Auburn Hills, Mich. – Oct. 13, 2017 – Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has recalled more than 11,000 vehicles potentially equipped with noncompliant tire placards, according to a recall acknowledgment document from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects 2015-2017 RAM ProMaster City cargo vans.
The Defect
The vehicles referenced in this recall could come with tire information placards that list incorrect information, including capacity weight, optimal tire pressure and spare tire placement data. As a result, these placards are considered noncompliant under current Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 110, which states that vehicle tires must adhere to “placard requirements relating to load distribution as well as rim performance requirements under conditions of rapid tire deflation,” according to the NHTSA.
The inaccurate placards also pose a safety threat to occupants, as tire overinflation can inhibit vehicle handling and diminish braking capability, increasing the likelihood of an accident, according to an FCA press release. However, the automaker has yet to receive field reports linking the defect to any injuries or accidents.
Timeline of Events
FCA has not released details into the internal investigation that uncovered the defective tire placards.
The Solution
The car company will direct dealers to replace the incorrect placards with updated versions, free of charge. Dealers and vehicle owners should expect to receive notification Nov. 15. Owners in need of more immediate assistance can contact Chrysler customer service at (800) 853-1403. Callers should use the internal recall identification code T62. Vehicle owners can also reach out to the NHTSA directly via its Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.
