New York residents should feel safe in their own vehicles. However, some models of cars and larger vehicles end up being recalled. Currently, there have been warnings that certain minivans can pose serious fire risks.
Which minivans are affected by this warning?
Several reports were made of vehicles catching fire while parked. Among them were Chrysler Pacifica minivans. The auto manufacturer has since issued a warning to owners of the 2017 and 2018 model plug-in hybrids to avoid charging their minivans until they get the needed repairs. Chrysler also stated that owners should avoid parking their Pacifica minivans near other vehicles and structures as it can pose significant fire risks.
The manufacturer is working on a fix and trying to determine what’s causing the fire hazards. Around 20,000 vehicles have been affected by the recall. The 12 minivans that had reported fire incidents had all been turned off and parked, with eight of them being charged. According to Chrysler, it’s unknown whether there were any people injured as a result of the fires or if the vans were involved in accidents.
What can minivan owners expect next?
Chrysler is currently continuing to work tirelessly to determine the cause of the fires in its 2017 and 2018 model Pacifica minivans. Once it has come to a conclusion, it will inform owners of the culprit and will let them know when they can have their vehicles repaired for free.
Previously, Chrysler recalled more than 27,000 other Pacifica plug-in hybrid vehicles for a separate problem causing fires in 2020. In 2018, other models were recalled for a fuel issue. Other minivan models were recalled several years prior, also for overheating and catching fire.
All vehicle owners, passengers and passersby are entitled to stay safe when on the street. If a vehicle catches fire and causes personal injury, the victim has the right to hold the appropriate party liable for their damages.