Follow us today...
Fiat Chrysler is recalling an estimated 24,111 plug-in hybrid minivans to resolve a potential fire risk. The company is concerned because it has learned of seven fires in 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans that appear to have the same defect. All of the fires started while the vehicles were turned off, some of the vehicles were charging. While there are no related accidents, according to Chrysler, four of the customers have symptoms that appear to be smoke inhalation.
Why the Battery Problems are so Disappointing
The company is continuing its investigation because it hasn’t found the exact cause of the fires. However, it has been determined the events were linked to a rare problem in individual cells of the model’s high-voltage battery pack. You may recall that Chevrolet was forced to recall its popular Bolt EV because of a problem in its battery cells.
The Chrysler Pacifica is a great vehicle. Nearly every person who has owned one loves it. The Pacifica is incredibly functional and contains the extra storage and accessories that drivers love. Adding the plug-in hybrid makes the vehicle even more fuel efficient. Drivers rave about the vehicle. The Chrysler Pacifica PHEV has convinced many drivers that EVs are worth the risk. It is really disappointing that such a stellar performer is tarnished by a recall. It is especially disappointing that many of these minivans are being recalled for the second time for the very same problem. Some of the vans were recalled and had their battery software updated. That is similar to how dealers will address the most recent fire risk.
Chrysler’s Plan to Address the Potential Fire Danger
According to a statement from Chrysler, “Vehicle risk is reduced when the battery charge level is depleted. Accordingly, owners are advised to refrain from recharging. Out of an abundance of caution, Stellantis is also advising owners of these vehicles to park away from structures or other vehicles until the remedy is obtained.
The remedy is undergoing validation by Stellantis engineers. It involves a software update designed to detect the abnormality; if found, dealers will replace the vehicle’s high-voltage battery free of charge.”
In other words, they don’t have the fix yet. But Chrysler adds that the vans are safe to drive because the incidents have only occurred when the vans are off and possibly while being charged.
Luckily, the battery supplier changed the manufacturing process and it appears to have eliminated the battery cell problems.
How Chrysler Will Notify Drivers
Drivers will be notified about the recall by mail. They will also receive notifications when Chrysler dealers are able to fix the problem. Customers who want to confirm whether or not their vehicles are being recalled may check with dealers or consult online VIN-search engines, such as recalls.mopar.com or checktoprotect.org, after July 24. Customers with additional questions may call the company’s customer care line at 1-800-853-1403.
The recall affects 19,516 U.S. vehicles, 2,912 minivans sold in Canada and another 1,683 hybrid minivans sold in other markets. The recall only affects the hybrid models, not the regular Chrysler Pacifica.
Chrysler Photo
Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin.
Follow Mary Conway at @MaryConwayMedia and send her car news tips for future stories.
Follow us today...
