Fiat Chrysler is recalling over 162,000 Chrysler Pacifica minivans from the 2017 model year due to a software issue that could lead to engine stalling.
FCA indicated in a statement on Friday that one accident may be linked to this problem. The automaker found that, in rare situations, the engine control module might misjudge the engine’s operating condition, resulting in a stall.
Most incidents of stalling related to this issue have occurred at low speeds or while starting the minivans. FCA has assured customers that they will be notified when they can take their minivans to dealers for a complimentary update to the engine control software.
This voluntary recall follows a request from a consumer advocacy group for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to investigate the issue. The Center for Auto Safety reported that at least 50 owners had experienced stalling in their Pacificas.
Jason Levine, the executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, expressed satisfaction with Chrysler’s response, stating, “Following the Center for Auto Safety’s petition in November, we are pleased to see Chrysler respond appropriately by conducting a full recall of the Pacifica Minivans. We look forward to seeing Chrysler undertake a model recall by rapidly contacting all affected owners to ensure this remedy is applied to every single vehicle before this defect results in serious injury or death.”
The NHTSA had requested information from FCA regarding the engine stalling in December.
The recall affects nearly 154,000 vehicles in the United States, plus over 8,000 additional vehicles sold in other countries. Notably, hybrid gas-electric models of the minivans are not included in this recall..
