Fiat Chrysler Cruise Control Recall
Manufacturer and government-issued recalls help assure public safety and prevent accidents. Recalls affect a range of products, from curling irons and furniture to vehicles. Recently, Fiat Chrysler issued a voluntary recall of over 4.8 million vehicles that could affect the cruise control. Here’s everything you need to know – and what to do if your vehicle is one of the affected.
Details of the Recall
A report of an issue that could prevent drivers from turning off cruise control led the automaker to issue the recall of around 5 million vehicles of various makes and models that fall under its umbrella. The recall is the result of only one incident and so far, no one has reported any injuries.
The issue with cruise control may occur when a car accelerates under cruise control, most commonly to maintain speed while climbing a hill. This action could cause a short circuit, which may lead a vehicle to become stuck in cruise control. When the cruise control lock occurs, drivers would be unable to exit it by pressing the switch or tapping the brakes. However, slamming the brakes or shifting the car into neutral should still work.
To decrease the risk of possible injuries, Chrysler Fiat is asking for owners of affected vehicles to bring their cars to the dealership. The recall affects the following makes and models:
- 2015-’17 Chrysler 200 sedan
- 2014-’18 Ram 3500 cab chassis
- 2018 Jeep Wrangler
- 2014-’18 Ram 4500/5500 cab chassis
- 2014-’18 Jeep Cherokee SUV
- 2014-’18 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV
- 2014-’18 Ram 2500 pickup
- 2014-’18 Dodge Durango SUV
- 2014-’18 Dodge Journey crossover
- 2014-’18 Ram 3500 pickup
- 2014-’18 Chrysler 300 sedan
- 2014-’18 Dodge Charger sedan
- 2014-’18 Ram 1500 pickup
- 2015-’18 Dodge Challenger coupe
- 2017-’18 Chrysler Pacifica minivan
What to Do If You Have an Affected Model
If you have one of the models listed above, you might receive a mailer from the company outlining the details of the recall. If you haven’t, and see your model listed above, don’t wait. Act immediately to avoid potential injury. Take the following steps to handle your recall:
- Don’t Delay in Making Repairs
- If your vehicle has a recall, know that you will not have to pay for the repairs yourself. Typically, it’s up to the manufacturer to fix any issues that affect the safety or efficacy of the vehicle. If you already completed the repairs on your own, you may be eligible for reimbursement from the manufacturer.
- Know Where to Take Your Vehicle
- If you received a recall notice in the mail, it will likely tell you where you complete your repairs. If you purchased the vehicle new or certified used from a dealership, for example, you will likely bring it there. In most cases, however, you can take your vehicle to any local authorized Fiat Chrysler dealer.
Keep in mind that the more vehicles involved in the recall, the longer you may have to wait for repairs. If the recall affects the safety of the vehicle, the dealership may be able to lend you a car while they repair yours. In this case, your dealership might just tell you to avoid using cruise control until it can schedule you for a repair.
If you receive a notice for a recall of your Fiat Chrysler, don’t panic. Recalls are common and work to assure public safety – though you should take it seriously. You can complete repairs for free at any local authorized dealership. Don’t delay; schedule your car for repairs as soon as possible. In the meantime, avoid using your cruise control and talk to your dealership if you have any further questions.