Jeep and Dodge Recall Vehicles for Potential Brake Defects

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is recalling more than 154,000 Jeep and Dodge vehicles for brake defects. According to a Consumer Reports article, the automaker says a faulty brake-system component installed in some of its vehicles earlier this year might cause bubbles to form in the brake fluid thereby increasing stopping distances. So far, there have been no reports or accidents or injuries because of this issue. The automaker found the problem after its supplier drew attention to it and said as many as a third of the affected vehicles are still on dealer lots.

Details of the Recall

FCA says dealers have been advised which vehicles have been affected and “are providing service accordingly.” The affected vehicles include 201-2019 Jeep Compass SUVs made between March 17 and June 21; 2019 Jeep Cherokee SUVs manufactured between April 4 and June 21; 2018-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan minivans manufactured between April 11 and June 14; and 2018 Dodge Journey SUVs made between April 12 and June 14.

Dealers will drain the vehicle’s brake-fluid system and refill it at no cost to vehicle owners. The recall is expected to begin Sept. 23. For more information, owners are asked to call FCA at 800-853-1403 or contact their local dealer. If you aren’t sure if your vehicle is part of this recall, plug in your 17-digit vehicle identification number at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website, and it’ll tell you if your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

The Danger of Brake Defects

Brake defects are among the most dangerous. This is because defective brakes such as the ones that have been recalled could potentially increase stopping distances. This means that a driver may have trouble stopping his or her for a pedestrian who is walking across a street or a child riding a bicycle. There is also the danger of rear-end collisions when traffic stops ahead and you are unable to get your vehicle’s brakes to work in time.

In cases where an accident was caused by defective brakes, it would be in your best interest to preserve the vehicle so an expert can examine it thoroughly for any brake issues. In such cases, you may be able to file a product liability lawsuit against the automaker seeking compensation for any injuries, damages or losses you may have sustained as a result of the auto defect. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to help you understand your legal rights and options.

Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/dodge-jeep-vehicles-recalled-over-brake-issues/