According to USA Today, NHTSA sent Chrysler a letter ordering the recall of the affected vehicles to fix a problem that could lead to a fire in a rear-end crash. Chrysler said it has been working with NHTSA on this issue since 2010 and disagrees with the agency’s conclusion; it’s standing by the safety of the vehicles.
“These vehicles met and exceeded all applicable requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, including FMVSS 301, pertaining to fuel-system integrity,” the automaker said in a statement.
Chrysler says its tests show that the problem occurs less than once for every million years of vehicle operation and argues that NHTSA’s analysis of the problem is incomplete. It will, however, continue working with NHTSA to resolve this issue.
“The safety of drivers and passengers has long been the first priority for Chrysler brands and that commitment remains steadfast,” Sergio Marchionne, chairman and CEO of Chrysler Group LLC, said in a statement.
Owners with questions can call Chrysler Group’s customer care line at 800-334-9200.
News Editor Jennifer Geiger joined the automotive industry in 2003, much to the delight of her Corvette-obsessed dad. Jennifer is an expert reviewer, certified car-seat technician and mom of three. She wears a lot of hats — many of them while driving a minivan.