Chrysler stands by for Jeep, Voyager recall

CHRYSLER Australia is awaiting word from its American head office on a safety recall for two of its best-selling models, the Jeep Wranger SUV and Chrysler Grand Voyager people-mover.

Both models have been recalled in the United States after the discovery of brake fluid leaks in the Wrangler and worn wiring insulation in the Grand Voyager, which is sold as the Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country in North America.

In all, 575,000 Jeeps and Chryslers have been recalled in the latest safety scare in the US, where the recall was announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Chrysler Australia public relations manager Jerry Stamoulis told GoAuto today that the company was still working with head office to understand the affects of the recall on Australian customers.

He said Chrysler Australia had no reports of any problems with either vehicle in Australia.

“We should know more in the next couple of days,” he said.

Left: Chrysler Grand Voyager.

In the US, the recall affects Jeep Wrangers built between 2001 and 2010. According to NHTSA, liners inside the fenders can touch right-front and left-rear brake lines, leading to wear that might cause fluid to leak and raising the risk of a crash.

“A brake fluid leak can cause partial loss of service brakes at the affected wheel, increasing the risk of a crash,” NHTSA said in the statement.

Chrysler learned of the problem in a report on a 2008 vehicle, but no crashes or injuries had been reported.

Jeep dealers have sold more than 13,000 Wranglers in Australia since 2001, but it is unclear how many of those will be affected. The Wrangler accounts for about half of all Jeep sales in Australia, while the Grand Voyager is Chrysler’s second top seller after the 300C. About 700 Voyagers were sold by Chrysler Australia over the past two years.

The Voyager problem – in 2008 and 2009 US models – was triggered by a sliding-door hinge that can wear through wire insulation, causing a short circuit and possible fire.

Earlier this month, Chrysler issued a recall last week for almost 35,000 Dodge and Jeep vehicles for sticking accelerator pedals in the US.

Chrysler Australia confirmed that three vehicles – all Dodge Calibers – affected by the recall had been imported into Australia.