NEWS:  U.S. probes old Jeep Grand Cherokees for fire risk

YAHOO NEWS -- August 24, 2010 – U.S. safety regulators have opened a preliminary investigation of about 3 million older Jeep Grand Cherokees with fuel tanks that may present a fire risk in a crash, the regulators' website showed on Tuesday.

The investigation was opened on Monday by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The action is short of a recall, and a Chrysler spokesman said owners of the 1993-2004 model year vehicles should take no action at this time.

Chrysler said it was cooperating fully with NHTSA on the investigation. It said the Jeep Grand Cherokees from those model years "meet or exceed" federal safety standards.

The Center for Auto Safety last October petitioned NHTSA to open an investigation into the vehicles, saying NHTSA records show that from 1992 to 2008 the SUVs were involved in 172 fatal fire crashes with 254 deaths.

The petition did not say how many, if any, of the deaths were related to the fuel tanks.

The preliminary investigation comes as automakers face tougher scrutiny by safety regulators following Toyota Motor Corp's massive recalls starting in fall 2009.

The Center for Auto Safety, founded by Consumers Union and Ralph Nader in 1970, asked regulators to open an investigation in October 2009, contending that the Grand Cherokee fuel tank storage system was defective and posed a hazard in a crash.

The Grand Cherokee's plastic fuel tank from those model years was behind the rear axle, extended below the rear bumper and had inadequate shielding, leaving it vulnerable to rupturing or leaking in a crash, the center said.

Chrysler put the fuel tank in front of the rear axle and shielded it in the 2005 model year, the center said.

In response to the center's petition, federal safety investigators performed a preliminary examination of data that isolated 10 crashes with 13 fatalities most likely associated with the defect the center described, NHTSA said.

A preliminary review of data supplied to federal regulators did not find the Grand Cherokee "over-represented for post-crash fires," NHTSA said.

"Further review and investigation into these incidents is needed to determine the existence of any relationship between the alleged defect and each fire or leak," NHTSA said.

MORE RECALL INFO:    Jeep Grand Cherokee  

JULY 2010 -- Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2010 left hand drive Jeep Liberty, Dodge Nitro and Ram 1500 truck; right and left hand drive Jeep Wrangler vehicles. These vehicles may have been built with an improperly formed master cylinder to hydraulic control unit (HCU) brake tube assembly end flare. This could lead to loss of brake fluid and reduced braking performance increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the brake tubes free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during August 2010.  10V-315

JUNE 2010 -- Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2007 Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass passenger vehicles manufactured from March 7 through May 19, 2006. The pivot bushings in vehicles with oversizedaccelerator pedal bearing pockets may become dislodged and potentially cause the accelerator pedal tobind or stick. Should the pedal bind or become stuck, it can be overcome by smart brakes which override the accelerator pedal in certain conditions. Chrysler will notify owners and dealers will inspect andreplace all affected accelerator pedal assemblies free of charge. The safety recall began on June 29, 2010.   Chrysler's recall campaign number is K11. 10V-234

JUNE 2010 -- Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2008 and 2009 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country passenger vehicles manufactured from February through September 2007. Some of the vehiclesmay have been built with an improperly routed wire harness that may have a condition where the lower sliding door hinge bracket can make contact and wear through the wire insulation. A short circuit could occur inside the sliding door, overheating the latch, possibly resulting in a fire. Chrysler will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during July 2010.  Chrysler's recall campaign number is K14. 10V-235

JUNE 2010 -- Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2010 Jeep Wrangler left and right hand drive passenger vehicles manufactured from May 15, 2006 through April 22, 2010. There may be contact between the right and left front inner fender liners and the right front and left rear brake tubes which could cause wear of the tubes causing a brake fluid leak. A brake fluid leak can cause partial loss of service brakes at the affected wheel increasing the risk of a crash. Chrysler will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during July 2010.  Chrysler's recall campaign number is K13. 10V-236

YAHOO NEWS -- July 9, 2010 – The government says Chrysler is recalling about 22,000 sport utility vehicles and trucks to fix brake tubes that could lead to the loss of brake fluid.

Chrysler says its recall affects certain 2010 Dodge Nitro, Dodge Ram, Jeep Liberty and Jeep Wranglers that could have defective brake tubes. The problem could lead to the loss of brake fluid, making it difficult to brake and posing the threat of a crash.

Chrysler says owners should be notified in August.

MORE RECALL INFO:

• Dodge Nitro
• Dodge Ram Trucks
• Jeep Liberty
• Jeep Wrangler

MAY  2010 -- Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2010 Chrysler 300, Dodge Challenger, Charger, JeepCommander, Grand Cherokee and Dodge Ram vehicles. These vehicles may have been built with a wireless ignition node (WIN) module exhibiting a binding condition of the solenoid latch. The result of the defect could lead to a condition where the key may be removed from the ignition switch (WIN module) prior to placing the shifter in park. This could result in the potential for unintended vehicle movement and could increase the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect and replace the WIN module free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during July 2010.  Chrysler's recall campaign number is K08. 10V-200

YAHOO NEWS – June 7, 2010 – Chrysler Group LLC is recalling nearly 600,000 minivans and Jeep Wranglers because of brake or wiring problems that could become safety issues, the company and federal regulators said Monday.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on its website the automaker is recalling 288,968 Jeep Wranglers from the 2006 through 2010 model years due to a potential brake fluid leak.

It also is recalling 284,831 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans from the 2008 and 2009 model years because a wiring problem can cause a fire inside the sliding doors.

Neither problem has caused any crashes or injuries, Chrysler said in a statement.

On the Jeeps, the front inner fender liners can rub against the brake fluid tubes and cause a leak. NHTSA says the leak could result in partial loss of brakes.

The minivans can have improperly placed wires that can come in contact with sliding door hinges, and the hinges can wear through the insulation and in rare cases cause a fire inside the door, Chrysler and NHTSA said.

Chrysler will notify owners and dealers about the repairs, which will be made free of charge. The recall is expected to start later this month.

The Wranglers affected by the recall were made from May 15, 2006 through Aug. 9, 2010, according to NHTSA. The minivans were made from February 2007 through September 2007.

MORE RECALL INFO:

• Jeep Wrangler
• Dodge Grand Caravan
• Chrysler Town & Country

NEWS:   Chrysler recalls Dodge Caliber over sticky pedals

YAHOO NEWS -- June 5, 2010 – Chrysler is recalling nearly 35,000 Dodge Calibers in the United States and around the world to fix a potential problem with sticky gas pedals, the same issue that has affected millions of Toyotas.

Chrysler Group LLC said it will recall about 25,000 Calibers in the U.S. from the 2007 model year and a limited number of 2007 Jeep Compass SUVs to inspect vehicles built between March and May of 2006. The remaining vehicles are in Mexico, Canada and elsewhere.

The pedals were made by CTS Corp., the Elkhart, Ind., company that manufactured pedals involved in the recall of more than 2 million Toyotas earlier this year. Chrysler told NHTSA the pedals were "a completely different design" and made "with different tooling" than the pedals involved in Toyota's recall.

NHTSA opened an investigation into the Chrysler pedals in April. The auto company noted that the small SUVs have "smart brake" technology allowing the brake to override the gas pedal and safely bring the vehicle to a stop. Chrysler said it did not consider the problem a safety defect but decided to conduct a safety recall anyway.

The automaker said it was unaware of any reports of accidents, injuries or property damage related to the pedals. In documents filed with NHTSA, Chrysler estimated that 30 percent of the vehicles covered by the recall may need to have the pedal assembly replaced.

Chrysler dealers will inspect the recalled vehicles and replace affected pedals with a new pedal unit at no charge to customers.

MORE RECALL INFO:   Dodge Caliber     Jeep Compass  

NEWS:  2010 Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep Models Recalled

ConsumerAffairs.com -- May 17, 2010  --  Chrysler Group LLC is recalling about 40,000 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep models from the 2010 year. The vehicles may have a defective ignition switch that would allow the key to be removed prior to placing the shifter in the "park" position. This could lead to unintended vehicle movement.

The affected models are:

• 2010 Chrysler 300
• 2010 Dodge Challenger
• 2010 Dodge Charger
• 2010 Dodge Ram
• 2010 Jeep Commander
• 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Dealers will inspect the ignition module and replace defective units free of charge when the recall begins in July 2010.

YAHOO NEWS -- May 3, 2010 – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating a problem with sticky gas pedals in 2007 Dodge Caliber small sport utility vehicles.

The company said Monday there have been only five complaints, and it is unaware of any crashes, injuries or property damage linked to the problem. No recall has been issued.

Chrysler and NHTSA said the pedals were made by CTS Corp. of Elkhart, Indiana, the same company that manufactured pedals involved in a Toyota Motor Corp. recall earlier this year.

The automaker said the investigation is in the early stages, but based on the build dates of the vehicles involved in the complaints, the problem appears to be limited to about 10,000 vehicles made during a five-week period in March and April of 2006.

NHTSA said an estimated 161,000 vehicles are covered by the investigation, but Chrysler spokesman Nick Cappa said that's the total of all Calibers built during the 2007 model year. The automaker said the problem is mechanical and is not an electronic or design issue. The Toyota pedal is a completely different design from the one used in the Caliber, Cappa added.

Chrysler said it will cooperate fully with the investigation.

All 2007 Calibers were equipped with pedals made by CTS, but Cappa could not say if some pedals differ from those installed during March and April of 2006.

"We have data that is telling us that there were a certain amount of complaints during that time period," Cappa said.

CTS did not immediately return a phone message seeking comment.

Chrysler is investigating whether similar pedals were used in other vehicles, but so far it appears limited to the 2007 Caliber made during that five-week period, Cappa said. The investigation includes the Jeep Compass and Patriot, which essentially are the same vehicles as the Caliber with different bodies. All three models are made at the same factory.

NHTSA, which notified Chrysler of the problem on April 23, said Monday that it received five complaints from the drivers of Calibers with electronic throttle control, which governs the speed of a vehicle when a driver presses on or releases the gas pedal. The reports said that the pedals became stuck and did not return to the idle position.

Four of the Caliber drivers reported they found small parts of the gas pedal known as bushings on the driver side floor. Without the bushings, it is possible for the pedals to become stuck, according to NHTSA.

The Caliber is equipped with a safety system that would cut engine power if the brake and gas pedals are pressed at the same time, Chrysler said.

The company said people who own 2007 Calibers built from March through April of 2006 can visit their Dodge dealer for a free inspection. Any other concerned Caliber owners also can visit their dealers or call 1-800-992-1997 for more information

• MORE RECALL INFO:   Dodge Caliber

YAHOO NEWS -- February 26, 2010 – Chrysler Group LLC on Wednesday asked the owners of more than 355,000 of its popular minivans to take them to dealers in a few months to replace crash sensors that help to control the air bags.

The sensors can crack and fail in 2005 and 2006 Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan models, Chrysler said in a statement. It is asking owners to wait until June to contact dealers because it needs time to distribute repair parts.

The automaker is calling the move a "safety improvement campaign" and says it is not a recall. But National Highway Traffic Safety Administration spokeswoman .. says the agency considers it a recall and is monitoring repairs to make sure they are carried out.

Chrysler said that in some weather conditions, the front crash sensors can crack, causing water to enter. The company says the sensors help the air-bag control computer decide the speed and manner to deploy the safety devices. Sensors to be replaced are not the main airbag control sensor, the company said.

The automaker says it is not aware of any complaints, injuries or property damage from the problem.

MORE RECALL INFO:

• Chrysler Town & Country
• Dodge Caravan

MORE RECALL INFO

(Yahoo News) –-Jan 19, 2010 -- Chrysler Group LLC will recall 24,177 vehicles due to a potential defect in a brake system that could result in sudden brake failure, the automaker said in a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The recall applies to 2010 model-year Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger and Nitro, and Jeep Liberty, Commander and Grand Cherokee SUVs, as well as 2009-2010 model year Dodge Ram trucks.

In some of the vehicles, the clip retention tab on the brake pedal pin was improperly formed, or not installed, during the manufacturing process, Chrysler said. That could result in brake failure without warning and could cause a crash, the company said. Chrysler said it was unaware of any accidents or injuries related to the issue. Chrysler said the safety recall is expected to begin during the month of January.

MORE RECALL INFO

NOVEMBER 2009 -- Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2007 Dodge Nitro passenger vehicles. The windshield wiper system may experience a condition over time where high usage of the variable pause wiper function ("delay" mode) may eventually affect primary wiper function, rendering the wiper system inoperable. Inoperative wipers under inclement weather conditions could cause impaired visibility increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect and add external relays and update the totally integrated power module software to control the wiper functions. The safety recall is expected to begin during December 2009.  Chrysler's campaign number is J28. 09V-438

NOVEMBER 2009 -- Chrysler is recalling certain Model Year 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee passenger vehicles manufactured from October 22 through November 12, 2009. The passenger side airbag may not properly deploy through the instrument panel tear seam. The airbag may not properly protect the passenger in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Dealers will replace the top cover of the instrument panel free of charge. The campaign is expected to begin in December 2009.  Chrysler's campaign number is J33. 09V-454

OCTOBER 2009 -- Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2009 through 2010 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger passenger vehicles equipped with rear wheel drive. These vehicles may have been built without a front wheel spindle nut. While driving, a tire and wheel separation could occur increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect the tire and wheel assembly and if found without a spindle nut it will be repaired free of charge. The recall began on November 2, 2009.    09V-420

OCTOBER 2009 -- Sprinter is recalling certain model year 2002 through 2003 vans sold as Dodge and Freightliner vehicles. The intake manifolds may have corroded. A chemical reaction involving sulfur in the diesel fuel thattakes place under certain conditions can lead to the formation of sulfuric acid in the exhaust channel ofthe intake manifold. Intake manifold corrosion may lead to an exhaust gas leak, damage to the fuel return line which could cause a fuel leak, and heat damage to the insulation at the front wall. Dealers will inspect and replace the intake manifold free of charge. Chrysler, LLC is handling the owner notification and remedy for this campaign. The recall is expected to begin during November 2009.   09V-418

MAY 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 37,407 MY 2009 Dodge Ram light duty pickup trucks equipped with manual temperature control (MTC) only. The software programmed into the heating ventilation and air conditioning module may cause the windshield defrosting and defogging functions to become inoperative. This can decrease the driver's visibility under certain driving conditions and result in a crash without warning. Dealers will reprogram the HVAC module free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during June 2009. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-835-1403. 09V-158

APRIL 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 102,354 MY 2001-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee vehicles with heated seats and with Chrysler recall No. 06V-197 completed (03-04 MY) or seat heater elements service replacement (01-02 MY). The front seat electric heater elements could overheat. Overheating could potentially cause a fire or injury. Dealers will replace the front seat heater elements free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.  09V-117

APRIL 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 4,336 MY 2009 Dodge Journey, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Commander and Wrangler  vehicles. Wiring may be reversed on the steering column control module driver airbag squib connector. The driver's airbag may not deploy as intended. In the event of a crash, the driver's airbag may not properly inflate and may not be able to properly protect an occupant, increasing the risk of injuries. Dealers will inspect the driver's airbag squib wires and replace the steering column control module free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during May 2009. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. 09V-118

APRIL 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 42,469 MY 2002-2003 Jeep Liberty vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in salt belt States of Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia , Wisconsin and the District of Columbia. The front suspension upper control arm ball joint may experience a loss of lubrication which could lead to corrosion, accelerated wear, and possible separation while driving. Failure of the ball joint could result in a loss of steering capability, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the front upper control arm assemblies free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. 09V-119

MARCH 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 507 MY 2009 Dodge Ram 2500/3500 pickup trucks heavy duty cab chassis with manual transmission and power adjustable pedal package. The clutch pedal connecting rod to the clutch master cylinder may separate from the master cylinder. This may not allow disengagement of the clutch when the pedal is depressed, which could result in unintended vehicle movement. Increased stopping distance and engine stalling may occur increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the clutch master cylinder hydraulic system free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during April 2009 Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.  09V-078

MARCH 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 16,852 MY 2009 Dodge Journey vehicles equipped without optional 115 volt auxiliary power outlet. An unused electrical connector for the optional 115 volt auxiliary power outletoption may become corroded and could short circuit. If the fuse for this circuit does not blow, theconnector could overheat and potentially catch fire. Dealers will re-route and stow the 115 volt auxiliarypower outlet connector and pull the 25 amp fuse to remove power from this unused circuit free of charge. The recall began on March 30, 2009. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.  09V-082

MARCH 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 72,136 MY 2008-2009 light and heavy duty Dodge Ram pickup trucks. The windshield wiper module motor assembly may be susceptible to water intrusion that could result in partial or complete loss of windshield wiping capability. When the wiper system fails, the operator will have reduced visibility which could result in a crash. Dealers will replace the wiper module assemblies with vented wiper motor housings free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule. Owner may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403   09V-084

FEBRUARY 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 6,138 my 2009 town and country and dodge grand caravan vehicles. Unused electrical connectors for the blind spot detection system may become corroded and could short circuit, which can cause a variety of conditions. If the fuse for this circuit does not blow, the connectors could overheat and potentially catch fire. Dealers will seal the power circuit at the subject connector and replace the fuse for this circuit if necessary free of charge. The recall began on March 9, 2009. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.  09V-046

FEBRUARY 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 92 MY 2009 Sebring and Dodge Avenger equipped with 2.4L engine passenger vehicles. A compatibility issue between the instrument cluster software and fuel pump module can result in the fuel gauge overstating the actual fuel tank level. As a result, the vehicle may run out of fuel when the gauge indicates that there is still fuel remaining in the tank. This could cause a crash withoutwarning. Dealers will replace the fuel pump module free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during March 2009. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.   09V-047

JANUARY 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 19,024 MY 2005 Dodge Durango vehicles. The fuel tank filler tube inlet check valve may not fully close at the end of refueling. This could allow some fuel to escape from the vehicle through the filler neck at the end of refueling. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire. Dealers will inspect the fuel tank inlet check valve. Vehicles found to have a suspect inlet check valve will have the fuel tank assembly replaced free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during April 2009. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. This recall was the subject of a Recall Query, RQ08-005, conducted by the Office of Defects Investigation.   09V-003

JANUARY 2009 --  Chrysler is recalling 32,865 MY 2008-2009 Dodge Ram 2500, 3500 and 3500 cab chassis pickup trucks equipped with Powers and Sons steering linkage. The steering linkage drag link inner tie rod to pitman arm ball stud may fracture. Also the steering linkage damper attaching the bracket may yield and shift on the linkage. This could result in a loss of steering control and the restricted ability to turn the vehicle in one direction increasing the risk of a crash without warning. Dealers will replace the steering linkage drag link inner tie rod end assembly, and inspect the steering linkage damper bracket free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on or before February 16, 2009. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403.  09V-005

DECEMBER 2008 -- Chrysler is recalling 176 MY 2009 Dodge Charger, Challenger, and Chrysler 300 vehicles. The tire pressure monitor (TPM) sensors may not transmit the actual tire pressure. This could result in the driver not being aware of low tire pressure. Operation of the vehicle with low tire pressure could result in tire damage and cause a crash without warning. Dealers will replace the TPM sensors. The recall is expected to begin during January 2009.  08V642

DECEMBER 2008 -- Chrysler is recalling 108,429 MY 2007-2008 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks equipped with 6.7L diesel engines. A silencer pad can sag and contact the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler. This could result in an engine compartment fire. Dealers will add a bracket to support the engine compartment silencer pad adjacent to the EGR cooler. The recall is expected to begin during January 2009.  08V641

NOVEMBER 2008 -- Chrysler is recalling 20,283 MY 2006-2009 Charger and Magnum vehicles built with the police package and equipped with a column shifter. The gearshift cable may become disengaged from the steering column mounting bracket and cause an incorrect transmission gearshift position display. This could allow the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction startling the driver, and cause a crash without warning. Dealers will add a redundant locking mechanism to the gearshift cable at the mounting bracket to ensure proper retention and shift linkage function. The recall began on November 10, 2008.  08V583

SEPTEMBER 2008 -- Chrysler is recalling 6,636 MY 2008-2009 Dodge Challenger vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions and "Keyless Go" option. These vehicles failed to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 114, "Theft Prevention." If the stop/start button is pressed and held and the engine turns off, the electronic key code is removed from the vehicle. Since this can occur in a transmission or gear selector position other than "park," and the transmission or gear selector does not become locked in "park" as a direct result of key removal, it was determined that a noncompliance may exist. This standard specifies vehicle performance requirements intended to reduce the incidence of crashes resulting from theft and accidental rollaway of motor vehicles. Dealers will reprogram the wireless ignition node module so the engine can only be turned off when the transmission and gear selector is in the "park" position. The recall is expected to begin during October 2008.  08V458

SEPTEMBER 2008 -- Chrysler is recalling 3,663 MY 2007-2008 Dodge Nitro and MY 2008 Jeep Liberty vehicles equipped with manual transmissions. The park brake lever clutch drum may distort and reduce the effectiveness of the park brake system. This could allow the vehicle to move inadvertently and cause a crash without warning. Dealers will replace the park brake lever assembly free of charge. The parking brakes were manufactured in Canada. The recall began on October 27, 2008.  08V525

SEPTEMBER 2008 -- Chrysler is recalling 712 MY 2009 Sebring, Dodge Caliber, Avenger, Journey, Jeep Patriot, and Compass vehicles. A new adhesive used in the power train control module (PCM) manufacturing process can cause the printed circuit board to break. This can cause the engine to stall and cause a crash without warning. Dealers will replace the PCM free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during November 2008.

JULY 2008 -- Chrysler is recalling 5,509 MY 2008 300, Dodge Magnum, and Charger vehicles. The torque retention crimp feature was missed during the manufacture of one lot of rear axle hub nuts. This could cause the nuts to loosen allowing the halfshaft to disengage from the wheel hub. This could cause the vehicle to lose power and result in a crash without warning. Dealers will replace the rear axle hub nuts. The recall is expected to begin during August 2008.  08V295

JUNE 2008 -- Chrysler is recalling 6,692 MY 2009 Dodge Journey vehicles equipped with a 3.5L engine. The engine wiring harness may contact the left transaxle mount. Damage to the wiring harness could result in an engine compartment fire. Dealers will inspect the engine wiring harness for damage. If the harness is damaged, the wiring will be repaired and a tie wrap installed to secure the harness away from the left transaxle mount. If no damage is found, a tie wrap will be installed to secure the harness away from the left transaxle mount. The manufacturer has not yet provided an owner notification schedule for this campaign.  08V247

 APRIL 2008 -- Chrysler is recalling 180,963 MY 2007-2008 Sebring and Dodge Avenger vehicles equipped with a standard tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Unused electrical connectors for the TPMS may become corroded and could short circuit, which can cause a variety of conditions including engine no-start, dead battery, an inoperative cruise control or remote start system, and/or engine stalling. Engine stalling could cause a crash without warning. Dealers will seal the wires for the TPMS free of charge. The recall began on April 15, 2008. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. 08V152

APRIL 2008 -- Chrysler is recalling 180,963 MY 2007-2008 Sebring and Dodge Avenger vehicles equipped with a standard tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Unused electrical connectors for the TPMS may become corroded and could short circuit, which can cause a variety of conditions including engine no-start, dead battery, an inoperative cruise control or remote start system, and/or engine stalling. Engine stalling could cause a crash without warning. Dealers will seal the wires for the TPMS free of charge. The recall began on April 15, 2008. Owners may contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. 08V152

DECEMBER 2007 -- Chrysler is recalling 576,418 MY 2001-2002 Dakota, Durango, Ram van and MY 2002 Ram pick-up trucks equipped with automatic transmissions. The ignition/park shift interlock system may become inoperative. This can allow the shifter to be moved out of the "park" position with the ignition key removed (or in the "lock" position). This can also allow the ignition key to be removed when the shifter has not been placed in the "park" position. Either of these conditions could allow the vehicle to roll away causing a crash without warning. Dealers will replace the gearshift blocker and bracket assembly. The recall is expected to begin during January 2008. 07V-555

NOVEMBER 2007 -- DaimlerChrysler is recalling 28,755 MY 2007-2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander sport utility vehicles. Front brake calipers in a certain lot may have been manufactured from gray iron instead of ductile iron as designed and could fracture without warning. This would increase the vehicle's stopping distance and could cause a crash. Dealers will inspect the front brake calipers to see if they fall into this lot and, if so, will replace them. The recall is expected to begin during October 2007. 07V-415

OCTOBER 2007 -- Chrysler is recalling 564 MY 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 cab/chassis pickup trucks equipped with an optional 23 gallon fuel tank. The fuel tank straps were improperly manufactured and could separate. This can cause the fuel tank to loosen and leak fuel. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in an underbody fire. Dealers will replace the fuel tank retention straps and fasteners. The recall is expected to begin during November 2007. 07V-472

OCTOBER 2007 -- DaimlerChrysler is recalling 72,333 MY 2007-2008 Avenger sedan and Chrysler Sebring convertible vehicles. The front door latch cable may become partially unseated from the interior release handle housing possibly causing the latch to stick in the unlatched position or the lock function to become inoperative. Driving a vehicle with an unlatched door can result in an unbelted front seat occupant falling out of the vehicle or being ejected in a crash, causing increased risk of injury. Dealers will add a secondary retention feature to both front doors. This action will supersede and expand a previous safety recall (please see 07V104). The recall is expected to begin during October 2007. 07V-414

OCTOBER 2007 -- Chrysler is recalling 102,042 MY 2007-2008 Dodge Avenger and Chrysler Sebring vehicles equipped with 2.4 liter engines. The engine coolant may be drawn into the left radiator cooling fan motor connector. This can cause an electrical short circuit and result in an engine compartment fire. Dealers will inspect the connector for contamination or damage, install a wiring harness overlay, and replace the fan motor. The recall is expected to begin during November 2007. 07V-473

OCTOBER 2007 -- DaimlerChrysler is recalling 1,158 MY 2008 Dodge Avenger all wheel drive vehicles. The fuel tank straps were improperly manufactured and could separate. This can cause the fuel tank to loosen and leak fuel. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire. Dealers will replace the fuel tank retention straps. The recall is expected to begin during October 2007. 07V-426

SEPTEMBER 2007 -- DaimlerChrysler is recalling 296,550 MY 2007 Dodge Nitro, Jeep Wrangler, and MY 2006-2007 Grand Cherokee and Commander sport utility vehicles. The software programmed into the ABS electronic control module may allow a momentary delay in braking when coasting up a hill during certain conditions. This could cause a crash without warning. Dealers will reprogram the ABS electronic control module with new software that prevents this condition. The recall is expected to begin during October 2007. 07V-434

AUGUST 2007 - DaimlerChrysler is recalling 1,498 MY 2007 2-wheel drive Dodge Ram pickup trucks equipped with manual transmissions. The front driveshaft yoke may break under certain driving conditions. This could result in a loss of vehicle control and cause a crash without warning. Dealers will replace the driveshaft. The recall is expected to begin during October 2007. 07V-413

Chrysler LLC is recalling 108,429 Dodge Ram pickup trucks to fix a flaw in an engine-compartment pad that can cause a fire. The recall affects Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups with a 6.7-liter diesel engine from model years 2007 and 2008, according to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

MORE RECALL INFO: 

• Dodge Ram 1500

• Dodge Ram 2500

NEWS:   Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, Charger Recalled

ConsumerAffairs.com -- July 22, 2008 --  Chrysler is recalling 5,509 2008 Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum and Charger sedans because of a manufacturing defect that could cause the half-shaft in the rear wheel drive vehicles to "disengage from the wheel-hub," according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

In a brief statement on its Web site, NHTSA advised that the defect could "cause the vehicle to lose power and result in a crash without warning.".

Chrysler dealers will replace the rear axle hub-nuts when the recall begins later this month.

Consumers can contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403

MORE RECALL INFORMATION: 

• Chrysler 300

• Dodge Magnum

• Dodge Charger

NEWS:   Chrysler Expands Jeep Commander Stalling Recall

Transmission software will be reprogrammed

ConsumerAffairs.com -- May 7, 2008 -- Chrysler is expanding the recall of Jeep Commander SUVs to repair engine stalling that has endangered scores of Jeep owners.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that the automaker has now recalled 24,461 2006 Jeep Commanders to reprogram automatic transmission software in Jeeps equipped with the 4.7 liter engine.

NHTSA warned Commander owners that the software glitch “could cause a crash without warning.”

NHTSA opened an investigation of the 2007 Jeep Wrangler SUV last year following at least 53 reports of the engine stalling at highway speeds.

That investigation involved 35,000 vehicles, according to NHTSA.

At the time, NHTSA reported that the agency had received complaints of engine stalls at highway speeds that included 12 cases with a loss of electrical power and lighting.

The latest Jeep Commander recall involves computer software in the automatic transmission control module of the 2006 Commander. Jeep dealers will reprogram the software in 2006 Jeep Commanders built before January 11, 2006.

In a limited action, Chrysler recalled 1,338 of the 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander earlier this year to repair a stalling problem in the vehicles. In that recall, NHTSA reported that the “the front control module may have been incorrectly manufactured," and could cause the engine to stall while driving or not start.

Jeep owners describe the stalling condition as frightening. On May 6, a Galveston, Indiana woman struggled with a stalled Jeep.

“Everything just completely shuts down and I am unable to steer and have to restart the engine,” Cathleen wrote ConsumersAffairs.Com. “This has happened 3 to 4 times now and the dealer says there is nothing they can find wrong with my vehicle. It happened again today while in a parking lot.”

Consumers reported that in many cases Jeep dealers are unable to fix the stalling.

“I have had my Jeep in and out of the shop in regards to it stalling all of a sudden, a Wisconsin woman reported to ConsumerAffairs.Com. “Each possibility proposed to me is not a sure fix and is very expensive,” she said.

In San Francisco, a ConsumersAffairs.Com reader said the stalling problem behind two Chrysler recalls is not limited to the new Commander. “I have a 1997 Jeep Laredo that I purchased over 2 years ago from a used car dealer. The stalling problem started around January 2008,” she said. “I was going 60 mph on the highway and it just died.”

Jeep owners can contact Chrysler about the stalling problems at 1-800-853-1403 or NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153).

MORE RECALL INFORMATION: 

• Jeep Commander

• Jeep Grand Cherokee

NEWS:   Chrysler recalls Sebring, Avenger sedans for tire-monitor fix

NEWS:     Dodge Trucks Recalled

NEWS:  Chrysler recalls 369,000 vehicles for problems

DETROIT (Yahoo-Reuters) - Automaker Chrysler LLC said on Friday it is recalling almost 369,000 vehicles for problems with brake systems and door latches and locks.

Chrysler, ... said it is recalling 296,550 sport utility vehicles for the brake-related problem.

The vehicles affected include Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Commander SUVs for the 2006 and 2007 model years and the 2007 Jeep Wrangler and Dodge Nitro.

Chrysler said a glitch in an electronic control unit could cause a delay in braking when the vehicles are driving uphill. The automaker has had about 20 reports of such problems, ......

It's a very rare occurrence," ......."But we have had reports of drivers experiencing problems when they take their foot off the accelerator."

When drivers in one of the affected vehicles stop accelerating up a hill, that can trigger a momentary loss of braking power for a second or two,....

The automaker said it was aware of one accident that could have been caused by the problem.
Owners of the SUVs affected by the recall will be notified this month and repair work will be done at no charge, Chrysler said.

The automaker,..... also said it is recalling about 72,333 2008 Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger sedans because of a potential problem with a cable connected to the front door latches in the vehicles.