Chrysler recall of vehicles for possible brake failure

By Peter Valdes-Dapena, senior writer


NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- Chrysler Group is recalling about 24,000 late-model Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles to fix a defective part that could cause sudden, unexpected brake failure.

The recall applies to some 2010 model year Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger sedans; Dodge Nitro, Jeep Liberty, Jeep Commander and Grand Cherokee SUVs; and 2009 and 2010 model year Ram trucks.

jeep_liberty.03.jpg
Jeep Liberty

Some of these vehicles could have an improperly formed brake booster rod retaining clip, and some Ram trucks may have been built without the piece. The part is necessary for consistent and proper functioning of the brakes.

Chrysler is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the problem, according a document Chrysler filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration..

The problem was initially discovered by Chrysler factory workers, according to the document.

In one case, a worker at Chrysler's Saltillo plant in Mexico, where Dodge Ram Heavy Duty trucks are assembled, experienced a complete loss of brake power while testing a vehicle. (The recall applies to all Ram truck models, not just Heavy Duty.)

A few weeks earlier, a worker at the Toledo North Assembly Plant, where the Dodge Nitro and Jeep Liberty are assembled, had noticed a malformed clip.

"The quality control systems in place caught the issue early," Chrysler Group said in a statement. "All affected assembly plants held vehicle inventory and inspected for and replaced the clips as necessary."

Owners of these vehicles can contact NHTSA's vehicle safety hotline at 888-327-4236 or Chrysler at 800-853-1403. To top of page

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