Episode Details

Stellantis Moving Away From Plug-In Hybrids

Earlier this year, Stellantis quietly pulled the plug on its plug-in hybrid dreams. The company confirmed it would start phasing out PHEVs in North America with the 2026 model year, spelling the end for some of its headline-grabbing models. Jeep initially blamed a stop-sale tied to a recall, but Stellantis later admitted it was part of a broader plan.

So, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Grand Cherokee 4xe, and Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid are all getting their retirement papers. That’s a big deal, especially since the Pacifica Hybrid was the only plug-in minivan you could buy in the US. And just as Stellantis is about to shut the book on PHEVs, one of these soon-to-be-gone models is back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons: another safety recall.

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Recalled Over Fire Risk

Stellantis is recalling 17,277 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrids from 2020 to 2022 because the high-voltage battery could go haywire and catch fire. The NHTSA says the problem might be linked to battery cells built on a different assembly line at LG Energy Solution.

Owners are being told to stop charging their Pacificas right away and park them far from anything they don’t want to see go up in smoke. Stellantis is calling this a “Park Outside” recall.

To fix things, dealers will update the battery software to keep a closer eye on anything that could spark a fire. They’ll also check the cars and swap out battery packs if needed. If you get a warning message about the defect, Stellantis is throwing in an unlimited-year, unlimited-mile warranty extension.

Another Headache for Owners and Stellantis

This latest Pacifica Hybrid recall couldn’t come at a worse time for Stellantis’ electrified lineup. Jeep’s 4xe models have been under the microscope for the past couple of years. Over 320,000 Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe SUVs were already recalled due to battery fire risks, prompting warnings for owners to avoid charging. Stellantis has also been hit with lawsuits over alleged plug-in hybrid defects, and some owners have dealt with battery meltdowns, wrecked cars, and endless repair headaches.

The Pacifica recall is following the same script. Stellantis says there have been four reported fires that might be tied to these battery packs. Investigators still don’t know exactly what’s causing the problem, and Stellantis is still working with LG Energy Solution to figure it out.

It’s anyone’s guess if these headaches pushed Stellantis to ditch PHEVs for good. What we do know is