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Dodge Journey recalled for freezing fluid lines

The Basics: FCA is recalling 10,944 examples of the 2009-16 Dodge Journey - specifically those equipped with the optional engine block heaters and located in extremely cold climates. The Problem: Power steering fluid lines may leak when starting the engine in extremely cold weather, which would increase the amount of effort required to steer the vehicle. Injuries/Deaths: FCA reports that it is "unaware of any related injuries or accidents." The fix: The manufacturer is working on expediting replacement parts to resolve the issue in those vehicles potentially affected. If you own one: Expect to hear from the manufacturer soon to arrange service. Your chances of being affected are higher if you live in Canada, where a far greater number – estimated at 187,436 – of Journeys may be affected. Related Video: STATEMENT: FLUID LINE May 6, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - FCA US LLC is voluntarily recalling an estimated 10,944 U.S.-market midsize crossover vehicles equipped with optional block heaters to address fluid-line durability in extreme, cold-weather conditions. An investigation found some lines carrying power-steering fluid may leak at engine start-up, when the vehicle is subject to extreme cold. Steering is not lost in such circumstances. However, if a vehicle is so-affected, the amount of physical effort required to steer may increase. The Company is unaware of any related injuries or accidents. Affected are certain model-year 2009-2016 Dodge Journey vehicles. An estimated 187,436 vehicles in Canada are also subject to this recall. Replacement parts are expected to become available soon. Affected customers will be notified accordingly. FCA US urges customers to follow the instructions on all recall notices. Customers with questions may call the FCA US Customer Care Center at 1-800-853-1403. Featured Gallery 2014 Dodge Journey Crossroad View 19 Photos News Source: FCA Recalls Dodge Crossover Minivan/Van dodge journey

Chrysler investing $20M in Toledo plant to support 9-speed auto production

In 2011, Chrysler announced a $72-million investment in its Toledo Machining Plant to modernize production of the eight- and nine-speed torque-converters for automatic transmissions made there. That upgrade work won't be finished until Q3 of this year, but Chrysler has already announced a further $19.6-million investment to increase production capacity for the nine-speeders.
The extra units will be necessary because the nine-speed transmission they'll be mated to is going into three popular models: it will debut on the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, then go into the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Dart. The company predicted that this year alone it would sell 200,000 units equipped with the nine-speed tranny, and it is spending some $374 million in addition to the investment in Toledo to upgrade production capacity for it.
The work attached to this new investment won't begin until Q3 of 2014, and it will be finished by the end of that year. There's a press release below with all the details.

Common Dodge Ram 1500 vs. Chevrolet Silverado breakdowns

These two trucks are famous for their ability to get the job done. Still, even the toughest vehicle can have mechanical problems at some time. What if we match the Dodge Ram 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado head to head? Let's find out more about common repairs for each model. Also, learn some tricks to pay for car repairs. Clunky Steering Both Dodge and the Chevy owners sometimes notice bumping and clunking when steering. This might be more noticeable when driving over bumps. The cause is usually different in each truck though. In the Dodge Ram, clunky steering is more likely due to a defective lower ball joint. Replacement costs around $300 - $400, parts and labor. Clunky Chevy Silverado steering is probably a steering rack failure. This problem appears more often in trucks with over 90,000 miles. Silverado steering rack repair will run you up to $1,000 or more. Starting Woes For the Chevy Silverado with over 130,000 miles, you might notice trouble starting. This problem may appear occasionally at first, but it typically gets worse. Excluding a weak battery, the culprit is usually the starter. Replacement will cost you around $330 - $500. Of the total cost, $90 is for labor only. Now the Dodge Ram might make a ticking sound when starting, especially on models with over 94,500 miles. The noise often disappears after the engine warms up. These symptoms may indicate a broken exhaust manifold. Repair costs range from $800 - $900. Burning Oil & Gas Gauge On The Blink Sometimes, the Dodge Ram burns oil much faster than normal. In models with over 125,000 miles, this often points towards a leaky intake manifold gasket. A knocking sound may also appear with acceleration along with possible engine misfire. The cost to repair is around $200 - $300. The Chevy Silverado has its own surprises, especially when you've filled the gas tank but the gauge still reads low. Or the needle fluctuates widely from low to full while driving. In trucks with over 120,000 miles, it's likely due to a faulty fuel sensor. You might need a full fuel pump replacement, which can cost you up to $820, parts and labor. Water Inside And Poor Heat The Ram 1500 rear window has been known to leak. You might notice the back seat and floor wet after a rainstorm. This is more common in trucks with over 65,000 miles. Resealing the Ram 1500 rear window costs around $150 - $250.