Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Battery Fire Recall & California Lemon Law
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is a popular plug-in minivan — but its high-voltage battery has been the subject of a fire-risk recall serious enough that Stellantis has told owners to park outside and away from structures. California's Lemon Law covers hybrids and electric vehicles, so if your Pacifica Hybrid can't be properly repaired, you may be entitled to a buyback, replacement, or cash settlement, with the manufacturer paying your attorney fees.
The battery fire recall
Certain 2020–2022 Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid vehicles have been recalled over a risk that the high-voltage battery can catch fire — including while parked and not charging. Because the fire can occur when the vehicle is off, affected owners have been advised to park outdoors, away from buildings and other cars, and in some cases to stop charging until a remedy is available. This follows earlier fire-related concerns with the Pacifica Hybrid's battery.
Charging loss and time out of service
Owners waiting on a fix may lose the ability to charge or use the plug-in feature they paid for, and may have the vehicle out of service for an extended period. When a hybrid can't be used as intended for a substantial time, or a repair doesn't resolve the defect, that can go to the substantial impairment of the vehicle's use, value, or safety.
When your Pacifica Hybrid may be a lemon
If a substantial defect — a battery fire risk, charging failure, or powertrain fault — can't be fixed after a reasonable number of attempts, or your vehicle is out of service for an extended time, your Pacifica Hybrid may qualify under the Lemon Law. Because a fire risk is a safety defect, fewer failed repair attempts may be required. The remedy can be a buyback, a replacement, or a cash settlement, plus your attorney fees.
What to do
Follow the park-outside guidance, keep your recall notice and every service record, and document any time your Pacifica Hybrid is unusable or waiting on a repair. Then get a free case review to find out whether it qualifies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid covered by California's Lemon Law?
Yes. California's Lemon Law covers plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles, including the Pacifica Hybrid, when a substantial warranty defect can't be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts.
Why am I told to park my Pacifica Hybrid outside?
The recall involves a high-voltage battery fire risk that can occur even when the vehicle is parked and off. Parking outdoors, away from structures and other vehicles, reduces the danger to property until the repair is completed.
What can I recover for a defective Pacifica Hybrid?
Potentially a buyback (a refund minus a mileage offset), a replacement vehicle, or a cash-and-keep settlement — plus your attorney fees paid by the manufacturer.
This article is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different; for advice about your situation, consult a licensed attorney.