Auburn Hills, MI (WWJ) -- Stellantis and its FCA-US subsidiary is telling the owners of more than 225 thousand vehicles to stop driving them. These are all 2003 to 2016 model Chrysler, Dodge Jeep and Ram vehicles with recalled Takata airbags.
“This action is intended to accelerate the repair of the remaining affected vehicles to safeguard owners, their families and the general public from the risk of serious injury or death,” reads a statement from the carmaker. “Over time, the chemical propellant inside certain Takata inflators can degrade, particularly in hot and humid conditions, increasing the risk of rupture during airbag deployment and the potential for metal fragments to enter the vehicle cabin.”
Faulty Takata airbags have been linked to more than thirty deaths and hundreds of injuries globally. Stellantis says it’s already repaired 6.6 million vehicles. This notice is aimed at completing repairs on the rest.
Affected vehicles include certain model-year:
2003–2016 Dodge Ram pickup trucks and Dodge Sprinter vans
2004–2009 Dodge Durango SUVs
2005–2012 Dodge Dakota pickup trucks
2005–2008 Dodge Magnum station wagons
2006–2015 Dodge Charger sedans
2007–2009 Chrysler Aspen SUVs
2007–2008 Chrysler Crossfire coupes
2008–2014 Dodge Challenger coupes
2005–2015 Chrysler 300 sedans
2007–2016 Jeep Wrangler SUVs
Owners of these vehicles can check their recall status by calling 833 585-0144 or checking their vehicle information numbers (VIN) at recalls.mopar.com, checktoprotect.org or nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Stellantis, in its statement, says it sent notices to customers on February 9th.
“The company remains fully committed to supporting its customers and ensuring their safety. FCA US urges all affected vehicle owners to take this matter seriously and follow the guidance provided without delay.”