DETROIT (AP) – Chrysler Group is recalling an estimated 867,795 SUVs because corrosion may make the vehicles' brakes harder to use.
Chrysler launched an investigation after receiving customer feedback about excessive brake-pedal firmness.
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The investigation discovered certain vehicles have brake boosters with small crimp joints and these may exhibit corrosion when exposed to water.
Should water enter the boosters through corroded joints, brake function may be compromised if the water freezes.
Absent water ingestion in sub-freezing conditions, a booster that exhibits corrosion will deliver brake function in compliance with federal safety standards.
Customers may experience excessive brake-pedal firmness.
Chrysler is aware of one related accident and no injuries.
Chrysler will inspect the brake boosters on certain Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango SUVs, model years 2011-2014.
The boosters may be replaced if their capability has been reduced.
All boosters will be equipped with a shield to insulate their crimp joints from water.
Chrysler will cover all repair costs.
Affected customers – an estimated 644,354 in the U.S.; 42,380 in Canada; 21,376 in Mexico and 159,685 outside the NAFTA region – will be contacted with instructions to schedule service with Chrysler Group dealers.
Customers who remain concerned may call 1-800-853-1403.
Brake boosters used in current production vehicles feature crimp joints treated with a special coating designed to resist corrosion.