In this case against Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), our client encountered significant issues with their 2020 Chrysler Pacifica shortly after purchase. Despite taking the vehicle to the dealership for multiple repair attempts, problems persisted, culminating in the vehicle spending over 80 days in the shop and requiring a full transmission replacement.
The plaintiff began experiencing issues when a persistent clicking noise was heard from the front passenger tire area during freeway speeds. The vehicle was brought to a local FCA authorized dealership for warranty repairs where technicians could not duplicate the concern.
Over the course of 16 days, the vehicle was road-tested multiple times, but the issue could not be resolved. The problem appeared minor at first, but other concerns soon emerged.
More severe issues arose when the Pacifica experienced a loss of power, with both the check engine light and a red turtle light warning appearing. The vehicle was towed to the dealership, where a diagnostic test revealed a P0A43-00 drive motor “A” position sensor circuit intermittent fault, indicating a serious transmission failure.
Given the severity of the issue, the dealership determined that the transmission required a full replacement.
Subsequently, the Pacifica remained at the dealership for an extensive 62-day period, during which time the technicians replaced the transmission. The repair process was further delayed due to supply chain issues, with replacement parts not readily available.
The transmission replacement included setting the coolant and transmission fluid levels, performing an alignment, and conducting a final test drive, after which the vehicle was returned to the plaintiff.
Cumulatively, the vehicle spent over 80 days at the dealership due to ongoing issues, including extended delays for repairs. Despite numerous repair attempts, the vehicle continued to exhibit performance and reliability concerns. Given the significant time spent out of service and the major repairs involved, the consumers sought legal recourse under California’s Lemon Law.
Frustrated by the unresolved issues and extended time without the vehicle, the plaintiffs enlisted the help of Lemon Law attorneys. After a thorough review of the repair history and vehicle performance, a settlement was successfully negotiated with FCA.
The automaker agreed to repurchase the defective Chrysler Pacifica, fully compensating the plaintiffs for the vehicle and covering all associated legal fees and costs. This case underscores the importance of keeping detailed records of repair attempts and the extended time a vehicle spends in the shop when pursuing Lemon Law claims.
Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have helped numerous clients obtain settlements and repurchases for vehicles that fail to meet reliability standards. If you are facing similar issues with your vehicle, contact our team for a free consultation to explore your legal options under state lemon law today.
