Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is set to issue two recalls on over 300,000 Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models because of the potential for some fairly serious safety malfunctions.
The first recall affects 86,000 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickup trucks, as well as some Ram 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cabs from model years 2007-2013 . Some 2011-2014 Dodge Charger Pursuit models are also included. According to FCA, this recall is due to possible short-circuiting in the alternators. The diodes can be prone to premature wear due to frequent use in hot temperatures, which can increase the potential for the car to stall or for the engine to catch fire.
The automaker says that one minor injury related to this issue has been reported. FCA will notify owners when they will be able to bring their vehicle sin for service.
In a separate action, Fiat Chrysler is recalling more than 224,00 Jeep Wranglers from model years 2016 and 2017. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in certain crash scenarios, the headlamp of the vehicle can rotate and cause the impact sensor wiring to pull and detach before a signal can be recorded by the occupant restraint controller. This could lead to both front airbags and seat belt pretensioners not deploying in the event of a crash, according to NHTSA.
The automaker is unaware of any accidents or injuries related to this recall. The affected Jeeps were built between June 16, 2016 and August 14, 2016. FCA also noted that all 2017 model year Wranglers are currently in the company's hands.
Fiat Chrysler will notify affected owners around November 25 when they can begin bringing their Jeeps in for repairs. Dealerships will reroute the wiring free of charge.
NAFA Fleet Management Association
http://www.nafa.org/