Detroit, MI: Chrysler Group has issued a recall involving defective ignition switches on as many as 792,000 older-model Jeep SUVs. The problem is reportedly similar to the defective ignition switch issue GM is facing.
Chrysler says that in the Jeeps, the ignition switch can be bumped by the driver's knee, moving the ignition out of the "on" position, shutting off the engine, killing the power assist to the steering and brakes and disabling air bags, USAToday reports.
While Chrysler says as many as 792,000 vehicles are in the pool of those affected by the defective ignition switch issue, they have yet to determine the actual number needed to be recalled, although the company said 649,900 of the affected vehicles are in the US.
Reportedly, just one accident related to the defect has been reported, and there have been about 100 complaints.
Vehicles involved in the Chrysler recall: 2006 to 2007 Jeep Commanders and 2005 to 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee SUVs. Earlier this month, Chrysler expanded a previous ignition-switch recall involving older Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town and Country minivans and Dodge Journey crossovers to encompass a total of 892,000 vehicles.(USAToday.com)
Chrysler is urging owners of those vehicles to use only a single ignition key to start the cars, rather than a bunch of keys on a key ring, to create less pressure on the switch mechanism. It also says drivers should sit so their knees aren't close to the ignition switch.
