The division found itself in constant retreat as part of the XXIV Panzer Corps commanded by Walther Nehring, first towards Łódź, then crossing the Oder, where it took positions near Głogów in February. It took part in defensive operations near the Ścinawa (German: "Steinau") bridgehead in mid-February. The division had suffered heavy losses during those events and was re-supplied near Görlitz, now renamed "Kampfgruppe 17th Panzer Division" due to being severely understrength and being no more in size than a regiment. It continued its defensive actions in the region during the Silesian Offensives. The division was eventually forced to retreat into Czechoslovakia, heading towards Brno.