Fiat Chrysler has recalled close to 5 million vehicles in the United States due to a glitch that prevents drivers from turning off cruise control.
Fiat Recalls 4.8 Million Vehicles Due Over Cruise Control Glitch
On Friday, May 25, the car manufacturer announced that it is recalling 4.8 million vehicles, which include SUVs, minivans, and pickup trucks. The reason behind the recall is a programming flaw that keeps drivers from turning off cruise control, a feature that automatically controls the speed of the vehicle.
Normally, what one needs to do to deactivate cruise control is either hit the brakes or turn off the feature with the push of a button.
The company said that a short circuit in some of its models could lead to a malfunction of the cruise control feature that does not allow the driver to switch it off by pushing the "off" button or by braking, and cause the vehicle to unexpectedly accelerate.
However, Fiat Chrysler noted the brakes are powerful enough to override the engine that the vehicle could still be stopped. Changing the gear to "park" would also deactivate the cruise control feature.
How To Check If One's Car Is Affected
No accidents or injuries have been caused by this glitch so far. However, the automaker has warned owners about some of the models to refrain from using the cruise control feature until they've visited their dealer and fixed the issue with a software update.
This warning was echoed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or NHTSA. It issued a consumer advisory with a step-by-step guide on how to check if one's vehicle is one of those affected by the cruise control glitch.
The agency urged drivers to log on to NHTSA.gov to check whether not their vehicle is under recall using their car's Vehicle Identification Number. The search results will confirm if the vehicle is under this particular recall or has any other open recalls that need to be addressed.
According to FCA, the following models are affected:
- 2015-2017 Chrysler 200
- 2014-2018 Chrysler 300
- 2017-2018 Chrysler Pacifica
- 2015-2018 Dodge Challenger
- 2014-2018 Dodge Charger
- 2014-2018 Dodge Journey
- 2014-2018 Dodge Durango
- 2014-2018 Jeep Cherokee
- 2014-2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- 2018 Jeep Wrangler
- 2014-2019 Ram 1500
- 2014-2018 Ram 2500, 3500, 3500/4500/5500 chassis cab
Those who own any of the vehicles mentioned in the list above are advised to contact their local car dealership and carry out the repairs at the earliest.
