Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is recalling 702,578 sport utilities and minivans under the Dodge and Chrysler nameplates for ignition switch issues. The recall covers Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country minivans from 2008 to 2010 and Dodge Journey SUVs from 2009-2010.
Similar to the ignition switch recalls made earlier by General Motors, the problem lies in keys that are weighed down by keyring accessories, including the keyfobs that came with the vehicles. In jarring or other road actions, the keys can be pulled down and turn the ignition off, resulting in possible loss of control as important safety accessories such as power steering, airbags, and brake assist also shuts off.
FCA is advising owners of the affected vehicles to remove their keys from keyrings and fobs and operate the vehicles with nothing but the key until a notice is received and dealership repair undertaken. FCA will begin recall replacements of ignition switches in April and the recall should be largely complete by August.
Note that if youre vehicle was already recalled for this issue, it may be recalled again as a fault was found with the replacement switches.
