This past summer was a busy one for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Multiple international vehicle manufacturers issued large-scale recalls. Among these companies was Chrysler. In July, Chrysler recalled approximately 841,000 vehicles in two separate actions due to problems with the vehicles’ head restraints, side airbags and electronic stability control. Although the NHTSA isn’t currently publishing recall notices due to the government shutdown, Chrysler is still informing consumers about its most recent recall. Presently, Chrysler is recalling an estimated 132,000 sport utility vehicles (SUVs) worldwide due to potential software problems, according to Reuters.
The recall affects model year 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokees that may have software problems “that could lead to a blackout of instrument panel lighting.” The software issue may also affect the antilock braking systems in the vehicles. The recall includes approximately 91,559 models in the United States. Chrysler is also issuing this recall for an additional 10,800 model-year 2014 Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks for the same software issue.
The recall follows consumer reports of blackouts among the warning-light illumination and instrument-panel systems. The systems would experience blackouts infrequently, and would be fixed after turning the vehicles’ ignitions on and off. According to Chrysler, no reports of accidents or injuries related to this issue have been reported.
As part of the recall, Chrysler will upgrade the instrument cluster software in the Grand Cherokee and Ram models. Chrysler dealers will also upgrade the antilock braking system software in the Grand Cherokee models. Owners of the affected models will be notified in November. Most of the Ram models are still on dealer lots.