Chrysler Recalls 1,677 Pacifica Hybrid Minivans Shortly After They Arrive at Dealerships
The recall, caused by malfunctioning diodes, includes every Pacifica Hybrid model sold so far, as well as those on dealership lots or in transit
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid models are on their way back to the plant where they were assembled
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has been one of the most highly-anticipated and highly-discussed vehicles of the year. Although production of the hybrid minivan began around November at the Windsor, Ontario Chrysler plant, deliveries did not officially begin until April, specifically Earth Day, due to various complications.
However, shortly after first arriving on dealership lots, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is making its way back to the Windsor plant. This is due to a voluntary recall of all Pacifica Hybrid models.
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According to FCA, the recall is due to the discovery of malfunctioning diodes on the battery for the Hybrid version of the Chrysler minivan. The malfunctioning diodes have the potential to cause propulsion loss, which in certain circumstances, such as hillside ascent, greatly increases the chance of an accident.
Fortunately, no injuries related to the malfunction have been reported so far. However, complaints surrounding the issue have been reported to both FCA and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Malfunctioning diodes could cause serious issues for the Pacifica during certain driving circumstances
In response, FCA is issuing a recall for 1,677 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid models, 1,368 in the U.S. and 309 in Canada. Furthermore, any Pacifica Hybrid models currently in transit or on vehicle lots are immediately being returned to the Windsor plant to be repaired.
As for drivers currently behind the wheel of a Hybrid Pacifica, they will receive notifications regarding the recall “soon.” Although no official fix for the malfunctioning diodes has currently been announced, it can be assumed that drivers will be able to schedule a time to bring their minivans into dealerships once said dealerships receive replacement parts. According to one Pacifica owner that reached out to FCA, the automaker explained that repairs might not be possible until “third quarter 2017.”
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As the 2018 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is almost ready to roll out, drivers in the market for a hybrid minivan might just have to wait until those models arrive at dealerships later this year.
News Sources: Inside EVs, autoevolution
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