DaimlerChrysler is voluntarily recalling approximately 474,000 Jeep® Cherokee vehicles because the air bag control module can corrode following contact with saltwater. The recall affects 1997-1999 model year vehicles.
In five cases occurring in northern climates, road salt caused the control module to corrode and, as a result, the air bag inadvertently deployed. None of these incidents resulted in collisions or injuries.
Owners have been notified by first-class mail that they should call their dealers to schedule a free repair. Service technicians will replace the air bag control module and move it to a location atop the transmission tunnel where it is better protected.