Chrysler is recalling about 19,500 twin clutch automatic Fiat 500L cars sold only in the US and Canada to upgrade their transmission software.
“Engineers launched an investigation after reviewing reports that some vehicles equipped with dual dry clutch automatic transmissions would not shift readily out of park and/or their transmissions did not receive, or were slow to receive, an intended gear selection. Chrysler Group is unaware of any related injuries or accidents,” the automaker said in a statement emailed to just-auto.
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The investigation discovered the function of one microcontroller component may be “compromised” by certain temperature extremes. A software update resolves the issue.
Affected are 2014 Fiat 500L models, only about 20% of which are in dealer hands.
Affected customers – around 18,100 in the US and 1,400 in Canada – will be contacted and advised when to schedule service.
Of the total, an estimated 200 vehicles may require shift-module replacement to ensure hardware-software compatibility, Chrysler added.
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By GlobalDataUS market Fiat 500s have automatic transmissions unique to NAFTA region models. The 500L’s twin clutch unit is similar to that offered for the North American Dodge Dart which shares some petrol engine options with Fiat group models sold in other markets. The smaller 500, built for NAFTA in Mexico, has a specially-sourced Jatco six-speed torque converter automatic.
500 and 500L models sold in other markets come instead with optional automated manual transmissions from different suppliers.
Automatic transmission software problems delayed the North American launch of Chrylser brand Jeep’s redesigned Cherokee last year. It uses a new locally-made nine-speed torque converter unit.
