Chrysler Minivans Called Back for Faulty Airbags

Chrysler is recalling nearly 200,000 minivans nationwide, citing a serious safety issue that could put lives at risk.

The vehicles’ side curtain airbags may not operate as intended in crashes, Chrysler recently told federal regulators. They may not retain enough pressure to absorb the blow in collision situations. 

“Curtain airbags which do not have proper pressure retention may reduce occupant protection,” the company said in a notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The defect increases “the risk of partial and complete ejection and injury of an occupant through a side window during certain types of crashes,” Chrysler said.

The recall covers Pacifica and Voyager minivans from model year 2022 to 2026. Chrysler said it believes about 30% of those vehicles actually have faulty airbags.

The company plans to notify owners of recalled minivans by May 19. Chrysler drivers, in the meantime, can check the NHTSA website to see if their vehicles are part of the recall.

Chrysler will ask owners to bring their minivans to authorized service providers for inspection and repair. Service providers will replace the driver-side curtain airbag, the passenger-side curtain airbag, or both, depending on the model.

This is just the latest safety issue for people who drive Chrysler minivans. This is at least the third time the automaker has recalled minivans over similar airbag issues, according to a Car and Driver report.

NHTSA announced late last year that it launched an investigation into reports of electric power steering problems in some 287,000 Pacifica minivans. Drivers told the agency that steering became sticky during gradual turns, “particularly when the steering wheel is positioned near the 11 o'clock or 1 o'clock position,” according to a NHTSA bulletin.

How the California Lemon Law Works

The California lemon law gives Chrysler drivers in the Golden State some valuable rights and protections. Chief among them is that you do not need to wait for a recall to get a defective or malfunctioning car repaired.

The lemon law, known formally as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, requires car manufacturers to perform a wide range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also forces automakers to buy back (or, in some cases, replace) covered vehicles that they are unable or flat-out refuse to fix. That includes compensating the owner for the purchase price, as well as financing fees, rental car costs, and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts required before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. That is one reason why it is important to consult an experienced California lemon law attorney, who will help you understand your rights and take action.

Speak with a Sacramento Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a Sacramento lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a Sacramento lemon law attorney.