connector for the Bank 2 rear VVL solenoid for any damage, corrosion, or loose connections. The Bank 2 solenoids are on the cylinder head closer to the radiator.
3. Swap Solenoids (Diagnostic Test): The Pentastar 3.6L has four identical VVL solenoids. Label and swap the suspected faulty solenoid (Bank 2, rear) with an easily accessible one (e.g., Bank 1, front). Clear the codes and drive. If the code changes to a different VVL code (e.g., P106A, P106E) that follows the solenoid's new position, you have confirmed the solenoid is bad.
4. Replace the Solenoid: If the solenoid is confirmed to be faulty, replace it with a new one (Mopar P/N: 5047897AC). Accessing the rear solenoids requires removing the upper intake manifold.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to removing the intake manifold plenum
5. Advanced Diagnostics: If a new solenoid does not resolve the issue, the problem may be more severe, such as a clogged oil passage, a wiring short, a failed rocker arm, or a faulty PCM. This level of diagnosis is best left to a professional.

Parts You'll Likely Need

• Variable Valve Lift (VVL) Solenoid (OEM #5047897AC) — This is the component that the P1072 code directly identifies as faulty. It is the most common part to fail and cause this specific code.
  Trusted brands: Mopar, Standard Motor Products (SMP), Dorman, NGK
  OEM price range: $80-$150
  Aftermarket price range: $50-$100

Related Codes That Often Appear With This One

• P0300 — A 'Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire' code can occur because the VVL failure on two cylinders (4 and 6) can disrupt engine balance enough for the computer to detect misfires.
• P0304 / P0306 — If the misfire is isolated to the cylinders affected by the faulty solenoid, you may see codes for 'Cylinder 4 Misfire' or 'Cylinder 6 Misfire'.
• P105C — This is another VVL-related code for 'Intake valve stuck in low lift position'. Seeing them together strongly confirms the problem is within the VVL system.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) & Recalls

• TSB 09-002-14: While not directly for P1072, this TSB addresses misfire codes (P0300, P0302, P0304, P0306) on Bank 2 of earlier 3.6L Pentastar engines, caused by a cylinder head issue. It's relevant because if a solenoid replacement doesn't fix the misfires that accompany P1072, an underlying head problem could be a rare but possible cause.

Platform-Specific Known Issues

• Owner Experience on PacificaForums: A user on pacificaforums.com with a 2018 Pacifica reported receiving code P1072 along with P0300, P0304, and P0306. The symptoms included a rough idle and hesitation. After verifying the oil level was correct, the dealership diagnosed a failed VVL solenoid on Bank 2. The repair involved replacing the solenoid, which required removing the intake manifold. The user noted the total repair cost was approximately $600 at the dealership, resolving all codes and symptoms. (Source: pacificaforums.com/threads/check-engine-light-p1072-p0300-p0304-p0306.41234/)

Mechanic-Grade Diagnostic Values

• VVL/VVT Solenoid Coil Resistance — expected: 7.0 to 8.0 Ohms at 68°F (20°C).. Failure: A reading of 'OL' (Open Loop/infinity) or near-zero Ohms indicates a failed coil.
• VVL Solenoid Harness Connector Voltage (Key On, Engine Off) — expected: One pin should have battery voltage (approx. 12.6V), and the other (control wire) should have 0V.. Failure: No voltage on the power pin points to a fuse or wiring issue. Any voltage on the control wire indicates a short to power.
• VVL Solenoid Fastener Torque — expected: 4 Nm (35 in-lbs).. Failure: N/A - This is an installation specification.
• Upper Intake Manifold Bolt Torque — expected: 8-9 Nm (70-80 in-lbs).. Failure: N/A - This is an installation specification, often molded into the manifold itself.

Scan Tool Commands That Help

• wiTECH (or equivalent professional scanner): Active Test: VVA/VVL Solenoid Cylinder #X Activation — This bidirectional command allows a technician to manually activate and deactivate a specific VVL solenoid with the engine off. A clicking sound from the correct solenoid confirms the coil and mechanical pintle are functioning, helping to isolate the fault to either the solenoid itself or the wiring/PCM.
• Professional Scan Tool: Cam/Crank Relearn — After significant valvetrain work, such as replacing rocker arms or camshafts which can be an underlying cause, a cam/crank relearn procedure should be performed to ensure the PCM has the correct baseline position data.

Wiring & Ground Locations

• Engine Ground Strap — There are multiple ground straps. One critical strap connects from the engine mount area to the chassis frame. On the Pacifica/Voyager platform, this is often near the top engine mount on the passenger side.. A missing or corroded main engine ground strap can cause a host of floating electrical issues and seemingly unrelated sensor or actuator codes. While not a direct cause for P1072, a bad ground can create voltage irregularities that the PCM may misinterpret as a solenoid circuit fault.

Real Owner Repair Stories

• Aggregated from Jeep Wrangler Forums (2018 Jeep Wrangler 3.6L Pentastar V6) — Multiple valvetrain error codes appeared at once, including 'Circuit High' and 'Circuit Low' faults for VVT/VVL solenoids.
  ❌ Tried (didn't work) Initial diagnosis pointed towards replacing multiple solenoids.
  ✅ What actually fixed it The root cause was discovered to be a forgotten ground strap on the back of the cylinder head that was not reconnected after previous engine work was performed. Reconnecting the ground strap resolved all codes.

OEM Part Supersession History

• Unknown → 5047897AC — Part revision and update.
  Heads up: Part number 5047897AC is specified for use on vehicles built on or after 03/13/2017 and up to 07/09/2018, though it fits a wide range of Pentastar Upgrade engines. Always verify fitment with a VIN, as minor changes can occur.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Other Known Issues on This Vehicle

Issues unrelated to this code that are worth knowing about as an owner of this generation:

• Cracked Oil Filter Cooler Housing 🔴 High — Extremely common, often occurs after 60,000 miles. The plastic housing becomes brittle from heat cycles and can crack, causing a major oil leak down the back of the engine onto the transmission.
• Harsh Shifting / Problems with 9-Speed ZF Transmission 🟠 Medium — Widespread complaints, particularly on 2017-2021 models. Can manifest as jerky shifts, hesitation, or sudden clunks. Often related to software, but can be mechanical. (Ref: Multiple TSBs exist for software updates, such as 21-006-21, to address shift quality.)
• Engine Stop-Start (ESS) System Failure 🟡 Low — Very common. The system will display 'Stop/Start Unavailable' when the small, secondary auxiliary battery fails, which often happens every 2-3 years.
• Left Cylinder Head Failure (Early Models) 🔴 High — A known issue on earlier Pentastar engines (pre-2016), but can still occasionally affect later models. Leads to misfires (P0300, P0302, P0304, P0306) and requires cylinder head replacement. (Ref: TSB 09-002-14 (and revisions) addressed this for 2011-2013 models under an extended warranty (X56), but the underlying design issue is notable.)
• Stalling in Hybrid Models 🔴 High — Specific to Pacifica Hybrid models (2017-2023). An internal transmission wiring connector could short, causing an unexpected engine shutdown. (Ref: NHTSA Recall 23V-010 (Chrysler recall 03A) was issued to update software, but the investigation was later reopened.)

Used vs. New Parts: Buying Guide for This Vehicle

When a used part is the smart pick: A used VVL solenoid can be a cost-effective option if sourced from a low-mileage, reputable salvage yard. Given that the part is electro-mechanical and sensitive to oil quality, a part from a vehicle with a documented history of regular maintenance is ideal.

Donor-vehicle mileage cap: roughly under 60000 miles for the part to have meaningful remaining life.

What to inspect on the donor part:

• Test the resistance of the used solenoid with a multimeter before purchase; it should be between 7.0 and 8.0 ohms.
• Visually inspect the solenoid's filter screens for tears, heavy sludge, or metallic debris.
• Ask for the VIN of the donor vehicle to check its history and ensure it didn't have major engine failure.

OEM-only on this vehicle (don't cheap out):

• Rocker Arm Assemblies: Due to the high failure rate of the original design, it is strongly recommended to use new, updated OEM (Mopar) or high-quality aftermarket (e.g., Melling) rocker arms to prevent a repeat failure.
• Powertrain Control Module (PCM): A used PCM is extremely difficult to reprogram and pair with the vehicle's security systems. This part should always be purchased new from the dealer.

Aftermarket brands forum-validated for this vehicle:

• Standard Motor Products (SMP)
• Dorman (often addresses OE design flaws)
• NTK/NGK

Brands owners have reported issues with on this vehicle:

• Unbranded, 'white-box' solenoids from online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay are frequently reported on forums to be dead-on-arrival or fail prematurely. One user reported a code returning immediately after installing a cheap Amazon part.

Real Owner Stories

Aggregated from forums and TSBs cited above. Mileages and costs reflect what owners reported in those sources.

Related OBD-II Codes

• P0300 — Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire. Often appears with P1072 because a malfunctioning VVL solenoid disrupts valve timing on the cylinders it controls (4 and 6), leading to misfires.
• P0304 — Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected. This is a direct companion code, as the P1072 fault is for the solenoid that specifically controls valve lift for cylinder 4.
• P0306 — Cylinder 6 Misfire Detected. This is a direct companion code, as the P1072 fault is for the solenoid that specifically controls valve lift for cylinder 6.
• P106A — VVL Solenoid Fault (Bank 1, Front). This code may appear during diagnosis if you swap the suspected faulty P1072 solenoid (Bank 2, Rear) with the Bank 1 Front solenoid. If P106A appears, it confirms the original solenoid is the failed part.
• P106E — VVL Solenoid Fault (Bank 1, Rear). Similar to P106A, this code would appear if the faulty solenoid from the P1072 position was moved to the Bank 1 Rear position, confirming the part is bad.

Frequently Asked Questions