Chrysler
Group is replacing window switches in an estimated 780,000 minivans equipped
with third-row power window vents following incidents of overheating, said a
company report.
The company statement said that the Chrysler
Group is unaware of any related injuries or accidents. Affected customers will
be contacted directly and advised when they may schedule service. Associated
costs will be borne by the company, the statement added.
In
the interim, customers have been told to visit their dealers after May 14 to
have the vent switches disconnected. This will eliminate any risks associated
with the issue and affects only third-row window-vent operation. The switch is
located on the driver's door.
Alerted by warranty data, Chrysler Group
engineers launched an investigation and found a link between short circuits and
beverage spills on the vent switch, as well as direct exposure to moisture from
rain, snow or car washes.
Short circuits may cause overheating. However,
known incidents total 36 – less than 0.005 percent of the vehicles subject to
this campaign.
Affected are certain model-year 2010-2014
Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans, assembled between
Aug. 25, 2010 and Oct. 31, 2013. An estimated 644,850 are in the U.S.; 106,980
are in Canada; 8,009 are in Mexico and 20,638 vehicles are outside the NAFTA
region.
“Chrysler Group takes seriously its commitment
to safety and is conducting this campaign voluntarily. The U.S. National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been advised,” the statement from the
company said.
Source: Chrysler Group / Picture of
Chrysler plant, for representation purpose only