Fiat Chrysler recalling nearly 67,000 pickups for ignition problem

(December 30, 2014) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Fiat Chrysler is launching a voluntary global recall of an estimated 66,819 older-model pickup trucks equipped with manual transmissions. The company will replace their clutch ignition interlock switches at no charge to customers.
 
An investigation by FCA US engineers discovered switches in certain model-year 2006 and 2007 pickups may be equipped with spring wire that differs from wire used in previous switches. The alternate wire may break and, as a result, the vehicles may not start. In rare cases, a vehicle may – if recommended starting procedures are not followed – exhibit unintended movement when its ignition key is turned.
 
The company is aware of one fatality related to this campaign. It stemmed from the single known accident involving this population of vehicles.
 
The recall covers certain Dodge Dakota, Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, 3500 and Mitsubishi Raider pickups. Switches with the alternate wire were not used in any vehicles produced before July of 2005, or after June of 2006. The Dakota and Raider are no longer in production. (The latter was built for Mitsubishi under terms of an assembly contract.)
 
An estimated 54,558 vehicles are in the U.S.; 4,356 are in Canada; 7,648 are in Mexico and 257 are outside the NAFTA region.
 
Notification of affected customers is expected to begin Feb. 13. In the interim, customers are advised to follow recommended procedures for starting their vehicles. These procedures include activating the vehicle’s parking brake, placing its shift lever in the neutral position and pressing the clutch pedal before turning the ignition key.
 
Customers with additional concerns or questions may call 1-800-853-1403.