Chrysler Group said on Wednesday (2 April, 2014) it would recall an estimated 867,795 SUVs to install a shield that protects their brake boosters from corrosion caused by undue water exposure.
Chrysler Group 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 joints may exhibit corrosion when exposed to water. Should water enter the boosters through corroded joints – a previously unseen occurrence – 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, Chrysler said. The vehicles are equipped with a hydraulic boost compensation system that aids performance, even when booster vacuum levels are low. However, customers may experience excessive brake pedal firmness.
Chrysler said it was aware of one related accident and no injuries.
The automaker will inspect the brake boosters on some model years 2011-2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango SUVs. 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.
Of affected customers – an estimated 644,354 are in the US; 42,380 in Canada; 21,376 in Mexico and 159,685 outside the NAFTA region – will be contacted with instructions to schedule service with dealers.
Brake boosters used in current production vehicles feature crimp joints treated with a special coating designed to resist corrosion, Chrysler said.
