(May 8, 2012) Chrysler is recalling nearly 120,000 Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger cars to fix an electrical problem that could cause a crash. The recall covers 119,072 vehicles from the 2011-2012 model years and comes two months after Chrysler said it was recalling the police version of the Dodge Charger for the same issue.

A plastic insert surrounding a fuse may be subject to distortion caused by thermal expansion and contraction, Chrysler said. "Despite a small number of incidents, we concluded it was in the best interest of our customers to repair the vehicles and eliminate the potential for this condition to occur," said David Dillon, head of Product Investigations and Campaigns for Chrysler.

Chrysler initially thought the problem was unique to the heavy use of police vehicles after the problem first surfaced in a Michigan State Police training vehicle, and 34 other complaints were reported.

After a review of field reports, Chrysler found 43 reports that may relate to same issue in civilian vehicles. Chrysler said it is not aware of any crashes, injuries or fires related to the problem.

In a notice posted on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website, Chrysler said it will notify owners and dealers by the end of May and will change and relocate the fuse for the anti-lock brakes and electronic-stability control systems.

Source: Detroit News