Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is recalling certain 2018 to 2019 Chrysler Pacifica minivans for issues involving the rear backup screen on the 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen infotainment system. The vehicles that are affected are equipped with the 360-degree surround-view camera system and the seatback video screens. According to the recall, a software error can cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed on the radio after the vehicle has been shifted out of the reverse position.
The suspect radios were assembled into vehicles from May 1st, 2018, when Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (“FMVSS”) 111 (49 CFR 571.111) rearview camera requirements became effective, through May 23rd, 2019, when vehicles were assembled with radios that contained updated software. The suspect period was determined using plant and supplier production records. According to official documents, 20,441 in the United States are affected.
Similar vehicles not included in the recall population were produced before or after the suspect period or were not equipped with the combination of 8.4-inch Uconnect display, 360-degree surround-view camera system, and seatback video screens.
The lingering rearview image can distract the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.
FCA will notify owners, and dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on January 31st, 2020. Owners may contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403. FCA’s number for this recall is VE2.
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
