FCA issues three recalls for 1.7 million trucks

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Automotive News / September 10, 2015

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) said it is recalling about 1.73 million trucks for defects including a wiring harness that may short-circuit and set off an airbag.

The largest recall covers 1.06 million trucks in the U.S. An investigation by the company has discovered that certain trucks may have steering-wheel wiring harnesses that wear because of contact with a spring, FCA said in a statement today.

Such wear may cause a short-circuit that may lead to inadvertent driver-side airbag deployment.

The company said it was aware of two injuries due to wiring harnesses wear, but no accidents.

FCA also said an additional 156,498 heavy-duty trucks were being recalled as they were supplied with steering components that may have welds with insufficient fusion. This may cause separation and lead to diminished steering response.

The company said it was aware of a single minor accident in the United States related to the condition of bracket welds, but was unaware of any injuries.

As well, about 188,000 vehicles are being recalled to make their side-curtain airbags compliant with a federal regulation to reduce the risk of rear occupant ejection during a rollover.

The company said it is also recalling 323,183 trucks in Canada, Mexico and outside North America to fix wiring harnesses and bracket welds.

In July, Fiat Chrysler agreed to pay a record $105 million penalty and take steps following a government investigation of the company’s handling of 23 recalls involving more than 11 million cars and trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration demanded that consumers be able to sell their vehicles back to the company if repairs haven’t been completed.

As part of the July agreement with the government, Fiat Chrysler agreed to hire an independent monitor to ensure it will no longer delay safety recalls.