Chrysler Pacifica Class Action Lawsuit: Navigating the Stalled Engine Saga
The Chrysler Pacifica, once hailed as a family-friendly minivan, has faced a rocky road due to allegations of sudden stalling and power loss. This has culminated in a class action lawsuit against Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), the vehicle’s manufacturer. Let’s delve into the heart of this legal conundrum.
The Allegations:
- The lawsuit claims that specific model years of the Chrysler Pacifica, mainly between 2017 and 2021, harbor a defect that can cause the engine to abruptly shut down while driving.
- This unexpected stalling, without warning or apparent reason, poses a significant safety hazard, potentially leading to accidents and injuries.
- Plaintiffs further allege that FCA knew or should have known about this defect yet failed to adequately inform consumers or implement timely fixes.
The Legal Grounds:
- The lawsuit primarily rests on claims of breach of warranty, alleging that FCA breached its promise to deliver vehicles free from manufacturing defects.
- Consumer protection laws also play a role, accusing FCA of deceptive marketing practices by failing to disclose the stalling issue and its potential dangers.
- Depending on the specific circumstances, claims of negligence and unjust enrichment may also be applicable.
The Settlement:
In July 2023, FCA reached a settlement agreement with the plaintiffs. This settlement applies to owners and lessees of 2017-2021 Pacificas equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a 9-speed automatic transmission.
Key Terms of the Settlement:
- FCA will extend the warranty coverage for certain engine and transmission components.
- Affected owners can seek reimbursement for repairs related to the alleged stalling defect.
- FCA will offer buyback options for certain vehicles at pre-defined rates.
- Additionally, FCA commits to implementing various measures to improve communication and transparency regarding potential vehicle issues.
What This Means for Pacifica Owners:
If you own or lease a 2017-2021 Chrysler Pacifica that falls within the settlement parameters, you should carefully review the settlement terms and consider your options. You may be eligible for extended warranty coverage, repair reimbursements, or even a vehicle buyback.
