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Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango Recalled over Brake Problem

2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit 1 photo
Photo: Jeep
Both based on the W166 series of the Mercedez-Benz M-Class, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango fly off the showroom floors even today, five years after these models were introduced. However, newer vehicles will have to return to the dealer in order to fix a problem with the braking system.
In the description of NHTSA campaign number 16V168000, Fiat Chrysler highlights that the left front brake caliper is prone to cracking because it was made from an “incorrect material.” Yes, as stupid as it sounds, only the left front brake caliper is the culprit here. FCA doesn’t explain what an incorrect material is, but the truth of the matter is that the manufacturer used the wrong type of cast iron ally.

If the front brake calipers were to crack, this condition lengthens the distance needed for the vehicle to stop, increasing the risk of a crash. According to Fiat Chrysler, 14,768 vehicles from the 2015 and 2016 model years are affected. To be more specific, the Jeep Grand Cherokee mid-size SUVs and Dodge Durango full-size SUVs manufactured from December 9, 2015, through January 14, 2016.

FCA US LLC promised to notify affected owners. Jeep and Dodge service technicians have been instructed to inspect the front left brake caliper. Even if no cracks have developed whatsoever, the dealership will replace the caliper free of charge. Unfortunately, FCA hasn’t provided a notification schedule yet.

For up-to-date information on this recall, affected owners may contact FCA US LLC at 1-800-853-1403. Don’t forget to mention that the internal number for this recall is S16. If the customer service line is busy, you may ring the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153).

In related news, Jeep presented the 2017 model year Grand Cherokee Trailhawk and an updated Grand Cherokee Summit at the New York Auto Show. More info on these models is available in this story.
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About the author: Mircea Panait
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After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well.
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