Chrysler Showdown with Government Regulators Ends in Recall

On June 11, we wrote a blog about a showdown between Chrysler and Federal Safety Regulators in a dispute over the recall of nearly 3 million Grand Cherokees and Jeep Liberty’s because the vehicles have been involved in deadly fires after rear-end auto accidents. Chrysler was given until June 18 to respond to the government's request.

Although the auto manufacturer still contends that the vehicles have no defects and that rear-end impact gas tank fires are rare, June 18, 2013, was a good day for consumers as Chrysler has agreed to recall 2.7 million 1993-1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee and 2002-2007 Jeep Liberty SUVs. The recall excludes 1999-2004 Grand Cherokees, which are of a different design. Dealers will inspect the vehicles and install trailer hitches to protect the gas tanks and vehicles without hitches will get them. Chrysler said calls from concerned customers played a part in its decision. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said "consumers impacted by the safety recall and customer satisfaction campaign should have their vehicles serviced promptly once they receive notification from Chrysler."

One concern to consumers is getting notification letters to current owners of the recalled vehicles. Because the recall affects older model years, some vehicles may now be in the hands of second or third owners through any number of sellers – individuals, dealers, or other parties such that records of current owners are incorrect or unavailable. If you are the owner of one of these recalled vehicles, contact your local dealership or Chrysler at 1-800-247-9753.

We, at Lawsuit Financial, are pleased that Chrysler has agreed to put consumer safety over profits.

As a safety measure for all consumers, anytime you are not the original owner of a vehicle, we encourage you to check the NHTSA website for vehicle recalls and to register for an email notification if a recall is ever issued while you own the vehicle.