Chrysler Recalls Nearly 20,000 Plug-In Hybrid Pacifica Minivans Over Fire Risk
Chrysler has issued a safety recall for approximately 20,000 plug-in hybrid Pacifica minivans built between 2017 and 2021 due to a potential fire risk stemming from an abnormality in individual cells of the high-voltage battery pack. While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has yet to release specific details about the recall, it is estimated that around 19,516 units of the Pacifica plug-in in the United States and 2,912 units in Canada will be affected.
According to Chrysler, the fires are believed to start due to a rare abnormality in the cells of the high-voltage battery pack, although precise details have not been disclosed. However, the automaker has already developed a software update that can detect this abnormality before it leads to a fire. In cases where a cell-related problem is detected, the affected vehicles will be equipped with a new battery pack.
This recall comes after reports of seven fires and four incidents where customers experienced symptoms consistent with smoke inhalation. Fortunately, no accidents or injuries have been reported so far, and all the fires occurred when the vehicles were turned off. Chrysler emphasizes that the risk of fire is significantly reduced when the battery is empty, and as a precautionary measure, owners of potentially affected vans are advised not to charge their vehicles. The automaker also recommends parking outside and away from structures and other vehicles.
Chrysler assures owners that the Pacifica models included in this recall remain safe to drive overall. The company will be notifying affected owners by mail, and it suggests that some of the recalled vans may have already undergone fixes since the hybrid Pacifica was previously recalled in 2020 and 2022 for fire risks. The newer models are not affected as they benefit from an improved manufacturing process that addresses this issue.
It is crucial for Chrysler owners to heed the recall notice and take the necessary precautions outlined by the automaker. As we await further information from the NHTSA, it is essential to prioritize safety and follow the instructions provided by Chrysler to ensure the well-being of both drivers and passengers.
