Airbag faults trigger Volvo, Chrysler recalls

VOLVO and Chrysler have both recalled vehicles to fix potential airbag faults.

In the case of Volvo, the problem is that airbags of its latest 2012-model XC70, V60, S60 and XC60 vehicles might fail to deploy in a crash due to a wiring failure, while the Chrysler issue concerns airbags that might go off inadvertently in 2008 Voyagers.

The Volvo recall involves 1255 vehicles in Australia in which the wiring harness under the front seats might have not been fixed properly to the seat frame, resulting in disconnection of the harness connector from its socket.

If this happens, the airbag supplementary restraint system (SRS) warning light on the dash might come on, or the airbags might not deploy in a crash.

No instances have been reported in Australia, but vehicle owners will receive a letter from Volvo asking them to return their car to their dealer to have the wiring checked and repositioned.

The recall is the 14th for the XC60 since mid-2009, mostly for minor faults such as headlight washers, but also for some more serious complaints such as incorrectly installed curtain airbags.

The XC70 has been involved in 11 recalls since 2007.

Left: Chrysler Voyager

Leaking water from the air-conditioning system in 2008 Chrysler Voyager people-movers could lead to inadvertent airbag detonations, resulting in the recall of 442 vehicles locally.

Chrysler Australia said the water might leak from a grommet in the air system, contaminating the so-called occupant restrain controller – the airbag electronic control system.

Water in the works can either bring on the airbag warning light or even cause “potential airbag deployment without warning”.

Chrysler is writing to all owners of the vehicles, asking them to make an appointment to have the system checked at a dealer. Alternatively, owners can contact their dealer to have the work done.