Chrysler Issues Recall on 840,000 Vehicles to Fix Faulty Head Restraints

Chrysler Group LLC is issuing five new vehicle recall campaigns covering 840,000 vehicles for a problem with faulty electronics in head restraints. According to a Detroit News report, the recall includes 490,000 cars and SUVs worldwide. Four of the recalls cover electronic issues, the largest of which addresses problems with active head restraints, which are designed to reduce or prevent neck injuries during certain rear-impact collisions.

Chrysler’s Recalls Add Up

Potentially faulty microcontrollers in some vehicles may prevent the systems from functioning properly. Among the recalled vehicles are 2011-2013 Chrysler Sebring, 200 and Dodge Avenger midsize cars; 2011-2013 Jeep Liberty SUVs; and 2011-2012 Dodge Nitro SUVs. So far Chrysler says it is not aware of injuries caused by the defective restraints. Here are some of the recalls announced July 3, 2013 as well:

• 282,000 minivans to fix a software error linked to reports of three crashes and one injury.
• 226 2013 minivans to replace airbag control modules.
• 69,000 pickups to update electronic stability control software.
• 1,060 commercial trucks in North America to inspect and replace a track bar bolt that could compromise steering control.

This latest announcement increases the total number of separate Chrysler recall campaigns to 12 since June, involving nearly 3.3 million vehicles. Chrysler has also been involved in a public battle with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) over fire risks in older Jeep SUVs. Last year, the automaker recalled 1.3 million vehicles in 13 different campaigns.

Auto Product Liability Issues

These are all serious auto product defects that could result in serious injuries or even fatalities. Neck injuries may not be catastrophic or life threatening. However, they may leave victims with chronic pain. Neck injury victims may also need extended therapy sessions or additional care, which could all add up in terms of costs. In addition, those with neck injuries may also have to take time off work to recover from their injuries.

Injured victims in such cases can file an auto product liability claim seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, permanent injuries, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Victims would be well advised to contact an experienced auto product liability lawyer who has successfully handled cases against large automakers. The best auto defect law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.