Chrysler Recalls Minivans Over Safety Risks

Chrysler is recalling more than 200 minivans over a problem with the vehicles’ windshields that poses serious risks in the event of crashes.

The vans’ windshields were produced without sufficient adhesion, Chrysler recently told federal vehicle safety regulators. That is a problem if the vehicles are involved in collisions, according to the company.

“A windshield that is not adequately retained to the vehicle in a crash may increase the risk of injury to the occupants,” the company said in a defect notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The recall covers certain 2024 Pacifica and Voyager minivans. Chrysler said it plans to notify owners of recalled vehicles via mail by May 17. Owners can check the NHTSA website in the meantime to see if their vans are included in the recall.

The company will ask owners of recalled vans to bring the vehicles to authorized service providers for inspection and repair. “The remedy is to properly adhere the windshield to the body,” the company said. 

Chrysler also pledged to reimburse owners who have already incurred costs related to the defect.

These kinds of problems are all too common for Chrysler and other major automakers. The companies call back millions of vehicles every single year, citing serious defects that pose real safety threats for everyone on the road.

Last year, for example, Chrysler announced that it was recalling some 67,000 Pacifica minivans. The company said at the time that the vehicles’ engines could shit off unexpectedly and without warning.

More recently, parent company Stellantis said it is recalling some 280,000 Dodge and Chrysler vehicles over defects in airbags that could cause serious injuries and even deaths. Stellantis said at the time that the safety devices could explode, harming drivers and passengers inside the vehicles.

How the Lemon Law Works

Fortunately, Chrysler and other car owners and lessors in California do not need to wait around for a recall to get defective vehicles repaired. The California lemon law gives you some important rights and protections.

Formally known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, the lemon law generally requires carmakers to perform a wide range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also forces manufacturers to buy back vehicles that they are unable or simply refuse to fix. That means compensating the owner for the vehicle’s purchase price, as well as financing charges, rental car costs and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of recall requests or attempts that must be made before the buyback or replacement requirement kicks in. An experienced California lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights and explore your options.

Talk with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a California lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.