Stellantis recalling 9,516 plug-in hybrid minivans over potential fire risk

Stellantis said FCA US is recalling an estimated 19,516 U.S.-market plug-in hybrid minivans to resolve a potential fire risk. A company review of warranty data discovered seven fires in this vehicle population. All occurred when the vehicles were turned off; some occurred while recharging. Four customers reported symptoms consistent with smoke inhalation. The company is unaware of any related accidents. The company is continuing its investigation. However, it has been determined the events were linked to a rare abnormality in individual cells of the model’s high-voltage battery pack. Vehicle risk is reduced when the battery charge level is depleted. Accordingly, owners are advised to refrain from recharging. Out of an abundance of caution, Stellantis is also advising owners of these vehicles to park away from structures or other vehicles until the remedy is obtained. The remedy is undergoing validation by Stellantis engineers. It involves a software update designed to detect the abnormality; if found, dealers will replace the vehicle’s high-voltage battery free of charge. The recall is limited to certain model-year 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrids. This population includes vehicles that may have been previously remedied with a similar software update; later models benefit from an improved manufacturing process and account for a majority of Pacifica Hybrid production. The vehicles may be driven, Stellantis added.