Chrysler recalling 31k SUVs and vans

Fri, 06 Jun 2014

Chrysler is issuing recalls covering roughly 31,700 vehicles worldwide due to two separate problems. In both cases the company believes that most of the affected vehicles are either still on, or in transit to, dealer lots.

One recall covers roughly 10,700 Dodge Durango, Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee SRT models from the 2014 model year built between January 16 and April 17, 2014. The SUVs need a software update for the cruise control. It's possible that when the cruise is on and the driver presses on the throttle, the acceleration could last a second after the pedal is released or two seconds for the SRT. Afterward, they return to the speed originally set by the driver.

Chrysler says it isn't aware of any accidents, injuries or even reported incidents of this happening in the real world. Also, in all cases, if the driver presses on the brake, the cruise shuts off. The automaker believes that there are about 6,100 affected SUVs in the US, 950 in Canada, 425 in Mexico and 3,200 outside of North America. The software upgrade will be ready shortly, the company says.

The other recall covers about 21,000 Ram ProMaster vans from the 2014 model year to inspect and possibly replace several electrical components. Chrysler found several cases of blown fuses in the vans linked to moisture exposure brought into the vehicle on occupants' shoes. It's not aware of any injuries caused by the problem. Dealers will inspect an in-cabin compartment for corrosion to the components, replace parts if necessary and apply a moisture sealant to the area. Of the affected models, 17,700 are in the US, 2,400 are in Canada and 900 are in Mexico.

Scroll down to read both announcements in full.

Statement: Cruise-Control Software Update

June 5, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group is recalling an estimated 10,700 SUVs – most of which were in dealer hands or in transit to dealers – to upgrade software that governs their cruise-control systems.

A routine internal quality audit discovered that, when cruise-control is engaged, an acceleration initiated by the driver may be extended by about one second after the accelerator pedal is released. Vehicle speed then returns to the desired setting.

In high-performance vehicles subject to the recall, the event may last up to two seconds before deceleration begins. But in all cases, brake application will cancel cruise-control.

Note: Brake function is never compromised and Chrysler Group is unaware of any related injuries, accidents, complaints or reported incidents.

Affected are certain 2014 Dodge Durangos and Jeep Cherokees, Grand Cherokees and high-performance Grand Cherokee SRTs assembled between January 16 and April 17 of this year. An estimated 6,100 were in the U.S., 950 were Canada, 425 were in Mexico and 3,200 were outside the NAFTA region.

More than half were in dealer hands or in transit to dealers as Chrysler Group was investigating.

Customers will be contacted when they may schedule service, expected to be available soon. All related costs will be borne by Chrysler Group.

In the interim, customers who are concerned may choose not to activate their cruise-control systems. Other features, such as Forward Collision Warning, are unaffected because they function independently.

Customers with additional questions may call Chrysler Group's Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-853-1403.

Statement: Electrical Component Protection

June 5, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group is recalling an estimated 21,000 full-size vans – most of which were in dealer hands or in transit to dealers – to inspect and replace, if necessary, various electrical components that support propulsion, airbag deployment and/or external lighting.

Warranty data identified a small number of cases in which blown fuses were linked to moisture exposure. In each case, moisture that was brought into the vehicle via wet footwear or other means had seeped into an in-cabin compartment that houses its battery and other components.

Chrysler Group is unaware of any related injuries or accidents. There are no issues with the vehicle's imperviousness to rain, snow or ice.

The electrical components will be inspected for signs of corrosion. Moisture-resistant sealant will be applied to all components, whether replaced or not.

Affected are 2014 Ram ProMaster full-size vans. An estimated 17,700 are in the U.S., 2,400 are in Canada and 900 are in Mexico. Most were in dealer hands or in transit to dealers as Chrysler Group was investigating.

Affected customers will be advised when they may schedule service. All related costs will be borne by Chrysler Group.

Customers who are concerned may call Chrysler Group's Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-853-1403.

By Chris Bruce