Stellantis to Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Owners: Do Not Plug in Cars

Stellantis recently issued an important warning to nearly 20,000 Chrysler Pacifica hybrid minivan owners: Do not charge your cars.

The automaker says plugging in the vehicles could result in car fires. Stellantis also acknowledged it does not yet know how to fix the problem.

“Until further notice, the company is advising owners of these hybrid vehicles to refrain from recharging them, and to park them away from structures and other vehicles,” Stellantis said in a February press release.

The recall, which covers certain 2017 and 2018 Pacifica minivans, stems from at least 12 reports of car fires in parked minivans. Each of those vehicles was parked and turned off at the time, according to the company, and eight were connected to chargers when the fires started.

The problem for recalled minivan owners is that they eventually will not be able to use the vehicles. Stellantis is warning them not to charge the cars, but the company also said it does not have a repair ready.

“Stellantis is working to confirm the cause of the fires,” the company said in the press release. “The remedy, when developed, will be provided free of charge, and affected customers will be advised when they may schedule service.”

Car Defects, California Car Owners’ Rights

Sadly, these kinds of recalls are far too common from Stellantis and other major auto manufacturers. They recall millions of vehicles around the globe every year, often citing significant defects that pose serious safety hazards. 

Stellantis last year recalled half a million Ram pickup trucks because of a wheel defect that the company told federal regulators increased the risk of a crash. The move came months after Stellantis separately recalled 20,000 Ram trucks that it said were at risk of engine fires.

Fortunately, California’s lemon law offers some important rights and protections when it comes to malfunctioning vehicles. A California lemon law attorney at our firm can help you take action.

The Song Beverly Consumer Warranty Act generally forces carmakers to do a wide variety of repairs on cars while they are under warranty. It also requires automakers to buy back cars that they cannot or will not fix. That includes compensating the owner for the purchase price, along with financing fees and other related costs.

The law allows car manufacturers to offer to replace a malfunctioning vehicle, instead of buying it back. It is up to the owner to decide whether to accept or reject this alternative arrangement, however. 

It is important for anyone haggling with a car manufacturer over repairs to seek the advice of a seasoned California lemon law attorney. The lemon law requires the carmaker to pick up the tab for certain legal fees incurred by owners while enforcing their rights.

Our California Lemon Law Attorneys Can Help

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.