Fiat recalling 2014 500L over dual-clutch transmission
Tue, Mar 11 2014
Over 19,000 500Ls equipped with the Fiat-sourced, six-speed, dual-clutch automatic are being called in for a software update that should sort out the issues some customers are experiencing with the gearbox. Those troubles mainly consist of 500Ls that won't shift out of park and don't respond or are slow to respond to commands for gear changes.
There have been no reported injuries or accidents due to the problems, which investigating engineers believe is caused by a microcontroller component that doesn't react well with temperature extremes.
Of the 19,500 vehicles being recalled, around 20 percent are in dealership inventories. The vast majority of the cars (18,100) are in the US, while the remaining 1,400 are up north, in Canada.
Fiat will be covering the costs of the software reflash and will begin notifying customers soon. Scroll down for the official release from Fiat Chrysler.
Statement: Software Update
March 7, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group is recalling approximately 19,500 cars to upgrade their transmission software.
Chrysler Group engineers launched an investigation after reviewing reports that some vehicles equipped with dual dry clutch automatic transmissions would not shift readily out of park and/or their transmissions did not receive, or were slow to receive, an intended gear selection.
Chrysler Group is unaware of any related injuries or accidents.
The investigation discovered the function of one microcontroller component may be compromised by certain temperature extremes. A software update resolves the issue.
Affected are certain 2014 Fiat 500L models, of which approximately 20 percent are in dealer hands.
Repair costs will be borne by the Company. Affected customers – approximately 18,100 in the U.S. and 1,400 in Canada – will be contacted and advised when to schedule service.
Of the total, an estimated 200 vehicles may require shift-module replacement to ensure hardware-software compatibility.
Customers who remain concerned may call 1-800-853-1403.
March 7, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group is recalling approximately 19,500 cars to upgrade their transmission software.
Chrysler Group engineers launched an investigation after reviewing reports that some vehicles equipped with dual dry clutch automatic transmissions would not shift readily out of park and/or their transmissions did not receive, or were slow to receive, an intended gear selection.
Chrysler Group is unaware of any related injuries or accidents.
The investigation discovered the function of one microcontroller component may be compromised by certain temperature extremes. A software update resolves the issue.
Affected are certain 2014 Fiat 500L models, of which approximately 20 percent are in dealer hands.
Repair costs will be borne by the Company. Affected customers – approximately 18,100 in the U.S. and 1,400 in Canada – will be contacted and advised when to schedule service.
Of the total, an estimated 200 vehicles may require shift-module replacement to ensure hardware-software compatibility.
Customers who remain concerned may call 1-800-853-1403.
By Brandon Turkus
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