Stellantis, the parent company of Chrysler and Dodge, has issued a critical “do not drive” notice affecting 225,000 vehicles due to a serious airbag defect. The warning, confirmed by spokesperson Frank Matyok, applies to models from 2003 to 2016 that are equipped with Takata airbag inflators, which pose a risk of metal fragments being projected into the vehicle cabin during deployment.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported tragic outcomes linked to these inflators, noting that there have been 28 fatalities in the U.S. related to Takata airbag malfunctions. The agency cautioned that even minor crashes can result in these airspeakers exploding, leading to potential fatalities or life-altering injuries.
In an effort to protect families and the wider community, Stellantis has taken the precautionary measure of issuing the stop-drive directive. The automaker has been working diligently over the past decade to repair more than 6.6 million Takata airbag inflators, yet approximately 225,000 vehicles still require attention.
Affected models include a variety of Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram vehicles, specifically:
– 2003 to 2016 Dodge Ram pickup trucks and Dodge Sprinter vans
– 2004 to 2009 Dodge Durango SUVs
– 2005 to 2012 Dodge Dakota pickup trucks
– 2005 to 2008 Dodge Magnum station wagons
– 2006 to 2015 Dodge Charger sedans
– 2008 to 2014 Dodge Challenger coupes
– 2007 to 2009 Chrysler Aspen SUVs
– 2007 to 2008 Chrysler Crossfire coupes
– 2005 to 2015 Chrysler 300 sedans
– 2007 to 2016 Jeep Wrangler SUVs
Stellantis began notifying affected vehicle owners on February 9, assuring them that repairs will be conducted free of charge. Vehicle owners can check the recall status of their cars by calling 833-585-0144 or by verifying their Vehicle Identification Numbers through the websites recalls.mopar.com, checktoprotect.org, or nhtsa.gov/recalls.
This proactive approach by Stellantis underscores the company’s commitment to ensuring customer safety and restoring trust in its vehicles, as it addresses the ongoing challenges posed by the Takata airbag crisis.