Chrysler develops repair for Pacifica PHEV minivan fires

In February, Stellantis recalled 19,808 examples of the 2017 and 2018 Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid minivan as a result of reviews of fires in 12 autos. The minivans had been manufactured between August 12, 2016, and August 7, 2018. All had been parked and turned off after they caught fireplace; eight of them had been plugged in and charging. Whereas engineers labored to isolate the supply of the fires, Chrysler suggested what’s turn into customary observe within the case of electrical-related fireplace dangers: For house owners to park exterior away from different objects that might catch on fireplace. Since then, there have been two extra fires in Pacifica PHEVs and the primary report of a minor harm due to a fireplace. Chrysler says it is developed an answer to return the minivan to regular operation and is notifying house owners now.

The repair is a visit to the supplier to have upgraded software program put in for the Excessive Voltage Battery Pack Management Module (BPCM) that manages the 16-kWh lithium-ion battery. Sellers can even examine the battery pack and substitute it if essential. Of notice, Chrysler says it hasn’t definitively pinned down the reason for the fires, but it surely understands the situations that may result in the fires. The software program’s been up to date to handle these preconditions, the automaker telling Inexperienced Automobile Studies it “has validated its treatment.”

House owners ought to proceed to park exterior and away from constructions and chorus from plug-in charging till their vans are mounted, after which they will “resume automobile operation as outlined of their house owners’ manuals.” The restore will take from 1.5 to 2 days; a rental or courtesy automobile shall be offered freed from cost. 

Stellantis has already begun sending letters to house owners. These with questions can contact their Chrysler dealerships, or get in contact with Chrysler customer support at ​​800-853-1403 and consult with recall quantity Z11. They’ll additionally name the Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Affiliation (NHTSA) Car Security Hotline at 888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) and point out marketing campaign quantity 22V077.