Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) will recall 27,634 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans after discovering a potential defect in the vehicles’ 12-volt battery connection. According to a news outlet, the automaker said the issue is unrelated to the Pacifica Hybrid’s electrified powertrain. But, the problem has to do with the 12-volt connection, which powers things such as the radio and other auxiliary features. FCA did not state exactly what’s causing this problem. However, it appears that the battery connection can corrode and eventually cause a fire.
Details of the Recall
So far, the company has said it is aware of a “small number of fires.” Each occurred in Canada except for one in Minnesota. FCA’s announcement did not specifically state plans for repairs. Instead, owners will receive a mailed notice and they will need to bring their vehicle to a local dealer. If a technician finds no evidence of corrosion, they will simply tighten the connection and send owners on their way.
However, if there are signs of corrosion, FCA will instruct the dealer to keep the minivan and send the owners home with a loaner vehicle at no cost. It’s not clear how long the dealers will hold the recalled minivans during the time the automaker prepares a fix for the problem. Owners may be contacted a second time to schedule additional service as FCA continues running tests.
In the meantime, FCA advised owners to keep their Pacifica Hybrid vehicles at a distance. The guidance includes not parking the minivan inside a structure or near buildings and parking the car away from other vehicles. The automaker further stated that owners should not place wet items or liquids that could spill in the second row of seats.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you have been injured due to a defective auto, it is important to preserve the vehicle in its current condition, unaltered, so an expert can thoroughly examine it for evidence of defects, malfunctions and design flaws. If it is determined that an auto defect caused injuries, then, the automaker can be held liable for the injuries, damages and losses. An experienced auto defect lawyer who has successfully handled auto product liability cases against large automakers can help injured victims and their families pursue their legal rights.
