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RECALL: FCA Issues Cruise Control Defect for 4.8M Vehicles – Ram Pickups, Dodge SUVs, Jeep SUVs

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FCA issued a massive 4.8 million vehicle recall right before the start of Memorial Day weekend. The recall focuses on the cruise control system which may not turn off like it should. This could lead to a dangerous driving situation.

The cruise control issue seems to revolve around times when the vehicle is going over a grade which could short circuit the system. This could lead to the vehicle automatically accelerating to maintain speed with the driver unable to cancel cruise control.

FCA says, “cruise-control acceleration be overpowered by the vehicle’s brakes. The driver can also shift into neutral and bring the vehicle to a halt. Once the vehicle is put in park, cruise control is canceled.”

“Notwithstanding the extraordinary circumstances that must exist before a customer would experience a problem, we are taking this action because we are fully committed to vehicle safety,” FCA Chief Technical Compliance Officer Mark Chernoby said in a statement. “We have a remedy and a widespread network of engaged dealers who are preparing to deliver service. We urge customers to follow the instructions on their recall notices.”

Immediately following the recall, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a consumer advisory on Friday, May 25, strongly encouraging all affected vehicle owners to stop using cruise control.

The pickups and SUVs, all automatic transmissions with gasoline engines, in the U.S. recall include:

  • 2017-18 Chrysler Pacifica minivan
  • 2014-18 Dodge Journey SUV
  • 2014-18 Dodge Durango SUV
  • 2014-18 Jeep Cherokee SUV
  • 2014-18 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV
  • 2018 Jeep Wrangler
  • 2014-19 Ram 1500 pickup
  • 2014-18 Ram 2500 pickup
  • 2014-18 Ram 3500 pickup
  • 2014-18 Ram 3500 cab chassis
  • 2014-18 Ram 4500/5500 cab chassis

FCA says they are recalling vehicles in other markets as well.

So far there have been no reported injuries or accidents related to this defect and it seems to be a software issue. FCA is encouraging owners to visit their dealers ASAP to have the system’s software updated.

Customers can contact dealers with concerns or call the FCA US Recall Information Center at (866) 220-6747.

The NHTSA asks vehicle owners to report potential safety issues to NHTSA by calling (888) 327-4236 or submitting a complaint online at NHTSA.gov. To find out if your car or truck is included in this or any other recall, you can search the NHTSA website using your vehicle identification number (VIN).

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