Chrysler has issued a recall for more than 206,000 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango SUVs because the vehicles can unexpectedly roll away, increasing the risk of a crash.
The recall affects certain 2018–2019 Jeep Grand Cherokees and 2018-2019 Dodge Durangos, according to a notice posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The automaker says the vehicles may be equipped with a faulty hydraulic control unit/anti-lock brake system module that falsely reads pressure in the primary circuit.
"A malfunction in the antilock-brake system (ABS) module may incorrectly illuminate the brake lights and disable the ABS and electronic stability control (ESC). In addition, the vehicle operator may be able to start and shift out of Park without the brake pedal being applied," the recall notice says.
Any of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
"A brake light that inadvertently illuminates may result in surrounding drivers not receiving accurate indication of slowing or stopping, which can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning," Chrysler noted. "Disabled ABS and ESC, that are needed to help control the vehicle, can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning. A vehicle that is able to start and shift out of park without depressing the brake pedal can result in unintended vehicle movement which can cause a vehicle crash without prior warning and/or injury to others outside the vehicle."
Approximately 206,502 vehicles are covered by the recall, including 158,054 Jeep Grand Cherokees and 48,448 Dodge Durangos, both from model years 2018-2019.
Chrysler said it is not aware of any injuries or deaths related to the issue. However, it has received 150 customer assistance records, 749 warranty claims and 29 field reports potentially relating to the issue from October 2019 to August 2024.
The remedy is currently under development. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on December 5. Owners with questions can contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403.