Photo: Dodge
Yes, you heard that right. Chrysler announced a safety recall covering a whopping 349,442 cars from the 2008 model year, all of them assembled before May 12th of 2008. What do these vehicles have in common? A glitchy ignition switch that reminds us of General Motors' similar faulty switches condition.
Chrysler informs that those faulty ignition switches making up this voluntary recall op are affected by a condition that may cause the key to become stuck or even inadvertently move. Internal investigations came to the conclusion that those 350k vehicles are prone to not fully return to the "on" position after the key is rotated to the "start" position at startup.
The American automaker explains ignition keys may remain between the "on" and "start" positions, which kills off wiper function and the windshield defroster. Compared to General Motors' similar case, Chrysler is adamant that airbag function is not affected by the previously mentioned flaw. But wait, there's more!
On rare occasions, the key is prone to inadvertently move through the "on" position to "accessory" or "off." If this happens, Chrysler tells it may result in reduced braking power and a loss of engine power, power steering and one or more of the vehicle's safety features including front airbags. Well, well, well, not that different from GM's problem after all.
Until servicing operations commence, owners are advised to confirm the ignition key is set in the "on" position after starting the car. As a supplementary precaution, affected owners are advised to detach their ignition keys from key rings and other bits and bobs. Additionally, owners can contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403 for further info on this safety recall.
The American automaker explains ignition keys may remain between the "on" and "start" positions, which kills off wiper function and the windshield defroster. Compared to General Motors' similar case, Chrysler is adamant that airbag function is not affected by the previously mentioned flaw. But wait, there's more!
On rare occasions, the key is prone to inadvertently move through the "on" position to "accessory" or "off." If this happens, Chrysler tells it may result in reduced braking power and a loss of engine power, power steering and one or more of the vehicle's safety features including front airbags. Well, well, well, not that different from GM's problem after all.
Affected owners will be notified shortly about this recall operation
With great fortune, the Chrysler Group is aware of only one minor accident possibly related to either condition, but no related injuries were reported. As for the cars affected, these include the 2008 Dodge Magnum station wagon, Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300 sedan, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander. Approximately 292,224 cars are located in the U.S. and an estimated 18,976 are up north in Canada.Until servicing operations commence, owners are advised to confirm the ignition key is set in the "on" position after starting the car. As a supplementary precaution, affected owners are advised to detach their ignition keys from key rings and other bits and bobs. Additionally, owners can contact Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403 for further info on this safety recall.
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