NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
What owners actually said
423 reports20,000 miles · Jan 28, 2004
Suspension
TOOK MY VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR ROUTINE SERVICE. WHEN I WENT TO PICK UP THE VEHICLE, I WAS TOLD THAT THE BALL JOINTS WERE IN SUCH BAD CONDITION THAT THEY COULD NOT RELEASE THE VEHICLE TO ME WITHOUT REPLACING THEM BECAUSE OF THE POTENTIAL FOR AN ACCIDENT. THEY SAID THAT THE REPLACEMENT PARTS WERE BACKORDERED BECAUSE OF SO MANY SI…
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TOOK MY VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR ROUTINE SERVICE. WHEN I WENT TO PICK UP THE VEHICLE, I WAS TOLD THAT THE BALL JOINTS WERE IN SUCH BAD CONDITION THAT THEY COULD NOT RELEASE THE VEHICLE TO ME WITHOUT REPLACING THEM BECAUSE OF THE POTENTIAL FOR AN ACCIDENT. THEY SAID THAT THE REPLACEMENT PARTS WERE BACKORDERED BECAUSE OF SO MANY SIMILAR SITUATIONS AND THAT IT MIGHT TAKE A WEEK OR MORE UNTIL I RECEIVED MY VEHICLE BACK. THE VEHICLE HAD ROUGHLY 20,000 MILES ON IT AND IT WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY. IF THIS IS SUCH A COMMON AND HAZARDOUS PROBLEM, WHY NO RECALL? *AK
NHTSA ODI #10055046
10,000 miles · Jan 23, 2004
SuspensionCrashInjury
WHILE DRIVING AT 15 MPH, THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL SNAPPED OFF WITHOUT ANY WARNING. THE DEALER INDICATED THAT THE LOWER BALL JOINT SEPARATED FROM THE AXLE. *AK THE VEHICLE WAS FORCED INTO A PARKED VEHICLE. *SC *JB EA03-023
NHTSA ODI #10053465
Mileage unknown · Jan 22, 2004
Service Brakes, HydraulicCrash
THE BRAKE ROTORS NEED TO BE TURNED OR REPLACED AT 25000 MILES. THE VEHICLE IS TOO HEAVY/BIG FOR THE SMALLER SIZED ROTORS. VEHICLE DOES NOT RESPOND EFFICIENTLY TO BRAKES. IN MY CASE, THE MASTER CYLINDER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED BY THE DEALERSHIP AT 25000 MILES. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED WITH DODGE…
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THE BRAKE ROTORS NEED TO BE TURNED OR REPLACED AT 25000 MILES. THE VEHICLE IS TOO HEAVY/BIG FOR THE SMALLER SIZED ROTORS. VEHICLE DOES NOT RESPOND EFFICIENTLY TO BRAKES. IN MY CASE, THE MASTER CYLINDER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED BY THE DEALERSHIP AT 25000 MILES. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED WITH DODGE ON THE MANUFACTURING OF THE DURANGO.
NHTSA ODI #10054684
16,200 miles · Jan 20, 2004
Suspension
WITH JUST OVER 16K MILES ON MY 2002 DODGE DURANGO, I NOTICED MY FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE WEARING BADLY ON THE OUTER EDGE. UPON JACKING THE VEHICLE UNDER THE LOWER CONTROL ARM, I FOUND THAT THE UPPER BALL JOINT HAD EXCESSIVE LOOSENESS WHEN THE TIRE/SPINDLE ASSEMBLY WAS SHAKEN. I ALSO FOUND SLIGHTLY LESS PLAY ON THE DRIVERS SIDE.…
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WITH JUST OVER 16K MILES ON MY 2002 DODGE DURANGO, I NOTICED MY FRONT PASSENGER SIDE TIRE WEARING BADLY ON THE OUTER EDGE. UPON JACKING THE VEHICLE UNDER THE LOWER CONTROL ARM, I FOUND THAT THE UPPER BALL JOINT HAD EXCESSIVE LOOSENESS WHEN THE TIRE/SPINDLE ASSEMBLY WAS SHAKEN. I ALSO FOUND SLIGHTLY LESS PLAY ON THE DRIVERS SIDE. THE UPPER CONTROLARM/BALL JOINT ASSEMBLYS WERE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY BUT I AM CONCERNED OF WHETHER THIS WILL HAPPEN AGAIN IN ANOTHER 16K MILES.HOW CAN I BE ASSURED THE DEALER REPLACED THE PARTS WITH AN IMPROVED VERSION? THE WORN TIRE DUE TO THIS OBVIOUS DEFECT IS INCIDENTAL DAMAGE ACCORDING TO THE DEALER AND IS NOT COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY AND SO I MUST REPLACE IT MYSELF. I AM NOT HAPPY ABOUT THIS EITHER.*AK
NHTSA ODI #10054518
24 miles · Jan 15, 2004
Engine And Engine CoolingEquipmentPower Train
HERE IS A LIST THAT I HAVE SENT TO DODGE CHRYSLER CUSTOMER SERVICE AND 2 DEALERSHIPS 1. INTERMITTENT OR DELAYED ENGAGEMENT AT VEHICLE START UP OPERATION OR ENGAGEMENT AT 26-56 MPH 2. INTERMITTENT ACCELERATION AND SHUDDER DURING TORQUE CONVERTER. OPERATION OR ENGAGEMENT AT 26-56 MPH 3. INTERMITTENT POOR SHIFTING QUALITY?.. IDLE …
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HERE IS A LIST THAT I HAVE SENT TO DODGE CHRYSLER CUSTOMER SERVICE AND 2 DEALERSHIPS 1. INTERMITTENT OR DELAYED ENGAGEMENT AT VEHICLE START UP OPERATION OR ENGAGEMENT AT 26-56 MPH 2. INTERMITTENT ACCELERATION AND SHUDDER DURING TORQUE CONVERTER. OPERATION OR ENGAGEMENT AT 26-56 MPH 3. INTERMITTENT POOR SHIFTING QUALITY?.. IDLE SHAKE, SAG OR HESITATION. WILL NOT ALWAYS ?DOWNSHIFT? WHILE DRIVING 26-54 MPH. 4. INTERMITTENT BUZZ AND OR CLICKING IN REVERSE. (WARM OR COLD) 5. INTERMITTENT SURGING WHILE DRIVING 26-54 MPH. (WARM OR COLD) 6. INTERMITTENT HESITATION ?IDLE SHAKE? SAG WHEN STEPPING ON ACCELERATOR/GAS PEDAL. 7. INTERMITTENT HARSH ENGAGEMENT OF TRANSITION (WARM OR COLD) 8. INTERMITTENT NOISY 3-4 UPSHIFTS . (WARM OR COLD) 9. INTERMITTENT DELAYED DOWN SHIFTS (ALMOST LIKE DROPPING IT IN 1ST WHILE GOING 35 MPH) 10. INTERMITTENT DELAYED UP SHIFTS. (TRANSMISSION FEELS LIKE ITS SLIPPING) 11. UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION (WARM OR COLD) 12. LOUD POPPING NOISE WHILE TURNING. . (WARM OR COLD) 13. TRANSMISSION FAILS TO HOLD IN PARK/ PARK GEAR FAILS TO HOLD!
NHTSA ODI #10070603
20,350 miles · Jan 15, 2004
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
DEALER STATES THAT BRAKE ROTORS ARE WARPED TO THE POINT OF NOT BEING TURNED AND THAT I WILL NEED TO PRUCHASE NEW ONES AT THE COST OF APPROX. $450.00. THE BRAKES PADS ARE ONLY SLIGHTLY WORN. CAR SHUTTERS VIGOROUSLY WHEN BRAKE IS APPLIED. DEALER STATES THAT THIS IS NOT UNDER WARRENTY AND THAT THIS IS NOT A MANUFACTURERS DEFECT. I …
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DEALER STATES THAT BRAKE ROTORS ARE WARPED TO THE POINT OF NOT BEING TURNED AND THAT I WILL NEED TO PRUCHASE NEW ONES AT THE COST OF APPROX. $450.00. THE BRAKES PADS ARE ONLY SLIGHTLY WORN. CAR SHUTTERS VIGOROUSLY WHEN BRAKE IS APPLIED. DEALER STATES THAT THIS IS NOT UNDER WARRENTY AND THAT THIS IS NOT A MANUFACTURERS DEFECT. I HAVE CONTACTED DODGE/CHRYSTLER WAITING FOR A RESPONSE.
NHTSA ODI #10069570
27,000 miles · Jan 15, 2004
Service Brakes, AirCrash
RETURNED VEHICLE TO DEALER COMPLAINING OF POOR ANTILOCK BRAKE PERFORMANCE AND EXCESSIVE PEDAL TRAVEL. DEALER RESURFACED FRONT ROTORS/REPLACED PADS. VIBRATION FROM RUN OUT IS GONE BUT POOR ANTILOCK PERFORMANCE AND EXCESSIVE PEDAL TRAVEL STILL EXITS. DEALER STATES ALL IS FINE. EXCESSIVE STOPPING DISTANCE CONTRIBUTED TO FIRST A…
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RETURNED VEHICLE TO DEALER COMPLAINING OF POOR ANTILOCK BRAKE PERFORMANCE AND EXCESSIVE PEDAL TRAVEL. DEALER RESURFACED FRONT ROTORS/REPLACED PADS. VIBRATION FROM RUN OUT IS GONE BUT POOR ANTILOCK PERFORMANCE AND EXCESSIVE PEDAL TRAVEL STILL EXITS. DEALER STATES ALL IS FINE. EXCESSIVE STOPPING DISTANCE CONTRIBUTED TO FIRST ACCIDENT. *CB
NHTSA ODI #10053248
31,500 miles · Jan 15, 2004
Power Train
RETURNED VEHICLE TO DEALER COMPLAINING OF TRANSMISSION SLIPPAGE UPON FIRST DRIVE ON COLD MORNINGS. DEALER COULD NOT REPRODUCE. DEALER COMPLETED 30000 MILE SERVICE INCLUDING TRANSMISSION FLUID/FILTER CHANGE AND NOW TRANSMISSION WON'T ENGAGE AT ALL EVEN THOUGH COMPUTER SAYS IT IS. AT LEAST IT HAPPENED AT THE DEALERSHIP. THEY H…
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RETURNED VEHICLE TO DEALER COMPLAINING OF TRANSMISSION SLIPPAGE UPON FIRST DRIVE ON COLD MORNINGS. DEALER COULD NOT REPRODUCE. DEALER COMPLETED 30000 MILE SERVICE INCLUDING TRANSMISSION FLUID/FILTER CHANGE AND NOW TRANSMISSION WON'T ENGAGE AT ALL EVEN THOUGH COMPUTER SAYS IT IS. AT LEAST IT HAPPENED AT THE DEALERSHIP. THEY HAVE CONTACTED CHRYSLER FOR HELP DIAGNOSING. *CB
NHTSA ODI #10053247
18,000 miles · Jan 4, 2004
Tires
I HAD A GOODYEAR WRANGLET TIRE FAILURE AT HIGHWAY SPEED. WITHOUT NOTICE THE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE SIDEWALL CAUSING AN OUT OF CONTROL CONDITION. LUCKILY, I WAS ABLE TO GET THE 2002 DODGE DURANGO STOPPED SAFELY. I WAS SHOCKED TO SEE THE TREAD TOTALLY SEPARATE FROM THE SIDEWALL (3 TOTAL PCS 1 EA SIDEWALLS AND 1 TREAD). I WE…
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I HAD A GOODYEAR WRANGLET TIRE FAILURE AT HIGHWAY SPEED. WITHOUT NOTICE THE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE SIDEWALL CAUSING AN OUT OF CONTROL CONDITION. LUCKILY, I WAS ABLE TO GET THE 2002 DODGE DURANGO STOPPED SAFELY. I WAS SHOCKED TO SEE THE TREAD TOTALLY SEPARATE FROM THE SIDEWALL (3 TOTAL PCS 1 EA SIDEWALLS AND 1 TREAD). I WENT TO GOODYEAR THEY SAID I PICKED UP A NAIL OR SOMETHING CAUSING A FLAT. I'M SORRY BUT I HAVE HAD FLATS IN THE PAST. WHEN YOU PICK UP SOMETHING AND GET A FLAT YOU LOOSE AIR PRESSURE AND ARE ABLE TO SLOW DOWN AND FIX TIRE, NOT EXPLODE. I FILED A COMPLAINT WITH THE OHIO ATTY. GENERAL WHO PASSED IT TO THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU. THEY SAID THEY ARE JUST A MIDDLE MAN WITHOUT POWER TO RESOLVE. AT THIS POINT I WANT TO FILE A COMPLAINT AGAINST GOODYEAR TIRE. I WOULD LIKE 4 DIFFERENT TIRES I WOULD ALSO BE WILLING TO PAY FOR USED PORTION OF TIRES ( JUST WHAT IS USED NOT 75% GOODYEAR STD). WHEN THE TIRE EXPLODED IT ALSO CAUSED SOME MINOR DAMAGE I WOULD LIKE FIXED. I DO HAVE THE TIRE IN MY POSSESSION AND I AM ABLE TO SUPPLY ANYTHING YOU MIGHT NEED. I.E. TIRE, PICTURES. *LA
NHTSA ODI #10052339
21,200 miles · Jan 1, 2004
Service Brakes, HydraulicCrash
I WAS TRAVELING AT 25 MPH AND APPROX. 100 FEET BEHIND OTHER CARS WHEN SOMEONE ABOUT 10 CARS AHEAD MADE A HARD STOP CAUSING EVERYONE BEHIND THEM TO DO THE SAME. I HEARD AT LEAST THREE CARS TIRES SCREACHING TO A STOP IN FRONT OF ME. WHEN I APPLIED MY BRAKES IN MY 2002 DODGE DURANGO WITH BRAKE PEDAL PUSHED DOWN AS FAR AS IT WOULD G…
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I WAS TRAVELING AT 25 MPH AND APPROX. 100 FEET BEHIND OTHER CARS WHEN SOMEONE ABOUT 10 CARS AHEAD MADE A HARD STOP CAUSING EVERYONE BEHIND THEM TO DO THE SAME. I HEARD AT LEAST THREE CARS TIRES SCREACHING TO A STOP IN FRONT OF ME. WHEN I APPLIED MY BRAKES IN MY 2002 DODGE DURANGO WITH BRAKE PEDAL PUSHED DOWN AS FAR AS IT WOULD GO AND AS HARD AS I COULD THE TRUCK SLOWED TO ABOUT 5 MPH WITH EVERYTHING LOOSE IN THE TRUCK FLYING FOWARD, BUT THE TRUCK DID NOT STOP. FOR THE LAST 30 FEET IT JUST KEPT GOING AT 5 MPH AND I HIT THE REAR OF OF A 97 HONDA ACCORD. THE TIRES NEVER LOCKED UP OR DID I FEEL ANY ANTI-LOCK PULSATION IN THE BRAKE PEDAL AS I HAVE ON OTHER VEHICLES. I HAD NO CONTROL IN THIS ACCIDENT. IF I HAD NOT HAD 4 WHEEL ANTI-LOCK BRAKES I WOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO STOP. SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH THE BRAKING SYSTEM ON THIS TRUCK! BUT THE DEALER SAID EVERYTHING WAS NORMAL. PEOPLE ARE GOING TO BE KILLED IF THIS PROBLEM IS NOT DEALT WITH. THE HONDA I HIT SUFFERED HEAVY DAMAGE BECAUSE OF THE HEIGHT DIFFERANCE IN BUMPERS. MY TRUCK WAS NOT AS BAD. MY AUTO INSURACE RATE WILL BE GOING UP FROM WHAT I BELIEVE I COULD NOT HAVE PREVENTED. THANK GOODNESS NO BODY WAS HURT.*AK
NHTSA ODI #10051469
Official recalls
4Dec 4, 2007
ON CERTAIN VAN AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS, THE IGNITION/PARK SHIFT INTERLOCK SYSTEM MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE. THIS CAN ALLOW THE SHIFTER TO BE MOVED OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION WITH THE IGNITION KEY REMOVED (OR IN THE "LOCK" POSITION). THIS CAN ALSO ALLOW THE IGNITION KEY TO BE REMOVED WHEN THE SHIFTER HAS NOT BEEN PLACED IN THE "PARK" POSITION.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: EITHER OF THESE CONDITIONS COULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO ROLL AWAY CAUSING A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE GEARSHIFT BLOCKER AND BRACKET ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JANUARY 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Sep 7, 2006
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEATS ONLY, IF FLUID IS SPILLED FROM THE FLOOR MOUNTED CUP HOLDER, AN UNUSED CONSOLE POWER OUTLET CONNECTOR LOCATED UNDER THE SEAT MAY BECOME CONTAMINATED.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: THIS MAY ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH RESISTIVE SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE CONNECTOR, WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A FIRE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE CONSOLE WIRING CONNECTOR FOR CORROSION, CLEAN AS REQUIRED, AND INSTALL A CAP TO PREVENT ADDITIONAL FLUID FROM CONTAMINATING THE CONNECTOR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 30, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DAIMLER CHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Dec 21, 2004
ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES AND PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE (4X4), IF MOISTURE LEAKS INTO THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINT, EVACUATION OF THE LUBRICANT AND CORROSION OF THE JOINT MAY CAUSE THE JOINT TO WEAR OVER AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME. THIS COULD CAUSE A CLUNKING NOISE IN THE FRONT SUSPENSION, WHICH MAY NOT ALWAYS BE HEARD BY THE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: EXCESSIVE WEAR IN THE UPPER BALL JOINT MAY ALLOW IT TO SEPARATE, WHICH COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS. THIS SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BEGAN ON DECEMBER 21, 2004. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
May 5, 2004
ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULE MOTOR MAY BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO WATER INTRUSION THAT COULD CAUSE INTERNAL CORROSION AND RESULT IN PARTIAL OR COMPLETE LOSS OF FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPING CAPABILITY.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: DRIVER VISIBILITY COULD BE REDUCED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JULY 12, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT DAIMLERCHRYSLER AT 1-800-853-1403.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
5EA06011 · Vehicle UNDER-SEAT Fire
Opened Jun 19, 2006 · Closed Sep 22, 2006
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System; Electrical System:wiring
DAIMLERCHRYLSER CORPORATION (DCC) WILL RECALL 35,103 MY 2001-2003 DODGE DURANGO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEATS (RECALL # 06V339, SEE DEFECT REPORT FOR DETAILS).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH EITHER FRONT BUCKET SEATS OR A 40-20-40 SPLIT FRONT BENCH SEAT.VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEAT CONTAIN AN UNCAPPED, UNUSED CONNECTOR LOCATED UNDER THE FRONT EDGE OF THE SEAT.THE CONNECTOR PROVIDES POWER TO THE CENTER CONSOLE POWER OUTLET FOR VEHICLES WITH BUCKET SEATS, BUT IT IS UNUSED IN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH BENCH SEATS.THE CONNECTOR IS LOCATED REARWARD OF THE CUP HOLDER ON THE TUNNEL FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE BENCH SEAT.THIS CONNECTOR CONTAINS A FUSED B+ CIRCUIT WIRE (THAT IS CONTINUOUSLY POWERED WITH THE KEY OFF) AND A GROUND WIRE. DCC DETERMINED THAT IF LIQUID IS SPILLED FROM THE CUP HOLDER ONTO THE TUNNEL, THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR MAY BECOME CONTAMINATED.THIS CONTAMINATION MAY ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH RESISTANCE SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE CONNECTOR, CAUSING LOCALIZED HEATING, WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A FIRE.DCC WILL INSPECT THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR FOR CORROSION, CLEAN AS REQUIRED, AND INSTALL A CAP TO PREVENT LIQUID CONTAMINATION.ALL OF THE REPORTED UNDER-SEAT FIRES WERE ON SUBJECT VEHICLES WITH A 40-20-40 BENCH SEAT.THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System
DAIMLERCHRYLSER CORPORATION (DCC) WILL RECALL 35,103 MY 2001-2003 DODGE DURANGO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEATS (RECALL # 06V339, SEE DEFECT REPORT FOR DETAILS).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH EITHER FRONT BUCKET SEATS OR A 40-20-40 SPLIT FRONT BENCH SEAT.VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEAT CONTAIN AN UNCAPPED, UNUSED CONNECTOR LOCATED UNDER THE FRONT EDGE OF THE SEAT.THE CONNECTOR PROVIDES POWER TO THE CENTER CONSOLE POWER OUTLET FOR VEHICLES WITH BUCKET SEATS, BUT IT IS UNUSED IN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH BENCH SEATS.THE CONNECTOR IS LOCATED REARWARD OF THE CUP HOLDER ON THE TUNNEL FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE BENCH SEAT.THIS CONNECTOR CONTAINS A FUSED B+ CIRCUIT WIRE (THAT IS CONTINUOUSLY POWERED WITH THE KEY OFF) AND A GROUND WIRE. DCC DETERMINED THAT IF LIQUID IS SPILLED FROM THE CUP HOLDER ONTO THE TUNNEL, THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR MAY BECOME CONTAMINATED.THIS CONTAMINATION MAY ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH RESISTANCE SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE CONNECTOR, CAUSING LOCALIZED HEATING, WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A FIRE.DCC WILL INSPECT THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR FOR CORROSION, CLEAN AS REQUIRED, AND INSTALL A CAP TO PREVENT LIQUID CONTAMINATION.ALL OF THE REPORTED UNDER-SEAT FIRES WERE ON SUBJECT VEHICLES WITH A 40-20-40 BENCH SEAT.THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.
Electrical System:wiring
DAIMLERCHRYLSER CORPORATION (DCC) WILL RECALL 35,103 MY 2001-2003 DODGE DURANGO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEATS (RECALL # 06V339, SEE DEFECT REPORT FOR DETAILS).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH EITHER FRONT BUCKET SEATS OR A 40-20-40 SPLIT FRONT BENCH SEAT.VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FRONT BENCH SEAT CONTAIN AN UNCAPPED, UNUSED CONNECTOR LOCATED UNDER THE FRONT EDGE OF THE SEAT.THE CONNECTOR PROVIDES POWER TO THE CENTER CONSOLE POWER OUTLET FOR VEHICLES WITH BUCKET SEATS, BUT IT IS UNUSED IN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH BENCH SEATS.THE CONNECTOR IS LOCATED REARWARD OF THE CUP HOLDER ON THE TUNNEL FOR VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE BENCH SEAT.THIS CONNECTOR CONTAINS A FUSED B+ CIRCUIT WIRE (THAT IS CONTINUOUSLY POWERED WITH THE KEY OFF) AND A GROUND WIRE. DCC DETERMINED THAT IF LIQUID IS SPILLED FROM THE CUP HOLDER ONTO THE TUNNEL, THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR MAY BECOME CONTAMINATED.THIS CONTAMINATION MAY ALLOW DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH RESISTANCE SHORT CIRCUIT IN THE CONNECTOR, CAUSING LOCALIZED HEATING, WHICH COULD EVENTUALLY LEAD TO A FIRE.DCC WILL INSPECT THE UNCAPPED CONNECTOR FOR CORROSION, CLEAN AS REQUIRED, AND INSTALL A CAP TO PREVENT LIQUID CONTAMINATION.ALL OF THE REPORTED UNDER-SEAT FIRES WERE ON SUBJECT VEHICLES WITH A 40-20-40 BENCH SEAT.THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.
PE06008 · Fire Under The Driver's Seat
Opened Feb 2, 2006 · Closed Jun 19, 2006
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System:wiring:interior/under Dash; Seats
ODI IS AWARE OF 10 REPORTS ALLEGING THAT A FIRE ORIGINATES UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER'S SEAT.SIX OF THEFIRES OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH TURNED OFF (KEY NOT IN THE IGNITION).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL SEATS. THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS, (EA06-011), TO ALLOW FURTHER INVESTIGATION OF THE ISSUE.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System:wiring:interior/under Dash
ODI IS AWARE OF 10 REPORTS ALLEGING THAT A FIRE ORIGINATES UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER'S SEAT.SIX OF THEFIRES OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH TURNED OFF (KEY NOT IN THE IGNITION).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL SEATS. THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS, (EA06-011), TO ALLOW FURTHER INVESTIGATION OF THE ISSUE.
Seats
ODI IS AWARE OF 10 REPORTS ALLEGING THAT A FIRE ORIGINATES UNDERNEATH THE DRIVER'S SEAT.SIX OF THEFIRES OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE IGNITION SWITCH TURNED OFF (KEY NOT IN THE IGNITION).THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL SEATS. THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS, (EA06-011), TO ALLOW FURTHER INVESTIGATION OF THE ISSUE.
EA03023 · Upper Ball Joint Separation
Opened Nov 19, 2003 · Closed Feb 11, 2005
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension; Suspension:front; Suspension:front:control Arm; Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Arm; Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
Additional source detail variants (5)
Suspension
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
Suspension:front
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
Suspension:front:control Arm
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Arm
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint
DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORPORATION (DCC) IS RECALLING THE TARGET POPULATION OF APPROXIMATELY 600,000 MY 2000 THROUGH 2003 DURANGO AND DAKOTA VEHICLES WITH FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE TO REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION UPPER BALL JOINTS WITH REDESIGNED PARTS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE JOINT INTEGRITY CONCERNS AND HAVE SUBSTANTIALLY IMPROVED JOINT RETENTION CAPACITY (NHTSA RECALL NO. 04V-596).THOUGH DCC DOES NOT ADMIT TO A SAFETY-DEFECT IN THE SUBJECT COMPONENTS, ODI BELIEVES THAT THE FACTS IN THIS INVESTIGATION SHOW OTHERWISE.BECAUSE OF THE LOW RATES OF SEPARATION INCIDENTS IN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLES, A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED IN THOSE POPULATIONS AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS IN THOSE VEHICLES.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
PE03032 · Front Susp. Upper Ball Joint Failure
Opened Jul 16, 2003 · Closed Nov 19, 2003
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Suspension:front; Suspension:front:control Arm; Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Arm; Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint
IN JULY 2003, ODI OPENED PE03-032 BASED ON 4 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT.COMPLAINTS ALLEGED AN UNEXPECTED COLLAPSE IN THE FRONT END AND IN SOME OCCASIONS THE BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ALLEGED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE WHEEL, BRAKE ROTOR, AND STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE.SINCE OPENING THE PE, ODI HAS RECEIVED 23 ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS RELATED TO BALL JOINT SEPARATION. DAIMLERCHRYSLER HAS IDENTIFIED A WEAROUT CONCERN IN THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS THAT IS BELIEVED TO OCCUR AFTER WATER INTRUSION EVACUATES THE JOINT LUBRICANT.DAIMLERCHRYSLER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CONDITION POSES AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO SAFETY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF JOINT SEPARATION.OVER 99 PERCENT OF THE FAILURES ARE RELATED TO WORN BALL JOINTS (E.G., NOISE COMPLAINTS).DAIMLERCHRYSLER REVISED THE REPAIR PROCEDURE IN AUGUST 2003 TO ALLOW THE UPPER BALL JOINTS TO BE SERVICED SEPARATELY FROM THE UPPER CONTROL ARM AND REDUCE REPAIR COSTS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CHANGED THE SUPPLIER OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS FROM TRW TO NEW CASTLE MACHINING & FORGE FOR MY 2000 VEHICLES.MY 2000 DURANGO VEHICLES ACCOUNT FOR 25 OF THE 37 SEPARATION COMPLAINTS.THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS REDESIGNED IN MY 2003.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2000-02 DURANGO VEHICLES.
Additional source detail variants (4)
Suspension:front
IN JULY 2003, ODI OPENED PE03-032 BASED ON 4 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT.COMPLAINTS ALLEGED AN UNEXPECTED COLLAPSE IN THE FRONT END AND IN SOME OCCASIONS THE BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ALLEGED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE WHEEL, BRAKE ROTOR, AND STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE.SINCE OPENING THE PE, ODI HAS RECEIVED 23 ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS RELATED TO BALL JOINT SEPARATION. DAIMLERCHRYSLER HAS IDENTIFIED A WEAROUT CONCERN IN THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS THAT IS BELIEVED TO OCCUR AFTER WATER INTRUSION EVACUATES THE JOINT LUBRICANT.DAIMLERCHRYSLER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CONDITION POSES AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO SAFETY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF JOINT SEPARATION.OVER 99 PERCENT OF THE FAILURES ARE RELATED TO WORN BALL JOINTS (E.G., NOISE COMPLAINTS).DAIMLERCHRYSLER REVISED THE REPAIR PROCEDURE IN AUGUST 2003 TO ALLOW THE UPPER BALL JOINTS TO BE SERVICED SEPARATELY FROM THE UPPER CONTROL ARM AND REDUCE REPAIR COSTS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CHANGED THE SUPPLIER OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS FROM TRW TO NEW CASTLE MACHINING & FORGE FOR MY 2000 VEHICLES.MY 2000 DURANGO VEHICLES ACCOUNT FOR 25 OF THE 37 SEPARATION COMPLAINTS.THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS REDESIGNED IN MY 2003.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2000-02 DURANGO VEHICLES.
Suspension:front:control Arm
IN JULY 2003, ODI OPENED PE03-032 BASED ON 4 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT.COMPLAINTS ALLEGED AN UNEXPECTED COLLAPSE IN THE FRONT END AND IN SOME OCCASIONS THE BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ALLEGED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE WHEEL, BRAKE ROTOR, AND STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE.SINCE OPENING THE PE, ODI HAS RECEIVED 23 ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS RELATED TO BALL JOINT SEPARATION. DAIMLERCHRYSLER HAS IDENTIFIED A WEAROUT CONCERN IN THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS THAT IS BELIEVED TO OCCUR AFTER WATER INTRUSION EVACUATES THE JOINT LUBRICANT.DAIMLERCHRYSLER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CONDITION POSES AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO SAFETY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF JOINT SEPARATION.OVER 99 PERCENT OF THE FAILURES ARE RELATED TO WORN BALL JOINTS (E.G., NOISE COMPLAINTS).DAIMLERCHRYSLER REVISED THE REPAIR PROCEDURE IN AUGUST 2003 TO ALLOW THE UPPER BALL JOINTS TO BE SERVICED SEPARATELY FROM THE UPPER CONTROL ARM AND REDUCE REPAIR COSTS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CHANGED THE SUPPLIER OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS FROM TRW TO NEW CASTLE MACHINING & FORGE FOR MY 2000 VEHICLES.MY 2000 DURANGO VEHICLES ACCOUNT FOR 25 OF THE 37 SEPARATION COMPLAINTS.THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS REDESIGNED IN MY 2003.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2000-02 DURANGO VEHICLES.
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Arm
IN JULY 2003, ODI OPENED PE03-032 BASED ON 4 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT.COMPLAINTS ALLEGED AN UNEXPECTED COLLAPSE IN THE FRONT END AND IN SOME OCCASIONS THE BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ALLEGED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE WHEEL, BRAKE ROTOR, AND STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE.SINCE OPENING THE PE, ODI HAS RECEIVED 23 ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS RELATED TO BALL JOINT SEPARATION. DAIMLERCHRYSLER HAS IDENTIFIED A WEAROUT CONCERN IN THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS THAT IS BELIEVED TO OCCUR AFTER WATER INTRUSION EVACUATES THE JOINT LUBRICANT.DAIMLERCHRYSLER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CONDITION POSES AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO SAFETY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF JOINT SEPARATION.OVER 99 PERCENT OF THE FAILURES ARE RELATED TO WORN BALL JOINTS (E.G., NOISE COMPLAINTS).DAIMLERCHRYSLER REVISED THE REPAIR PROCEDURE IN AUGUST 2003 TO ALLOW THE UPPER BALL JOINTS TO BE SERVICED SEPARATELY FROM THE UPPER CONTROL ARM AND REDUCE REPAIR COSTS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CHANGED THE SUPPLIER OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS FROM TRW TO NEW CASTLE MACHINING & FORGE FOR MY 2000 VEHICLES.MY 2000 DURANGO VEHICLES ACCOUNT FOR 25 OF THE 37 SEPARATION COMPLAINTS.THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS REDESIGNED IN MY 2003.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2000-02 DURANGO VEHICLES.
Suspension:front:control Arm:upper Ball Joint
IN JULY 2003, ODI OPENED PE03-032 BASED ON 4 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING SEPARATION OF AN UPPER BALL JOINT.COMPLAINTS ALLEGED AN UNEXPECTED COLLAPSE IN THE FRONT END AND IN SOME OCCASIONS THE BALL JOINT SEPARATION IS ALLEGED TO HAVE RESULTED IN THE WHEEL, BRAKE ROTOR, AND STEERING KNUCKLE SEPARATING FROM THE VEHICLE.SINCE OPENING THE PE, ODI HAS RECEIVED 23 ADDITIONAL COMPLAINTS RELATED TO BALL JOINT SEPARATION. DAIMLERCHRYSLER HAS IDENTIFIED A WEAROUT CONCERN IN THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS THAT IS BELIEVED TO OCCUR AFTER WATER INTRUSION EVACUATES THE JOINT LUBRICANT.DAIMLERCHRYSLER DOES NOT BELIEVE THE CONDITION POSES AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO SAFETY BECAUSE THE SUSPENSION DESIGN IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCES THE LIKELIHOOD OF JOINT SEPARATION.OVER 99 PERCENT OF THE FAILURES ARE RELATED TO WORN BALL JOINTS (E.G., NOISE COMPLAINTS).DAIMLERCHRYSLER REVISED THE REPAIR PROCEDURE IN AUGUST 2003 TO ALLOW THE UPPER BALL JOINTS TO BE SERVICED SEPARATELY FROM THE UPPER CONTROL ARM AND REDUCE REPAIR COSTS. DAIMLERCHRYSLER CHANGED THE SUPPLIER OF THE SUBJECT BALL JOINTS FROM TRW TO NEW CASTLE MACHINING & FORGE FOR MY 2000 VEHICLES.MY 2000 DURANGO VEHICLES ACCOUNT FOR 25 OF THE 37 SEPARATION COMPLAINTS.THE UPPER BALL JOINT WAS REDESIGNED IN MY 2003.THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT IN MY 2000-02 DURANGO VEHICLES.
PE02082 · Safety Belt Cinching Latch Plate
Opened Nov 6, 2002 · Closed Apr 23, 2003
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Seat Belts
THERE ARE NO INJURIES OR FATALITIES ASSOCIATED WITH THIS ALLEGED DEFECT.WHILE CONDUCTING THIS INVESTIGATION, ODI FOUND THAT THE SUBJECT CINCHES MEET THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 208, AND THAT MANY OF THE REPORTED FAILURES WERE DUE TO INCORRECT CHILD SAFETY SEAT INSTALLATIONS. ADDITIONALLY, THE REPORT RATE IS LOW (1.60/100K).THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE FAILS TO ESTABLISH THE EXISTENCE OF A DEFECT TREND AT THIS TIME.FURTHER ALLOCATION OF AGENCY RESOURCES TO THIS ISSUE IS UNWARRANTED AND THE PRELIMINARY EVALUATION IS BEING CLOSED.
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