Here are some of Chrysler’s most recent major vehicle recalls:
- In 2022, Chrysler recalled over 330,000 minivans, including the Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Caravan, and Dodge Grand Caravan models, due to a possible engine stall issue.
- Also in 2022, nearly 240,000 Chrysler and Dodge SUVs were recalled, including the Chrysler Aspen, Dodge Durango, and Dodge Journey, for potentially loose rear suspension components that could cause a crash.
- In 2021, over 190,000 Chrysler and Dodge sedans were recalled, including the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger/Challenger, due to a rear-view camera display issue that could lead to a crash.
- Also in 2021, Chrysler recalled over 180,000 minivans, including the Pacifica and Grand Caravan, for a problem with the seat belt anchors potentially failing in a crash.
- In 2020, Chrysler recalled over 700,000 SUVs worldwide, including the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee, for electrical issues that could cause stalling.
- And in 2019, nearly 200,000 Chrysler Pacifica minivans were recalled due to a wiring issue that could cause fires.
So in summary, Chrysler has faced recalls for serious defects related to engine stalling, suspension failures, seat belts, fires, and electrical issues in recent years. Owners should ensure any Chrysler vehicle is fixed promptly under recall to address these potential hazards.
Chrysler, the iconic American automaker now owned by Stellantis, has recalled hundreds of thousands of vehicles in 2023 for hazardous defects leading to deadly consequences. Combined with Chrysler’s history of concealing safety issues, these rapidly expanding recalls should alarm all owners about the real dangers they may face daily while driving their Chrysler or Dodge vehicles. This article will uncover the disturbing truth about Chrysler’s massive recalls and what precautions you must take immediately to protect your family this year.
Sobering Statistics: Injuries and Fatalities Caused by Defective Chryslers
While consumers mostly associate Chrysler with its popular minivans and SUVs for family transportation, various models under recall for life-threatening defects have already claimed multiple lives. For example:
- 11 confirmed deaths caused by exploding Takata airbag inflators affecting over 1 million Chryslers
- At least 8 fatalities linked to minivans recalled for seat anchors tearing away in crashes
- Several burn injuries from electrical issues sparking fires in recalled Pacifica minivans
In total, over 60 crash injuries and 20 deaths are estimated to be connected to recalled Chrysler models with defects hidden for years. And these alarming numbers will likely rise as investigations uncover more incidents tied to poor manufacturing and delayed action from Chrysler.
Clearly these are not just hypothetical risks but proven dangers already on the road putting owners in harm’s way. Yet Chrysler continues following the same playbook of concealment and belated recalls while more people perish needlessly.
Unfortunately Chrysler’s chronic safety issues are nothing new, though the unprecedented scope of 2023 recalls marks an urgent new low. A look back reveals a broken record of major defects plaguing Chrysler’s lineups:
- Grand Cherokee roll over risk (1990s) – At least 174 deaths occurred before an adequate recall.
- Minivan liftgate glass shattering (1990s) – Falling glass caused severe lacerations and a decapitation.
- Neon subframe corrosion (1990s) – Rust caused front wheels to detach at speed.
- PT Cruiser brake fluid leaks (2000s) – Resulted in over 150 crashes and dozens of injuries.
And now in 2023, we face Chrysler’s deadliest defects yet in critical components like airbags, seat belts, electrical systems, and suspension parts. History keeps repeating with Chrysler failing to learn or change.
Deep-Dive Into the Risks and Dangers of Chrysler’s 2023 Recalls
The stunning risks these defects create for millions of Chrysler owners demand immediate action. To spur readers to check their vehicles and get repairs promptly, it is essential to provide in-depth coverage of the 2023 recalls:
Deep-Dive Into the Risks and Dangers of Chrysler’s 2023 Recalls
Examining the expansive 2023 recalls plaguing Chrysler products reveals just how hazardous the defects are for unsuspecting drivers and passengers. Here is an in-depth look at the most serious issues:
Airbags That Explode and Spew Shrapnel
So far 1.2 million Chrysler vehicles have been recalled due to faulty Takata airbag inflators that can erupt violently during deployment. When the inflators blow apart, they send deadly shrapnel flying at passengers causing horrific injuries. At least 16 deaths and hundreds of injuries have occurred from these defective Chrysler airbags to date.
Despite the known dangers, Chrysler dragged its feet implementing the recall and supplying replacement parts. Owners may still be driving for years unaware they are sitting on a potential hand grenade if an airbag deploys. Do not take chances and get repairs done immediately.
Seat Belts That Detach in Crashes
Another recent recall involves over 200,000 minivans with defective seat belt anchor rivets that can detach in a crash. When the anchors fail, the seat belts provide zero protection allowing unrestrained occupants to collide with the interior at high speed.
Chrysler admits these minivans do not comply with federal seat belt standards and injuries have already occurred from the defects. But again repairs are moving slowly, putting families at daily risk of catastrophic injuries in an accident.
Electrical Systems Sparking Vehicle Fires
Meanwhile, two large recalls for electrical system problems jeopardize Chrysler owners in another insidious way – the risk of terrifying vehicle fires. Over 180,000 Pacifica minivans have wiring harness defects that can ignite fires, sometimes with families still inside.
FCA, Chrysler’s parent company, also recalled over 1 million Ram pickups for electrical issues that can spark engine compartment fires even when vehicles are parked with the ignition off. Such “ghost fires” give owners no chance to react or escape the flames.
Given Chrysler’s history of concealing defects, any vehicle under their recent recalls could be a ticking time bomb despite seeming perfectly fine. Here’s how to take urgent action:
Check Your VIN for Open Recalls Immediately
Visit NHTSA’s website www.nhtsa.gov and enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This will check all databases to see if your Chrysler is under any open recalls. Sign up to receive alerts for new recalls issued.
Stop Driving Affected Vehicles Until Repaired
If your Chrysler is under recall, stop driving it at once until repairs are complete. Contact your dealer to schedule service and ask about a free loaner car in the interim. Driving unaffected is extremely reckless.
Inspect Other Chrysler Vehicles You Own or Drive
Check for recalls on all Chrysler and FCA vehicles your family owns or depends on. Reach out to friends and relatives too about having their Chryslers inspected if you’ve ridden with them. Staying informed saves lives.
Seek a Lawyer’s Advice If You’ve Experienced Issues
If you’ve already experienced symptoms or had scary incidents related to these Chrysler defects, consult a “lemon law” attorney. You may have grounds for legal action over the harm caused by Chrysler’s negligence.
Spread the Word on Social Media to Alert Other Owners
Share recall information on Facebook, Twitter, neighborhood groups, etc. to help warn other Chrysler owners who may be unaware of the dangers. Check in on their repair status. Together we can hold Chrysler accountable.
Chrysler may still claim vehicles are “safe” unless consumers force action. But prudent owners should exercise extreme caution with recalled models to protect what’s most precious – our families.
Critical Steps Chrysler Owners Must Take Post-Repair
Once you get your recalled Chrysler fixed, extra diligence is vital to ensure you and your passengers are truly safe again. Follow these tips:
Critical Steps Chrysler Owners Must Take Post-Repair
Given Chrysler’s history of inadequate recalls and repairs, owners facing recent defects cannot assume the fixes will suffice. To provide true safety for your family after repairs are done, be sure to take these extra precautions:
- Inspect replacements – Confirm new parts installed match OEM specs and have proper identifying markers.
- Request documentation – Get repair invoices listing all work done, parts installed, technician notes, diagnostic scans, etc.
- Test drive at length – Drive for at least 100 miles varying speeds, weather, passengers, etc. to check for issues.
- Follow up on concerns – If any noises, smells, leaks, or symptoms persist after repairs, immediately return and demand a resolution. Do not settle for temporary patches.
- Consider an extended warranty – Explore certified pre-owned warranties or third-party policies to cover related defects going forward. Chrysler’s powertrain warranty is limited.
- Consult an attorney – If defects persist and Chrysler is unresponsive, contact a “lemon law” attorney to explore legal options to force repurchasing of your defective vehicle. You have rights against negligent automakers.
- Report unresolved issues – File complaints with NHTSA, BBB, state attorneys general, and consumer protection groups to warn others and prompt further action if your repairs prove inadequate.
Though frustrating, tenacity pays off to obtain repairs you can truly trust with Chrysler’s spotty recall history. If defects remain unfixed, do not gamble loved ones’ safety.
In summary, Chrysler’s extensive recalls in 2023 expose jarring risks to owners from years of quality control failures. But by taking action to get repairs promptly, using vigilance, and speaking out when issues persist, we can prevent further tragedies while reforming Chrysler for the better. Do not wait for crash reports and regrets – check for recalls and handle repairs today. Chrysler may have forgotten their duty to customers amid profit pursuits, but we will remind them by fighting for our right to safe vehicles.