Pacifica Hybrid: Crankcase Vent Issues Cause Smoke

As someone with moderate experience working on hybrids, I dealt with nearly identical symptoms on my 2020 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid last winter. The crankcase ventilation system failure created similar issues, check engine light, reduced power, and noticeable smoke from the exhaust, especially during acceleration. The emissions-related symptoms got worse over time, particularly the smoke and a rough idle. My local workshop diagnosed a valve issue in the crankcase ventilation system that was causing oil to leak into places it shouldnt, leading to increased emissions and that characteristic smoke. The repair cost me 360€ total, including diagnostics and parts. The shop had to replace several components of the ventilation system. After the fix, the idle smoothed out and the smoke completely disappeared. Could you share some additional details about your vehicle to help provide more specific guidance: Current mileage, When was the last oil change, Any other warning lights besides check engine, Does the smoke have a particular color or smell, Are you noticing any unusual engine sounds This information would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced with my vehicle.

Thanks for checking my previous post about the PCV system issues. Since a few asked, my Pacifica has 82122 KM and received full maintenance service just two months ago. I can confirm the smoke has a slightly blue tint and I am not seeing any additional warning lights beyond the check engine light that I mentioned. I will get it checked at the shop tomorrow to prevent any serious engine damage from this potential leak. The emission issue seems identical to what some of you described. Has anyone dealt with the repair taking longer than expected due to parts availability?

Thanks for those additional details about your Pacifica. Like you, I took mine in promptly when I noticed similar symptoms, which was definitely the right call. The main delay I experienced was actually due to parts availability, the PCV valve replacement took nearly a week because the part had to be specially ordered. The blue smoke you mentioned strongly matches my experience and typically indicates oil entering the combustion chamber through a faulty crankcase ventilation system. Given your mileage is close to what mine was when the issue occurred, this further suggests a similar root cause. While waiting for parts, my shop recommended minimal driving to prevent excess oil consumption and potential engine wear. The maintenance records you mentioned should help speed up the diagnostic process, as it rules out basic service issues. For reference, my total repair time once parts arrived was about 6 hours of shop labor. Make sure to request they check the entire ventilation system during repair, as related components might need attention to prevent future issues. Have you noticed any rough idle conditions or changes in engine sound while waiting for your appointment?

Thanks everyone for the input on my ventilation system concerns. Update: I took the Pacifica to the shop today and you were right about parts availability being an issue. They confirmed a faulty valve in the crankcase ventilation system causing the oil leak and smoke. The repair is scheduled for next week once the parts arrive. The idle has gotten slightly rougher since my first post, especially when the engine is cold. The maintenance records helped speed up their diagnosis, just as suggested. They recommended minimal driving until the repair, which makes sense given the symptoms. Total estimated repair cost is 420€ including labor. They will do a complete ventilation system check while they have it apart. Really appreciate all the helpful responses, will update once the repair is complete to let others know how it went in case someone runs into similar issues with their hybrid.