Chrysler has issued a recall of 38,164 vehicles, which cover minivans, SUVs, and trucks, as there is a risk of potential failures in the driver's airbag deployment during crashes. The recall concerns steering column control modules (2023 and 2024 model years), including a possible scenario where the airbag does not inflate as planned. This situation puts the lives of the riders at risk and violates the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No.208.
Recall Details
The recall, started by FCA US LLC, is due to a fault found in the steering column control modules from American Furukawa Inc. A weld problem in these modules could lead to the disconnection of the flexible flat cable which will in turn not deploy the driver's airbag. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 208 is aimed at regulating the safety of motor vehicles that is focused on occupant crash protection, underscoring the critical importance of rectifying this issue promptly.
FCA's Technical Safety and Regulatory Compliance organization was the one who did the analysis involving failure patterns until January 2024 and as a result, the bad weld adhesion of the steering flexible flat cable and the busbar was identified as the root cause of the problem. This turn of events is of paramount importance as it is a big step in solving the problem of non-deployment of the driver's airbag in Chrysler vehicles, enhancing safety measures.
FCA US LLC has promised to keep owners and dealers informed about the recall by May 3rd. The reason for this action is the concern that the driver's airbag may not deploy. Dealers in the country are obligated to conduct inspections and, if regarded as required, replace the steering column control module with a new one that has been manufactured correctly. The owners can validate their car's recall status via the FCA or NHTSA websites. Those who incurred expenses for module replacement may be eligible for reimbursement upon providing proof of payment.
On top of the Chrysler recall, another recall affects 10,908 replacement steering column control modules which are used in the following Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram vehicles produced between 2017 and 2024. The affected models include popular vehicles like the Ram 1500, Jeep Gladiator, and Chrysler Pacifica, among others. This recall aims to rectify potential safety issues associated with these modules. Owners are urged to verify their vehicle's eligibility for the recall on the automaker's or NHTSA's portal to ensure prompt action.
The latest Chrysler recall addresses two key aspects: including reimbursement policies and vehicle costs. The car owners who were the ones who had to pay for the replacement of the steering column control module now can apply for reimbursement. Through this change, customers will experience a reduction in financial difficulties. Furthermore, the recall prompts a discussion on the diverse pricing range among the affected vehicles. From the pocket-friendly Voyager to the luxurious grand Wagoneer, the pricing spectrum shows the range of economic impact of the recall. This comprehensive approach ensures readers are properly informed about the reimbursement options and the pricing implications that come with their vehicles.
FAQ
What vehicles are affected by the Chrysler recall?
The vehicles affected by the Chrysler recall are Minivans, SUVs, light-duty, and heavy-duty trucks produced for the US market in 2023 and 2024.
What is the issue with the recalled vehicles?
Potential failure of the driver's airbag deployment due to defective steering column control modules.
How can owners check if their vehicles are recalled?
Owners can check using the VIN on the automaker's or NHTSA's recall portal.
What will dealers do to rectify the issue?
Dealers will inspect and replace the steering column control module if necessary.
Are owners eligible for reimbursement if they paid for replacements?
Yes, with adequate proof of payment, owners can be reimbursed.
