Introduction:
Chrysler announced a recall for approximately 24,000 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid plug-in hybrid minivans due to a fire risk associated with a battery-cell abnormality. The issue has prompted the automaker to advise owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures, as well as to cease charging until a software update is provided to address the problem. This recall affects Pacifica Hybrids from model years 2017 to 2021, with the majority of vehicles being in the U.S. The safety of their customers is a top priority for Stellantis, and they are working diligently to resolve the issue and ensure the vehicles are safe to drive.
The recall was initiated by Stellantis due to a potential fire risk in the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid plug-in hybrid minivans. The automaker identified a battery-cell abnormality as the root cause of the problem, leading to concerns about safety. To prevent any potential incidents, Stellantis has advised owners to avoid charging their vehicles and to park them outside until a software update is released to rectify the issue. The safety of the customers and the integrity of the vehicles are paramount for Stellantis, prompting them to take swift action to address the problem and ensure the safety of the affected vehicles.
The recall impacts approximately 24,000 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid plug-in hybrid minivans globally, with the majority of vehicles being in the U.S. About 19,500 vehicles in the U.S., 3,000 in Canada, and 1,700 outside North America are included in the recall. The Pacifica Hybrid is the only plug-in hybrid minivan currently available in the U.S., making this recall of significant importance to the owners of these vehicles. Stellantis is working to notify all affected customers and provide them with the necessary updates and support to address the fire risk issue and ensure the safety of the vehicles.
Stellantis has reported seven incidents related to the battery-cell abnormality issue in the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid plug-in hybrid minivans. These incidents occurred while the vehicle was turned off and, in some cases, during the charging process. Four customers reported symptoms consistent with smoke inhalation, highlighting the serious safety risk posed by this issue. Stellantis is advising owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures to mitigate the risk of fire until the software update is provided to address the problem.
Stellantis is actively working on a software update to detect and address the battery-cell abnormality identified as the root cause of the fire risk issue in the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid plug-in hybrid minivans. Once the update is ready, the automaker will notify customers and provide instructions on how to have their vehicles’ battery packs inspected and, if necessary, replaced by dealers free of charge. This proactive approach is aimed at ensuring the safety of the vehicles and preventing any potential incidents related to the battery abnormality.
This is not the first time Stellantis has issued a recall for the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid plug-in hybrid minivans due to fire risk concerns. In previous instances, the automaker advised owners to refrain from charging their vehicles until a fix was provided to address the issue. Stellantis has a track record of prioritizing customer safety and taking proactive measures to address any safety concerns related to their vehicles. The current recall and software update are part of their ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and integrity of the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid plug-in hybrid minivans.