Chrysler is currently facing a bit of a nightmare, as the 2023-2026 BraunAbility-converted Pacifica minivan is facing a massive NHTSA recall due to the risks it poses to wheelchair users. Which is, of course, the primary purpose for this specifically modified minivan, making this recall somewhat ironic.
The recall emerged in recent days, with it being directly issued by the NHTSA, and it affects over 1,500 vehicles in total. According to the recall, the problem lies directly with the wheelchair restraint retractors, which are supplied by a sister company to BraunAbility, which helped modify the minivans.
However, it has also emerged that the problem was first detected in October 2025, and it has taken until now for the NHTSA to step in with its own recall. BraunAbility said that they had initiated their own version when they first detected that the Pacificas had the problem.
The aim is to get the minivans recertified as quickly as possible and back to their owners. A deeper dive into the recall revealed that it is the wheelchair restraint retractors causing the problem, which could lead to a major safety issue for those travelling in a wheelchair.
What Is the Problem With the Chrysler Pacifica Minivans?
According to the NHTSA, the issue lies with the wheelchair restraint retractors. These are supplied by Q’Straint, a sister company to BraunAbility. The retractors are meant to hold the wheelchair firmly in place in the Pacifica during travel, but friction between the internal parts can cause the auto-release mechanism to stick.
This then prevents the retractor from locking. And if the retractor doesn’t lock, then there is effectively no retractor at all. Should the wheelchair not be secured, then it can move around unexpectedly during normal driving. This will be exaggerated in sudden maneuvers and a crash, and that poses a huge safety risk to those travelling in the minivan. A recall was the only logical step for the NHTSA to take.
According to BraunAbility, they were notified of the issue on October 24th 2025. They initiated a recall of their own, in conjunction with the NHTSA. But now, a formal recall has been launched by the NHTSA for the problem. In total, it covers 1,571 minivans, so a significant number need to be sent back to BraunAbility for fixing. Not doing so would pose a safety hazard to passengers.
This Is What Owners of the Braunability Minivans Need To Do
Owners have been told that BraunAbility will coordinate with Q’Straint to inspect the retractors on the recalled vehicles. If they are deemed as a failure and safety risk, the retractors will be replaced. Of course, this will be done free of charge, as it is not the fault of the owners that this has happened. Notification letters will be sent out by May 25th, 2026.
According to BraunAbility, those who haven’t yet had the letter can expect it shortly. If it doesn’t reach you by the 25th, then the best thing to do is contact the company with the NHTSA campaign number 26V296000 as a reference. One recommendation is that, if your vehicle hasn’t been collected yet and you need to use it, check yourself that the retractors are engaging and holding. The main thing is that the manufacturer is aiming to fix it ASAP, and free of charge.