Chrysler issues massive minivan recall

June 16th, 2017  |  Auto

The last thing a driver ever wants to see is an air bag inflating unexpectedly. Unfortunately, that's exactly what's been happening with a small number people behind the wheel of Dodge Grand Caravans made in 2011 and 2012.

According to Dodge's parent company, Fiat Chrysler, eight people have suffered minor injuries as a result of this issue, though no actual crashes have occurred. Because of the injuries, Chrysler is issuing a massive recall of the minivans. It is expected to bring back approximately 88,000 in Canada and 297,000 overall.

The problem reportedly stems from the wiring. When the wiring short circuits, unexpected deployment of the air bag can occur. The recall will target that issue directly by replacing the wiring if needed and adding protective covering.

While the volume of the recall is certainly substantial, it is hardly the largest that Fiat Chrysler has ever had to enact. In fact, just over a month ago, the company recalled 1.2 million Dodge Ram pickup trucks over faulty software that was also causing airbag issues, as well as problems with the seatbelt tension devices.

Two years ago, Fiat Chrysler went through a particularly difficult recall period where it ended up having to cover $175 million in fines and penalties. Regulators levied a $105 million penalty for failing to complete recalls for more than 11 million vehicles, as well as an extra $70 million for underreporting injuries and damages that were tied to vehicle defects.