Chrysler has announced that it will be performing a voluntary recall on over 35,000 Dodge and Jeep vehicles across several countries for potentially sticky pedals in response to the recent Toyota recall, as their pedals are supplied by the same company. The recall focuses on those vehicles with manufacture dates ranging between March 7 and May 19, 2006. Chrysler reports that these vehicles are equipped with brake-override software, and that they do not consider the possible defect to be a safety issue; however, the manufacturer opted to perform the recall voluntarily.
Chrysler announced another recall soon after the initial proclamation, indicating the recalls of another half million vehicles across several countries. These recalls include over 300,000 minivans spanning two model years – 2008 and 2009 Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country models manufactured between February and September 2007. An additional recall was listed to include another 300,000 Jeep Wranglers, model years 2006 to 2010.
Chrysler reports that the minivan recall was prompted by 57 reports of damage to the inside of the sliding rear doors, which Chrysler attributes to “an improperly routed wiring harness.” This harness can cause a short circuit when the sliding door is opened or closed, causing the door’s hinge bracket rubbing the harness, potentially wearing through the wire insulation and causing damage. The recall has been issued due to the potential fire hazard it could cause, although there are no reports of any injuries at this time.
The larger Jeep recall is unrelated to either of the others. This recall consists mainly of Jeeps from the U.S., but includes vehicles sold in Canada, Mexico, and International markets as well. These vehicles, manufactured between May 15, 2006 and August 9, 2010, are being recalled in the hopes to prevent any damage or injuries that could be caused as a result of the liner of the vehicle’s left and/or right front fender rubbing against brake lines. This friction has the potential to cause a leak in the lines, resulting in a loss of brake fluid, compromising the integrity of the brakes themselves. At this time, no accidents or injuries have been reported, per Chrysler’s reports.
In all cases, Chrysler will contact consumers affected by these recalls, and schedule repairs at no cost to the vehicle owner. Notices are expected to go out June 2010.
Consumers with concerns or questions can contact Chrysler at (800) 853-1403 or answers to common questions are available at www.chrysler.com. Additional information is available through the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration at (888) 327-4236 or www.safercar.gov to file a complaint.
If you or a loved one owns one of the affected Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep models and have experienced an injury because of a manufacturer defect or design flaw, contact Newsome Law Firm and fill out a case evaluation form today. Our team of attorneys has experience specific to complications associated with automobile recalls. Not only can they give you the legal guidance you need, they can help you get the compensation you deserve.