Chrysler Recalls Jeep and Dodge SUVs for Brake Defects

Chrysler Group LLC is issuing a vehicle defect recall for 25,250 Jeep and Dodge SUVs to address a braking issue.

According to a Reuters news report, Chrysler officials have said the recall is being conducted to improve pedal feel during certain aggressive braking maneuvers.

An investigation by the automaker found that brake fluid flow was being restricted too much.

Chrysler has said it will update software to improve the flow and restore appropriate pedal feel.

So far, there have been no reports of accidents or injuries related to the issue.

Improving Brake Pedal Feel

The Reuters report states that a supplier for Chrysler raised a concern about a part that accommodates Ready Alert Braking, a safety system that primes brakes for optimal response when the driver wants to stop suddenly.

The automaker says the brake function was not lost or out of compliance in these vehicles, but that the pedal feel “was not consistent with customer expectations.”

Models affected by the recall include certain Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango SUVs from model years 2012 and 2013, including about 18,700 in the United States, 825 in Canada, 530 in Mexico and 5,200 outside of North America. Chrysler will notify customers when to schedule their appointments to fix the problem, which will be free of charge.

The Importance of Braking Function

Brake defects – on cars or large trucks – often cause serious injury crashes and are therefore the focus of product liability lawsuits.

Automakers are required under federal law to report any defect to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) within five days of finding out about the defect. However, many automakers are not diligent when it comes to reporting safety defects thereby putting consumers in harm’s way.

Some of the most common brake defects include brake fluid leaks, ABS failure, brake line problems, hydraulics failure, parking brake issues and air brake defects.

Auto Product Liability Issues

Anyone who has been injured as a result brake defects or other types of manufacturing and design defects relating to vehicles can file a product liability lawsuit against the automaker or the manufacturer of the defective product.

Injured victims can seek compensation to cover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Families of deceased victims can also file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for damages.

An experienced auto defect lawyer can help injured victims and their families better understand their legal rights and options.