Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid Added to 2024 EV Recalls
Stellantis recalls over 24,000 Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrids due to a battery fire risk. Owners are advised to park outdoors and stop charging.
Electric vehicle (EV) recalls have become a critical part of the automotive industry's commitment to safety, addressing issues related to advanced battery technologies. Stellantis recently announced a recall of approximately 19,516 plug-in hybrid minivans in the US to address a potential fire risk. This recall comes after an internal review of warranty data revealed seven fire incidents involving these vehicles, all occurring while the vehicles were turned off and some during recharging. Though no accidents have been reported, four customers experienced symptoms consistent with smoke inhalation.
The affected vehicles include certain model-year 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrids joining the list of EV and hybrid vehicle recalls that have affected the market in 2024. The root cause has been identified as a rare abnormality in individual cells of the high-voltage battery pack. The company emphasizes that the fire risk decreases when the battery charge level is depleted. "Vehicle risk is reduced when the battery charge level is depleted. Accordingly, owners are advised to refrain from recharging," Stellantis advised. "Out of an abundance of caution, Stellantis advises owners of these vehicles to park away from structures or other vehicles until the remedy is obtained." Consequently, the company advises owners to refrain from recharging their vehicles.
Stellantis engineers are validating a remedy involving a software update designed to detect the battery abnormality. If the software identifies an issue, dealers will replace the vehicle’s high-voltage battery free of charge. The recall primarily targets vehicles that may have received a similar software update in the past. At the same time, later models benefit from an improved manufacturing process and are not included in this recall.
2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Courtesy of Stellantis.
Affected customers will receive notifications about service availability via first-class mail. After July 24, owners can verify if their vehicle is subject to the recall by consulting their dealer or using online VIN search engines like Mopar. Additionally, this recall affects an estimated 2,912 vehicles in Canada and 1,683 in certain markets outside the US.
The Stellantis recall underscores the ongoing challenges automakers face with EV battery technology. Battery malfunctions, such as the rare abnormalities identified in this recall, can pose significant safety risks, including fire hazards. As the industry continues to evolve and innovate, ensuring the reliability and safety of battery systems remains paramount. Proactive measures like this recall highlight the commitment of companies like Stellantis to address potential issues swiftly and protect their customers. This approach not only safeguards users but also builds trust in the growing EV market.
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