Chrysler Gives Fix for Recalled Pacifica Minivans with Stalling Issues
Chrysler Gives Fix for Recalled Pacifica Minivans with Stalling Issues
Automaker Fiat Chrysler says a new software upgrade will fix a problem in thousands of vehicles that apparently caused some of the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica minivans to suddenly stall when drivers were on the road. According to a news report in the Asbury Park Press, a New Jersey resident, Kelly Berardi, had told the newspaper last month that when she was driving home from work in May in 20 mph traffic, her 2017 Chrysler Pacifica suddenly lost power and glided off the road.
She said she could not steer the vehicle, brake or accelerate, which left her in a vulnerable position out on the highway. Thankfully, Berardi didn’t get into an accident and no one was injured. Once she stopped, she was able to restart the car and the minivan came back to life. However, Berardi said this incident left her shaken and her local dealership at the time wasn’t able to fix her car.
Recall Over Stalling Problems
As it turns out, Berardi was not the only one with this problematic vehicle. More than 50 Pacifica owners filed complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Also, the Center for Auto Safety has petitioned NHTSA to launch a probe into the 2017 Pacifica for stalling issues. The group called on FCA to issue a recall in November. FCA has not only announced it’s voluntarily recalling about 153,859 2017 model year Pacifica minivans in the United States, but is also providing the software update, which it says, will fix the problem.
The automaker says that based on its investigation, the vehicle’s engine module, under rare conditions, might incorrectly assess the engine’s operating status. This, they say, has been causing stalling in these vehicles. FCA said it is aware of one related accident, but no injuries. FCA will inform vehicle owners when they can make a service appointment with a certified FCA dealer to install the updated engine control software free of charge. The recall is limited to Pacifica non-hybrid vans. The Center for Auto Safety has said it will continue to monitor the situation including Chrysler’s efforts to notify consumers about the recall.
Auto Product Liability Issues
If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a defective auto, you may be able to seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to advise injured victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.
