Chrysler Recalls Over 900,000 Vehicles for Fire Hazards

Early this morning, Chrysler issued two recalls of more than 900,00 cars and SUVs because of potential safety problems that could cause fires.

According to paperwork filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Chrysler will be recalling 470,000 cars and SUVs from model years 2011-2014 that are equipped with a 3.6-liter engine and 160 amp alternator.

Chrysler has reported that the alternator in these vehicles may suddenly fail, potentially causing a stall or fire, which would expectantly increase the risk of a crash.

The second recall involves approximately 437,000 Jeep Wrangler SUVs from model years 2011-2013 because of a fire risk. Chrysler says that the water in the exterior heated power mirror electrical connector could cause an electrical short. The specific models impacted include:

• The Chrysler 300 Sedan
• The Dodge Challenger and Charger cars
• The Dodge Durango
• All Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs

This pair of recalls stem from an investigation done by the NHTSA back in July. The investigation was brought about by 55 different complaints filed with the organization, while simultaneously there were 322 complaints filed with Chrysler. Chrysler has said that there have been no injuries or deaths related to the malfunctions.

This is the second high profile recall coming from Chrysler in the last month. In late September, Chrysler was forced to recall 350,000 vehicles for the same ignition switch malfunction that plagued GM earlier in the year. Overall, all of these recalls have contributed to largest collective recall year in automotive history, a total that is now over 52 million vehicles. Most of these, of course, have come from the GM– which now has recalled over 30 million this year alone.