Triple Recall Affects Over 144,000 Dodge Journey and Ram Vehicles

Chrysler Group is recalling certain Dodge Journey crossovers and Ram trucks because of three different issues related to defective steering wheel systems, side-impact airbag sensors and noisy rear axles. The issue that is affecting the most vehicles is airbag-related, as a total of 65,180 Dodge Journey vehicles manufactured from November 1, 2007, through September 7, 2008 will have to be fixed before they are deemed safe again.

According to a posting on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website, the wires within the front door wire harnesses might fatigue and break, preventing the side-impact sensors from working as intended and resulting in inoperative side airbags. Chrysler said it will replace the left and right door wiring harnesses free of charge.

The second recall affects some 56,611 Ram 1500 trucks manufactured from September 2009 through December 2010. Chrysler will have to fix issues affecting the vehicle’s rear axle. "Some vehicles may experience a noise (growl, grind) coming from the rear axle bearing which could eventually seize," according to a statement made by the NHTSA.

The last of the company’s recalls involves a total of 22,274 Model Year 2008-2011 Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 trucks. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Ram drivers may experience a weakening and fracture of the left ball stud on the tie rod resulting in the potential loss of steering. The Detroit automaker will fix the issue by replacing the left outer tie rod free of charge.

All these issues sound serious, so it’s a good thing all three recalls are expected to begin in February 2011.