09/25/2017
Recall alert! This one is for a popular minivan!
RECALL: 2017-18 Chrysler Pacifica minivan.
Please SHARE with friends who have this minivan!
HOW CAN YOU TELL IF YOUR PACIFICA IS RECALLED?
The Pacifica minivan comes in a 7 or 8 seater version - with the difference being the addition of a center seat in the 2nd row on the 8 seater version. The 7-seater version is NOT affected by this recall. The 8-seater version IS affected.
WHAT IS THE PROBLEM?
During testing, Chrysler found that when the seat belt in 2C (center seat in the 2nd row) is in use it can accidentally unbuckle the seat belt for 2D (driver's side seat in the 2nd row). As you can see in the picture, the buckle for 2C is directly on top of (and touching) the buckle for 2D which seems to be how this accidental unbuckling can occur.
WHAT IS THE REMEDY FOR THE RECALL?
Chrysler will notify owners, and dealers will install a shorter seat belt buckle in 2C, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 20, 2017. Owners may contact Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Chrysler's number for this recall is T54.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IN THE MEANTIME IF YOU HAVE A RECALLED PACIFICA?
If you are using the seat belt in 2C for anything - a car seat, a booster, a big kid or an adult - do not use anything in 2D that needs a seat belt.
Here are some ways to get around this problem if you need to have people in 2C and 2D:
Option #1: Install a car seat in 2C using LATCH, which will allow you to keep 2C's seat belt buckle tucked down and out of the way where it can't do any harm to 2D. Use seat belt or LATCH for whatever you are putting in 2D.
Option #2: Install a car seat in 2D using LATCH. This gets rid of the risk of accidental unbuckling of 2D as you aren't even using the seat belt in 2D! Use seat belt or LATCH for whatever you are putting in 2C.