Fiat Chrysler has issued a second recall for a defective ignition switch issue that is similar to a problem General Motors had that has been attributed to more than four dozen deaths. The faulty switch can cause the engine to turn off or stall and disables the airbags.
The recall involves 703,000 minivans and SUVs: the Dodge Grand Caravan and the Chrysler Town and Country minivans from 2008 to 2010, and the Dodge Journey from 2009 to 2010. Fiat Chrysler recommends that drivers remove any extra keys and items from their key rings, including the key fob, to reduce the chances of the car turning off unexpectedly. According to the company, jarring road conditions could cause the ignition switch to move into the off or accessory position, which disables the power steering, power brakes and air bags.
Drivers have reported a loss of steering, power and the ability to brake. In an earlier recall the company added a trim ring in an effort to prevent the ignition from turning off, but the repair has been unsuccessful and now the ignition systems in all of the affected vehicles must be replaced. The company expects to begin replacing the faulty parts in April for the 2008-2009 vehicles and in August for the 2010 models.
The GM recall involved more than 2.5 million vehicles and has been attributed to 57 deaths. According to a report in Automotive News, the Fiat Chrysler defect has been attributed to one crash, but no fatalities.
Owners who want to see if their vehicle has been involved in any recalls can go to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration website and search by make and model.
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