UConnect Infotainment System in 2017-2019 Chrysler Pacifica, 300 Is Defective, Class Action Claims

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Automaker FCA US, LLC has failed to disclose that the fourth-generation UConnect infotainment system in certain vehicle models is defective, a proposed class action alleges. 

If you’ve had problems with the Uconnect system in your Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle, let us know here.

The 50-page second amended complaint claims FCA has breached the standards to which automakers are held by failing to inform buyers and lessees that the UConnect system, as well as its operating software and routing modules, found in any 2017-2019 model year Chrysler Pacifica or 300 vehicle can freeze, lose backup camera and navigational system functionality, display a black screen, repeatedly and unintentionally reboot and generally fail to operate properly.

As a result of the defect, the UConnect in affected vehicle models requires frequent software updates and/or replacement of its screen and related components, the lawsuit says, alleging FCA has known of the UConnect’s deficiencies for years. 

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Although FCA and its predecessor, Chrysler Group, have consistently touted each iteration of the UConnect as “a technological marvel,” every version of the system has been plagued by problems, the complaint says. Prior to the fourth-generation units found in the vehicles at the center of the lawsuit, FCA issued at least two technical service bulletins (TSBs) over “known defects” with the first-generation UConnect, which was released in 2002; seven TSBs for the second generation; and 14 for the third-generation system, according to the case. 

“Though FCA and its predecessors touted each iteration of the UConnect as an upgrade to the prior generation, the UConnect was actually getting worse, culminating in its worst iteration of all, the fourth generation, which is in the Class Vehicles,” the suit reads. 

According to the case, the fourth-generation UConnect has been the subject of at least 17 TSBs, manufacturer communications or recalls since it was released. The suit says that some of the communications focus specifically on safety-related system failures, such as the loss of a vehicle’s backup camera. 

For its part, FCA has taken “affirmative measures” to conceal the UConnect defect and other malfunctions, the lawsuit alleges. As the suit tells it, the existence of communications between FCA and authorized repair facilities and dealers with regard to UConnect malfunctions confirms the automaker’s knowledge of the problem, even though the defendant, according to the case, “disregarded its importance.” 

The lawsuit says the UConnect defect is material to consumers in that it poses a serious safety risk, in particular if the system loses backup camera or navigation functionality or displays a black screen or continually reboots. Aside from the safety concerns, drivers have incurred “significant and unexpected” costs to repair FCA’s UConnect system, the case claims.

“Had FCA disclosed the UConnect defect, Plaintiffs and Class Members would not have purchased the Class Vehicles or would have paid less for them because a vehicle with a known defect is worth less than a comparable vehicle without that defect,” the lawsuit attests. 

The lawsuit looks to represent all individuals in California who bought or leased a 2017-2019 Chrysler Pacifica or Chrysler 300 equipped with a Uconnect infotainment system designed, manufactured, marketed, distributed, sold, warranted and/or serviced by FCA US, LLC. 

If you’ve had problems with the Uconnect system in your Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle, let us know here.