Peter Palmer: FCA Announces Latest Recalls

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles US LLC has announced two voluntarily recalls stemming from internal investigations. The first affects an estimated 392,464 older-model SUVs in the United States. The recall is for the replacement of clockspring assemblies and related components. A clockspring forms part of the circuit that helps control airbag function. The investigation determined excessive exposure to dust and dirt, consistent with off-road driving or driving with a vehicle’s top and/or doors removed, may compromise driver-side airbag deployment in a crash.

If this condition is present, the airbag warning-lamp will be illuminated. Customers are advised to contact their local dealers if this happens.

Affected vehicles include model-year 2007-2010 Jeep Wrangler SUVs. An additional 7,435 model-year 2011-2016 vehicles equipped with right-hand drive for special duty also are affected. Vehicles affected outside the U.S. comprise an estimated 35,412 in Canada, 8,529 in Mexico, and 62,580 outside the NAFTA region. Customers will be advised when they may schedule service, which includes installation of a new steering-wheel back cover and a steering-column shroud.

The second voluntary recall covers an estimated 39,217 cars in the U.S. to upgrade their clutch release systems. The investigation determined certain vehicles equipped with manual transmissions are subject to clutch travel that may exceed design parameters. Over time, this may restrict gear shifts and propulsion. The investigation discovered a small number of cases involving damage, accounting for 0.01% of the entire vehicle population affected by this recall.

The recall is limited to certain model-year 2012-2016 Fiat 500 mini-compact cars. Vehicles equipped with turbocharged engines are not affected. An estimated 7,834 cars in Canada are also subject to the recall, as are an estimated 7,155 in Mexico, and 26,268 outside the NAFTA region.

Those with questions may call the FCA US Customer Care Center at 1-800-853-1403. FCA is unaware of any injuries or accidents related to these recalls. It is advised all customers follow the directions of the recall notice.

Source: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Press Release