Chrysler added to investigation
DETROIT – A U.S. safety agency has opened two investigations into Chrysler minivans and SUVs as part of a widening inquiry into air bag and ignition switch problems across the U.S. auto industry.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began asking automakers and parts suppliers for information on the interrelated issues after General Motors recalled 2.6 million small cars with faulty ignition switches earlier this year. The switches can slip out of the “run” position, causing engines to stall and knocking out power steering and disabling the air bags. In some cases, drivers have lost control.
After the GM recalls in February and March, NHTSA asked auto companies and parts makers for information on switches and how long air bags will inflate after the keys are moved out of the “run” position to “accessory” or “off.” In many cases, the answer is less than a second.
That led to the Chrysler inquiries, NHTSA said in a statement. “The agency examined all major manufacturers’ air bag deployment strategies as they relate to switch position,” the agency said in a statement.
On Wednesday, NHTSA posted documents on its website detailing an investigation of about 700,000 Dodge Journey SUVs and Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans from the 2008 to 2010 model years. The agency wants to see if the keys can fall out of the run position under “harsh roadway conditions.”
Prodded by NHTSA, Chrysler recalled 2010 models of the same vehicles due to the problem, but did not recall those from earlier model years. The agency said 23 drivers complained about the switches, but it had no reports of crashes or injuries. Some of the complaints were from drivers of 2010 models who had the problem after getting the recall repairs.
The other investigation covers about 525,000 Jeep Commander SUVs from 2006 and 2007 and Jeep Grand Cherokees from 2005 and 2006. NHTSA said it has 32 complaints that a driver’s knee can hit the key fob or key chain, causing the ignition switch to move out of run and engines to stall.
In a statement, Chrysler of Auburn Hills, Michigan, said it is awaiting more information from NHTSA and “is prepared to cooperate fully with the investigation.”